Decisions

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.

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 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.

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.

1. Recommendations

1.1 For the Shareholder Committee to consider the 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.

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

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.

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.

·       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 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.

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.

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.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has delegated authority to the Director of Corporate Property,in consultation with the Executive Director of Finance and the Director of Law as appropriate,to approve the Council enteringinto any legal documents ancillary to or required to facilitate the disposal of the property. 

Reasons for Decision

The disposal is recommended as the property has been deemed surplus to the Council’s service needs and will provide ongoing revenue savings as well as a capital receipt to the Housing Revenue Account (HRA).  

This report seeks approval to apply NNDR Localism Relief to ratepayers of eligible premises, who contribute currently void properties or those occupied by low quality occupiers, rent free and who meet certain criteria as part of the City Council’s Activations & Meanwhile Use Programme for a maximum period of two years from the date of activation and to end for each premises when the property ceases to be part of the programme.

Summary of Decision

1.     The Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development has approved the strategy and in principle approach for meanwhile activations of eligible premises as part of phase 3 of the programme.

2.     The Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development, has approved the application of the Business Rate NNDR “Localism” allowance of a 100% of the net business rate liability under section 47 of the Local Government Finance Act 1988, as amended by the Localism Act 2011 and the allocation of a maximum of £2.45m from the Stimulating the Economy budget and Thriving Economy budget.

Reason for Decision:

1.              Phase 3 will require a change in direction from a short-term enlivening activity that looked at tenancies for a period of up to three months into a meanwhile use activation strategy that seeks to attract and support the transition of brands from pop-up occupiers into long-term, rent paying tenants; creating a pipeline of high-quality occupiers. A curation process will ensure that activations are driven by the most innovative up-and-coming, independent UK brands (businesses which otherwise could not afford the costs of operating in Westminster). The process will also prioritise local brands and those with a clear association with the borough whilst still meeting the calibre of activation required. This process will also ensure that well established businesses that could afford to pay full commercial rates are not awarded the NNDR Localism Relief.  

2.              This change of direction is an opportunity to tackle the rapid growth of low-quality occupiers along Oxford Street in particular, as well asother key high streets across the borough.This repetition and proliferation of such businesses are impacting upon the attractiveness of the borough and have, in many cases, been found to be evading the payment of business rates or undertaking illegal activity. Some property owners agree to leases with such businesses as part of a rates mitigation strategy, but the subsequent non-payment of business rates shifts the burden from the private sector to the public purse. 

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the recommendations of the Rating Advisory Panel held on 28^th June 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. 

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the recommendations of the Rating Advisory Panel held on 12^th July 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. 

Approval of the main construction costs for Adpar Street Car Park, Torridon House Car Park, Queens Park Court (comprising Package B) sites.

1.        Recommendations

The recommendation within this Cabinet Member Report is for the Cabinet Members to:

1.1      Approve the combined Full Business Case for Infills Programme:

     Package B.

1.2     Approve the contract awards appointing Geoffrey Osborne Limited to

     undertake the main construction works in respect of Adpar Street Car    

     Park, Torridon House Car Park, Queens Park Court Car Park.

1.3      Authorise Legal Services to negotiate the surrender of the existing substation lease at Queens Park Court and to grant a new lease to London Power Networks for a term of 99 years at an annual rent of £1.00.

1.4      Delegate authority to the Executive Director of Growth Planning and Housing to approve any legal, planning or financial documents, ancillary to or required to facilitate the recommendations of this report.

2.        Reasons for Decision 

2.1      As part of the WCC’s HRA Development Programme, WCC identified a number of smaller scale infill sites for development. This will enable the attainment of WCC’s strategic HRA Asset Strategy objectives of:

·       Increasing the supply of affordable housing; optimising value from its assets;

·       Increasing the quality of the HRA Portfolio; and

·       Ensuring the portfolio meets local housing need.

2.2      The Contract Award Report (Gate 3) has been presented to the   

           procurement Commercial Gateway Review Board (CGRB) and

           endorsement  has been obtained. Finance Capital Review Group (CRG)

           approval has been obtained  for the projects endorsing the     

           recommendation to the Executive Director of Growth, Planning and 

           Housing to recommend to the Cabinet Member to award the 3 separate

           JCT Design & Build Contracts.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved to proceed with the award of the sovereign call off contract forthe Borough (estimated value £19.7m) from 1^st April 2023 to 31st March 2028 with the option to extend for a further 2 years until 31st March 2030.  

