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Decisions

Use the below search options at the bottom of the page to find information regarding recent decisions that have been taken by the council’s decision making bodies.

Alternatively you can visit the officer decisions page for information on officer delegated decisions that have been taken by council officers.

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Decisions published

25/11/2020 - ANY OTHER BUSINESS WHICH THE CHAIR CONSIDERS URGENT ref: 1292    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Licensing Committee

Made at meeting: 25/11/2020 - Licensing Committee

Decision published: 05/01/2021

Effective from: 25/11/2020

Decision:

7.1       There was no other business raised by the Committee.

 


31/12/2020 - Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel: (24.11.20) Determination of Discretionary Housing Payment Review Applications ref: 1290    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval sought.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 31/12/2020

Effective from: 31/12/2020

Decision:

1.         That Appendix A to this report be exempt from public disclosure by virtue of paragraph 7 of Part 1 of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972 because the applications involve the likely disclosure of exempt information relating to an individual.

           

2.         That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approved the recommendations of the Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel meeting held on 24 November 2020.

 

Reasons for Decision 

The Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel has set out the reasons for the recommendations in each case considered by the Panel in the recommendations as set out in Appendix A of the report, which are more fully set out in the case papers submitted to the Panel.


31/12/2020 - Rating Advisory Panel 08/12/2020 ref: 1291    Recommendations Approved

Determination of NNDR Discretionary and Hardship Relief Applications

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 31/12/2020

Effective from: 31/12/2020

Decision:

1.              That this report and appendices be exempt from disclosure by virtue of the Local Government Act 1972 Schedule 12A, Part 1, Paragraph 3, as amended, in that it contains information relating to the financial or business affairs of an individual.

 

2.       That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approved the recommendations of the Rating Advisory Panel held on 8th December 2020 and determined the applications for National Non-Domestic Rates Discretionary and Hardship relief as set out in Appendix A of the report.

Reasons for Decision

 

The Rating Advisory Panel has set out the reasons for the recommendations in each case considered by the Panel in the recommendations in Appendix A of the report.

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Gemma Williams


31/12/2020 - PiP Funding ref: 1289    Recommendations Approved

To review and agree on-going budget requirements for the Partners in Practice programme which funds the Clinical Practice team in Children's services.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 31/12/2020

Effective from: 09/01/2021

Decision:

That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration agreed a budget growth of £0.578m as a means of bridging the gap in funding that will otherwise arise because of the cessation of the Partners in Practice (PiP) programme and noted that this will enable the crucial work being undertaken by the Clinical Practice team to continue in 2020/21 and beyond.

 

Reasons for Decision 

 

1.              The Clinical Practice Team received funding from the Partners in Practice (PiP) programme between 2016/17 and 2019/20.  The team has been pivotal in keeping Looked After Children (LAC) and Child Protection numbers at a significantly lower rate than the national average. 

 

2.              The annual cost of the team is £0.578m, however costs avoided because of lower than average LAC numbers and Child Protection orders when compared to the national average are estimated at £5.700m.

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Rikin Tailor


21/12/2020 - NWEC Property & Occupier BIDs Renewal Ballots ref: 1288    Recommendations Approved

New West End Company Property & Occupier BIDs Renewal Ballots

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Business and Planning

Decision published: 21/12/2020

Effective from: 21/12/2020

Decision:

Summary of Decision

 

  1. That the NWEC’s Occupier and Property Owner BIDs’ Renewal & Alteration Proposal be endorsed.

 

  1. That the Chief Executive be requested as the City Council’s Returning Officer and “ballot holder” to hold a ballot for NWEC’s Occupier and Property Owner BIDs’ Renewal & Alteration Proposal be approved.

 

  1. That the Director of Law be authorised on behalf of the City Council to enter into the necessary legal agreements for collection of the BID Levy. In addition, deal with related service specifications for all other connected services which the City Council is required to deliver throughout the BID’s term and any other necessary legal matters in respect of the Whitehall BID Proposal as instructed and in consultation with the appropriate officers.

 

Reasons for Decision 

NWEC has a strong collaborative relationship with the City Council. Notable achievements over the last three years include:

·       Securing ‘International Centre’ policy status for the district in the West End

·       50% fewer buses on Oxford Street & Regent Street

·       £150m Oxford Street improvement plan confirmed in 2019 following a complex cross party working and advocacy campaign

·       £10m Bond Street Scheme completed

·       £2m extra funding raised for the £12m transformation of Hanover Square

·       £18m East Mayfair public realm enhancement programme secured with partners

·       £10m additional non-BID levy raised and re-invested into the area

·       £20m in local business rates relief fund returned in 2018 to West End businesses through our advocacy and facilitated through Westminster City Council

·       Implemented a pilot West End freight and waste consolidation service which reduced number of waste vehicles in East Mayfair by 17.5%

·       £60m district reputation media coverage reaching 250m people locally & globally

 

It is anticipated that NWEC will continue to play an active part in the joint working arrangements Westminster has set up for BIDs to liaise with City Council members and officers, to enable new ideas, plans and initiatives of mutual concern to be discussed prior to public launch. Officers will also continue to encourage NWEC as with all BIDs to work collaboratively with each other on joint initiatives so as to avoid duplication of resources and contact with the City Council.

 

This report describes the Proposal that has been submitted by NWEC to secure a further five-year term for their Occupier and property Owner BIDs. These do not conflict with City Council policies.

 

Stuart Love,

Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

 

21 December 2020

Implementation Date:

 

21 December 2020

Reference:

 

CMfB&P/12/2020/21

 

Wards affected: Bryanston and Dorset Square; Marylebone; West End;

Lead officer: Haylea Asadi


21/12/2020 - Whitehall BID Ballot ref: 1287    Recommendations Approved

A new BID for Whitehall for a proposed 2 year term which will then merge with Victoria Westminster BID

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Business and Planning

Decision published: 21/12/2020

Effective from: 21/12/2020

Decision:

Summary of Decision

 

  1. That the Whitehall BID Proposal be endorsed.

 

  1. That the Chief Executive be requested as the City Council’s Returning Officer and “ballot holder” to hold a ballot for the Whitehall BID Proposal be approved.

 

  1. That the Director of Law be authorised on behalf of the City Council to enter into the necessary legal agreements for collection of the BID Levy. In addition, deal with related service specifications for all other connected services which the City Council is required to deliver throughout the BID’s term and any other necessary legal matters in respect of the Whitehall BID Proposal as instructed and in consultation with the appropriate officers.

 

Reasons for Decision 

Victoria Westminster BID Ltd has been instrumental in delivering significant changes within the area over the last two years and has contributed to and created meaningful achievements during this time. Examples of these are:

·       Working with the Victoria BID and Westminster City Council to regenerate Christchurch Gardens as a world class urban green space

·       Joining a radio link system connected businesses to local Met Police teams

·       Providing dedicated cleaning teams including night-time cleaning and security teams

·       Daily reporting of issues to the local authority and relevant stakeholders for action

·       Delivering an updated public realm strategy for the area

·       Installing an annual Christmas installation near Parliament Square on Storey’s Gate

·       Circulating thousands of local discount ‘Privilege Cards’

·       Commissioning a Vibrancy Report to help inform strategic decisions

·       Local businesses have donated thousands of Christmas gifts to nominated charities

It is anticipated that as with the other South Westminster BIDs, the proposed Whitehall BID will play an active part in the joint working arrangements the City Council has set up for all BIDs to liaise with City Council members and officers, to enable new ideas, plans and initiatives of mutual concern to be discussed prior to public launch. Officers will also continue to encourage all BIDs to work collaboratively with each other on joint initiatives so as to avoid duplication of resources and contact with the City Council.

 

This report describes the Proposal that has been submitted by Victoria Westminster BID to secure a new BID for Whitehall. These do not conflict with City Council policies.

 

Stuart Love,

Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

 

21 December 2020

Implementation Date:

 

21 December 2020

Reference:

 

CMfB&P/12/2020/21

 

Wards affected: St James's;

Lead officer: Haylea Asadi


21/12/2020 - Approval of Expenditure from the Ward Budget of Vincent Square ref: 1286    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Community Services and Digital

Decision published: 21/12/2020

Effective from: 21/12/2020

Decision:

Summary of Decision

 

That the expenditure of £10,000 to commission Anchor Court Security Works which includes the installation of the following items be approved.

 

• Secure number-locked vehicle gate – off Douglas Street

• Secure number-locked pedestrian gate – off Carey Place, into the car park

• Higher wrought iron fencing – around the car park

• Automatic-opening electronic connections to the building fire safety systems

 

 

Reason for Decision

 

The proposal in this report will support the Council’s wider equalities and diversity agenda by focusing on addressing local issues with enhanced local engagement. 

 

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

21 December 2020

Implementation Date:

21 December 2020

Reference:

 

CMfCS&D/10/2020/21

 

Wards affected: Vincent Square;

Lead officer: Janis Best


21/12/2020 - Ward Budget for Upperdeckers Programme 2021 ref: 1285    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Community Services and Digital

Decision published: 21/12/2020

Effective from: 21/12/2020

Decision:

Summary of Decision

 

That the expenditure of £14,175 to commission the Upperdeckers Programme be approved.

 

Reason for Decision

 

The proposal in this report will support the Council’s wider equalities and diversity agenda by focusing on addressing local issues with enhanced local engagement. 

 

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

21 December 2020

Implementation Date:

21 December 2020

Reference:

 

CMfCS&D/11/2020/21

 

Wards affected: Churchill; Tachbrook; Warwick;

Lead officer: Janis Best


21/12/2020 - Contract Award for School Age Speech and Language Therapy Services ref: 1284    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Children's Services

Decision published: 21/12/2020

Effective from: 31/12/2020

Decision:

1)              The Cabinet Member for Children’s Services approved the recommendation to award a contract to Central London Community Healthcare (CLCH) for SLT services for Children and Young People from school age up to 25 for a period of 24 months commencing on 1st October 2020. The contract values were outlined in section 7 of the report.

