Decisions

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality has approved the spend of £8.0m to procure the required electric street cleansing vehicles through Veolia ES (UK) Ltd.

Reasons for Decision 

To move away from diesel powered street cleansing operations to fully electric and eliminate additional 600 tonnes of CO2 emissions from Westminster Streets. This is one of the key fleet decarbonisation projects to assist the City Council in delivering its carbon neutral council aspiration by 2030.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality has approved the 3-year extension from 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2026 under the terms outlined in the report.

Reason for Decision

It is of key strategic importance to the Council to have operational and accessible parks, opens spaces and cemeteries that provide benefits to Westminster’s residents and a Fairer Environment.

Parking Services is looking to change the basis of its tiered kerbside permissions’ charging model for bay suspensions, yellow line dispensations and special permissions from being zonal (premium/standard zones) to one of ‘Traffic Sensitive Street’ (TSS) classification, with permissions in TSS locations incurring a higher charge. 

1.        Recommendations

1.1      That the Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality approves the following –

·       The re-modelling of the charging regime for kerbside parking permissions on the basis of Traffic Sensitive Streets (TSS) criterion, as detailed in section 5.3 of this report.

·       That LJUG (utilities) and broadband laying companies are exempted from the TSS charging model and continue to be afforded discounted charges.

·       That current kerbside permissions terms and conditions remain but concessions be given to residents carrying out domestic removals.

·       That the new charging model be implemented from 1 September 2023 or an appropriate date thereafter to allow for the bedding in of a new Parking technology service provider contract which is scheduled to begin on 1 April 2023.

2.        Reasons for Decision 

2.1      The recommendations of this report aim, as far as is possible, to discourage kerbside permissions from being booked on streets classified as TSS and to encourage their occurrence on non-TSS which may be better able to accommodate kerbside being taken out of commission, with the expected result being a positive effect on congestion and air quality. Whilst it is acknowledged that in many instances it may not be feasible for an applicant to ‘choose’ the street in which they require a permission, the proposal also aims to minimise duration and encourage the work that must take place on a TSS to be completed in as timely a fashion as possible.

2.2      The current kerbside permissions charging regime differentiates charges by parking zone only, but this is a blunt mechanism and doesn’t allow for the nuance of the proposed TSS model. The current model does not for example account for quieter streets in the ‘premium’ zones, nor for streets where traffic-flow pressures are high within wider ‘standard’ zones. The proposal is accordingly based upon the status of the street itself, rather than the wider parking zone in which it is located. This decision therefore would enable a fairer and more comprehensive method of charging for permissions, and for the Council to better manage demands on its kerbside and to perform its statutory function of encouraging the safe and expeditious movement of traffic and the provision of suitable and adequate kerbside parking facilities for all road users.

2.3      Adoption of the TSS standard would bring Parking into line with the categorisations used elsewhere in the City Highways Department for Streetworks Permits, the issuing of Temporary Traffic Orders, and crane/scaffold licences.

2.4      This TSS proposal would align with wider Parking Policy Review objectives and will help deliver and build on the Council’s Greener City and Climate Emergency Declaration commitments. Furthermore, the recommendation aligns with the City Council’s Fairer Westminster policy objectives, in particular the Fairer Environment pillar due to its anticipated positive effect on congestion and air quality.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the grant of a sublease for a parcel of land in SW1P 1LT to Kirkglade for a term expiring on 20 June 2075.

Reasons for Decision

Due to the historic anti-social behaviour in this location and costs associated with its management, it is recommended that a sub-lease is granted to prevent future expenditure by WCC in managing those issues in this location and to improve the public realm.

Summary of Decision

1.     The Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development has approved the following Neighbourhood CIL bids:

ii)               St Marylebone CE Bridge School Mini-bus

iii)             Fitzrovia Community Centre Improvements

iv)             St Marylebone Parish Church Public Realm Improvements

v)              Paddington Arts Development: Design and Preliminary Works

vi)             St Augustine’s Sports Hall Flooring

vii)           National Portrait Gallery Orange Street Improvements

viii)          Hyde Park Paddington Neighbourhood Plan

ix)             Victoria Neighbourhood Plan

2.     The Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development has deferred a decision on the Neighbourhood CIL bid for Holcroft Court Plaques.

3.     The Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development has approved the following Carbon Offset funding applications:

i)                St Marylebone CE School Energy Assessment

ii)               Diocese of London Net Zero Carbon Church Accelerator

iii)             Artists Garden, Temple Station Roof – Solar Panels and other sustainability measures

Reasons for Decision

This decision ensures robust and effective expenditure and reporting in line with the Community Infrastructure Levy Regulations 2010 (as amended) and in accordance with the council’s strategic priorities, CIL spending policy statement and its framework for resource allocation and management.

Approval for the main contract to deliver Block A and Block B at Darwin House, 104 Grosvenor Road, London SW1V 3LH.

1.     Recommendations

1.1. That Appendix A & B of this report be exempt from disclosure as they involve the disclosure of information as prescribed by paragraph 3 of Part 1 of Schedule 12a of the Local Government Act 1972, (as amended), in that they contain information relating to the financial or business affairs of any person (including the authority).

1.2. That the Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Climate Action Regeneration and Renters and the Cabinet Member for Housing Services.

·       Approves the Balmoral Castle and Darwin House Full Business Case.

·       Approves the Contract award appointing Wates to undertake the main construction works. 

·       Approves expenditure of £37.137m to take the scheme to practical completion.

1.3. That the Cabinet Member for Climate Action Regeneration and Renters in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform.

·       Delegates authority to the Executive Director of Growth Planning and Housing to approve and enter into any other agreements and any property documents including but not limited to warranties, substation leases, wayleaves, licences, deeds of easements, statutory agreements, and utilities agreements in connection with ancillary works required to facilitate the construction works.

2.     Reasons for Decision

2.1. Following a review of the existing Darwin House accommodation and garages, council officers began reviewing the unique opportunity to improve the living accommodation for the existing Darwin House residents by offering modern size Community Supportive Housing (CSH) units whilst also providing much needed affordable housing in the city of Westminster.

2.2. As part of the scheme, the Council is committed to ensuring that Darwin House residents would only be required to move once, therefore the project will be phased to ensure that the first phase of the project will build the new CSH block. This will ensure that Darwin House can remain in operation until the new replacement CSH building is complete. As well as this, the Council has committed that for any development on the site:

·       There will be a full replacement of all council homes.

·       The Council will provide the maximum possible affordable housing.

·       The Council will support all residents through any moving process.

·       Works will be phased to minimise disruption to residents.

·       All new homes will be covered by a local lettings plan, meaning local people will benefit from the new homes.

·       Residents will be at the heart of the development and design of the project.

2.3. The proposed development, redevelopment or improvement is likely to contribute to achieving the promotion or improvement of the economic, social, or environmental well-being of the area.

2.4. 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.

2.5. 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.

2.6. Wates 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 (Arcadis). Wates submitted their final price to deliver the scheme in January 2023. This was agreed in February 2023. The proposed contract value is higher than originally anticipated due to global inflationary pressures and the overall budget envelope has been extended as a result. Arcadis have confirmed that the Contract Sum for the main works represents reasonable value for money.

2.7. The Contract Award Report (Gate 3) has been presented to the procurement Commercial Gateway Review Board (CGRB) and endorsement has been obtained.

2.8. Finance Capital Review Group (CRG) approval has been obtained for the project endorsing the recommendation to the Executive Director of Growth, Planning and Housing to recommend to the Cabinet Member to award the JCT Design & Build Contract to Wates for the Works.

Agreement to consult staff on service change and a restructure in Regeneration & Development, which better reflects the vision of the service and delivery of the priorities set out in the Fairer Westminster strategy.

1.         Recommendations

Agreement to delegate authority to consult with staff and to implement the new structure following consultation, to the Executive Director of Growth, Planning & Housing.

2.         Reasons for Decision

The Regeneration and Development service needs to change the way it delivers services to meet its commitments under the Fairer Westminster Strategy.

To procure the Round trip, Flexible car club contracts for 4 years from the current expiry of 30 March 2023 and procure a new Geofence car sharing contract. Car Sharing provides an alternative to private vehicle ownership for residents.  

1.     Recommendations

1.1   That the Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality approves the recommendation to award the Contract for the Provision of Roundtrip Car Sharing Services (Lot 1) and also the Contract for the Provision of Flexible Car Sharing Services (Lot 2) to Zipcar (UK) Ltd, and to award the Contract for the Provision of Geofence Car Sharing Services (Lot 3) to HiyaCar Ltd.  All three contracts are for a period of four years from 1^st April 2023, with the option to extend by up to a further one year.

1.2   As these are concession contracts, with no cost to the City Council, contract value is determined by the turnover to the operator.  As the turnover over the contract term is in excess of the £1,500,000 threshold set by the Procurement Code, Cabinet Member sign off is required.  

2.     Reasons for Decision 

2.1   The tenders submitted by Zipcar (UK) Ltd for both the Roundtrip and Flexible services offer the most economically advantageous proposals to the City Council.  Both offered bids on price significantly in excess of the minimum permit price and both provided high scoring quality scores.