Reasons for Decision 

Following a procurement exercise, based on the most economically advantageous tender, it is recommended that NRS Healthcare, Company registration number (01948041) is awarded the contract for the provision of Integrated Community Equipment Services for the London Consortium. 

Seeking approval of the appointment of the MDCT and we are seeking delegated authority to draw down and spend the cost to deliver the service through to Outline Business Case Part 2.

1.     Recommendations

1.1.Officers seek approval from the Cabinet Member for Climate Action, Regeneration and Renters to:

       i.          Approve that the Appendices be exempt from publication under Section 100 (A) (4) and Part 1 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972 (as amended) as it contains information which should be exempt from publication in that it contains information relating to the business and financial affairs of the authority and  information in respect of which a claim to legal professional privilege could be maintained in legal proceedings under paragraph 5 of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972; and in all the circumstances of the case, the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information

     ii.          Approval to enter into contracts for professional services up to a value of £9.581m for Professional and Development Management Fees to carry out design development.

    iii.          This includes appointment of the following:

a.     Levitt Bernstein Associates as Architect (contract value £2.953m)

b.     Arcadis LLP as Project Manager (contract value £2.720m)

c.     Ward Williams Associates as Cost Consultant (£964k)

d.     Other Professional Services (including contract awards) totalling £2.944m to be approved by the Executive Director of Growth, Planning & Housing (GPH) under delegated authority. Where the Constitution does not allow for the Cabinet member to delegate authority (namely for the award of Consultancy contracts with a value greater than £300,000) approval for the expenditure of that element of the £2.944m remains with the Cabinet Member and will be sought from the Cabinet Member.

     iv.            Approve the initial expenditure of £624k to progress the Feasibility Stage. This includes expenditure of £397k against these professional services contracts and £227k for internal staff costs and project contingency.

       v.            To note further expected expenditure under these professional services contracts of £1.457m to complete the OBC Part 2 subject to CRG endorsement and Cabinet Member approval of an agreed outcome of the Feasibility Stage.

    vi.          To note that the balance of expenditure under these contracts (totalling £7.727m) will come forward for approval once OBC Part 2 is concluded in Autumn 2023.

2.     Reasons for Decision

2.1. The reason for the recommendation is to secure fees and appoint the design team to enable design development to be progressed and produce OBC Part 2 in Autumn 2023.

2.2. A Feasibility Stage is proposed to produce a range of costed options for existing and external services that are affordable, deliverable and meet local needs. The options will be informed by the Councils post covid operational service requirements and emerging design guidance. The Feasibility Stage consists of:

·       Phase 1 – Develop outline options

·       Phase 2 – Develop shortlist of options

·       Phase 3 – Optimisation of the options

2.3. The Feasibility Stage options framework consists of developing a defined set of options for each of the potential core elements of the Hub ranging from ‘no provision’ through to ‘provision of all complimentary services’ alongside a ‘do nothing’ option for comparison. The range of options will be developed during Feasibility Stage - Phase 1 in consultation with the services and informed by the Councils post covid office review.

2.4. The Lisson Grove Programme provides an exciting opportunity to deliver a significant number of new homes across both sites and to explore the possibility for an exemplar Learning, Health and Wellbeing Hub (Hub) at Lilestone Street.

2.5.The potential healthcare opportunity for the Hub will consider strategic health provision and ensure the offer complements existing and forthcoming healthcare infrastructure, such as St Mary’s Hospital and the Imperial College Community Hub. A strategic needs lead approach will inform the potential provision of healthcare facilities in the proposed Health & Wellbeing Hub, to be developed during the Feasibility Stage.

2.6. Providing good quality homes will act as the bedrock of a vibrant community, in line with the new Administration’s ambitions. The potential overarching aims and objectives of the project which will be tested through the feasibility stage are:

·           Scope for modern, fit for purpose and efficient WCC office space, subject to a review of the overall office portfolio.

·           Provide flexible, accessible and affordable community space.

·           Explore potential Healthcare facilities that meet the current and future needs of the community within the regeneration area; to provide efficient and enhanced services through co-location and effective use of dedicated and shared space.