 

1)              The current contract for the delivery of SLT Services (School Age to 25) was awarded in March 2019. This contract agreed to an award of 12 months with the option to extend for 6 months.

2)              The optional 6 month extension was taken up by the Executive Director for Children’s Services in March 2020 just before lockdown to ensure that the service were able to maintain delivery both of SLT and Covid Support Services locally.

3)              The current arrangement came to an end on 30th September 2020 and the paper proposed a new award to CLCH to continue delivering SLT services.

 

Lead officer: Sarah Newman


17/12/2020 - New Business Grants - Discretionary Schemes report ref: 1283    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval sought for proposals regarding new business grants involving discretionary schemes.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 17/12/2020

Effective from: 17/12/2020

Decision:

That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approved the two proposed discretionary schemes as outlined in Section 5 of the report.

 

Reasons for Decision

The two proposed schemes seek to provide the most appropriate method to support the types of business that the government has requested that local authorities support within the Council’s relatively small funding allocations.


17/12/2020 - Realignment of Claimant Contact Facilities for the Council's Benefits service ref: 1282    Recommendations Approved

The recommendation in this report will realign the customer contact facilities available for Benefits service claimants following the experience of the current pandemic and will produce some medium term savings as other external buildings are vacated and released by other Council services.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 17/12/2020

Effective from: 24/12/2020

Decision:

`1.      That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approved the Orchardson Street benefit reception site to not be re-opened and that the property is vacated by the Benefits service to enable bee other Council services to move into the building.

 

 

Reasons for Decision

 

1.              The recommendation in this report is made as it has been proved over the last nine months during the pandemic that the Council can provide the service in a different way. The various alternatives to face to face contact during this period have proved successful with no reduction in customer service to the borough’s claimants. These methods of contact include via the telephone, webchat, e-mail, on-line forms, white mail and the Council’s Benefits visiting service. In addition, in the future the Vauxhall Bridge Road Benefit reception site will re-open when it is considered safe to do so.

 

2.              The realignment of the customer contact facilities available for Benefits service claimants following the experience of the current pandemic will also produce some medium-term savings as other external buildings are vacated and released by other Council services.


11/12/2020 - Two-way operation on Aldwych and creation of "Meanwhile Strand" as part of the wider Strand Aldwych public realm scheme ref: 1281    Recommendations Approved

The report will be seeking the following approvals:
- approval to proceed with implementation of the proposals on Aldwych as part of the wider Strand Aldwych public realm scheme.
- approval to commit the funding to allow the implementation of the proposals on Aldwych

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Business and Planning

Decision published: 11/12/2020

Effective from: 11/12/2020

Decision:

That the Cabinet Member for Business and Planning agreed:

 

1.1         That the implementation of the proposed public realm improvements on both the Aldwych and the Strand as set out in section 4 and shown in the Background papers of this report be approved

1.2         That capital expenditure of £18,090,232 to carry out the implementation stage of the proposals of the Aldwych and Meanwhile measures on the Strand be approved. All costs to be funded by WCC funding covered in the Capital Strategy approved by Full Council on 4th March 2020.

1.3         That the Director of City Highways be delegated authority to approve minor modifications as necessary to the approved scheme, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Business and Planning and the Cabinet Member for Environment and Highways.

That the Cabinet Member for Environment and Highways agreed:

1.4         That approval to modify and make traffic regulation orders in accordance with the Road Traffic Regulations Act 1984, necessary to accommodate the new two-way traffic movement on the Aldwych and associated highway improvements be approved.

 

1.5         That the Director of City Highways be delegated authority to approve minor modifications as necessary to the approved scheme, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Business and Planning and the Cabinet Member for Environment and Highways.

 

1.6         That the Cabinet Member for Environment and Highways concurs with the decisions of the Cabinet Member for Business and Planning to the extent that these are within his terms of reference

Reasons for Decision

To allow the implementation of the two-way traffic movement on the Aldwych and “Meanwhile Strand” as a first phase of the full Strand Aldwych scheme.  The scheme will achieve the project’s objectives to: support the area’s economy, improve air quality, improve links for walking and cycling, improve the public realm, support culture, education and innovation, and facilitate better and safer movement of traffic.  

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

Publication Date:

11 December 2020

Implementation Date:

 

18 December 2020 at 5pm

 

Wards affected: St James's;

Lead officer: Rebecca Cloke, Michelle Lucas-Jones


11/12/2020 - Approval of Expenditure from the Ward Budget of Abbey Road, Harrow Road, Maida Vale, Marylebone High Street and Regent’s Park ref: 1279    Recommendations Approved

This report seeks approval for the expenditure of £17,260.00 from the Abbey Road, Harrow Road, Maida Vale, Marylebone High Street and Regent’s Park Ward Budgets in order to commission:

(a) School Holiday Projects 2020-21 by Adventure Play Hub which will deliver full time play provision for children during school holidays in line with the Government guidance for Covid-19 protective measures for out-of-school settings.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Community Services and Digital

Decision published: 11/12/2020

Effective from: 11/12/2020

Decision:

 

Summary of Decision

 

That the expenditure of £17,260 to commission School Holiday Projects 2020-21 by Adventure Play Hub which will deliver full time play provision for children during school holidaysin line with the Government guidance for Covid-19 protective measures for out-of-school settings, be approved.

 

Reason for Decision

 

The proposal in this report will support the Council’s wider equalities and diversity agenda by focusing on addressing local issues with enhanced local engagement. 

 

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

11 December 2020

Implementation Date:

11 December 2020

Reference:

 

CMfCS&D/8/2020/21

 

Wards affected: Abbey Road; Harrow Road; Maida Vale; Marylebone; Regent's Park;

Lead officer: Janis Best


11/12/2020 - 1-5 Grosvenor Place public realm improvement project ref: 1280    Recommendations Approved

Public realm improvements around the new development for 1-5 Grosvenor Place. Improvements include footway widening on Grosvenor Crescent to improve pedestrian accessibility, inset Granite Sett parking bays proposed on Halkin Street, vehicle crossovers to be paved in Granite Setts at pavement level to maintain continuity of pedestrian movement, enhanced lighting, installation of new cycle stands on Grosvenor Crescent and Halkin Street, 6 new trees and improvements to existing carriageway and footway surface.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Business and Planning

Decision published: 11/12/2020

Effective from: 11/12/2020

Decision:

That the Cabinet Member for Business and Planning agreed:

 

1.1         That the detailed design and implementation of the proposed public realm improvements on both Halkin Mews and Grosvenor Crescent as set out in section 4 and shown in the Background papers of this report be approved.

1.2         That capital expenditure of £1,630,074 to carry out the detailed design and implementation of the proposals for Halkin Mews and Grosvenor Crescent be approved.  All costs to be funded by the developer under the requirements of the associated S106 agreement. 

1.3         That the Director of City Highways be delegated authority to approve minor modifications as necessary to the approved scheme, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Business and Planning and the Cabinet Member for Environment and Highways.

That the Cabinet Member for Environment and Highways agreed:

1.4         That approval to modify and make traffic regulation orders in accordance with the Road Traffic Regulations Act 1984, necessary to accommodate the new highways improvements for the scheme be approved.

1.5          That the Cabinet Member for Environment and Highways concurs with the decisions of the Cabinet Member for Business and Planning to the extent that these are within his terms of reference.

Reasons for Decision

To allow completion of public highway improvement works in accordance with the developments S106 obligations. The improvements will help to enhance the area, by improving provisions for walking and cycling, enhancing the public realm and facilitate better and safer movement of traffic.  

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

11 December 2020

Implementation Date:

18 December 2020 at 5pm

 

 

 

Wards affected: Knightsbridge and Belgravia;

Lead officer: Michelle Lucas-Jones


10/12/2020 - Nomination and Appointment of Local Authority School Governors ref: 1278    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Children's Services

Decision published: 10/12/2020

Effective from: 10/12/2020

Decision:

Recommendations

1)              That Appendix A to this report be exempt from public disclosure by virtue of paragraph 1 of Schedule 12a of the Local Government Act 1972 (as amended) – Information Relating to a Particular Individual.

 

2)              That the recommendations of the Local Authority School Governor’s Advisory Panel set out in Appendix A be approved.

 

Reasons for Decision 

 

Every maintained school governing body must contain at least one Local Authority nominated school governor.


07/12/2020 - Smart Cities-Variation to Contract with PwC ref: 1277    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Community Services and Digital

Decision published: 07/12/2020

Effective from: 07/12/2020

Decision:

That the report be exempt from disclosure by virtue of the Local Government Act 1972, Schedule 12A Part 1, paragraph 3 (as amended), in that it contains information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information).

That the contract variation to the Smart City contract as set out in the report be approved.

 

Reasons for Decision 

 

This recommendation responds to the City Council’s commitments to creating great local places where people enjoy living, working and visiting; taking pride in our role as custodian of this great city, protecting our heritage by managing places and spaces that can be enjoyed now and in the future and creating places and opportunities for everyone in the city to be physically active and play a role in their community.

 

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

7 December 2020

Implementation Date:

7 December 2020

Reference:

 

CMfCS&D/9/2020/21

 

Lead officer: Brett McKee


04/12/2020 - Church Street Green Spine Project – report on Traffic Order consultation and implementation ref: 1276    Recommendations Approved

That approval be given to proceed with implementation of the proposed scheme, including the capital expenditure

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 04/12/2020

Effective from: 12/12/2020

Decision:

1.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration:

 

(a)  Approved the implementation of the proposed public realm improvements for Phase 1 as shown in Appendix B of the report (‘Green Spine Phase 1 works’);  

 

(b)  Approved the capital expenditure of £6,297,749 to carry out the implementation of Green Spine Phase 1 works; and

 

(c)   Delegated to the Executive Director of Growth, Planning and Housing the decision to approve non-material amendments as necessary to the scheme, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration and with the Cabinet Member for Environment and Highways.