2.2   The tender submitted by HiyaCar Ltd for the provision of the Geofence service offers the most economically advantageous bid. Their bids for both quality and price were in excess of the thresholds necessary to be considered qualified to operate in the City.

In line with the Fairer Westminster strategy to Council has committed to launching a Community Municipal Investment – otherwise referred to as a Green Bond –to raise finance intended to aid the Council to meet its ambitious net zero commitments.

1.        Recommendations

1.1      It is recommended that the Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform and the Cabinet Member for Climate Action, Regeneration & Renters approves the launch of the Westminster Community Municipal Investment.

2.        Reasons for Decision 

2.1      This will be the first time the Council has launched a community municipal investment and as a key component of our Fairer Environment Strategy and Net Zero ambitions.

2.2      The municipal investment will be used to support green initiatives within Westminster. The initiatives that will be explored will include solar PV, LED lighting replacements, draught proofing, insulation measures, heat pump technology, glazing upgrades, and EC fan replacements.

2.3     The municipal investment will benefit the Council by securing an alternative means of funding for its net zero ambitions. Additionally, it gives the community an opportunity to feed into the Council’s climate action goals.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the recommendations of the Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel meeting of 7 February 2023

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 in the exempt Appendix A, which are more fully set out in the case papers submitted to the Panel.

Summary of Decision

The Leader of the Council has approved the Long-Term Empty Residential Properties (Private Sector) Interim Strategy Statement and the approach for tackling empty homes.

Reasons for Decision

A new approach to tackling long term empty properties is needed in order to make the best use of Westminster’s housing stock, to respond to resident concerns about long term empty properties and to develop a better understanding of the most effective ways to tackling them. It is also needed in order to build up knowledge in order to develop a comprehensive strategy. 

The Cabinet Members for Communities and Public Protection, the Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality and Climate Action, and the Cabinet Member Regeneration and Renters to delegate the decision on a restructure in the Public Protection and Licensing Directorate to the Director of Public Protection and Licensing.

The Cabinet Members for Communities and Public Protection, the Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality and Climate Action, and the Cabinet Member Regeneration and Renters to delegate the decision on a restructure in the Public Protection and Licensing Directorate to the Director of Public Protection and Licensing.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the recommendations of the Rating Advisory Panel held on 24 January 2023 and determined the applications for NNDR Discretionary and Hardship relief.

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.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform has approved the variation of the current contract with Protector Insurance to include the provision of leasehold buildings insurance for a period of one year effective from 01 April 2023 for a contract value of £4,684,424.

Reasons for Decision 

Following the exit of all previous leasehold buildings insurers, Protector provide the only option available as no other alternative market is available at this current time.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the revised NNDR Discretionary Relief guidelines for 2023/24 as shown at Appendix A.

Reason for decision 

The proposed guidelines will assist with robust and consistent decision-making by providing criteria to be considered when making decisions.

This report begins the process of improving service delivery and outcomes in North Paddington by setting out preliminary proposals on governance, investment and community engagement for improvement.

Cabinet heard from Councillor Adam Hug that Claudette Forbes, a member of the Future of Westminster Commission and Chair of the Economy and Employment Review had been invited to speak on the Commission’s note on the North Paddington Programme that is appended to the Cabinet Report for information. 

Councillor Adam Hug invited Councillor Geoff Barraclough to speak to the report. 

Councillor Barraclough told Cabinet that the programme for North Paddington requires the Council to act in a coordinated way to address inequality throughout the borough as stated by the Westminster City Plan.  

Councillor Barraclough explained that in approving the recommendations set out in the paper Cabinetwould be agreeing to implement a new place-based approach, with the team responsible for leading the programme being on site to start their work. Cabinet heard that investment in the programme will be incremental and will be a pilot for other place-based programmes across the city.  

Councillor Hug invited Sarah Crampton the programme lead for North Paddington to speak to the report. 

Sarah explained to Cabinet that a central focus of the North Paddington Programme will be tackling inequality. To meet the programme aims officers will work collaboratively with residents and business. To this end,a diverse range of stakeholders will be invited to sit on the boards that will be established to review progress and provide feedback. 

Claudette Forbes, Future of Westminster Commission and Chair of the Economy and Employment Review is invited to speak to the note appended to the Cabinet report. 

Claudette explained to Cabinet that through the evidence gathering sessions carried out as part of the review she is confident that there are local actors in the community ready to participate in a programme of regeneration and address historic inequalities in the area. The inclusion of local partners is key to delivering a successful programme.  

Councillor Hug thanks Claudette for the work of the Economy and Employment Review and invited comment from any other Cabinet Member. 

Councillor Boothroyd said that he welcomes the report and notes this is a community that has been held back through lack of investment and opportunity. This report will allow strategic oversight of what the Council is doing in this area,and the finances outlined in the report will allow for accountability for the programme.  

Councillor Hug draws the item to a close by concluding that the North Programme is one of the many place-shaped based approaches the Council is undertakingon projects like Edgware Road and Queensway. 

RESOLVED– CABINET APPROVED THE RECOMMENDATIONS SET OUT IN SECTION2, PAGE 109 

Councillor Hug introduced the report and reiterated Cabinet’s commitment to closing the pay gap and promoting diversity and inclusion.  

Councillor Hug invited Lee Witham, Director of People’s Service to comment on the report.  

Lee explained to Cabinet that the Pay Policy is a statutory report that is required every year. There have been no substantial changes made to the policy this year. Cabinet heard that closing pay gaps by 2025 was a commitment shared across the Council by all people leaders.  

RESOLVED – CABINET APPROVEDTHE RECOMMENDATIONS SET OUT IN SECTION 2, PAGE 140. 

Cabinet heardthat the Capital Strategy plays a key part in delivering the ambitions set out in the Fairer Westminster.Councillor Boothroyd drew particular attention to an additional £85 million for the Temporary Accommodation Acquisitions Programme.  

RESOLVED – CABINET APPROVED THE RECOMMENDATIONS SET OUT IN SECTION 2, PAGE 238  

 Councillor Hug invited Councillor Boothroyd to introduce the report.

Councillor Boothroyd explained that the Integrated Investment Framework is an annual report, by which the Council invests to support its wider objectives. 

RESOLVED – CABINET APPROVED THE RECOMMENDATIONS SET OUT IN SECTION 6, PAGE 362-363. 

Councillor Hug invited Councillor Boothroyd to introduce the report.  

Councillor Boothroyd explained to Cabinet that the Housing Revenue Account Business Plan is an annual refresh of a 30-year business plan.  

Cabinet heard that the 5-year outlook for the HRA revenue budget projects gross income of £701.87m and gross expenditure of £675.73m (with a further £26.14m contribution to fund capital). The HRA Business Plan is viableand demonstrates that the capital investment ambition over the 30 years can be funded sustainably.  

RESOLVED – CABINET APPROVED THE RECOMMENDATIONS SET OUT IN SECTION 2, PAGE 279 

To adopt the Council’s new Anti-Social Behaviour Strategy.

Councillor Hug invited Councillor Less to introduce the report. 

Councillor Less told Cabinet that in developing the strategy, there has been considerable consultation with victims, residents, businesses, and partners. Councillor Less explained that the strategy has been developed using a collaborative approach across the whole council with input from public protection, housing, youth services and the mental health team to name a few. 

Cabinet heard that the 5-year strategy sets out to tackle anti-social behaviour and ensure that communities have the strength and knowledge to support our joint efforts to reduce ASB; perpetrators will find it harder to offend and held to account when they do, and neighbourhoods will be safer. 

Councillor Hug invited Pedro Wrobel, Executive Director of Innovation and Change and Sarah Newman, Bi-borough Executive Director of Children’s Service to comment on the strategy.  

Pedro Wrobel told Cabinet that over 1000 individual responses had been received as part of the consultation on the strategy and that many victims of ASB had come forward to share their experiences and feedback on what could be done differently.  

Sarah Newman echoed Councillor Less’s comments saying that the strategy encompassed a collaborative community response. 

RESOLVED – CABINET APPROVED THE RECCOMENDATIONS SET OUT IN SECTION 2, PAGE 13.  

Councillor Hug invited Councillor Boothroyd to introduce the report. 

Councillor Boothroyd told Cabinet that this is a statutory report produced every year and notes the addition of the Green Climate Bonds which will supportclimate investments in the city.  

RESOLVED – CABINET APPROVED THE RECOMMENDATIONS SET OUT IN SECTION 2, PAGE 326 

Councillor Hug thanked officers and Councillor Boothroyd for their hard work in bringing forward the budget recommendations. 

Councillor Hug welcomed Councillor Paul Fisher, Chair of the Budget Scrutiny Task Group (BSTG) to the meeting, thanking him and all members who sat on BSTG for their work in scrutinising the budget proposals. Councillor Hug asked Councillor Fisher to speak to the work of the BSTG. 

Councillor Fisherexplained to Cabinet that the priority of theBSTG was primarily to identify risk areas that may require close monitoring. Cabinet heard that the main areas of risk identified were historical in nature. Councillor Fisher told Cabinet that going forward he would like the BSTG to be bolder, more transparent and would like the group to be used more widely in public meetings and in budget setting discussions with the Cabinet. 