·           Reduce the Council’s operation, maintenance and running costs.

·           Deliver new and improved high-quality homes of all tenures.

·           Increase employment activity and economic growth in the area.

·           Create safer, better-connected neighbourhoods.

·           Replace existing commercial and residential stock with cleaner, greener and more sustainable buildings fit for the future which respond to the Climate Emergency Declaration and the Councils target to achieve net zero emissions.

2.7. In order to support the Feasibility Stage, the following core MDCT consultants are required to provide technical and specialist support:

·           Architect

·           Project Manager

·           Cost Consultant

·           Elements of the VCSE, Community, Viability and Commercial Consultant services

2.8. The core MDCT will provide technical support including best practice and emerging technical guidance in respect of:

·           Education, Healthcare and Council Service design

·           Covid implications including future ways of working and office fit out

·           Advise on accessibility, safeguarding and security considerations particularly with regard to vulnerable and disabled users

·           Co-ordinate the Hub Working Groups

·           Minimise the total Hub accommodation requirement

·           Prepare justified, dedicated space requirements

·           Identify and extract shared spaces and propose opportunities for optimisation

·           Update community infrastructure proposals based on the emerging accommodation offer and Community Space Strategy

·           Ensure flexibility of space and effective service integration

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the grant of the proposed New Lease and given delegated authority to the Director of Property and Strategic Asset Management to agree minor variations to the terms to enable the agreed final form of legal documentation to be executed and completed.

Reason for Decision

The grant of a New Lease will extend the income stream from the subject investment property and represents best value for the Council when considered alongside prevailing market levels and the need to retain flexibility in possibly obtaining vacant possession in the Summer of 2024. 

A variation to the JF Hunt demolition contract is recommended together with an approval to spend £961k on Phase 2 related demolition works.

1.     Recommendations

1.1. This report seeks approval for:

·         A contract variation that enables additional works packages to be delivered under the JF Hunt demolition contract. The details of which are set out in Exempt Appendix 1.;

·         Additional demolition and works spend on Phase 1 totalling £1.652m and bringing total spend to £4.990m on Phase 1 and utilising £683k of project contingency; and

·         Accelerated Phase 2 demolition spend of £961k.

2.     Reasons for Decision 

2.1. The approvals will enable the Council to have the ability for additional site enabling works packages to be commissioned through the demolition contract therefore providing greater flexibility and potential mitigations for any potential delays with the main works provision on future phases and also enabling packages to be priced and competed between JF Hunt and the main works contractor.

To refresh our equalities objectives as required by the Public Sector Equality Duty.

1.           Recommendations

For the Cabinet Member for Communities and Public Protection to agree four Equality Objectives for Westminster City Council until 2024 as set out below:

·       Staff will represent the demographic of our communities at all levels of the organisation.

·       Understand our diverse communities and embed that understanding in how we shape all that we do across the Council.

·       Support Westminster’s communities to be sustainable, socially inclusive and empowered to act, when they are best placed to do so.

·       Demonstrate inclusive leadership, strategic partnership and a clear organisational commitment to be a leader in equality, diversity and inclusion in the city.

3.       Reasons for Decision 

The Equality Act 2010 and the Equality Act 2010 (Specific Duties and Public Authorities) Regulations 2017 requires us to publish equality objectives every four years. These objectives replace the previous objectives 2016-2020.

1.1           There were no changes to the Membership.

1.2           Resolved:  That Councillor Matt Noble and Christopher Smith be appointed as Chair and Vice-Chair respectively for the 2022-2023 municipal year.

This decision seeks the approval of a revised phasing programme for the Ebury Estate renewal project and to redirect the already approved expenditure of £8.9M for Phase 2A to the new Phase 2 as per the revised phasing programme.

1.     Recommendations

1.1.The Cabinet Member for Climate Action Regeneration and Renters is recommended to approve a revised phasing programme for the Ebury Estate Renewal project, with Blocks 7&8 in Phase 1, Blocks 1, 2, 3, 5 & 6 in Phase 2 and Blocks 4&9 in Phase 3.

1.2.The Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform is recommended to approve the remaining approved budget expenditure of up to £6.7m (from the approved sum of 8.3M) to be re-allocated to design consultancy elements and associated works for the recommended new Phase 2 in the revised phasing programme.