2.        That the Cabinet Member for Environment and Highways gave approval to modify and make traffic regulation orders in accordance with the Road Traffic Regulations Act 1984, necessary to accommodate the changes to prescribed routes, parking layout, and associated highway improvements.

Reasons for Decision

To deliver transformational improvements to the public realm along Salisbury Street and Lisson Street as a key element of the Council’s Church Street Masterplan.  The project converts roads and footways to parkland, helping to address the deficiency in public open space in the area and create a much more attractive and vibrant place for both the community and visitors.

Wards affected: Church Street;

Lead officer: Rebecca Cloke, Simon Morgan


04/12/2020 - NNDR Hardship Awards 2020/21 ref: 1275    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval sought for approval of Hardship Awards recommendations.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 04/12/2020

Effective from: 12/12/2020

Decision:

1.               That Appendix B of the report be declared exempt from publication as, the business to be transacted involves the disclosure of information as prescribed by paragraph 1 of Part 1 of Schedule 12a of the Local Government Act 1972 relating to information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority).

 

2.               That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approved the award of grants to the businesses as set out in Appendix B of the report.

 

 

Reasons for Decisions 

The proposed awards have each met the mandatory requirements of the National Non-Domestic Rates Hardship Relief applications specific to the 2020/21 financial year and have been given a sufficient evaluation score to qualify for a grant.


30/11/2020 - Victoria Neighbourhood Forum Re-Designation ref: 1274    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Business and Planning

Decision published: 30/11/2020

Effective from: 30/11/2020

Decision:

Summary of Decision

 

That the Victoria Neighbourhood Forum be re-designated for a further period of 5 years and a formal designation notice be published under delegated authority by the Director of Policy and Projects.

Reasons for Decision 

 

The City Council is required to assess whether the purpose of the neighbourhood forum reflects (in general terms) the character of the area. The application submitted by the Forum for re-designation states that the Forum was established to promote: A good mix of facilities and amenities, a healthier environment, a good quality physical environment, a low carbon footprint and local employment and enterprise. The statement of purpose within the application also outlines that the forum will improve the social, economic and environmental wellbeing of the area using its planning influence.

 

Consultation on the re-designation of the Victoria Neighbourhood Forum highlighted support for the application, no objections, or competing applications.

 

Stuart Love,

Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

 

30 November 2020

Implementation Date:

 

30 November 2020

Reference:

 

CMfB&P/10/2020/21

 

Wards affected: St James's; Vincent Square; Warwick;

Lead officer: Sean Walsh


30/11/2020 - Pimlico Neighbourhood Forum Re-Designation ref: 1273    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Business and Planning

Decision published: 30/11/2020

Effective from: 30/11/2020

Decision:

That the Pimlico Neighbourhood Forum be re-designated for a further period of 5 years and a formal designation notice be published under delegated authority by the Director of Policy and Projects.

The City Council is required to assess whether the purpose of the neighbourhood forum reflects (in general terms) the character of the area. The application submitted by the Forum for re-designation states that the Forum was established to promote: A good mix of facilities and amenities, a healthier environment, a good quality physical environment, a low carbon footprint and local employment and enterprise. The statement of purpose within the application also outlines that the forum will improve the social, economic and environmental wellbeing of the area using its planning influence.

 

Consultation on the re-designation of the Pimlico Neighbourhood Forum highlighted support for the application, no objections, or competing applications.

 

 

Stuart Love,

Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

 

30 November 2020

Implementation Date:

 

30 November 2020

Reference:

 

CMfB&P/9/2020/21

 

Wards affected: Churchill; Tachbrook; Warwick;

Lead officer: Sean Walsh


26/11/2020 - Rating Advisory Panel 27th October 2020: Determination of National Non-Domestic Rates Discretionary and Hardship Relief Applications ref: 1270    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval for the Rating Advisory Panel sought.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 26/11/2020

Effective from: 26/11/2020

Decision:

1.              That this report and appendices be exempt from disclosure by virtue of the Local Government Act 1972 Schedule 12A, Part 1, Paragraph 3, as amended, in that it contains information relating to the financial or business affairs of an individual.

 

2.        That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approved the recommendations of the Rating Advisory Panel held on 27th October 2020 and determined the applications for National Non-Discretionary Rates and Hardship relief as set out in Appendix A of the report.

 

Reasons for Decision

 

The Rating Advisory Panel has set out the reasons for the recommendations in each case considered by the Panel in the recommendations in Appendix A of the report,


20/11/2020 - Council Tax COVID-19 Hardship Fund 2020/21 ref: 1268    Recommendations Approved

Approval for additional expenditure from the remaining balance of the Council’s allocation from the Council Tax COVID-18 Hardship Fund.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 20/11/2020

Effective from: 28/11/2020

Decision:

1.        That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration agreed that the Council utilises the balance of the Council’s funding allocation from the Council Tax Covid-19 Hardship Fund to support the recommended areas of expenditure as outlined in Section 5 of this report.

 

2.        That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration agreed to delegate authority to the Executive Director of Finance and Resources to flex the level of funding to be allocated against each area in order to address future changing circumstances arising from the pandemic; with the aim being to utilise all the £2.2m funding allocation by 31 March 2021.

 

3.        That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration noted that a further Cabinet Member report be submitted in late January / early February 2021 to address any forecast remaining balance at 31 March 2021.

 

 

Reasons for Decisions

 

The recommendations in this report will ensure that the government funding provided under Council Tax COVID-19 Hardship Fund 2020/21 is allocated to the most appropriate areas to assist the financial circumstances of residents in 2020/21.


16/11/2020 - Arundel Court ref: 1267    Recommendations Approved

Developer funded highways/public realm improvement scheme. Installation of natural stone, raised tables, trees, planting, pedestrian and cycle facilities.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Environment and Highways

Decision published: 16/11/2020

Effective from: 25/11/2020

Decision:

2.        Recommendations

 

2.2      Approval was granted by the Cabinet Member for Environment and Highwaysto undertake Detailed Design and Implementation of the proposed Arundel Court Public Ream Improvements Project.

 

2.3      The Cabinet Member for Environment and Highways approved capital expenditure to the sum of £3,152,791(included a Risk & Contingency of £373,881) to complete the scheme.

 

 

3.        Reasons for Decision 

 

3.1      The proposed scheme will contribute to the adopted November 2013 and subsequent updated November 2016 City of Westminster City Plan objectives. It is intended that this scheme will:

 

 

·         Improve the public realm and pedestrian facilities.

·         Provide legible and safer routes for cycle traffic.

·         Improve health by encouraging more everyday journeys to be made by active transportation. Improvements to pedestrian facilities are also proposed as part of the scheme.

·         Encourage more people to cycle by implementing a scheme suitable for all people who want to cycle in the area, particularly those wishing to avoid some of the busier, highly trafficked main roads.

·         Reduce CO2 emissions in part by encouraging modal shift from private motor vehicles to walking, cycling and public transport.

 

3.2      Public realm improvements formed part of S106 Planning obligations associated with Ref. 11/05626/FULL.

 

Wards affected: St James's;

Lead officer: Hayden Tuck


16/11/2020 - Royal Albert Hall Security and Highways Improvements ref: 1266    Recommendations Approved

To approve an initial design and the capital expenditure to implement security measures and a series of highways improvements in the vicinity of the Royal Albert Hall.

To grant approval to enter into a Section 278 agreement for the works and to proceed to detailed design and implementation of the scheme.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Environment and Highways

Decision published: 16/11/2020

Effective from: 25/11/2020

Decision:

2.          Recommendations

2.1        That this report is exempt from disclosure by virtue of the Local Government Act 1972, Schedule 12A Part 1, paragraph 14 (as amended), in that it contains information relating to action to be taken in connection with the prevention investigation or prosecution of a crime.

 

2.2        The Cabinet Member for Environment and Highways granted approval to commit to capital expenditure to deliver the scheme and to enter into an Agreement under Section 278 of the Highways Act 1980, in order to progress to detailed design stage and implement a security and highways scheme.

 

2.3        Delegated authority was given to the Acting Executive Director of City Management and Communities to allow minor modifications as necessary to the approved scheme, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Environment and Highways.

 

 

3.          Reasons for Decision

 

3.1        The proposed public realm improvements identified in this report, will reduce the vulnerability of the Royal Albert Hall and immediate surroundings to a terrorist attack utilising a vehicle as a weapon attack methodology or a penetrative vehicle borne improvised explosive device attack methodology.

 

3.2        Implementation of a series of highways improvements to provide added pedestrian safety and comfort, increase accessibility, enhance the experience of visitors to the area and encourage active travel.

 

3.2        To address a potentially unsafe crossing by implementing a new wider upgraded pedestrian crossing.

 

Wards affected: Knightsbridge and Belgravia;

Lead officer: Jerry Warner


06/11/2020 - Church Street (Site A) Serving Demolition Notices ref: 1263    Recommendations Approved

Authorisation for the Council to serve Initial Demolition Notices to all Church Street, Site A occupants (residing in blocks Blackwater, Cray, Ingrebourne, Lambourne and Pool House), which will in effects suspend all Right to Buy applications.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 06/11/2020

Effective from: 06/11/2020

Decision:

That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration:

 

(a)            Authorised the principle of serving of Demolition Notices (Initial and Final) in accordance with the Housing Act 1985, on Church Street Site A residents (being residents at Blackwater House, Cray House, Ingrebourne House, Lambourne House and Pool House such properties more particularly set out in section 5.5 of this report), and

(b)            Delegated approval of all related documentation and service of such Demolition Notices (Initial and Final) on Church Street Site A residents to the Executive Director of Growth Planning and Housing.