Councillor Fisher also noted that the report presented to Cabinet had been revised to correct an error in an earlier version. The updated version can be found here. 

Councillor Hug noted this report is recommended to be approved at Full Council on8^thMarch and invited Councillor Boothroyd to introduce the report. 

Councillor Boothroyd noted this is the first budget of the new administration and speaks to the ambitions set out in the Fairer Westminster vision.  

Cabinet heard that the Westminster element of Council Tax will be frozen until 2024 but that the Adult Social Care precept will increase by 2% 

Councillor Hug invited Gerald Almeroth, Executive Director of Finance and Resources to comment on the report. 

Cabinet heard that this paper proposes a balanced budget in 2023-24, and notes inflation is a significant issue along with the uncertainty of central government funding. Cabinet heard thatmanagement of our reserves is significant in trying to mitigate these challenges.  

RESOLVED – CABINET APPROVED THE RECOMMENDATIONS SET OUT IN SECTION 2, PAGE 150  

Amendment to funding arrangements for WCH housing development.

1.        Recommendations

1.1      That the Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform and the Cabinet Member for Climate Action, Regeneration and Renters approves the following:

1.     That the development loan financing being provided to WCH is directed solely to the 581-587 Harrow Road development

2.     That the Council facilitates the change in tenure on that site from 25 intermediate units to 15 family sized social units through the provision of £0.8m from the General Fund Capital Financing Reserve and the change in loan term from 25 to 35 years

2.        Reasons for Decision 

2.1      The Council is actively looking for opportunities to increase the level of family sized social units across the borough. The proposals within this report change the tenure on WCH’s existing development programme at 581-587 Harrow Road from intermediate to family sized social units.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the contract award of a JCT IBC contract for planned maintenance works at Huguenot House to United Living (South) Limited for a value of £1.69m.

Reasons for Decision

Huguenot House includes 35 residential flats and the works described in this paper are comprised mainly of essential health and safety works to the residential part of the building.  The works mainly comprise external refurbishment to the external part of the building comprising of eight upper floors including associated minor internal making good works to include:

1.     New windows.

2.     Roof works including new fall arrest/guardrail system to main tower block roof.

3.     Fire alarm work.

4.     Concrete and render repairs including any necessary testing and making good.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the utilisation of the Council Tax Support Fund scheme in accordance with the proposals outlined in section 4 of the report.

Reasons for Decision

The Council’s proposals as outlined in this report meet the government’s overall objective “to support vulnerable households with council tax bills”, including the government’s required provision of a payment of up to £25 Council Tax allowance to residents in receipt of Council Tax Support at less than 100% of their Council Tax liability.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has resolved to establish a Design Review Panel for Westminster and initiate a recruitment process for panel members.

Reasons for Decision 

To ensure we meet national and London Plan policy requirements in relation to design review and promote the highest standards of sustainable design in new development, which will contribute to achievement of the Council’s wider objectives as a fairer Westminster.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform has approved the award of a new contract to Avison Young from 05 April 2023 for four years to 05 April 2027, with an option to extend for a further two years, with a maximum end date of 05 April 2029.

Reasons for Decision 

This decision will ensure the continued management of the Council’s Property Investment Portfolio whilst also ensuring improved service delivery and value for money by way of a robust contract specification and detailed set of key performance indicators with penalty provisions for non-performance.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Finance and Reform has approved the write-off of debts over £100k as set out in the report.

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.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Communities and Public Protection and the Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and the Voluntary Sector have:

1.              Approved the extension of the Communities Priorities Programme to all areas of deprivation in Westminster by a further £300,000 so that the total fund is £600,000;

2.              Approved an Emergency Fund of £100,000 for community organisations in temporary financial crisis;

3.              Approved a Community Events Fund of £50,000;

Reasons for Decision 

The Cost of Living crisis has added additional challenges for residents facing hardship, and for community organisations, in particular small local organisations. This has created an additional urgency to be able to disperse funds rapidly if needed.

The Community Priorities programme begins with undertaking a needs assessment through interviews with residents. This work needs to start immediately for the grant fund to be opened in January 2023.

The entire community grants programme will contribute to enhanced outcomes for communities and will be evaluated.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the recommendations of the Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel meeting of 10 January 2023.

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 in Appendix A.

1.            Recommendation

1.1         The Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality is recommended to approve;

1.2         Proceeding with detailed design and implementation of the proposed public realm improvements on Sackville Street and Vigo Street as set out in section 5 and shown in the Background papers of this report.

1.3         That approval is given to commit capital expenditure of £1,590,710.00 necessary to carry out the detailed design and implementation of the proposals for the Sackville Street and Vigo Street Public Realm Project. All costs are to be funded by the existing budgets allocated to the project, detailed in section 7.

1.4         That approval is given for the City Council to enter into a section 278 agreement with Heart of London Business Alliance (HOLBA) to fund the Sackville Street and Vigo Street project stages 3-6 (detailed design, mobilisation, implementation, project closure).

1.5         That approval is given 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.

1.6         That delegated authority is given to the Acting Director of City Highways to approve minor modifications as necessary to the approved scheme, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality.

2.            Reasons for Decision

2.1         To allow completion of public highway improvement works. 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. 

This decision will set out the procurement strategy for the Church Street programme.

1.         Recommendations

Recommendations for approval, that has been endorsed at the CGRB and CRG are:

a)    The Procurement Strategy and parameters outlined in the Procurement Strategy appended to this report,

b)    Proceed with the most suitable procurement route - Competitive Procedure with Negotiation

c)     The Commercial Structure, which is a Joint Venture Partnership. Also detailed in the Procurement Strategy.

2.         Reasons for Decision 

Church Street is a vibrant, complex area but despite proximity to the West End, it has issues of social and economic exclusion, which results in poorer health outcomes and lower than average rates of economic activity, than neighbouring areas. As such the Council has ambitious plans and is committed to significant investment to regenerate the area into a model of social, economic, and environmental sustainability.

The masterplan embellishes the real character of Church Street and the importance of the local community in delivering transformational change, and four interconnected drivers have been established which are:

·       Health and wellbeing

·       Homes

·       Market and enterprise

·       Making connections

Approval of the MEES Plus Grant Policy for launch of the MEES Plus Pilot Scheme.

1.        Recommendations

1.1     This report recommends the approval of the MEES Plus Grant Policy for delivery of the MEES Plus Pilot Scheme (the Pilot Scheme) to increase energy efficiency in the private rented sector (PRS) contributing to carbon emission reductions to achieve net zero by 2040.

2.        Reasons for Decision 

2.1      On 30/11/21 following a successful bid, Westminster was awarded a sum of £158,149 by the Carbon Offset Fund to deliver “measurable and quantifiable reductions in carbon emissions in private rented properties across the City of Westminster.” A condition of the funding is that the pilot must begin within 24 months of the date of the approval letter (30/11/21).

2.2    Approval of the MEES Plus Grant Policy is necessary for delivery of the MEES Plus Grant Pilot, in accordance with the funding awarded by the Carbon Offset Fund.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform has approved the disposal of Flat 3, 204 Bravington Road, London W9 3AP for not less than the minimum value confirmed in the Order for Sale for this Property (or any subsequent revised Order for Sale).  

Reasons for Decision  

The sale of the Property is the only remaining option for the Council to obtain the arrears of Council Tax and an Order of Sale for the disposal of the Property by the Council, has been granted in the Council’s favour, by the Court. 

Delivery strategy for the future phases and associated viability positions for each option.

1      Recommendations

1.1      The Cabinet Member for Climate Action Regeneration and Renters and Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform are recommended to:

1.1.1         Approve the revised tenure mix and distribution for the scheme as set out in section 3 of this report;

1.1.2         Approve in principle the submission of a Section 73 Application in respect of the updated tenure mix and distribution and the Council entering into the related planning obligation as required;

1.1.3         Approve the termination of the Agreement for Lease as the letting of intermediate rent and intermediate ownership units within Phase 1 do not form part of the revised tenure mix;

1.1.4         Note the intention to hold an independent resident in ballot in line with the GLA’s Affordable Housing Capital Funding Guide (section 8.6)

1.1.5         Delegate authority to the Executive Director of Growth Planning & Housing to approve any necessary steps and to approve deeds or documents to put these matters into effect.

2      Reasons for Decision

2.1      Current Scheme (Planning Consent)

2.1.1         The current scheme that has received planning consent includes:

§  Mixed tenure blocks on the drawing above blue showing the market homes, orange the intermediate homes and yellow the social homes.

§  A 51% affordable housing uplift across the masterplan.

§  Affordable housing comprised of 60% intermediate tenure and 40% social rent tenure.

§  In terms of the social rent units, the current scheme provides 198 social rent replacement units and 41 new social rent units.

2.2      New Proposal

2.2.1         The new proposal includes:

§  Separation of the market units into single tenure units in Blocks 5, 7 and 9.

§  A 56% affordable housing uplift across the masterplan.

§  An affordable housing split to comprise 91% social rent tenure and 9% intermediate tenure.  The intermediate tenure will be limited to the returning leaseholders from the Ebury Bridge Estate.