2.     Reasons for Decision 

2.1. Ebury Phase 1 (blocks 7&8 – shaded white on plan 1 below) is currently in its early construction phase and due to be delivered in May 2024. Outline planning approval for the rest of the blocks for Ebury Phase 2 was given in October 2021 as part of a hybrid planning application for the wider scheme. At that time, it was anticipated that Phase 2 would be split into two distinct delivery phases:

Phase 2A (delivering blocks 5, 6 & 1 – shaded blue on plan 1)

Phase 2B (delivering blocks 2, 3, 4 and 9 – shaded red on plan 1)

(Please refer to the Cabinet Member Report for plan 1)

2.2. Early in 2022, reports of significant increases in the market were reported by Gardiner & Theobald, the project Cost Consultants, which prompted a review of the viability and delivery of the remaining blocks.

2.3. A revised phasing programme is now being proposed which would include the following changes:

·         a larger second development phase incorporating blocks 2 and 3 (outlined in red on plan 2 below and;

·         a final Phase 3 delivering blocks 4 and 9 (outlined in purple on plan 2 below).

(Please refer to the Cabinet Member Report for plan 2)

2.4. The benefits of this revised phasing programme are:

·         This programme demonstrates a significant improvement of circa £16M on the current baseline programme in terms of viability due to the reduced impact of construction inflation by accelerated delivery.

·         Accelerates the delivery of circa 70 more affordable units within Blocks 2 & 3 which will be completed circa 12 months earlier than the previous phasing programme. 

·         Enhanced and accelerated public amenity offering as two squares will be brought forward as part of Phase 2 rather than just one in the previous Phase 2A

·         More holistic approach to phasing of the works which improves efficiency and reduce the risk of delay.

·         Accelerates the delivery of more of the lower blocks providing more frontage on Ebury Bridge Road and the establishment of the new high street frontage, with the additional benefit of offsetting the impact of the high rise blocks on the conservation area.

2.5. This report seeks approval of the revised phasing programme along with the re-allocation of the remaining approved budget expenditure in the sum of £6.7m (from the approved budget of £8.3M) for design consultancy elements and associated works from the current Ebury Phase 2A programme to the new Phase 2 within the recommended revised phasing programme. Details of the approved expenditure can be found in the Financial Implications section.

2.6. The appointments and contracts with our external professional team are all in place and services can be commenced without variation, subject to the approvals sought in this report.

An direct award is required for the provision of transport for home to school travel care for children with special educational needs and vulnerable adults to day activities.

1.     Recommendations:

For Children’s Services:

1.1.         That the Cabinet Member for Young People, Learning and Leisure approves the following recommendation:

1.2.         To agree termination of the current call-off contract with HCT Operations for Lot 1B (Children’s Services) and removal from the Minibus Framework as they have notified the Council that they have taken the decision to cease services from 26 August 2022.

1.3.         To award Call Off contracts for Lot 1B (Children’s Services) to HATS from 27^th August 2022 until 31 August 2024 with an option to extend for up to a further 2 years to 31 August 2026 from the established Minibus Framework for the provision of travel care to SEND pupils for Home To School Travel Care. The contract values for these services are set out below:

Please note that the above contract value is based on current route data that was submitted. This may be subject to adjustment due to fluctuation in activity as it is a demand led service.

1.4.         To pay HCT Operations the one-off pro rata sum of up to £86,153 for the month of August to cover staff salaries and ensure that these staff transfer to the new provider.

1.5.         To make a one-off mobilisation payment to HATS of £48,366 so that HATS is able to commence service delivery in time for the start of the academic year. This cost represents is a proportionate split of the total mobilisation cost where WCC uses 66% and RBKC uses 34%.

            For Adult Social Care

1.6.         That the Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Voluntary Sector approves the following recommendation:

1.7.         To agree termination of the current call-off contract with HCT Operations for Lot 2 (Adult Social Care) and removal from the Minibus Framework as they have notified the Council that they have taken the decision to cease services from 26 August 2022.

1.8.         To award Call Off contracts for Lot 2 (Adult Social Care) to HATS from 27^th August 2022 until 31 August 2024 with an option to extend for up to a further 2 years to 31 August 2026 from the established Minibus Framework for the provision of travel care to vulnerable adults to and from day activities. The contract values for these services are set out below:

Please note that the above contract values are based on current route data that was submitted. This may be subject to adjustment due to fluctuation in activity as it is a demand led service.