 

Reasons for Decision

 

The reason for this decision is that the Council anticipates demolition of properties in Site A within a period of seven years and therefore it is desirable to serve appropriate notices to reduce risk and cost for the Council.

Wards affected: Church Street;

Lead officer: Sarah Crampton


06/11/2020 - Marble Arch BID Renewal & Alteration Ballot ref: 1264    Recommendations Approved

Marble Arch BID Renewal & Alteration Ballot

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Business and Planning

Decision published: 06/11/2020

Effective from: 06/11/2020

Decision:

Summary of Decision

 

  1. That the Marble Arch London BID’s Renewal & Alteration Proposal be endorsed.

 

  1. That the Chief Executive be requested as the City Council’s Returning Officer and “ballot holder” to hold a ballot for Marble Arch London BID in respect of their proposed Renewal & Alteration Proposal be approved.

 

  1. That the Director of Law be authorised on behalf of the City Council to enter into the necessary legal agreements for collection of the BID Levy service specifications for all services which the City Council is required to deliver throughout the BID’s term and any other necessary legal matters for the BID as instructed and in consultation with the appropriate officers.

 

Reasons for Decision

Marble Arch London BID has a strong collaborative relationship with the City Council. Examples include:

·       Large public realm schemes, Marble Arch being the major one currently under consideration - a transformative scheme led by The Portman Estate will create a high-quality, safe civic space. The scheme aims to improve road safety, alongside better walking and cycling connections, creating an accessible and healthier environment with improved air quality. 

·       Small scale public realm schemes, in partnership with Hyde Park Paddington Neighbourhood Forum, through Neighbourhood CIL and designed and delivered by WCC Highways.

·       Street Team and staff team regularly report environmental conditions, problem solving and snagging with Highways and Cleansing.

·       Street Team monitor and refer rough sleepers to agencies, and deal with a host of local ASB. The BID participates in regular street counts with WCC and promotes the Hidden Network.

·       The BID funds a dedicated Neighbourhood Co-ordinator at the Council, and feed in all intelligence to the Council for joint operations.

·       Since the launch of the BID’s Community Programme in 2016, it has supported 28 Marble Arch member companies to build relationships with more than 20 local schools, charities, and social enterprises. To date, Marble Arch businesses have donated over 1,000 hours of volunteering to the local community.

·       The BID’s Community Programme directly supported the response to the COVID-19 public health crisis proving vital companionship and support to local residents and connecting charities and schools with hotels, venues and offices, distributing surplus food, clothing and toiletries. The BID brought together nine local schools to help create a rainbow themed thank you mural for the 200 key workers staying at the Hilton London Metropole during the height of the pandemic.

It is anticipated that Marble Arch London BID will continue to play an active part in the joint working arrangements the City Council has set up for BIDs to liaise with City Council members and officers, to enable new ideas, plans and initiatives of mutual concern to be discussed prior to public launch. Officers will also continue to encourage Marble Arch London BID as with all BIDs to work collaboratively with each other on joint initiatives so as to avoid duplication of resources and contact with the City Council.

 

This report describes the BID’s Renewal & Alteration Proposal that has been 

submitted by Marble Arch London BID to continue into a second term. These do not conflict with City Council policies.

 

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

 

6 November 2020

Implementation Date

 

6 November 2020

 

 

 

Wards affected: Bryanston and Dorset Square; Church Street; Hyde Park; Knightsbridge and Belgravia; Little Venice; West End;

Lead officer: Haylea Asadi


03/11/2020 - Council Tax, NNDR, Housing Benefit Overpayments and Former Client Rent Arrears - Irrecoverable Debt for Quarters 1 and 2. 2020-21 ref: 1260    Recommendations Approved

The losses arising from National Non-Domestic Rates (NNDR), Council Tax, Housing Benefit Overpayment and Former Client Rent arrears write-offs can be met from the provisions made in the accounts in previous years for irrecoverable debts and thus there will be no impact on the current year’s budgets.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 03/11/2020

Effective from: 11/11/2020

Decision:

1.              That the report be declared exempt from publication as the business to be transacted involves the disclosure of information as prescribed by paragraph 1 of Part 1 of Schedule 12a of the Act relating to information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority).

 

2.              That Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneation noted the amounts as shown in paragraph 6.1 of the report as written-off under officer delegated authority.

 

 

Reasons for Decision 

The recommendation to write-off the amounts detailed in this report is proposed as all other avenues available to the Council for the recovery of these debts have been exhausted, including, where appropriate, the issue of court and distress proceedings..


02/11/2020 - Green Plaque proposal for Halima Nalecz ref: 1259    Recommendations Approved

Proposal for a Green Plaque to commemorate artist Halima Nalecz and the Drian Galleries

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Business and Planning

Decision published: 02/11/2020

Effective from: 02/11/2020

Decision:

Summary of Decision

 

That the nomination for a commemorative Green Plaque to Halima Na??cz at 5 Porchester Place, W2 2PE be approved.

 

Reasons for decision

 

Halima Na??cz was regarded as eminent in her day and remains respected as a gallery owner today. Many distinguished artists were loyal to the gallery throughout their careers and The Drian Galleries archives are in the Tate Gallery. The Drian deserves recognition for its role in promoting and supporting avant-garde art of the 1950s and 60s and Halima Na??cz deserves the same for her role as a patron of the arts, especially in and for Poland. She nurtured careers and donated works of art to Polish national museums.

 

The application is supported by an independent Green Plaque panel and Gill Hedley, independent curator and a consultant on contemporary visual arts.

 

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

2 November 2020

Implementation Date:

2 November 2020

Reference:

 

CMfB&P/6/2020/2021

 

Wards affected: Hyde Park;

Lead officer: Claire Appleby


16/10/2020 - Rating Advisory Panel 15.09.2020: Determination of National Non-Domestic Rates Discretionary and Hardship Relief Applications ref: 1256    Recommendations Approved

Consider recommendations of the Rating Advisory Panel in relation to applications for Hardship and Discretionary Rate Relief.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 16/10/2020

Effective from: 16/10/2020

Decision:

1.              That this report and appendices be exempt from disclosure by virtue of the Local Government Act 1972 Schedule 12A, Part 1, Paragraph 3, as amended, in that it contains information relating to the financial or business affairs of an individual.

 

2.       That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approved the recommendations of the Rating Advisory Panel held on 15th September 2020 and determined the applications for National Non-Domestic Rates Discretionary and Hardship relief set out in Appendix A of the report.

 

Reasons for Decision

 

3The Rating Advisory Panel has set out the reasons for the recommendations in the report.

 

Lead officer: Susan Bush


16/10/2020 - Rating Advisory Panel 14//07/2020: Determination of National Non-Domestic Rates Discretionary and Hardship Relief Applications ref: 1252    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval sought.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 16/10/2020

Effective from: 16/10/2020

Decision:

1.              That this report and appendices be exempt from disclosure by virtue of the Local Government Act 1972 Schedule 12A, Part 1, Paragraph 3, as amended, in that it contains information relating to the financial or business affairs of an individual.

 

2.       That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approved the recommendations of the Rating Advisory Panel held on 14th July 2020 and determined the applications for National Non-Domestic Rates Discretionary and Hardship relief set out  in Appendix A of the report.

Reasons for Decision

 

3The Rating Advisory Panel has set out the reasons for the recommendations in the report.


16/10/2020 - Church Street Regeneration - Commercial Tenant Renegotiation ref: 1255    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member Apperoval sought. 

 

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 16/10/2020

Effective from: 24/10/2020

Decision:

1.              That Appendix A of this report be exempt from publication as it involves the disclosure of information as prescribed by paragraph 3 of Part 1 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972 (as amended), relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information).

 

2.        That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration:

 

(a)  Authorised officers in consultation with the Executive Director of Finance and Resources to enter into formal negotiations, including offers of compensation where applicable, with the commercial property tenants on Sites A, with the view of obtaining vacant possession and where appropriate to acquire in consultation with the Executive Director of Finance and Resources, and noted that all relevant commercial property interests by agreement at open market value together with compensation where applicable , for which appropriate budgetary provisions have been made;

 

             and

 

(b) Authorised officers in consultation with the Executive Director of Finance and Resources to take any property asset management actions as may be necessary, including terminating, varying and/or granting new leases, to achieve vacant possessions of commercial property interests on Site A

 

 

Reasons for Decision 

 

f approved the decisions requested in this report will: enable the start of formal negotiations with the commercial property tenants at Site A, as appropriate, and the undertaking of all necessary commercial property conveyancing including compensation and settlements where appropriate, with the aim of achieving vacant possession of all commercial property interests in readiness for redevelopment.


16/10/2020 - Westmead Care Home - Development Proposals ref: 1254    Recommendations Approved

Decisions required prior to planning submission.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 16/10/2020

Effective from: 24/10/2020

Decision:

1.              That Appendixes B and C of the report be exempt from disclosure by virtue of the Local Government Act 1972, Schedule 12A Part 1, paragraph 3 (as amended), in that it contains information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information).

2.        That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration:

 

Approved the preferred option as detailed in Section 5 of this report for redevelopment of:

§  Mixed tenure scheme – minimum of 35% affordable housing.

§  Market Units to be progressed as rental.

 

3.              Approved in principle that Westminster Builds (WB) delivers the scheme as detailed in Section 5 of this report and note that additional Cabinet Member approval will be required for the financial and legal documents required to facilitate this delivery route.

 

4.                  Authorised the Executive Director Growth Planning and Housing and the Bi-Borough Director of Law, to deal with all necessary legal arrangements to affect the recommendations set out in this report, including entering in to S106 agreement.

 

5.              Noted expenditure on the project of £0.578m to date and approved additional expenditure of £1.4M to progress design and procure a preferred contractor.     