§  In terms of social rent the new proposal provides 198 social rent replacement units and 172 new social rent units.

§  The below table demonstrates the updates made to the scheme in respect of each tenure. The final unit numbers and mix are subject to design development and further reserved matters applications.

(A full breakdown of the comparison between the consented scheme and the new proposal can be found in Appendix A).

2.3      There are a number of factors influencing the decision to update the tenure mix and distribution as follows:

§  Due to the rise in construction costs and inflation, the viability position of the scheme has become more challenging.  The updated tenure distribution allows the market values to be optimised, which in turn helps viability and the provision of more social rent homes.

§  Ongoing affordability for returning residents - service charges, energy bills and rents become a lot more reasonable for returning residents with the updated tenure distribution.

§  Opportunity to maximise the number of new social homes being delivered to align with the manifesto. The new proposal provides 131 more social rent homes than the current scheme.

§  Retention of management for Council.

§  There are opportunities to access funding via the GLA? in the region of £40M due to the increased amount of social homes on the scheme.

2.4      The implications of the above changes include:

§  A variation to the Phase 1 contract with the main contractor with cost and programme implications yet to be confirmed.

§  A Section 73 Application will be required to amend the existing planning consent with regards to the affordable housing tenure mix within Phase 1.

§  Following the changes proposed to the affordable housing tenure mix within Phase 1, there would be a decrease to 51% in the total number of affordable homes provided in Phase 1 (compared to 63% in the approved application). However, this change will enable an overall increase in the number of affordable homes delivered as part of the outline application, and subsequently, across the masterplan as a whole.

§  Updates are also required, therefore, to the section 106 Unilateral Undertaking which relates to the hybrid planning permission so that it will also apply to development brought forward under the section 73 planning permission and to update the number of affordable housing units and redistribution of tenure locations. More detail on the Section 73 can be found in Appendix 2.

§  To obtain the relevant GLA funding to deliver the new proposal, a resident ballot is required. More information on the ballot is outlined below.

2.5      Resident Ballot

2.5.1         The Council has outlined its intention to seek external funding to maximise the number of truly affordable homes (council homes for social rent). The Ebury Bridge Estate project presents an opportunity to bid for Greater London Authority (GLA) funding for affordable homes. To receive GLA funding, estate regeneration projects that involve the demolition of any social homes and the construction of 150 or more homes (of any tenure) must be supported by residents in a ballot. 

2.5.2         Although the construction of Phase 1 started on site in Autumn 2021 the GLA have confirmed that a ballot on the Landlord Offer which contains the current proposals for the scheme can take place. Following consistent and meaningful engagement with residents throughout the delivery of the project to date, the binding resident ballot will give both residents still living at the Ebury Bridge Estate and those who have temporarily moved away to provide their views on the proposals outlined in this paper.

2.5.3         The Council submitted a funding bid to the GLA for circa £40m in November 2022?.

2.5.4         Residents will soon be asked to vote on the current regeneration proposals.?Civica Election Services (CES) will manage the resident vote and have written to all eligible voters. ?

2.5.5         The Council’s engagement team will contact every eligible voter to discuss the scheme and the voting process.

To authorise an additional, spend of £2.8m from the approved £42.61M fleet replacement capital budget. 

1.        Recommendations

1.1     That Appendices A, B and C 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).

1.2     That the Cabinet Member for City Management and  Air Quality approves the additional spend of £2.8M for the depot development works so the electrification project can be completed through Veolia ES (UK) Ltd.

2.        Reasons for Decision

2.1       The fleet procurement and depot electrification works have been commissioned and vehicles are due to be delivered mid next year, this additional spend is essential for the project completion. 

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Members have formally approved for Westminster City Council to enter into Management Collaboration Agreements with Northbank Business Improvement District and King’s College London to work with and support the Council with the management arrangements and associated costs in respect of the capital investment and works at Strand Aldwych.

Reason for Decision

A Cabinet Member decision is required to enable Westminster City Council to enter into the Management Collaboration Agreements with the two organisations providing financial support and assistance.

Following a full procurement process, the report is to enable the award of the Parking Abandoned Vehicles and Relocations Service to the preferred bidder. The Contract is due to go live in April 2023.

1.              Recommendations

1.1. Appendix A, B and C of this report be confidential pursuant to paragraph 3 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972 because it contains information relating to the financial or business affairs of tenderers for the contract which is the subject of this report.

1.2.That the Cabinet Memberfor City Management and Air Quality approves the recommendation to award a contract for vehicle relocation and abandoned vehicles removal services within parking to APCOA Parking (UK) Limited, for an initial period of four years with anoption to extend the term for two consecutive 2 year periods for the total contract sum of up to £2.357M.

2.               Reasons for Decision

1.1.The tender submitted by APCOA Parking (UK) Limited for providing vehicle relocation and abandoned vehicles removal services was the highest scoring bid.

1.2.The supporting information provided in the submission gave the Council the necessary assurances that the supplier understood the requirements and that the supplier’s proposed service would meet the required standards. APCOA Parking (UK) Limited’s bid accordingly achieved the highest quality score.

1.3. The current parking contracts are due to expire and in order for the Council to provide continuation of services it was necessary to reprocure this service. The award of the Vehicle Relocations and Abandoned Vehicles Contract is the second phase of the wider re-procurement of Parking Services contracts which commenced with the Parking Technology Contract in December 2022.

Following a full procurement process, the report is to enable the award of the Business Processing Services Contract to the preferred bidder. The Contract is due to go live in April 2023.

1.              Recommendations

1.1. Appendix A, B and C of this report be confidential pursuant to paragraph 3 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972 because it contains information relating to the financial or business affairs of tenderers for the contract which is the subject of this report.

1.2.That the Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality approves the recommendation to award a contract for the provision of business processing services within parking to Marston (Holdings) Limited, for an initial period of four years with an option to extend the term by two consecutive 2 year periods for the total contract sum of up to £19.474M.

1.3. That capital expenditure of £0.225m for contract mobilisation be approved.

2.               Reasons for Decision

1.1.The tender submitted by Marston (Holdings) Limited for providing the business processing service was the highest scoring bid.

1.2.The supporting information provided in the submission gave the Council the necessary assurances that the supplier understood the requirements and that the supplier’s submission for business processing would meet the required standards. Marston (Holdings) Limited bid accordingly achieved the highest quality score.

1.3. The current parking contracts are due to expire, and in order for the Council to provide continuation of services it was necessary to reprocure this service. The award of the Business Processing Contract is the second phase of the wider re-procurement of Parking Services contracts which commenced with the Parking Technology Contract in December 2022.

Following a full procurement process, the report is to enable the award of the CCTV Camera Enforcement Contract to the preferred bidder. The Contract is due to go live in April 2023.

1.              Recommendations

1.1. Appendix A, B and C of this report be confidential pursuant to paragraph 3 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972 because it contains information relating to the financial or business affairs of tenderers for the contract which is the subject of this report.

1.2.That the Cabinet Memberfor City Management and Air Quality approves the recommendation to award a contract for the provision of camera enforcement solutions (CCTV) within parking to Marston (Holdings) Limited for an initial period of four years with an option to extend the term by two consecutive 2 year periods for the total contract sum up to £4.691M.

1.3. That the capital expenditure of £0.815m for acquisition and installation of new cameras be approved.

2.               Reasons for Decision

1.1.The tender submitted by Marston (Holdings) Limited for providing the CCTV camera enforcement solutions was the highest scoring bid.

1.2.The supporting information provided in the submission gave the Council the necessary assurances that the supplier understood the requirements and that the supplier’s proposed CCTV solution would meet the required standards. Marston (Holdings) Limited bid accordingly achieved the highest quality score.

1.3. The current parking contracts are due to expire in March 2023, and in order for the Council to provide continuation of services it was necessary to reprocure this service. The award of the CCTV camera enforcement solutions Contract is the second phase of the wider re-procurement of Parking Services contracts which commenced with the Parking Technology Contract in December 2022.

Following a full procurement process, the report is to enable the award of the People and Resources Contract to the preferred bidder. The Contract is due to go live in April 2023.

1.              Recommendations

1.1. Appendix A, B and C of this report be confidential pursuant to paragraph 3 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972 because it contains information relating to the financial or business affairs of tenderers for the contract which is the subject of this report.

1.2.That the Cabinet Memberfor City Management and Air Quality approves the recommendation to award a contract for the provision of people and resources within parking to Marston (Holdings) Limited for an initial period of four years with an option to extend the term by two consecutive 2 year periods for the total contract sum of up to £61.290m.

1.3. That capital expenditure of £0.320m for contract mobilisation be approved.

2.               Reasons for Decision

1.1.The tender submitted by Marston (Holdings) Limited for providing the people and resources service was the highest scoring bid.

1.2.The supporting information provided in the submission gave the Council the necessary assurances that the supplier understood the requirements and that the supplier’s submission for people and resources would meet the required standards. Marston (Holdings) Limited bid accordingly achieved the highest quality score.

A report outlining the rental e-scooter trial achievements to-date along with recommendations with dockless mobility strategy to include dockless bikes.