1.9.         To make a one-off mobilisation payment to HATS of £3,840 so that HATS is able to commence service delivery in time for the start of the academic year. This cost represents is a proportionate split of the total mobilisation cost where WCC uses 66% and RBKC uses 34%.

2.         Reasons for Decision

2.1.         The reason to terminate the current contract with HCT Operations is that they have notified the Council that they are ceasing delivery of statutory services from 26 August 2022.

2.2.         The reason for awarding services to HATS is that they are the next ranked provider on the Minibus Framework that was established in August 2019. The tender documents were purposefully designed with provision enabling the Council to Call off contracts from the next highest ranked providers list in the event of provider failure. HATS have been through the rigorous quality requirements to be awarded a place on the Framework. They are also currently a Council provider delivering minibus and taxi services across both boroughs. Therefore, the Council is assured that they will be able to deliver the service to the required standards.

2.3.         We need provision in place to ensure these statutory services are mobilised and delivered by beginning of the new school term in September 2022. The reasons for the emergency direct award to HATS is because they have confirmed that they are willing to take on these services and have capacity to do so.  We need to ensure staff transfer from HCT Operations to the new provider as early and quickly as possible. This will provide continuity of relationships between staff and parents and carers which is key to the success of the travel care service.

2.4.         The one-off payment to HCT Operations of a pro rata sum for the month of August will ensure that staff receive salaries and that they can transfer to HATS swiftly. Children’s Services currently pay for operational days and activity only. As such payments are processed on a 10 month basis and providers are not typically paid in August. Providers spread this income over 12 months to ensure that their staff are paid and rely on payments from September to the end of the financial year to cover August. However, as HCT Operations are ceasing operations on 26 August, they are seeking a one-off payment to cover staff salaries and transfer costs whilst ensuring they are solvent during this transfer period.

2.5.         As part of HATS price submission, they have included a one-off mobilisation cost of £73,700 across both boroughs so that they can mobilise services in time for the start of the academic year. This will include transferring staff from HCT Operations to HATS; sourcing specialist vehicles and equipment; relocating fleets to newly assigned depots; establishing new routes with the Council; inducting staff and recruiting new staff; providing specialist training; undertaking DBS checks for staff; and working with the Council to communicate changes to schools and families.

2.6.         The HATS mobilisation cost is split on a 34% / 66% which reflects the overall borough share of usage. RBKC uses 34% of the overall service while WCC uses 66% and this will be reflected in the one-off mobilisation cost.

2.7.         The reason that there is an additional cost range for Children’s Services and Adult Social Care is because the services are dynamic and the contracts need to allow some flexibility to allow for changes in activity. This is especially necessary given that pupils are still being enrolled to schools and may not have applied for specialist transport yet.

           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

           Reasons for Decision 

2.1      The proposed public realm security improvements identified in this   

           report, will reduce the vulnerability of the area.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has noted the write-off of the amounts shown in the report under delegated authority.

Reason 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 has endorsed the Paddington Business Improvement District Limited’s(trading as PaddingtonNowBID) renewalproposal for 2023 - 2028.  

Reasons for Decision:

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

This report seeks approval from the Cabinet Member on the Baker Street Quarter Partnership BID renewal and alteration proposal 2023 – 2028.

Summary of Decision:

The Cabinet Member has endorsed the Baker Street Quarter Partnership BID renewal and alteration proposal.

Reason for Decision:

BIDs can continue for an unlimited number of terms, providing they are successful in their ballots. BSQP have submitted their renewal and alteration 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 BSQP.

Summary of Decision:

The Cabinet Member has approved the recommendations in respect of the Neighbourhood CIL applications set out in the report.

Reason 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.  

Summary of Decision:

The Cabinet Member has agreed to re-designate the Hyde Park and Paddington Neighbourhood Forum for a further period of 5 years.  

Reasons for Decision:

Legislation states that a local planning authority may designate an organisation or body as a neighbourhood forum if the authority is satisfied that a number of conditions (in the table below) have been met. The existing Hyde Park and Paddington Neighbourhood Forum meets all of these conditions, and there has been no change in this since the original designation. 