 

 

Reasons for Decision 

1.              In May 2019, an Outline Business Case was tabled at Capital Review Group which confirmed the separation of Carlton Dene and Westmead in to two individual projects, with Carlton Dene progressing as a 100% affordable scheme consisting of extra care and general needs housing, whilst Westmead will be a mixed tenure general needs housing scheme including social rent, intermediate and market housing.

 

2.              Officers have assessed a number of options for Westmead ranging from reinstatement through to redevelopment for general needs housing.

Wards affected: Westbourne;

Lead officer: Emily Myers


16/10/2020 - Ashbridge Ashmill and Cosway Street ref: 1251    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval sought.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 16/10/2020

Effective from: 24/10/2020

Decision:

1.        That Appendix A of the report be exempt from disclosure as it involves the disclosure of information as prescribed by paragraph 3 of Part 1 of Schedule12a to the Local Government Act 1972, (as amended), in that they contain information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority).

2.        That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration formally agreed the preferred way forward as set out in the Full Business Case, namely;

·       A Joint development, with affordable housing provided at Ashbridge and Ashmill, and private housing at Cosway.

·       The direct development of all three sites by the council

·       The appointment of Geoffrey Osborne Ltd (Osborne) as Main Contractor to deliver the construction works at the 3 sites.

3.        That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration, in support of 2 above, formally agreed to:-

·       Authorise the drawdown of additional centrally held contingency as referred to in the Financial Implications in Appendix A.

·       Authorise to spend the balance of the capital funds required to deliver the project as referred to in the Financial Implications in Appendix A.

·       Approve the execution of the Building Contract between the Council and Osborne as Main Contractor to deliver the construction works at the three sites as referred to in the Legal Implications in Appendix A.

4.        That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration noted the mitigation referred to in Appendix A to reduce the HRA borrowing, which is subject to further investigation and delegated authority to the Executive Director for Growth Planning and Housing in respect of any future decision in connection with this matter.

 

Reasons for Decision

 

1.              The Council is satisfied that the redevelopment will contribute towards meeting the City for All objectives, in particular “City of Opportunity”

 

2.              Specifically, this development will contribute 28 new affordable homes towards the council’s target of 1,850 by 2023.

 

3.              Furthermore, the proposed landscaping improvements at Ashbridge St will help to deliver the City for All target of Healthier and Greener City.

 

4.              A linked planning application was submitted in December 2017 and subsequently approved in March 2019

 

5.              The Full Business Case represents the final business case stage in the project and reconfirms that project remains the most suitable option for the Council to deliver.

 

6.              The Full Business Case has shown that there is still a strong strategic, economic, commercial, financial and management case for the project to progress to the delivery phase.

 

7.              Having previously recommended the approval of Osborne for the pre-construction services agreement in October 2018 following an OJEU compliant tender process, the Gate Review Panel also recommended in July 2020 the award of the main construction works contract to Osborne, subject to Cabinet Member approval

 

8.              Osborne have now completed the detailed design and a rigorous open book tendering exercise has been undertaken and overseen by the Council’s appointed Cost Consultant (Currie and Brown). Currie and Brown have confirmed that the Contract Sum for the main works represents reasonable value for money.


16/10/2020 - Tollgate Gardens Estate - Community Centre Refuse - Planning amendment. ref: 1250    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval sought.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 16/10/2020

Effective from: 16/10/2020

Decision:

1.              That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approved the terms of the Deed of Variation to the Section (S) 106 Agreement and authorised the Council, as freehold owner of the site, to enter into this agreement.

2.              That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration delegated authority to the Growth, Planning and Housing Director of Development to authorise entry into any future deeds of variation in relation to this Site and overarching S.106 Agreement, which do not propose to materially alter the substantive obligations or vary the Council’s liability (as freehold landowner of the site).

Reasons for Decision 

1.              Latimer Developments Limited have submitted a planning application with allocated reference number 19/05994/FULL. This application seeks to vary the extant permission for the development of the site, to allow for amendments to the community centre refuse .i.e. for it to be relocated with the site.  Because this application is considered a “minor material amendment” (under section 73 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990), the effect of this application being granted will be to create a new standalone permission which will be identical to the existing permission, save for the amendments to the scheme’s refuse arrangements. Because a new planning permission will be created, it is a requirement of the City Council (in its capacity as local planning authority) to ensure that the planning obligations secured under the section 106 agreements secured for the development of this site are linked to this new permission.

2.                  It is proposed that the City Council, acting in its capacity as freeholder landowner of the site and as a party to the original s106 agreement, enter into the linking Deed of Variation as a “consenting freeholder”. This means that the Developer (Latimer), who have a long-leasehold interest in the site, will be responsible for the undertaking and the various planning obligations, and the City Council will only become liable if it carries out the development itself, or Latimer’s leasehold interest is terminated.

3.              The benefit of entry into this agreement is to ensure that the relevant key planning obligations are secured pursuant to the planning permission (which in turn are public benefits to the residents of the City of Westminster/of the Tollgate Garden Estate), namely:

·       124 affordable housing units;

·       Securing a Community Centre lease;

·       Dedication of new public highway through a highway works scheme;

·       Securing residential, disabled and community centre car parking spaces

·       Play area and open space provision; and

·       Car club membership for the new units.

4.              This report also recommends that future deeds of variation, which do not propose to materially alter the terms of the overarching S.106 agreement, are dealt with at officer level. This is proposed so Cabinet Member approval is not required for straightforward administrative decisions which have no differing implications from the original decision, with a view to efficient decision making and the appropriate use of resources.

5.              The S.106 Agreement is being entered into by both WCC as landowner and WCC as the Local Planning Authority. The Local Planning Authority’s authority to enter into the agreement derives from the Planning Applications Sub-Committee resolving to approve the planning permission. WCC as landowner requires a separate Cabinet Member decision to enter into the agreement in that capacity.


15/10/2020 - Acquisition Approval for the Lisson Grove Programme ref: 1249    Recommendations Approved

That Westminster to proceed with the acquisition of the tenanted properties at 6, 8, 10 and 12 Lilestone Street, by way of a transfer of part of the Lease held by Notting Hill Genesis (NHG), with the intent of merging the properties into Westminster’s freehold reversion and becoming the landlord of the four existing tenancies as Site 5 for a consideration as set out in Appendix 2 and enter into all necessary contracts and deeds in this regard


that Westminster proceed with the acquisition of 8 parking spaces by way of a further transfer of part of the Lease held by NHG which are identified as Sites 1,2,3 and 4 as shown at Appendix 1, and for a consideration set out in Appendix 2, and enter into all necessary contracts and deeds in this regard;

that Appendices 2 and 3 of this report be exempt from publication under Section 100 (A) (4) and Part 1 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972 (as amended) as it contains information which should be exempt from publication relating to the business and financial affairs of the authority.
that the tenants at 6, 8, 10 and 12 Lilestone Street will become secure tenants of Westminster upon the acquisition of these properties from NHG to Westminster and will be entitled to the same rehousing entitlements as provided in the existing policy for Tenants in Housing Renewal Areas as other council tenants in Church Street affected by regeneration.

authorises the serving of Initial Demolition Notices on 6, 8, 10 and 12 Lilestone Street immediately upon the transfer of these properties into Westminster’s ownership, in accordance with the Housing Act 1985, in order to suspend the requirement for the Council to complete Right to Buy applications for as long as the notices remain in force.

delegates approval and timing of all necessary steps to implement and serve the Initial Demolition Notices to the Executive Director of Growth Planning and Housing;

approves the reletting of any void properties under Part VII of the Housing Act 1996 to provide temporary accommodation to homeless households

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 15/10/2020

Effective from: 23/10/2020

Decision:

1.         That Appendices 2 and 3 of this report be exempt from publication under Section 100 (A) (4) and Part 1 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972 (as amended) as it contains information which should be exempt from publication relating to the business and financial affairs of the authority.

 

2.         That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Regeneration and Property approved:

 

·       That Westminster proceed with the acquisition of the tenanted properties at 6, 8, 10 and 12 Lilestone Street, by way of a transfer of part of the Lease held by Notting Hill Genesis (NHG), with the intent of merging the properties into Westminster’s freehold reversion and becoming the landlord of the four existing tenancies as Site 5 for a consideration as set out in Appendix 2 of the report and enter into all necessary contracts and deeds in this regard;

 

·       That Westminster proceed with the acquisition of 8 parking spaces by way of a further transfer of part of the Lease held by NHG which are identified as Sites 1,2,3 and 4 as shown at Appendix 1, and for a consideration set out in Appendix 2, and enter into all necessary contracts and deeds in this regard;

 

·       That the tenants at 6, 8, 10 and 12 Lilestone Street become secure tenants of Westminster upon the acquisition of these properties from NHG to Westminster and will be entitled to the same rehousing entitlements as provided in the existing policy for Tenants in Housing Renewal Areas as other council tenants in Church Street affected by regeneration.

 

·        

·       Authorised the serving of Initial Demolition Notices on 6, 8, 10 and 12 Lilestone Street immediately upon the transfer of these properties into Westminster’s ownership, in accordance with the Housing Act 1985, in order to suspend the requirement for the Council to complete Right to Buy applications for as long as the notices remain in force;

 

·       Delegated approval and timing of all necessary steps to implement and serve the Initial Demolition Notices to the Executive Director of Growth Planning and Housing;

 

·       Approved the reletting of any void properties under Part VII of the Housing Act 1996 to provide temporary accommodation to homeless households.

 

Reasons for Decision

 

1.                     The Church Street/Edgware Road Area is one of five priority areas identified in Westminster’s Housing Renewal Strategy (2010) as needing significant improvement and investment. In line with the City for All objectives and the Church Street Masterplan, the overarching objective of regenerating the Church Street ward is to bring about physical change that is sustainable and creates new and better homes, health and wellbeing services, economy and employment, public realm and open spaces to improve the lives of residents, business and visitors alike.