1.        Recommendations

1.1      That the Appendices E, F, L, and Mto this report be exempt from disclosure by virtue of the Local Government Act 1972 Schedule 12A, 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).

1.2      That the Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality approves the City Council to remain a participating borough of the London-wide rental e-scooter trial, administered by TfL until further announcements made by the DfT on the future of e-scooters and trial schemes across the UK. At present, the expectant limit of this position appears to align with provisional dates 2024/25, when the proposed new Transport Bill is expected to be passed in Parliament.

1.3      That the Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality agrees with the procedural recommendations associated with Recommendation 2.2 and permits the City Council to make the Formal Traffic Management Order consultation for the scheme constituent four Experimental Traffic Orders to be made permanent. These ETOs were made for e-scooter kerbside parking in 58 locations and allow rental e-scooters to be used on cycle lanes and cycle tracks; and 

1.4      That the Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality approves the principle that when the City Council is in a position to review the future of the 68 e-scooter rental bays with the possible introduction of dockless bike rental bays, then sections of unused or ‘dead’ footway/paved surfaces are considered first. This recommendation is included in this report as it would enable officers to commence planning of our next phases of potential Westminster ‘Micromobility’ bays. These will be identified outside of this report and approvals will be sought through the Cabinet Member’s briefing process, subject to informal consultation as required.

2.        Reasons for Decision

2.1      To allow service continuity for the rental e-scooter trial and to align it to the extended DfT timelines nationally, and to ensure that scheme users can access Westminster for parking and ‘Ride-throughs’ to other participating areas of the trial. The extension also allows further monitoring and will give us a better understanding of how dockless schemes can be safely accommodated on London’s streets. There is no reason to report at this present time whether the scheme is successful and seeing increased ridership, or otherwise, as this trial is primarily about the determination of a sound regulated and safe new mode of Micromobility personal transport.

2.2      The trialling of 68 e-scooter bays was a result of the City Council’s decision to manage the scheme under a bay-approach as opposed to a ‘free-floating’ parking model, of which some, if not most, of the currently unregulated dockless e-bike operators are using/ imposing on many of London’s streets. The clearly marked and traffic order derived trial bays have so far proven to be more effective at managing dockless mobility, when compared against the free-floating parking model. Our ‘Dead Space’ underused footway spaces designated for e-scooter parking have in particular received no objections and posed no known issues from those with protected characteristics, such as those visitors who are blind or partially sighted. This experience so far does not mean that the City Council should consider the implementation of more bays on its well-used footways, but there is evidence that the Dead Space areas are viable on a full site by site evaluation basis.

2.3      Micromobility remains to be a fast-changing sector and the details and timelines of regulatory powers desperately needed from the DfT are unknown. There is a need to ensure existing kerbside e-scooter parking allocations are retained to flexibly meet the demands of the market and to provide much needed kerbside spaces to manage parking for dockless vehicles and continue to prioritise footways for pedestrians.

2.4      It is reminded that participating boroughs continue to have the right to exit the trial at any point if deemed necessary. Any redundant would bays return to an alternative use to meet the changing demands of our kerbside allocations.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the recommendations of the Rating Advisory Panel held on 6^th December 2022 and determined the applications for NNDR Discretionary and Hardship relief set out in Appendix A.

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.

Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) programme for 2023/24 in respect of Highways, Public Lighting & Bridges and Structures.

1.        Recommendations

1.1      That the Cabinet Member for City Management & Air Quality approves the following recommendations.

1.2      That the detailed proposals for the Highways PPM programme for 2023/24 at an estimated gross cost of £8,794,000 as detailed in Section 5.1 and Appendix A be approved.

1.3      That the detailed proposals for Public Lighting PPM programme for 2023/24 at an estimated gross cost of £ 4,662,000, as detailed in Section 5.3 and Appendix D, be approved.

1.4      That the detailed proposals for the Bridges and Structures PPM programme for 2023/24 at an estimated gross cost of £2,065,000, as detailed in Section 5.2 be approved.

1.5      That the gross capital expenditure of £15,521,000 (net capital expenditure of £14,271,000) for 2023/24.

1.6      That the Cabinet Member for City Management delegates to the Acting Director for City Highways the authority to make changes to the programmes agreed in recommendations 2.1 to 2.4, subject to the proviso that the overall budget is not exceeded and that the Cabinet Member is consulted on any significant changes.

2.        Reasons for Decision 

2.1      All assets deteriorate over time and any work aimed at maintaining the durability of the asset is classed as programmed maintenance. Such work prolongs the life of the asset and/or maintains structural capacity and is therefore considered as capital expenditure.

2.2      Each year the City Council’s regular inspection and testing programmes determine the current condition of the various highway assets (Carriageways, Footways, Lighting and Bridges & Structures) and identifies the forward investment needs that will keep the highway network in a safe and reliable condition.

2.3      Provision has been made in the capital programme for this expenditure to enable these programmes of work to be implemented together with preparation of forward programmes of work for 2023/24.

2.4      The proposed Planned Preventative Maintenance programme set out in this report will ensure that the City Council’s highway assets remain safe and effective.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the recommendations of the Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel meeting of 15 November 2022

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 in the exempt Appendix A.

Due to the Cost of Living Crisis, a decision is required set out the councils approach to Free School Meals for pupils in Westminster.

Recommendations

Due to the Cost-of-Living Crisis, it is recommended that Cabinet approves (subject to approval of the Fairer Westminster investment proposal) a total of £2,781,784, for January 2023 to July 2024 to enable schools to develop a universal meal offer to primary pupils. This will be funded from earmarked reserves.

The provision of a universal meal offer for all primary pupils will be reviewed in 2024 and any continuation of the provision from September 2024 will be embedded in the Children’s Services base budget as part of the medium-term financial planning process.

This report presents the Responsible Procurement and Commissioning (RPC) Strategy for approval.

RESPONSIBLE PROCUREMENT AND COMMISSIONING STRATEGY

Report of the Executive Director of Finance and Resources

Councillor Hug invited Councillor Boothroyd to introduce this report.

Councillor Boothroyd told Cabinet that how the council works with local business is crucial to making a positive change for local communities. In everything it does the Council must work to protect vulnerable people, protect the environment and help build the local economy. The most direct impact the Council has on businesses is when procuring goods and services.

Cabinet heard that this suite of documents helps to promote community wealth building, to deliver social value and promote high standards of conduct.

Councillor Boothroyd went on to thank Councillor Ellie Ormsby, Deputy Cabinet Member for Procurement and Finance for working with officers to bring forward these documents which include the first ever modern slavery statement from the City of Westminster.

In seeking more responsible procurement we have always been mindful that in most cases the most responsible suppliers with the best environmental and social approach will be local businesses based in our diverse city. We have been careful therefore not to add to their difficulties in running a business by setting an onerous compliance regime.

Councillor Hug invited Gerald Almeroth, Executive Director for Finance and Resources to comment on the report.

Gerald explained that the Council did have a previous Responsible Procurement Strategy that was set in February under the previous administration and that the aim in bringing forward this new strategy was to move it on to encapsulate Fairer Westminster objectives.

Cabinet heard that this year, the minimum RPC weighting was increased from 5% to between 10-20%, depending on the nature of the contract. Gerald told Cabinet that progress on this will be reviewed and continue to be evaluated with the intention of working towards an increase of a minimum 20-30% by 2025/26. The strategy will be updated to include this intention and a copy of the revised strategy will be made available on-line with the papers for this meeting.

Councillor Hug asked that aside from working to communicate the detail of the strategy to business thought is also given as to how we include this work in wider communications on changes being made as a result of Fairer Westminster ambitions.

Councillor Barraclough told Cabinet colleagues that he warmly welcomed this new strategy and that he agrees with the approach taken by Councillor Boothroyd in cutting down on bureaucracy to encourage small businesses to take up public sector contracts. 

RESOLVED:CABINET APPROVED THE RECOMMENDATIONS SET OUT IN SECTION 2, PAGE 173

It is recommended that Cabinet:

·       Notes the decision taken by the Leader of the Council on 30 November.

·       2022 to invest a further £1m of council resources to support at least. 3,350 of the most vulnerable households over the Winter.

·       Notes the worsening economic outlook for 2023/24.

·       Agrees to a further investment of £1m for 2023/24 to support households hardest hit by the cost-of-living crises, bringing the total package of support available across the city to £10m.

·       Delegates to the Executive Director of Innovation and Change and Executive Director of Finance & Resources authority to agree in consultation with the Leader of the Council the scope of future projects based on need, value for money and evidence of what works.

Report of the Executive Director for Finance and Resources

Recommendations

That Cabinet:

1.     Approves net changes of £96.513m for individual projects as part of the 2022/23 general fund capital budget.

2.     Approves re-profiling of £8.025m for individual projects as part of

           the 2022/23 HRA capital budget.

This report sets out the context for this year’s annual review of fees and charges.

Recommendations

That Cabinet is recommended to:

1. Approve the changes to fees and charges as outlined in Appendix 2 of

    this report.

2. Approve that authority be delegated to the Executive Director for Finance

    and Resources, in consultation with the relevant Cabinet Member, to

    approve any changes required in light of consultation feedback.

