Agenda, decisions and minutes

No apologies for absence were received.

RESOLVED that: The Executive agreed the minutes of the meetings held on 29^th March 2022 and 14^th April 2022 as true and accurate records of the meetings.

No declarations were received.

The Chair, Councillor Jason Smithers reported that there were four requests to address the meeting as set out below:

·         Cllr Dorothy Maxwell – Agenda Items 7 and 12

·         Cllr John McGhee – Agenda Item 9

·         Cllr Anne Lee – Agenda Items 5 and 6

·         Cllr Lyn Buckingham – Agenda Items 6, 10, 12 and 15

Cllr McGhee was not in attendance at the meeting and therefore did not speak on Item 9.

Cllr Maxwell withdrew from speaking on Item 12.

Cllr Buckingham only spoke in relation to Item 12

RESOLVED:

That the Executive:

a)    Noted the performance of the Council measured by the available indicators at Period 12 for 2021/22 as set out in the appendices to this report.

b)    Noted the stance that is being taken to developing the Council’s approach to benchmarking, comparative data and revised Corporate Plan indicator set.

Reason for Recommendations – to better understand the Council’s performance as measured by performance indicators as at Period 12, 2021/22.

Alternative Options Considered – reporting performance data on a less frequent basis is an option but monthly reporting is considered useful at this stage of the Council’s existence, reporting alongside budget information

The Chair, Cllr Jason Smithers welcomed Cllr Anne Lee to the meeting to address the Executive. Cllr Lee raised concerns regarding performance indicators relating to NHS Health Checks offered, household waste sent for composting or anaerobic digestion and the lack of data regarding substance misuse clients being offered interventions.

Cllr Jason Smithers thanked Cllr Lee for her comments before introducing a report that sought to provide an update on the performance of the Council across a range of services as measured by performance indicators, as well as setting out the progress that was being made in the development of the Council’s performance monitoring arrangements.

The Chair reported that 58% of performance indicators were currently on target or overperforming, with 35% within 5% of their respective targets. A total of 7% of indicators were underperforming and outside the 5% tolerance.

Details of underperforming indicators including the number of primary schools  being rated as “good” or “outstanding” by Ofsted and NHS Health Checks were outlined to the meeting. Cllrs Scott Edwards and Helen Harrison, as the relevant Executive Members for these indicators provided details of the steps being taken to address the underperformance going forward.

RESOLVED:

That the Executive:

a)    Noted the performance of the Council measured by the available indicators at Period 12 for 2021/22 as set out in the appendices to this report.

b)    Noted the stance that is being taken to developing the Council’s approach to benchmarking, comparative data and revised Corporate Plan indicator set.

Reason for Recommendations – to better understand the Council’s performance as measured by performance indicators as at Period 12, 2021/22.

Alternative Options Considered – reporting performance data on a less frequent basis is an option but monthly reporting is considered useful at this stage of the Council’s existence, reporting alongside budget information

RESOLVED:

That the Executive:

a)    Reviewed the proposed Corporate Plan Indicator Set for 2022/23 and provided feedback as appropriate.

b)    Adopted the proposed Corporate Plan Indicator set for 2022/23

The Chair invited Cllr Anne Lee to address the Executive in relation to this item. Cllr Lee welcomed the new proposed Corporate Plan Performance Indicator Set and the inclusion of an indicator detailing repeated domestic abuse. Cllr Lee requested that indicators relating to waste disposal be periodically reported to the Climate Change, Environment and Growth Executive Advisory Panel (EAP).

Cllr Smithers thanked Cllr Lee for her contribution before introducing a report that sought to provide members of the Executive with the opportunity to review and approve the proposed Corporate Plan Performance Indicator Set for 2022/23.

The Chair noted that following adoption of the Council’s Corporate Plan in December 2021, the suite of monitored performance indicators (PI) had required amendment to better demonstrate how the Council was performing against its key commitments outlined in the Corporate Plan. The report and appendices before members reflected a significant level of work between officers, members and the Council’s EAPs. It was heard that the PIs were not set in stone, with recommendations welcomed from EAPs to be added to future iterations.

A total of 73 new indicators were proposed in addition to existing measures, with approximately 40 indicators set to be removed. Feedback from both the Finance and Resources Scrutiny Committee and Scrutiny Commission had been taken into account in the formulation of the proposals before the Executive.

Cllrs David Brackenbury and Harriet Pentland spoke to welcome the proposed indicator set for providing a useful benchmark against which the Council’s performance could be assessed.