2.                     The Cabinet Member for Finance, Regeneration and Property agreed the   decision taken on 6 June 2019 to take forward option 3 as the PWF for Gayhurst House and 6 to 12 Lilestone Street.

3.                     Securing by agreement the transfer of 6, 8, 10 and 12 Lilestone Street and those eight parking spaces from NHG to Westminster will assist with land assembly in advance of the regeneration.

4.                     The consideration agreed represents a saving to Westminster in comparison to the compensation costs that would be required if any potential Compulsory Purchase Powers were required to secure ownership of these interests

5.                     It will be a requirement to take the transfer of the four properties 6, 8, 10 and 12 Lilestone Street and to provide the tenants there with secure tenancies for Notting Hill Genesis. The transaction is subject to the approval of the Social Housing Regulator.

6.                     Westminster intends (subject to planning and procurement in the usual way) to demolish the four properties shortly after acquisition. Serving an initial demolition notice on the 4 properties at 6, 8, 10 and 12 Lilestone Street immediately upon transfer to will be necessary to suspend the right to buy.

Wards affected: Church Street;

Lead officer: Fergus Coleman, Serena Simon


15/10/2020 - Award of a 3-5 year contract for the Replacement of Block Calorifiers on the PDHU network ref: 1248    Recommendations Approved

To award a 3-5 year contract following a successful tender for the replacement of Block Calorifiers on the PDHU network

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Hsg Services

Decision published: 15/10/2020

Effective from: 23/10/2020

Decision:

1.              That in accordance with Paragraph 3 of schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972 this report be exempt from publication in that it relates to information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding the information).

 

2.        That the Cabinet Member for Housing Services approved the contract award for the replacement of block calorifiers on the PDHU network to the preferred bidder for the total sum as set out in the report under a 3 – 5 year phased replacement programme.

 

Reasons for Decision 

 

To deliver a phased replacement programme of aged calorifiers on the PDHU network ensuring that residents continue to receive a supply of hot water, provide efficient monitoring and achieve a reduction in operating costs.

Wards affected: Churchill; Tachbrook; Warwick;

Lead officer: Chris Richardson


01/10/2020 - Policy for Voluntary & Community Sector (VCS) organisations renting or leasing council property in Westminster ref: 1246    Recommendations Approved

Policy for the leasing of council premises by the Voluntary and Community sector (a policy to ensure greater transparency in the financial contributions made by the council to VCS organisations renting council property and to ensure a consistent standard across all VCS organisations renting council property).

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Community Services and Digital

Decision published: 01/10/2020

Effective from: 01/10/2020

Decision:

Summary of Decision

 

  1. That the Draft Policy for VCS organisations renting or leasing council property in Appendix B be approved.
  2. That the Social Value Assessment Matrix for VCS organisations applying to the scheme in Appendix C be approved.
  3. That the General Eligibility Criteria for VCS organisations renting or leasing council property in Appendix D be approved.
  4. That the Financial Eligibility Criteria for VCS organisations renting or leasing council property in Appendix E be approved.
  5. That the Standard Lease Template for VCS organisations renting or leasing council property in Appendix F be approved.
  6. That the Executive Director of Finance and Resources be given delegated authority to approve minor modifications and updates to the policy.

 

Reasons for Decision 

 

A policy is needed to standardise the financial contributions that the council makes towards the market rent of VCS organisations occupying council property, so that the council can be shown to be fair, consistent and transparent in its dealings with the voluntary and community sector.

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

1 October 2020

Implementation Date:

1 October 2020

Reference:

 

CMfCS&D/7/2020/21

 

Lead officer: Ezra Wallace


18/03/2020 - A.O.B ref: 1182    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: General Purposes

Made at meeting: 18/03/2020 - General Purposes

Decision published: 01/10/2020

Effective from: 18/03/2020

Decision:

The Committee held discussions on holding non-executive Member level meetings during the Covid19 pandemic. The Committee was informed that the 1972 Local Government Act had little provisions about convening virtual Meetings. Members were informed that Statutory Guidance had been issued to the National Assembly of Wales in 2014 about remote Meetings and that it was advised that 30% of Assembly Members had to be present for these meetings. The Committee was advised that the Government was to provide guidance for convening remote Meetings.

 

Members were informed that the Council could delay and postpone meetings, use the Officers Scheme of Delegation to determine urgent matters or hold meetings which are attended by the minimum number of Members required. The latter would need to be held in large rooms in order to observe social distancing. The Committee was informed that Members joining remotely would be unable to vote and could only express their views.  Officers do not need to be physically present at meetings. The following were also noted: -

 

·       Planning Applications Sub-Committees & Licensing Sub-Committees – There are risks of challenges through ‘Non-determination’ of Applications which have been deferred by both Committees. These risks are low. The two Sub-Committees should continue to meet and this should either be done via a virtual platform or live setting.  The Council’s own Scheme of delegation would need to be determined by a Committee.

 

·       Expedite Reviews and Temporary Events Notice would need to be considered by the Licensing Sub-Committees; the former can be conducted virtually.

 

·       That full Council meetings should be convened and that a minimum of 15 Members would need to be present to undertake all necessary decisions. Members noted that all business could be transacted before Full Council and that the Meeting should solely be used to ratify decisions. Full Councils in which there are no decisions being made should be postponed. 

 

·       That Dispensations would be processed for any Councillors who are or may become at risk of breaching the ‘six - month rule’ of non-attendance of a meeting.

 

·       Discretionary and Housing Review Panel and the Rating Advisory Panels can continue by operating virtually.

 

·       All meetings should be analysed and factors such as how 'essential' they are, Member availability, nature of the business/urgency, legal risk to holding a meeting or cancelling a meeting must be considered.  The minimum number of Members would be required to attend, and proportionality must be adhered too. All meetings would need to be prioritised.

 

·       The Council has IT Software (Microsoft Teams) which supports virtual meetings. The Software enables external parties to participate in meetings. Officers would be tasked with the logistics for organising and running virtual meetings and ensuring that all relevant parties are able to participate.

 


29/09/2020 - Pan-London Management of Mortuary Services ref: 1245    Recommendations Approved

Officer Report

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 29/09/2020

Effective from: 29/09/2020

Decision:

 

1.         That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration:

 

            a)         Agreed that the report be exempt from disclosure by virtue of the Local                         Government Act 1972, Schedule 12A Part 1, paragraph 3 (as amended), I     n                      that it contains information relating to the financial or business affairs of any     particular person (including the authority holding that information).

            b)         Agreed that the City Council assumes responsibility for the provision of Pan-                 London mortuary services from 24 September 2020 to 31 March 2021.

 

          c)         Approved the drawdown of services from the existing contract to provide            mortuary services to all London local authorities until 31 March 2021.

           

      d)         Approved the procurement of the necessary support and logistic services to                   run the day-to-day operations of the temporary mortuary sites.

 

         e)         Approved the estimated expenditure up to £16.15m for the provision of the           temporary mortuary and associated support services.

 

f)    Delegated authority to the Director of City Highways to call down additional       resources to extend mortuary services at Horseferry Road   from the contract in           the event of a second wave of Covid-19.

 

1.         In the event of further COVID-19 excess deaths, the City Council has offered to manage the Pan-London temporary mortuary provision provided that the funding and legal agreements amongst London local authorities are secured.

2.         Securing six months of finances to create a sinking fund for the undertaking of temporary mortuary provision prior to contracts being authorised, has reduced the risk to Westminster and Camden as responsible legal bodies.

 

 

 

 

1.        In the event of further COVID-19 excess deaths, the City Council has offered            to manage the Pan-London temporary mortuary provision provided that the            funding and legal agreements amongst London local authorities are secured.

2.        Securing six months of finances to create a sinking fund for the undertaking of temporary mortuary provision prior to contracts being authorised, has reduced the risk to Westminster and Camden as responsible legal bodies.

 

 

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Candace Bloomfield, Stephen Muldoon


28/09/2020 - Purchase of Communal Electricity and Gas from October 2020 ref: 1244    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approal sought for purchae of energy supplies.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Hsg Services

Decision published: 28/09/2020

Effective from: 28/09/2020

Decision:

1.        That the Cabinet Member for Housing Services delegated authority to the Executive Director of Growth, Planning and Housing to accept offers for gas and electricity on the day they are issued by suppliers, to enable the City Council to enter into one or more contracts for communal electricity and gas supplies for 6 months from 1st October 2020.

 

2.        That the Cabinet Member for Housing Services delegated authority to the Executive Director of Growth, Planning and Housing to accept offers for gas and electricity on the day they are issued by suppliers, to enable the City Council to enter into one or more contracts for communal electricity and gas supplies for 6 months from 1st October 2020.

 

 

 

1.              Energy suppliers only quote electricity and gas prices for acceptance on the day, to minimise their risks in a volatile market.  Normal routines for accepting tenders are therefore incompatible with market practice.

 

 

2.        Delegating authority to the Executive Director of Growth, Planning and Housing will therefore enable acceptance of electricity and gas tariffs to secure lowest prices without quotations from suppliers lapsing.

 

 

 

 


25/09/2020 - NNDR Discretionary and Hardship Relief Applications ref: 1243    Recommendations Approved

The Rating Advisory Panel will consider five hardship and three discretionary rate relief applications and make recommendations

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 25/09/2020

Effective from: 25/09/2020

Decision:

1.        That the Council’s Guidelines for applications for NNDR Discretionary relief policy document is amended as shown at Appendix A to the report to reflect a change of policy and process for NNDR Hardship Relief applications received in relation to the financial year 2020/21.

 

 

1.        The current NNDR Hardship arrangements are unworkable due to the increase in the number of applications arising from the pandemic.

2.        The recommended policy / process will allow the Council to meet its statutory requirements to consider (“apply its mind”) requests for NNDR Hardship relief.