3. Note the fees for which no increase is proposed for 2023/24. Details of

    these fees are included in Appendix 2 of this report.

4. Approve the Fees and Charges Policy at Appendix 1.

Sets out Council Tax base for 23/24 and recommendations on Council Tax discounts

Recommendations

That the Cabinet recommend that the Council approve the following

recommendations for the financial year 2023/24: -

(i) that the Council Tax discount for second homes remains at 0% unless the government brings forward legislation to enable a Second Home

Premium to be charged for the 2023/24 financial year. If this is the

case, the premium should be set at the highest level allowed for by the

legislation.

(ii) the Council Tax discounts for empty properties, including the discounts

that replaced the previous Class A and C Council Tax exemptions,

remain at 0%.

(iii) that a Long-Term Empty Property Premium continues at the maximum

percentage allowed for by the current legislation for the 2023/24

financial year. and to charge the said premium a year after a property

has been empty if the government brings forward legislation to allow

this.

(iv) that the Director of Revenues & Benefits be given delegated authority

to determine any individual local discount applications received from

Council Taxpayers during the 2023/24 financial year under section

13A(1)(c) of the Local Government Finance Act 1992.

That the Cabinet recommends that the Council approves the same Council

Tax Reduction Scheme for 2023/24 which has operated successfully since

2013/14.

The scheme is based on the Default Scheme Regulations, updated

to reflect changes made via the Prescribed Requirements Amendment

Regulations and with War Disabled Pensions, War Widow, Pensions and

Armed Forces Compensation scheme payments disregarded in full when

calculating a claimant’s income. The same disregards should also apply to

Housing Benefit and claims for Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP).

That the Cabinet recommends to the Council to resolve that the Council Tax

Base for 2023/24 for the Whole City is 135,955.46 equivalent Band D

properties, for Montpelier Square alone 91.68 equivalent Band D properties

and for Queen’s Park 3,637.83 equivalent Band D properties.

That the Cabinet recommends to the Council to resolve that the

figures set out in paragraph 2.3 above for the Council Tax Base for 2023/24 be used by the Council to make a determination pursuant to the requirements of the Local Government Finance Act 1992.

1.        Recommendations

1.1    It is the recommendation of this report that Cabinet Member for City Management & Air Quality approves the design & implementation of the further urgent interim safety measures identified in Section 1.6 of this report at a total estimated gross cost of £4,250,000, of which £890,000 has been approved previously under a Delegated Authority Report, as detailed in Section 5 of this report.

2.        Reasons for Decision 

2.1       Having identified a potential evacuation risk to users of the Piccadilly Underpass in the event of a fire in the underpass, it is essential that the Council does all it reasonably can to implement the recommended urgent interim safety measures as soon as reasonably practicable to minimise the risk to tunnel users and improve safety.

2.2          Implementing these urgent interim safety measures improves the safety for tunnel users and reduces the Council’s risk exposure.

2.3          The urgent interim safety measures have been recommended by the Council’s Tunnel Safety Officer (TSO) and Tunnel Manager (TM). These are both statutory roles in accordance with tunnel safety regulations, their decision takes into account recommendations from current fire regulations.

2.4          Failure to implement these measures could result in a recommendation that the tunnel is closed until the main scheme to replace the current ventilation fans is complete (Phase 2). These Phase 2 works are unlikely to be fully delivered until Autumn/Winter 2023/24.

A review of fees charged for HMO licences in Westminster to ensure cost recovery for service

1.        Recommendations

1.1      To approve proposals for revised HMO licence fees from 1^st April 2023 as follows;

·       Licence fee for HMOs to increase from current £975 per licence to £1,450 per licence

·       Fees for additional rooms within HMOs above the standard 5 room threshold to increase from current £25 per additional room to £65 per additional room.

·       Retention of the current 10% discount for suitably accredited landlords

·       Retention of current exemption from fees for charities providing accommodation for vulnerable persons such as supported accommodation.

2.        Reasons for Decision 

2.1      As part of the fee review exercise, our fees have been bench-marked against those of other boroughs. This shows our fee at £975 as being the 6^th lowest fee amongst 33 London boroughs for a five-bedroom HMO. Our close neighbouring boroughs of Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea, and London Borough of Camden, charge £1,400 and £1,300 per licence respectively. These boroughs also have similar housing stock to that in Westminster. The results of the bench-marking exercise are attached as Appendix B.

2.2      We are now over one year into our Additional Licensing Scheme, and this has brought increased information regarding the volume of licences we can expect, the time and cost in processing licence applications, and the increased work being carried out in enforcing the requirements of the scheme.

2.3      The running costs of the scheme have been reviewed with colleagues from our Finance department with reference to the amount of work being undertaken by the team in assessing incoming applications.

2.4      The first year of the scheme has seen a significant amount of applications being received and processed. Work has increasingly turned to identifying unlicensed properties in recent months, with a resultant increase in officer enforcement activity in this area.

2.5      The review of scheme costs has determined that the fee for a licence should increase to £1,450. In addition, the costs per additional unit within a larger than average HMO of five units of accommodation, should increase from £25 per unit to £65 per unit. The full breakdown of existing and proposed fees are set out in Appendix A.

2.6      Houses in multiple occupation providing accommodation for vulnerable persons, and operated by charitable organisations, will remain exempt from licensing fees.

2.7      Discounted fees will remain available for landlords accredited with recognised schemes, or where managing agents registered with recognised trade accreditation schemes are used to manage licensed properties.

2.8      The fees for properties licensed under the mandatory and Additional licensing schemes will remain the same given that the same amount of work is expended in processing either licence.

1.            Recommendations

1.1         The following recommendations are approved by the Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality:

1.2         That approval is given to proceed with detailed design and implementation of the proposed public realm improvements on St John’s Wood High Street and neighbouring streets in the project scope as set out in section 5 and shown in the Background papers of this report.

1.3         That approval is given to commit capital expenditure of £1,736,941.00 necessary to carry out the detailed design and implementation of the proposals for St John’s Wood High Street project.  The project has approved budget of £1,310,000 and a request has been proposed for the 2023/24 capital programme for the additional required, as detailed in section 7.

1.4         That approval is given 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.

1.5         That delegated authority is given to the Acting Director of City Highways to approve minor modifications as necessary to the approved scheme, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality.

2.            Reasons for Decision

2.1         To allow completion of public highway improvement works. 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. 

Summary of Decision

The Leader has approved the recommendations of the Rating Advisory Panel held on 25 October 2022 and determined the applications for NNDR Discretionary and Hardship relief.

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.

To approve the next phase of the council's support for the cost of living crisis

Summary of Decision

It is recommended that the Leader of the Council agrees: 

1.     That the council funds the proposed projects, amounting to £1m to address the cost-of-living crisis summarised in Section 5 and detailed in Appendix C.

2.     That within this £1m budget authority is delegated to theExecutive Director of Finance Resources, in agreement with the relevant Cabinet Members, to manage the individual allocations, and agree how the contingency is spent.   

Reasons for Decision   

While there have been national interventions to address the cost-of-living crisis and funding to councils to help households, modelling, and intelligence in Section 4, shows that rising living costs outstrip this package of support, making further interventions necessary to help households most at risk.  

Some flexibility on the individual allocations is recommended as some discussions with third sector partners are still underway and as some of the budget has been set aside as contingency to deal with urgent needs.  

To agree the use of Interim Management Orders and to determine a named supplier to facilitate their operation.

           Recommendations

·       To approve the use of Interim Management Orders

·       To agree that Council enter into an agreement with LB of Waltham Forest to manage properties secured by means of an Interim Management Order.

           Reasons for Decision 

The Council are legally required to apply for an Interim Management Order to effectively manage a licensable house in multiple occupation where such a premises is found to be unlicensed, and no suitable licensee can be found.

The report will seek approval confirm (i.e. bring into force) the council’s Article 4 Direction to remove permitted development rights from Class E floorspace to residential from selected areas of designated town centres that fall outside of the CAZ.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the ‘confirmation’ of the Non-Immediate Direction under Article 4 of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 2015 (as amended) to remove permitted development rights granted for the change of use from Class E (commercial, business and service uses) to Class C3 (dwellinghouses) within the areas shown in Appendix 1.

Reasons for Decision

The Article 4 Direction provides the opportunity for the council to use its planning powers by applying the full suite of City Plan, London Plan, and made neighbourhood plan policies, including those which aim to secure an appropriate balance of uses in designated town centres that fall outside of the CAZ, to maximise their offer in providing a range of shops, services, and employment opportunities to local residents. It will also help ensure that where commercial space is converted to residential, this includes provision for much needed affordable housing, contributes towards supporting infrastructure, and high standards of design and energy efficiency are secured.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the Lease Restructure at Arches 36-48 and land at Gemini Project Sites 1&2 Landmann Way, London, SE8 5JW on the terms in the exempt Appendix A and approves the entering into any legal documents ancillary to or required to facilitate the lease restructure.

Reasons for Decision

The current lease of the Landmann Way depot does not offer sufficient security of tenure or cover a large enough area to enable the council to develop the site as a charging depot for the new electric waste collection vehicle fleet. The lease restructure will secure the site for 20 years from 30 November 2022 and allow the works to proceed without risk.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the renewal of the Council’s lease of Mayfair Library, 25 South Audley Street, London, W1 from 28 September 2022 on the terms in the exempt Appendix A.