RESOLVED:

That the Executive:

a)    Reviewed the proposed Corporate Plan Indicator Set for 2022/23 and provided feedback as appropriate.

b)    Adopted the proposed Corporate Plan Indicator set for 2022/23

RESOLVED:

KEY DECISION

That the Executive:

a)    Approved  the implementation of a Dynamic Purchasing System to manage and regularise the Council’s use of private sector temporary accommodation suppliers

b)    Noted that the spot-purchasing of supported temporary accommodation at S&H will continue for an interim period pending the outcome of the Rough Sleeping Initiative 2022-2025 bid and the implementation of an alternative arrangement; and

c)    Delegated authority to the Portfolio Holder for Housing and Communities, in liaison with the Executive Director for Adults, Communities and Wellbeing, to approve the detailed specification, terms and conditions and relative schedules for Nightly Purchased, Supplier Managed Temporary Accommodation.

d)    Delegated authority to the Portfolio Holder for Housing and Communities, in liaison with the Executive Director for Adults, Communities and Wellbeing, to take any further decisions and actions required to implement the Dynamic Purchasing System and award contracts in relation to this.

Reasons for Recommendations:

·           To ensure the Council’s compliance with the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 which regulates the purchasing by public sector bodies of contracts for goods, works and services.

·           To enable the Council to monitor the delivery of service and performance of private sector housing suppliers to ensure that good quality homes and related services are being provided to homeless households

·           To reduce the use of unsuitable and more costly forms of temporary accommodation

·           To ensure that S&H, a much-needed supported emergency accommodation resource to safeguard single homeless people in North Northamptonshire, is able to continue to operate in the short term. This would be pending activity to regularise its use via the Dynamic Purchasing System assuming a successful Rough Sleeping Initiative 2022-25 bid.

Alternative Options Considered:

·           For the Council to continue solely with its current existing arrangement of spot purchasing nightly paid temporary accommodation from all third-party private providers; and /or

·           For the Council to cease use of S&H pending the outcome of the Rough Sleeping Initiative 2022-25 bid

The Chair welcomed Cllr Dorothy Maxwell to address the Executive. Cllr Maxwell spoke in relation to temporary accommodation standards and “out of area” accommodation placements. 

Cllr Smithers thanked Cllr Maxwell for her comments before Cllr Andy Mercer, Executive Member for Housing and Community introduced a report that sought Executive approval for the Council to use a Dynamic Purchasing System to procure private sector temporary accommodation while regularising its expenditure. The report also sought approval for the continued use of S&H (formerly the Euro Hotel) in Wellingborough as supported temporary accommodation for single homeless individuals on a short-term spot-purchase basis.

Cllr Mercer noted that implementation of a Dynamic Purchasing System would allow the Council to meet its statutory duties by continuing to use the former Euro Hotel as supported accommodation as well as providing a better supply of approved temporary accommodation and offering improved value for money. Cllr Mercer confirmed that the Council would only accommodate people outside the local area as a last resort if no suitable accommodation was available locally.

RESOLVED:

KEY DECISION

That the Executive:

a)    Approved  the implementation of a Dynamic Purchasing System to manage and regularise the Council’s use of private sector temporary accommodation suppliers

b)    Noted that the spot-purchasing of supported temporary accommodation at S&H will continue for an interim period pending the outcome of the Rough Sleeping Initiative 2022-2025 bid and the implementation of an alternative arrangement; and

c)    Delegated authority to the Portfolio Holder for Housing and Communities, in liaison with the Executive Director for Adults, Communities and Wellbeing, to approve the detailed specification, terms and conditions and relative schedules for Nightly Purchased, Supplier Managed Temporary Accommodation.

d)    Delegated authority to the Portfolio Holder for Housing and Communities, in liaison with the Executive Director for Adults, Communities and Wellbeing, to take any further decisions and actions required to implement the Dynamic Purchasing System and award contracts in relation to this.

Reasons for Recommendations:

·           To ensure the Council’s compliance with the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 which regulates the purchasing by public sector bodies of contracts for goods, works and services.

·           To enable the Council to monitor the delivery of service and performance of private sector housing suppliers to ensure that good quality homes and related services are being provided to homeless households

·           To reduce the use of unsuitable and more costly forms of temporary accommodation

·           To ensure that S&H, a much-needed supported emergency accommodation resource to safeguard single homeless people in North Northamptonshire, is able to continue to operate in the short term. This would be pending activity to regularise its use via the Dynamic Purchasing System assuming a successful Rough Sleeping Initiative 2022-25 bid.