3.        The process will ensure that each applicant has sought advice from the Council’s Business and Enterprise team and also exhausted all options to mitigate losses in business income / reduce business cost, which in turn should ensure that the Council utilises its limited funds to support the most appropriate businesses.

 

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Susan Bush


18/09/2020 - Mortuary Contract ref: 1242    Recommendations Approved

Mortuary Contract

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 18/09/2020

Effective from: 26/09/2020

Decision:

1.              That this report be exempt from disclosure by virtue of s100A and Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972 (as amended), in that it contains information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information).

 

2.              That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration:

 

a)        Approved the award of the contract under the previous terms with  the preferred bidder for the provision of additional temporary mortuary facilities to support London’s response to the pandemic until 31 May 2021 including the provision for wave 1 between March and July 2020

 

b)        Approved estimated expenditure to the sum as set out in the report for the provision of mortuary provision across London

 

c)        Approved payment to the preferred bidder to settle the cost of the mortuaries up to 31 July 2020 on behalf of all London boroughs.

 

Reasons for Decision

 

Westminster City Council was asked to finance the provision of pan-London mortuary facilities which ensured that excess deaths in London during Wave 1 of the COVID-19 pandemic were managed effectively.

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Candace Bloomfield


10/09/2020 - Expenditure from the St James's Ward Budget ref: 1240    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Community Services and Digital

Decision published: 10/09/2020

Effective from: 10/09/2020

Decision:

Summary of Decision

 

That the expenditure of £15,000 to commission Inside Out, a series of art installations and performances on the streets of central London with the aim of highlighting its unique cultural offer and encouraging more people back into the city, be approved.

 

Reason for Decision

 

The proposal in this report will support the Council’s wider equalities and diversity agenda by focusing on addressing local issues with enhanced local engagement. 

 

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

10 September 2020

Implementation Date:

10 September 2020

Reference:

 

CMfCS&D/5/2020/21

 

Lead officer: Janis Best


01/09/2020 - Grant a Contract Extension and Issue a lease to GCH (Alan Morkill) Ltd to Occupy the new Beachcroft House Care Home until June 2021 ref: 1238    Recommendations Approved

Establishment of the estate and property management arrangements for the management of Beachcroft.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 01/09/2020

Effective from: 09/09/2020

Decision:

1)     That the Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Public Health gave approval to the Executive Director of Adult Social Care and Health in order that she may exercise the extension option:

 

a)    To award a contract extension to GCH (Alan Morkill House) Ltd, for the provision of Beachcroft Care Home from 17th Dec 2020 to 17th June 2021.

 

b)    To allow the GCH (Alan Morkill House) Ltd to mobilise Beachcroft House Care Home and undertake the transition of services from Carlton Dene and Westmead to Beachcroft House Care Home.

 

2)     That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration gave approval to grant a lease to GCH (Alan Morkill House) Ltd for a period of 9 months from September 2020 to June 2021.

 

 

 

1)          The fundamental reason for granting a lease to occupy Beachcroft and offer a 6-month extension to the current interim contract to GCH (Alan Morkill House) Limited was to ensure and secure immediate continuity of essential services to vulnerable residents currently living within Carlton Dene and Westmead and their move in to Beachcroft. The Care Quality Commission also required the care provider to evidence that it held a lease that allowed it to provide care on the premises or it would not pass registration and not be able to open. The contract extension also allowed time to procure the longer-term care provider.

 

2)          The Council had a clear duty around service provision under the Care Act 2014:

 

·         The Council has a duty to carry out an assessment of anyone who appears to require care and provide or organise support as required.

 

3)          There were also several key national and local drivers informing the need for ongoing service provision, including:

 

·         Prime Minister’s Challenge on Dementia 2020.

·         England’s National Dementia Strategy.

·         Bi Borough Health and Well Being Board Dementia Plan.

·         The Council’s future plans for the commissioning and provision of high-quality and excellent residential care for our residents;

·         City for All.

 

4)          The 6-month contract extension to 17th June 2021 would enable the Council the time required to fully and properly procure a long-term provider to undertake care at Beachcroft House. Ensuring that the procurement exercise makes the most of national, regional and local best practice in full and open engagement with market, this would enable an effective and value for money public procurement exercise to be undertaken.


27/08/2020 - Church Street Site A - Outline Business Case - Part Two ref: 1630    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval sought for part two of the Outline Business Case.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 27/08/2020

Effective from: 05/09/2020

Decision:

 

Summary of Decision

 

1.         That appendices A and B of this report be exempt from disclosure by virtue of the Local Government Act 1972, Schedule 12A, Part 1, paragraph 3 (as amended) in that they contain information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information).

2.         The Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration:

2.1Approved a “partnership - style” delivery route;

 

2.2Approved the investigation of the proposed mitigation methods for reducing the Housing Revenue Account  (HRA) affordability gap of the current scheme; and delegated authority to the Executive Director of Growth Planning and Housing and Finance to approve the implementation of the mitigations once they result in a viable scheme; the proposed mitigations being:

·       Reviewing the housing tenure ratio;

·       Reviewing the design detail to achieve best value for money;

·       Investigating the potential for additional Community Infrastructure Levy funding;

2.3       Approved the contract between the Council and the contractor to be varied to allow for the release of the sum as set out in the report to cover the cost of delivering the remaining contracted multi-disciplinary services.

2.4       Approved the release of the budget as specified within Appendix A of the report to spend on void secure costs.

Reasons for Decision

The decisions as set out above haves been reached following a detailed delivery options appraisal process.

 

Wards affected: Church Street;


24/11/2020 - Waste Collection and Street Cleansing Contract Extension ref: 1269    Recommendations Approved

Extension of Waste Collection and Street Cleansing Contract with Veolia ES Ltd. from September 2020 to September 2024

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 25/08/2020

Effective from: 03/09/2020

Decision:

1.          That this report be exempt from disclosure by virtue of the Local Government Act 1972, Schedule 12A Part 1, paragraph 3 (as amended), in that it contains information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information).

 

2.              That the Cabinet Member for Environment and Highways and the Cabinet Member for Finance and Regeneration approved the extension of the Waste and Recycling Collection, Street Cleansing and Ancillary Services Contract with the organisation as set out in the report. for one year from 16th September 2020 to 15th September 2021.

3.              That the Cabinet Member for Environment & City Management and the Cabinet Member for Finance and Regeneration approved the continuation of the Food Waste and Recycling Processing contracts with the organisation as set out in the report. to be coterminous with the main contract to 15th September 2021.

 

Reasons for Decision

 

The scale of change to both how waste services operate and are funded from 2023 requires a new strategic approach to future waste management in Westminster. The social and economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Westminster and its implications for waste and cleansing services will also need to be fully assessed. This requires an investment of time and external challenge to ensure that the services we procure in future not only meet the changing legislative requirements but also future proof the services for the longer term. An extension of one year provides the time to develop the strategy to prepare for future challenges.

Wards affected: (All Wards);


17/08/2020 - Central London Inclusive Growth - SIP ref: 1235    Recommendations Approved

Approval of Cabinet Member sought to enter into a grant agreement.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Business and Planning

Decision published: 17/08/2020

Effective from: 25/08/2020

Decision:

1.        That Appendix D to the report be exempt from disclosure by virtue of the Local Government Act 1972, Schedule 12A Part 1, paragraph 3 (as amended), in that it contains information in relation to the business affairs of the council or any other body.

2.        That the Cabinet Member authorised:

(1).   The council to enter a grant agreement, as the accountable body, with the City of London for the Central London Inclusive Growth Project.

(2).   The council to enter grant agreements with the project partners to pass on the obligations of the grant agreement between the City of London and Westminster City Council to the project partners.

(3).   The delivery of the Central London Inclusive Growth Project as set out within the appended grant agreement.

(4).   Capital expenditure against the budget within the capital programme of £1.605m of which £0.9m will be funded from the SIP grant and £0.705m will be funded by the Council.

 

 

 

1.        The rationale for investing within the Central London Inclusive Growth Project is as follows:

·            Inclusive growth alongside access to affordable workspace and business support are priority issues for London

·            Low vacancy rates of central London, which are well below the Mayor’s availability threshold of 8%, confirms demand for space is outstripping supply resulting in instability, rising rents and narrowing of accommodation options. This situation is exasperated by a major net loss of employment space due in part to permitted development rights, which is in tension with the Mayor’s forecast for new jobs that London needs to accommodate.

·            The bid proposal addresses the lack of affordable workspace and business support available in central London. The funding awarded will be invested in new affordable workspace with digital infrastructure and business support, mutually geared towards empowering entrepreneurs to overcome barriers to three critical stages in their early life, namely: setting up, employing their first employees and expanding.

·            There is a strong economic case for the bid validated by a high-level cost benefit analysis by Adroit Economics.

·            The bid will encourage collaboration between Central London boroughs. Camden, Hackney, Haringey, Kensington and Chelsea, Tower Hamlets and Westminster councils are well positioned and keen to work together to address the lack of affordable workspace and business support.

 


12/08/2020 - Parliamentary Ducting - Dartmouth Street & Victoria Street ref: 1232    Recommendations Approved

Staff working for Parliament's Strategic Estates are due to occupy new offices in Dartmouth Street and Victoria Street in 2020. In order to provide power and communications resilience to those new offices, Parliament's Strategic Estates have requested that the City Council install new ducting and cables in the street under a Highways Act s278 agreement.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Environment and Highways

Decision published: 12/08/2020

Effective from: 12/08/2020

Decision:

1.        That the report and other background papers to the report be exempt from disclosure by virtue of the Local Government Act 1972 Schedule 12A, Paragraph 7, as amended, in that they contain information which “in all circumstances of the case, the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information’.

2.        That the Cabinet Member for Environment & Highways approved the design and implementation of the ducting infrastructure works shown on Plans attached in Appendix B to the report.