Reasons for Decision

The Council’s current lease of Mayfair Library expired on 28 September 2022.  As the lease falls within the protection of the 1954 Landlord and Tenant Act it has continued beyond expiry as a statutory tenancy.  Terms have been agreed to renew the Council’s lease for a further 10 years in line with the Council’s wider library service strategy. 

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Financeand Council Reform has approved the award of the permissible extension to the existing contract to Avison Young to 5 April 2023. 

Reasons for Decision

This decision will ensure a successful handover of the contract should Avison Young not be re-appointed to include dealing with all TUPE and outstanding financial matters.  

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the recommendations of the Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel meeting of 11 October 2022.

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 in the exempt Appendix A.  

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the contract award of a JCT IBC contract for refurbishment works at 14-20 Orange Street (incorporating 33/35 Whitcombe Street), London, WC2 7EF to Neilcott Construction Limited for £2,201,927.20.

Reasons for Decision

14-20 Orange Street is owned freehold although the interconnected lower ground and ground floor of 33/35 Whitcombe Street are held on a 999-year peppercorn lease from January 2001.  The property was acquired by WCC in January 2018 for £15,000,000.

The refurbishment works are required for two primary purposes: the need to address various compliance issues that are the responsibility of the landlord; and to improve the standard of finishes and tenant services which are dated and an impediment to future letting of the vacant space.

Summary of Decision

1.              The Cabinet Member has approved the following Neighbourhood CIL bids:

i)                Porchester Gardens Crossing

ii)               QEII School Mini-Buses

iii)             North Paddington Youth Club Equipment

2.              The Cabinet Member has approved the following Carbon Offset bid:

i)                Green Doctors Service

Reasons for Decision 

To ensure robust and effective expenditure and reporting in line with the Community Infrastructure Levy Regulations 2010 (as amended) and in accordance with the council’s strategic priorities, CIL spending policy statement and its framework for resource allocation and management.

Decision to be taken on the autumn round of Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy funding applications

1.0.         Recommendation

1.1.    The Cabinet Member is asked to approve the Neighbourhood CIL bid for Central Island Improvements at Elgin Avenue, details of which are set out in this report.

2.0.         Reasons for Decision 

2.1.         To ensure robust and effective expenditure and reporting in line with the Community Infrastructure Levy Regulations 2010 (as amended) and in accordance with the council’s strategic priorities, CIL Spending Policy Statement and its framework for resource allocation and management.

2.2.         To mitigate the impact of development, including the construction on the adjoining Hamilton Terrace, and to support growth, including the newly opened cafes and shops in Lauderdale Road.

2.3.         To secure public realm and other benefits, including: increased pedestrian permeability of the area through both new and upgraded crossing points; additional car parking bays for residents; and additional pay to park bays for visitors to the cafes and shops

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the write-off the debts for the amounts shown in paragraph 5.1 and has noted the amounts shown in paragraph 6.4 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.

Highways Contract Arrangements - Traffic Management Order Service

Recommendations

It is recommended that the CabinetMember for City Management and Air Quality, to approve the award of an up to 7-year contract to WSP UK Limited (Company No. 01383511) for the provision of TMO Services to WCC, to support the delivery of Highways and Parking projects.

Reasons for Decision 

The City Council’s existing TMO contract is due to expire 31^st March 2023.

Contract Award Approval for contracts of £1.5m or more, is required from the appropriate Cabinet Member following endorsement to approve from the appropriate Executive Leadership Team member and the City Council’s Commercial Gateway Review Board (CGRB).

The successful tenders response was robust, innovative, and provided officers with confidence that the requirements of the contract were clearly understood and could be delivered. The successful bidder was able to provide strong responses with evidence to support their explanations, reassuring officers that the service would be delivered to a high standard.

Having an external party manage, in full, the TMO contract allows for service provider specialists to advise, manage consultations, and carry out works. It also allows Officers to oversee the process at a high level and remain engaged throughout. The City Council sought a high quality and value for money tenderer to be the new successful service provider and followed the above actions in order to achieve this.

Alternative providers and collaboration have been considered, with the model proposed expected to maximise the benefit received by the City Council.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the recommendations of the Rating Advisory Panel held on 20^th September 2022 and determines the applications for NNDR Discretionary and Hardship relief set out in Appendix A.

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.

Proposed expenditure of £13,844.61 by the Pimlico North ward budget on festive lights and trees.

The allocation of £13,844.61 to fund the installation of lamp column decorations along Warwick Way and Wilton Road and the installation of a Christmas tree at the junction of Warwick Way and Tachbrook Market. 

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the new approach to investing in the programme recommended by the Oxford Street District programme review and capital expenditure of £4.58m to progress the items outlined in the report.

Reasons for Decision

The proposed revised programme scope seeks to focus public realm and strategic interventions on Oxford Street and complementary schemes to create a vibrant, accessible, and attractive place(s). This will allow a focussed delivery approach.

A new business case will be prepared which considers the revised programme scope and facilitates the identification of objectives and outcomes that align with the Fairer Westminster approach. Furthermore, the business case will outline the costs, benefits and risks in proceeding with the programme and specifically the rationale for preferred option.

To extend the contracts for 4 years from the current expiry of 1^st November 2022 for Debt Recovery Concession Services.

1.        Recommendations

1.1    That, following endorsement by the Commercial Gateway Review Board and the Director of Environment, the Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality approves the four-year contract extension of the Parking Services Debt Management Contract to Marston (Holdings) Limited (Company No. 04305487). The contract will be at zero cost to the Council, but the contractor may generate up to £5.15m from statutory fees applied through post warrant recovery over the extension period.

2.        Reasons for Decision 

2.1 The proposed extension of the contracts by four years is due to the resilience and good performance that Marston has demonstrated, especially considering the impact that Covid-19 has had on the service and the industry, as well as the additional functions being offered. There is no risk as the contract is non-exclusive, so the council still has the ability to procure additional partners if the performance of the incumbent does not meet expectations.

2.2 The current supplier is biggest single debt collection agency in this field with more than 26% of total registered UK bailiffs, with the next nearest competitor with only 9%. Expectations and associated KPIs are regularly reviewed and benchmarked. The Council have negotiated significant service add-ons that make extension attractive. The extension comes at zero cost to the Council and there are no concerns that excessive incomes can be generated by the supplier as the fee structure they apply is set by law. 

To consider Westminster Builds Mid-Year Review 2022-2023.

1.     Recommendations

1.1.         The Shareholder Committee are asked to note this report.

To approve the Mid Year Review of Westminster Community Homes 22-23.

1          Recommendations

1.1       The Shareholder Committee are asked to note this report and approve the proposals for the recruitment of Board Members as set out in Para 8. 

To consider the Westco Mid Year Review 2022-23.

1. Recommendations

1.1 For the Shareholder Committee to consider the report.

1. Recommendations

1.1 For the Shareholder Committee to consider the report.

Recommending to Full Council that the Policy is approved and adopted in accordance with Section 349 of the Gambling Act 2005.

Recommendations 

2.1       The Cabinet Member for Communities and Public Protection was asked to consider the revisions to theNew Gambling Policy (2022) as set out in this report and as shown in the draft new Gambling Policy attached to this report at Appendix 1 and recommend to Full Council that this Policy is approved and adoptedin accordance with Section 349 of the Gambling Act 2005. 

3.          Reasons for Decision   

3.1       The approval of this final draft of the new Gambling Policy and recommendation that it be approved for publication by FullCouncil ensures that the Council meets its statutory requirements for adopting this policy. 

Summary of Decision

To approve the grant of a 20 year lease to Panzer Delicatessen Limited on the Heads of Terms within the confidential appendix.

Reasons for Decision 

Under the WCC constitution Cabinet Member approval is required where the initial rent under a lease is in excess of £125,000 per annum which applies in this case.

This decision is for Parking Services to include admin charges when retrospectively pursuing unauthorised parking suspensions.

1.     Recommendations

1.1.That the Cabinet Member for City Management & Air Quality approves the following:

·       The introduction of a £70 admin charge for each unauthorised parking suspension.

·       That the new admin charge will replace the existing short notice charge, except for unauthorised suspensions involving companies who are members of LJUG. LJUG members will continue to pay the £20 short notice fee and unauthorised suspensions will be charged at the standard (non-discounted) rates.

·       That the new admin fee is implemented from the commencement of the new Parking back-office contract, scheduled to be let in April 2023, or an appropriate date thereafter.

2.     Reasons for Decision 

·       To provide a financial means to deter companies from installing unauthorised parking suspensions.

·       To help manage the impacts from unauthorised suspensions, for all kerbside users including residents.

·       To ensure additional costs incurred by the Council for the provision of the unauthorised suspensions service, are recouped.

·       To ensure LJUG members are not disproportionately disadvantaged by the introduction of this new admin charge.

To align the implementation with the launch of a new back-office system in April 2023, to minimise implementation costs and complexity.

Funding for Bentley House.