Consultation on the re-designation of the Hyde Park and Paddington Neighbourhood Forum highlighted support for the application, with no objections or competing applications.

Summary of Decision:

The Cabinet Member has approved the recommendations of the Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel meeting of 05 July 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 recommendations of the Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel meeting of 14 June 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.

The Decision seeks agreement for the Council to enter into a funding agreement to secure grant funding towards to costs of affordable homes being delivered by Westminster as part of the GLA’s Right to Buy, By Back Programme.

1.        Recommendations

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

1.1      Approves the Council entering a grant funding agreement with the GLA to secure capital grant funding of £1.7m towards the delivery of 17 social rented homes under the Right to Buy Back (RTBB) programme.

1.2    The availability of capital funding for this programme including the   council’s own funding of £7.1m as set out in this report is noted

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 increase the number of homes that can be purchased for those households in social housing need.

For the Cabinet Member to approve recommended changes to the Ward Budget Programme 2022 – 2026.

Recommendations

2.1      The Cabinet Member approved the following changes with an implementation date as soon as possible.

a)    Updated guidance for the overall programme.

b)    Change in delegation for sign off of release of funds over £10,000; from Cabinet Member to the Head of Governance and Councillor Liaison Team.

c)     Applicants to the Programme will be able to ask for a pre-award of funding, of up to 50% of the total project costs.

d)    Applicants will be asked to promote their funding award on their social media accounts as part of the funding agreement.

3.       Reasons for Decision 

3.1     The Programme is expected to continue to address local ward priorities. The minor changes to the process will ensure that applicants are better accommodated by the Programme, the process is more efficient, and it is better promoted.

Summary of Decision:

The Cabinet Member has approved the disposal of 1, St Mary’s Terrace to Mouskos LLP, for the sum not less than £3,600,000 to the preferred bidder as set out in the exempt Appendix 1.

Reason for Decision:

Following recommendation by Strategic Property Board in July 2021 and a Cabinet Member briefing on 21 March 2022, the Council’s Head of Capital Programmes appointed an agent (Knight Frank LLP) to promote a disposal on the open market.

A guide price of offers above £3 million was stipulated with initial offers received on the 1 June 2022.  Following further review and briefing to the Cabinet Member on the 29 June 2022, BAFOs were received on the 4 July 2022.  This decision will generate a capital receipt which was not foreseen in the Council Capital Strategy at the time of the March 2022 Full Council report.

Award of contract to Siemens for the provision, maintenance and management of approximately 1,000 shared power supply electric vehicle charging points for resident use on the public highway.

   1       Recommendations

1.1      That 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 particular person (including the authority holding that information) under paragraph 3 of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972  which is the subject of this report.

1.2      That the Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality approve the recommendation to award the Call-Off Concession Contract for the Provision of Electric Vehicle (EV) shared supply charging points to Siemens Plc for a period of three years from the commencement date in 2022 with the option to extend by up to two further years.

1.3      The call-off contract award sum for the goods and services is £ (redacted) million  which incorporates match funding in the sum of (redacted)  from the contractor.

   2      Reasons for Decision 

2.1      The decision was taken to proceed with a direct award of a call-off concession contract under the Go-ultra Low City Scheme (GULCS)/TfL EV Charging Infrastructure Framework Agreement (tfl_scp_001560, ‘the GULCS Framework’, on the basis of Siemens Plc offering some match funding and continuity of services given that they have provided and installed a high number of charge points within the Council.  For this round of charge point installations, the Council is looking for the in-column charge point to make up the bulk of the order.  This unit sits inside the lamp column and has minimal impact on the streetscape as a result.  Siemens are the only supplier on the GULCS Framework to offer the in-column charge point solution (as set out  in the GULCS Framework rate card listing the products on offer and with these forming the majority share of the requested services, they therefore offer the lowest overall cost to the Council.  The direct award of the call-off contract is permitted in accordance with paragraph 3.16 of the GULCS Framework terms..

2.2      Siemens Plc is currently the only operator on the GULCS Framework to offer an in-column lamp column charge point, which is both the option preferred by the Council’s lighting engineers and is consistent with the Council’s  approach to de-cluttering the streets wherever possible.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has agreed to the contract award appointment of Wilmott Dixon Construction Ltd as the preferred contractor for the Seymour Centre project to deliver pre-contract services in respect of the first stage of a two stage design and build construction works. 