3.        That the Cabinet Member for Environment & Highways approved the gross expenditure of £4,000,000 to enable the completion of the detailed design and implementation of the ducting infrastructure works which will be fully funded by the Parliamentary Estates Directorate under the terms of a section 278 agreement.

4.        That the Cabinet Member for Environment & Highways approved the agreement pursuant to section 278 of the Highways Act 1980 with the Parliamentary Estates Directorate to secure the works and funding.

5.        That the Cabinet Member for Environment & Highways approved authority being delegated to the Executive Director of City Management and Communities to approve details of the secondary scheme in Little College Street and minor modifications to the scheme in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Environment & Highways.

 

 

1.        The proposed ducting infrastructure works in the public highway identified in this report will improve business continuity and connectivity between buildings operated by the Parliamentary Estates Directorate.

2.       The estimated cost of the proposals identified in this report is £4,000,000which includes, design costs, approvals, Westminster costs, risk and contingency etc. and will be fully funded by the Parliamentary Estates Directorate.

 

Wards affected: St James's;


11/08/2020 - Nomination and Appointment of Local Authority School Governors ref: 1231    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Children's Services

Decision published: 11/08/2020

Effective from: 11/08/2020

Decision:

1)              That Appendix A to this report be exempt from public disclosure by virtue of paragraph 1 of Schedule 12a of the Local Government Act 1972 (as amended) – Information Relating to a Particular Individual.

 

2)              That the recommendations of the Local Authority School Governor’s Advisory Panel set out in Appendix A be approved.

 

Reasons for Decision 

 

Every maintained school governing body must contain at least one Local Authority nominated school governor.

 


07/08/2020 - 9 Woodfield Road - Land disposal ref: 1229    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval sought for disposal of land.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 07/08/2020

Effective from: 15/08/2020

Decision:

1.        That the appendices of the report be exempt from disclosure by virtue of the Local Government Act 1972, Schedule 12A Part 1, paragraph 3 (as amended), in that it contains information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information).

2.              That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approved the terms of the leasehold interest to be granted to the Developer for 9 Woodfield Road and the subsequent lease terms to be granted by the Developer to  Westminster City Council (WCC )for WCC’s use and occupation of a new street cleansing depot and noted that the proposed re-provision of the new depot facility combined with the Developer’s agreement to pay WCC’s Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) together with their S.106 Agreement obligations be accepted as WCC’s total financial consideration for the granting of a 999 year lease for 9 Woodfield Road.

3.        That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration granted the Executive Director of Finance and Resources and/or the Director of Corporate Property the delegated authority to complete the Agreement for Lease required for development of the New Depot and to enter into two leases, one to the Developer for WCC’s existing Depot site and the second for WCC’s use of the New Depot, both to be entered into on achievement of prcatical completion of the New Depot.

4.              That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approved the proposed amendments to the Section 106 Agreement and noted that such approval being required because the Council is the owner of the property asset to be disposed of.

 

Reasons for Decision

The Planning Consent (application reference number 19/04487/FULL) together with a Section106 Agreement granted on the 3 July 2020 includes an obligation upon the Developer to provide a new street sweepers depot for the Council. This provision can only be actuated once the Council has agreed terms for the disposal of its land at  9 Woodfield Road, to the developer.


03/08/2020 - Expenditure from the Ward Budget for Harrow Road Ward ref: 1228    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Community Services and Digital

Decision published: 03/08/2020

Effective from: 03/08/2020

Decision:

Summary of Decision

 

That the expenditure of £10,131 to commission the Out of School 2020-21 Holiday Programme as detailed in the report be approved.

 

Reason for Decision

 

The proposal in this report will support the Council’s wider equalities and diversity agenda by focusing on addressing local issues with enhanced local engagement. 

 

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

3 August 2020

Implementation Date:

3 August 2020

Reference:

 

CMfCS&D/4/2020/21

 

Wards affected: Harrow Road;

Lead officer: Janis Best


03/08/2020 - Expenditure from the Ward Budgets for Warwick and Tachbrook Wards ref: 1227    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Community Services and Digital

Decision published: 03/08/2020

Effective from: 03/08/2020

Decision:

Summary of Decision

 

That the expenditure of £14,278.40 to commission Hydra Fountain for St George’s Square be approved.

 

 

Reason for Decision

 

The proposal in this report will support the Council’s wider equalities and diversity agenda by focusing on addressing local issues with enhanced local engagement. 

 

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

3 August 2020

Implementation Date:

3 August 2020

Reference:

 

CMfCS&D/2/2020/21

 

Wards affected: Tachbrook; Warwick;

Lead officer: Janis Best


29/07/2020 - Highways Services Procurement Strategy ref: 1224    Recommendations Approved

Decision paper on Highways Services Procurement Strategy.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 29/07/2020

Effective from: 06/08/2020

Decision:

Recommendations

The report will be exempt from disclosure by virtue of the Local Government Act 1972, Schedule 12A Part 1, paragraph 3 (as amended), in that it contains information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information).

 

The Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration and the Cabinet Member for Environment and Highways approved a 1-year extension of all contracts from April 2022- March 2023 to allow efforts to be concentrated on the City Council’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic in the U.K. and to develop the contract packaging in light of changing market conditions.

 

The Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration and the Cabinet Member for Environment and Highways approved the procurement strategy and new operating model for the re-let of the service.

 

Reasons for Decision

A 1-year extension of the current contractual arrangements will enable the City Council to focus its efforts on responding to the current COVID 19 outbreak and will provide time for an effective procurement of the new operating model to be carried out.

 

The procurement strategy and future operating model which is outlined in this report will provide the best opportunity to deliver the required service improvements across the City Highways service to achieve the City Council’s ambition of a world class highways environment. It will also assist the City Council with meeting it’s ‘City for All’ objectives.

 

There is uncertainty as to how long it will take the highways and wider construction market to recover from the COVID 19 pandemic, so it is prudent to review the need for further extensions to the existing arrangement if required.

 

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Philip Robson


28/07/2020 - Development Sales Programme - Delegated Authority Paper for Parsons North ref: 1223    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval sought for delegating authority to operate a Development Sales Programme for a site in Parsons North.

Decision Maker: Leader of the Council

Decision published: 28/07/2020

Effective from: 29/07/2020

Decision:

1.                Appendices 1 and 2 of this report being exempt from disclosure by the Local Government Act 1972, Schedule 12A, Part 1, paragraph 3, in that it contains information relating to the financial or business affairs of any person (including the authority holding that information).

2.                That the Leader of the Council delegated authority to the Executive Director of Growth, Planning and Housing or the Director of Development and named officers to approve reservations and the sale terms of private sales units at Venice Court, 124 Hall Place in accordance with section 5 of this report.

3.                That the Leader of the Council delegated authority to the Executive Director of Growth, Planning and Housing or Director of Development and named officers to enter into all associated legal agreements in relation to decision 2 above.

Reasons for Decision

Approval of the recommendations will prevent any delays in accepting offers to formalise reservations which will ensure prospective purchasers receive confirmation of their offer being accepted in a timely manner without having to request Cabinet Member approval for each unit in turn.

Wards affected: Little Venice;


23/07/2020 - Local Authority Discretionary Grants Fund ref: 1220    Recommendations Approved

Officer Report

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 23/07/2020

Effective from: 23/07/2020

Decision:

1.        That Appendix A to the report be declared exempt from publication as the business to be transacted involves the disclosure of information as prescribed by paragraph 3 of Part 1 of Schedule 12a of the Act as it relates to information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority)

 

2.        That the Cabinet Member approves the award of grants to the businesses shown at Appendix A to the report.

 

 

 

 

 

The proposed awards have each met the mandatory requirements of the scheme

and have been given an evaluation score sufficient to qualify for a grant.

 

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Martin Hinckley


23/07/2020 - Westbourne Neighbourhood Forum Re-designation ref: 1221    Recommendations Approved

A decision is required on whether the Westbourne Neighbourhood Forum should be re-designated for a further 5 years.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Business and Planning

Decision published: 23/07/2020

Effective from: 23/07/2020

Decision:

Summary of Decision

 

That the Westbourne Neighbourhood Forum be re-designated for a further period of 5 years and a formal designation notice be published under delegated authority by the Director of Policy and Projects.

 

Reasons for Decision 

 

The City Council is required to assess whether the purpose of the neighbourhood forum reflects (in general terms) the character of the area. The application submitted by the Forum for re-designation and the Forum Constitution indicate that the Forum was established to influence planning and development in the area to promote: A good mix of facilities and amenities, an attractive character and identity, a healthier environment, a good quality physical environment, a low carbon footprint and local employment and enterprise. The statement of purpose within the application also outlines that the forum will improve the social, economic and environmental wellbeing of the area using its planning influence.

 

Consultation on the re-designation of the Westbourne Neighbourhood Forum highlighted support for the application, no objections, or competing applications.

 

Stuart Love,

Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

 

10 July 2020

Implementation Date:

 

10 July 2020

Reference:

 

CMfB&P/3/2020/21

 

Wards affected: Bayswater; Westbourne;

Lead officer: Michela Leoni


22/07/2020 - Virtual Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel: (07.07.20) Determination of Discretionary Housing Payment Review Application ref: 1219    Recommendations Approved

Consider recommendations of the Discretionary Housing Review Panel to award a payment

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 22/07/2020

Effective from: 22/07/2020

Decision:

1.        That Appendix A to the report be exempt from public disclosure by virtue of paragraph 7 of Part 1 of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972 because the applications involve the likely disclosure of exempt information relating to an individual.

          

2.        That the Cabinet Member approved the recommendations of the Virtual Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel meeting of 7 July 2020

 

 

The Virtual Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel has set out the reasons for the recommendations in each case considered by the Panel in the recommendations in Appendix A to the report, which are more fully set out in the case papers submitted to the Panel.

 

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Gwyn Thomas