1.        Recommendations

1.1      That the Cabinet Member for Housing Services and the Cabinet Member for   Finance and Council Reform:

1.1.1   Agree Appendix B of this report be exempt from disclosure by virtue of 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 particular person (including the authority holding that information).

1.1.2   Approve the AHF grant allocation to the Passage as set out in appendix 1 subject to a funding and nominations agreement.

1.1.3   Delegates authority to the S151 Officer to award the funds to the Passage.

1.1.4   Delegates authority to the Director of Legal Services to enter into a funding and nominations agreement with the Passage.

2.        Reasons for Decision 

2.1      Bentley House had been vacant for many years and fallen into considerable disrepair and was not capable of being occupied.

2.2     It required extensive capital investment by The Passage to enable it to be occupied once again for any purpose. The accommodation was effectively on the threshold of being lost from the city’s stock.

2.3     Bentley House will benefit from its proximity to Montfort House by  combining the service management and office space and support during the night, when required.

2.4     Bentley House falls into the Housing led solutions category given the focus on longer term accommodation. Interventions for people who have been on the streets for long periods of time and where traditional accommodation options have failed.

2.5     The use of resources from the Affordable Housing Fund, along with

other funding sources available to the Passage, will provide 20 single person self-contained studio accommodation units with a full nomination agreement in place between The Passage and WCC.

Summary of Decision

To award the contract for multi-disciplinary professional services to Faithful + Gould (Companies House registration no, 02236832) for a period of three years with the ability to extend for a further two years.

Reasons for Decision

A comprehensive procurement exercise has been conducted via the Direct Award provision through the Crown Commercial Services Framework.  This Cabinet Member Report sets out the procurement process undertaken and rationale for recommending Faithful + Gould to be awarded the contract for multi-disciplinary professional services.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform has approved the council to utilise each of the processes outlined in Section 5 of this report to allocate the council’s funding allocation (£1,951,507) to the borough’s most vulnerable residents.

Reasons for Decision

The recommended processes outlined in the report seek to deliver support in accordance with the Government’s guidance to the council’s most vulnerable residents taking account of a limited funding envelope.

·       Councillor Tony Devenish is removed as Chair, company director and Board member of Westco Trading Limited.

·       Councillor Max Sullivan is appointed as Chair, company director and Board member of Westco Trading Limited.

·       The Company is instructed to make the necessary entries in the statutory books of the Company and to make the necessary filings at Companies House.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the recommendations of the Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel meeting of 13 September 2022

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 in Appendix A, which are more fully set out in the case papers submitted to the Panel.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development has agreed the amendments to the guidelines for Street Naming and Numbering as set out in Appendix One.

Reasons for Decision 

To ensure up to date guidelines are in place which provide a clear, consistent and transparent approach to the consideration of applications for street and building naming and numbering.

To enter into the GLA Affordable Homes Programme 2021-2026 grant agreement.

1.        Recommendations

That the Cabinet Member for Climate Action, Regeneration & Renters and the Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform:

1.1          Approves the Council to enter into grant agreement with the GLA for the Affordable Homes Programme 2021-26.

1.2          That Appendices A&B attached to 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 the Council.

2.        Reasons for Decision 

1.3          Funding from the GLA supports WCC’s strategic approach to deliver additional affordable homes in the city, including social rented homes.

1.4          The homes delivered under this programme will be provided as social rent or intermediate tenancies and will be made available to either existing council tenants who have priority for a transfer, homeless households, or those on the intermediate housing waiting list.

1.5          Capital funding provided will support scheme viability and increase the number of homes that can be developed for those households in social housing need.

Negotiated contract to enable GLA grant funding to uplift and funding at tariff rates to allow the Council to purchase properties for use as accommodation for former rough sleepers.

1.    Recommendations

That the Cabinet Member for Climate Action, Regeneration & Renters and Cabinet Member for Finance & Council Reform:

1.1      Approves the Council to enter into the  Negotiated Contract Grant Agreement with the GLA for the AHP 2016-23 programme, as set out in Appendix B.

1.2      That Appendix B attached to 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 the Council.

2.     Reasons for Decision 

2.1      Funding from the GLA supports WCC’s strategic approach to deliver additional affordable homes in the city, including social rented homes.

2.2      The homes delivered under this programme will be provided as social rent tenancies and will be made available to either existing council tenants who have priority for a transfer or to homeless households.

2.3      Capital funding provided will support scheme viability and increase the number of homes that can be developed for those households in social housing need.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the Northbank BID renewal proposal.

Reasons for Decision 

BIDs can continue for an unlimited number of terms, providing they are successful in their ballots. Northbank BID Ltd have submitted their renewal proposal to the City Council for its consideration to enter into its third term. The City Council is statutorily bound to consider the proposal and, subject to its approval, to hold a ballot on behalf of Northbank BID Ltd.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the Victoria Westminster BID renewal proposal.

Reasons for Decision 

BIDs can continue for an unlimited number of terms, providing they are successful in their ballots. Victoria Westminster BID Ltd have submitted their Victoria Westminster BID renewal proposal to the City Council for its consideration to enter into its second term. The City Council is statutorily bound to consider the proposal and, subject to its approval, to hold a ballot on behalf of Victoria Westminster BID Ltd.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the Whitehall BID renewal and alteration proposal.

Reasons for Decision 

BIDs can continue for an unlimited number of terms, providing they are successful in their ballots. Whitehall BID Ltd have submitted their Whitehall BID renewal and alteration proposal to the City Council for its consideration to enter into its second term. The City Council is statutorily bound to consider the proposal and, subject to its approval, to hold a ballot on behalf of Whitehall BID Ltd.

Allocation of Social Housing for 2022/23.

1.     Recommendations

1.1      That the Cabinet Member for Housing agrees:

1.1.1    The approach to social lettings set out in table 5 and Appendix B 

1.1.2    The changes to the Allocation Scheme outlined in 6.1–6.14

1.1.3  To a consultation being carried out on homeless households owed the Relief Duty being able to join the council’s Housing Register as outlined in 6.2-6.6 and that following the consultation the decision to make the necessary changes to the Allocations Scheme is delegated to the Director of Housing, in conjunction with the Cabinet Member for Housing.  

1.1.4    The updated Accommodation Procurement Policy Action Plan 2022/23 in Appendix D.

1.1.5  The rebranding of the council’s intermediate housing service from Home Ownership Westminster to Homes for Westminster for the reasons set out in section 6.21-6.27.

2         Reasons for Decision 

2.1      The council’s Housing Allocation Scheme is read alongside the annual Supply and Allocation of Social Housing Report, which sets out the proportion of social housing the council expects to let to the different groups in need. These lettings projections are needed to guide the approach to lettings during the year. 

2.2      This Report is also needed in order to consider and update wider policies relating to the allocation of social and private housing for households on the council’s housing register and to update any policy changes in relation to intermediate housing.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the publication of a Regulation 18 statement of intent and consult on the content of the proposed review of the adopted City Plan 2019 – 2040 and the publication of an updated Local Development Scheme.

Reasons for Decision 

The council is beginning a partial review of its City Plan pursuant to Regulation 18 of the Town and Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2012 in order to provide a robust and up to date policy framework for the taking of planning decisions across the city in line with the council’s vision for a Fairer Westminster,

The council’s Local Development Scheme setting out the programme of work over the next three years has been revised to reflect the new priority of a partial City Plan review and the anticipated timeframes of document preparation. Its publication will ensure that the council acts in accordance with the requirements of the Planning & Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 (as amended by the Localism Act 2011).

Initiation of the contract extension period of two years to a contract expiry date of 30 September 2024 as detailed in the initial contract award.

1.        Recommendations

1.1      That the Cabinet Member agrees the permissible 2-year extension as Places for People Group have been delivering the service within a challenging demand environment to their key performance indicators alongside a continuous service development approach, within budget over the last 5 years.

2.        Reasons for Decision 

2.1      The service was competitively tendered across 4 service lots in 2017 for a 5 year plus 2-year term. The four lots were successfully awarded to one provider Places for People who are delivering the service in partnership with the Passage & Shelter.

2.2      The 2-year extension will be used to redesign this front-line service, consult with users by experience and utilising good practice and innovation from across the sector to ensure the future shape of the service is in line with the recommendations of the Westminster Housing Commission and the 

Fairer Westminster strategic vision - a Fairer Environment, Fairer Housing, Fairer Economy, Fairer Council, Fairer Communities. Which will be delivered work directly with our residents, communities and businesses we can build a more inclusive city that celebrates its diverse communities, and where residents, workers and visitors from all backgrounds will feel welcome and safe. 

1.        Recommendations

1.1      That this report be 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

1.2      That the Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality approves the following:

1.2.1   For design and development of the scheme, necessary highways enabling works and public realm improvements, in line with the agreed scope included within this report.

1.2.2   That authority be delegated to the Executive Director of Environment & City Management, to undertake, in conjunction with external partners, and in consultation with the Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality, any statutory or non-statutory consultation that falls within and can contribute to the agreed scope.

2.        Reasons for Decision 

2.1      The proposed public realm security improvements, the design of which is being developed by the work identified in this report, will reduce the vulnerability of the specified area.