Reason for Decision

A compliant and comprehensive tender process has been completed to test the market and to identify the contractor best suited to deliver the services required.  To take a different approach or not appoint would mean the scheme stalling.  The completion date would be seriously impacted and the cost would increase.  This appointment is therefore critical for maintaining the programme and delivering the project to quality and cost.

WCC own a long leasehold interest in a circa 5.5 acre distribution warehouse site on Mandela Way in the London Borough of Southwark.  The lease contains an option for WCC to acquire the freehold interest in the site for £1.

Summary of decision

The Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform has approved the option to acquire the freehold interest in the WCC leased site at Mandela Way for £1. 

Reasons for decision

Under the WCC constitution, Cabinet Member approval is required to acquire a freehold interest in land. 

The appointment of a reactive repairs contractor.

Summary of Decision:

The Cabinet Member has approved the award the contract for Reactive Repairs and Maintenance to Galliford Try Facilities Management Ltd for a period of three years with the ability to extend for a further two years. 

Reasons for Decision: 

The management of the Leisure and Schools estate recently transferred to Corporate Property as part of the move to a centralised Corporate Landlord model.  A procurement exercise has been conducted via the Direct Award provision through the Fusion21 Framework.  This Cabinet Member Report sets out the procurement process undertaken and rationale for recommending Galliford Try Facilities Management Ltd to be awarded the contract for reactive repairs. 

Approval of recommendations from the Rating Advisory Panel of 19 April 2022.

Summary of Decision:

The Cabinet Member has approved the recommendations of the Rating Advisory Panel held on 19^th April 2022 and determined the applications for NNDR Discretionary and Hardship relief set out in Appendix A.

Reason 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 has approved the extension of the Business Rate NNDR “Localism” allowance of a 100% of the net business rate liability under section 47 of the Local Government Finance Act 1988, as amended by the Localism Act 2011 to the ratepayers of meanwhile use activations as listed in the report.

Reason for Decision

The previous NNDR Localism relief enabled the council to deliver 12 activations, however the fact the previous relief ended on the 31^st March 2022 presents challenges for current activations that are operational and which have received authorisation from the council and property owners.

From the 1^st April 2022, the project partnership fee contributions increased due to the Central Government’s rates holiday period ending on 31^st March 2022; meaning from 1^st April 2022 properties will be eligible for a 50% retail discount, capped at £110,000 per business.  Property owners are aware that these factors will reduce the level of localism discount which is currently covered by the project partnership fee, thus increasing the project partnership fee.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the write off of debts over £100k as set out in section 5, having taken all appropriate action.

Reason 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. 

To procure a Passenger Transport (Taxis) & Travel Care Framework for Vulnerable Children, Young People & Adults for Westminster City Council and The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea.

RECOMMENDATIONS 

It is recommended that the Executive Director of Children’s Services: 

1.     Approves the establishment of a Passenger Transport Taxi Framework, to be used by both WCC and RBKC via an Inter-Authority agreement. 

2.     Admit the following providers onto the Framework, for the delivery of Passenger Transport (Taxi) and Travel Care Services, for the period 1st August 2022, until the 31st July 2026.  

Lot 1- recommended providers:  

·    Abbey Wood Station Minicabs Limited (Abbey Wood) 

·    Airport Transfer Cars Ltd  

·    Cascade Cars Service Ltd  

·    GETT (UK) 

·    Green Tomato Cars Limited 

·    Kush Cars Limited  

·    London Hire Community Services Limited  

·    London VIP Cars Services Limited 

·    Ollimpicars Ltd  

·    HATS group Limited 

·    PG Passenger Services Limited  

Lot 2 – recommended providers  

·    Abbey Wood Station Minicabs Limited 

·    Cascade Cars Services Ltd  

·    GETT (UK) 

·    Green Tomato Cars Limited 

·    London VIP Cars Limited  

·    Ollimpicars Ltd  

·    HATs group Limited  

REASONS FOR DECISION 

1.     The current Passenger Transport Framework (Taxis) is due to expire on the 31st July 2022. There is a need to put in place the new Framework to ensure continuity of service. 

2.     Local Authorities have a statutory duty to provide travel assistance for Children and Young People with special educational needs & disabilities assessed as eligible, as per the Education Act 1996. The Council’s Travel Assistance Policies set out these duties. 

3.     For Adults, the Care Act 2014 stipulates a duty to Local Authorities to meet assessed needs, and while transport is not a prescribed provision, it may be one way of meeting people’s assessed needs and preferences relating to their personal outcomes towards independence and engagement with the community. 

4.     The service will provide transport for eligible residents in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea and Westminster City Council, and a Collaboration Agreement between the two Councils will enable them to operate effectively under the Framework. 

Summary of Decision:

The Cabinet Member has agreed:

A)    That the recommendations of the Examiner as set out in the council’s Decision Statement (see Appendix 1) and Examiner’s Report (see Appendices 3 and 4) be accepted.

B)    That in accordance with the Examiner’s recommendation, the Pimlico Neighbourhood Plan (submission version, see Appendix 2), as modified within the Examiner’s Report proceed to local referendum.

C)   That in accordance with the Examiner’s recommendation, the referendum area be restricted to the neighbourhood area designated by the council on 4^th September 2013 as the Pimlico Neighbourhood Area.

D)   That in the event of a positive referendum result, the Executive Director of Innovation and Change be authorised to publish an Adoption Statement and formally ‘make’ the plan.

Reasons for Decision

The Examiner’s recommendations will ensure the Pimlico Neighbourhood Plan is clear and effective as a framework for making decisions on planning applications in the Pimlico Neighbourhood Area. The recommendations address the concerns raised by the council during consultation and examination, and other stakeholders during consultation, and ensure the draft plan meets the ‘basic conditions’ prescribed by legislation.

Before a neighbourhood plan can be made, it is a statutory requirement that it is first subject to local referendum within the Neighbourhood Area, and any additional areas as considered appropriate by the Examiner. Before this happens, the council must publish a Decision Statement setting out the actions it proposes to take in response to the Examiner’s Report. Where the council decides to proceed to referendum, in the case of a successful majority vote in favour of the plan, the council must formally ‘make’ the plan.

This decision supports the City for All objectives, in securing a key landholding that facilitates pedestrian and wheelchair access to a Grand Union Canal bridge, linking the boroughs of Westminster and Kensington and Chelsea.

Summary of Decision

The report recommends renewing the Council’s lease of the subject land for a term of 125 years and otherwise based on the terms detailed in the exempt background paper. 

Reason for Decision

Under the WCC constitution Cabinet Member approval is required to enter into a lease of more than 25 years (the proposed lease term in this case is 125 years). 

The decision to proceed with the recommendation will allow Westminster City Council (WCC) to benefit from the construction of new modern depot facility to be utilised by the Council’s Street Cleansing Unit together with the provision of a hotel, office and leisure facilities thus supporting the delivery of the Councils ‘City for All’ objectives through this development and land swap. This development will provide employment and will go some way to regenerate the immediate area.

Summary of Decision 

The Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform has approved the terms of the Deed of Variation to the S.106 Agreement and authorised that the Council, as freehold owner of the depot site, enter into this agreement. 

Reasons for Decision   

TheS.106 Agreement had been entered into by both WCC as landowner and WCC as theLocal Planning Authority. The Local Planning Authority’s authority to enter into the agreement derives from the Planning Applications Sub-Committee resolving to approve the planning permission. WCC as landowner,requires a separate Cabinet Member approval to amend the terms of this S.106 Agreement.  

To approve the Council’s Discretionary scheme under the government’s Council tax Rebate scheme

Recommendation:

The Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform has approved the proposed discretionary scheme as outlined in Section 5 of the report.

Reason for decision:

The government has requested local authorities to administer a payment scheme to assist eligible residents with increasing energy costs.  The scheme requires local authorities to make payments of £150 to eligible residents under the Council Tax Rebate scheme.

To set out the council’s spend of the Household Support Fund Extension April – September 2022

Recommendation

The Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform has approved the utilisation each of the processes outlined in Section 4 of this report to allocate the council’s funding allocation (£1,951,507) to the borough’s most vulnerable residents.

Reason for the decision

The Government has provided local authorities with a broad discretion as to how to allocate their funding within the ‘Household Support Fund (1 April 2022 to 30 September 2022): final guidance for county councils and unitary authorities in England’.