Alternative Options Considered:

·           For the Council to continue solely with its current existing arrangement of spot purchasing nightly paid temporary accommodation from all third-party private providers; and /or

·           For the Council to cease use of S&H pending the outcome of the Rough Sleeping Initiative 2022-25 bid

RESOLVED:

KEY DECISION

Alternative Options Considered - The only alternative option would be to not submit the Business Case Summary Document and therefore not to drawdown the remaining funding of £8.9m (less the 5%, approx. £445k already received from DLUHC). The consequences of this would mean that the Corby Town Centre to Station Link (Oakley Road) and Smart & Connected Corby projects could not be delivered. These projects are deliverable projects which benefits Corby and the surrounding area. The link road project proposes to provide improvements to this road from the train station, past Tresham College to the town centre encouraging active travel. The sensor network aims to provide valuable data to build a picture of pedestrian and cyclist use to develop future schemes in the area. This option is, therefore, not a viable alternative to consider.

Cllr David Brackenbury introduced a report that sought Executive approval for the submission of a Business Case Document for the Corby Town Centre to Station Link and Smart & Connected Corby that would allow drawdown of £8.9m of combined allocated funding approved by the Department of Levelling Up, Communities and Housing.

Cllr Brackenbury noted that the report before members covered two of the four projects of the Corby Town Fund, with the overall funding package totalling £19.9m  and due to provide beneficial regeneration for the town.

Cllrs Harriet Pentland and Graham Lawman welcomed the projects, stating that productive discussion had been held regarding both at the recent Climate Change, Environment and Growth Executive Advisory Panel.

RESOLVED:

KEY DECISION

Alternative Options Considered - The only alternative option would be to not submit the Business Case Summary Document and therefore not to drawdown the remaining funding of £8.9m (less the 5%, approx. £445k already received from DLUHC). The consequences of this would mean that the Corby Town Centre to Station Link (Oakley Road) and Smart & Connected Corby projects could not be delivered. These projects are deliverable projects which benefits Corby and the surrounding area. The link road project proposes to provide improvements to this road from the train station, past Tresham College to the town centre encouraging active travel. The sensor network aims to provide valuable data to build a picture of pedestrian and cyclist use to develop future schemes in the area. This option is, therefore, not a viable alternative to consider.

RESOLVED:

KEY DECISION

That the Executive approved the Community Asset Transfer Policy at Appendix A to the report

The reasons for the recommendation are:

·         The policy supports good governance in relation to the Councils’ obligations to comply with the legislation that govern land transfers.

·         The policy and process support the evaluation of community asset transfer enquires and provide a guide to community organisations.

·         Adopting the policy provides for a consistent and transparent approach to be administered which reduces the risks associated with asset transfers.

·         Adopting the policy supports the Councils Corporate Plan.

Alternative Options Considered:

·         The Council could choose not to adopt the proposed policy and manage each request as it is received, however this could lead to inconsistencies in the approach to community asset transfers.

·         The Council could adopt an approach to not support community asset transfers to avoid the risks detailed in the policy and retain direct control of assets, however this would limit the benefits that can be achieved from community delivery. 

Prior to the introduction of this item, The Chair noted that following discussions with the Council’s Monitoring Officer, an amendment would be made to paragraph 5.3 (g) of the Community Asset Transfer Policy to seek approval of recommended applications from The Leader rather than the Executive Member for Highways, Travel and Assets as stated in the draft before members.

Cllr Graham Lawman, Executive Member for Highways, Travel and Assets then introduced the report that sought Executive approval of the Community Asset Transfer Policy.

Cllr Lawman noted that the Community Asset Transfer Scheme arose from the 2011 Localism Act and required harmonisation following the move to unitary status. The policy before members provided a transparent and consistent framework for considering Council assets, with guidance provided to organisations.

The scheme would allow the Council to pass control of one of its assets to a community group, Town or Parish or formalised charity with secured community benefits. It was heard that communities were often better placed to understand local service user needs and could often provide services in an efficient and flexible way, with ownership supporting financial sustainability of a group. The Council could also benefit from improved social outcomes as well as reducing building management responsibility and operating costs.

The meeting heard that transfers were not without risks, with the Council needing to ensure that community outputs continue to be delivered and did not disadvantage individual parts of the community through control by another. In addition, the controlling organisation required the capacity to manage the asset sustainably and that there be no detriment to the Council though loss of control of asset, local service delivery or potential ongoing financial liability.

It was noted that each application would be considered on its own merits with sufficient due diligence to consider risks and suitable mitigation. A number of factors would be used in evaluation including:

·         Social

·         Economic

·         Environmental

·         Governance

·         Financial standing

·         Corporate plan relevance

·         Ward councillor consultation

Once evaluations had been undertaken, a recommendation to proceed or not would be made, along with terms to be applied to the transfer.Transfer options would range from a short licence arrangement with continued Council involvement in building management, through long leases to freehold transfer for Town and Parish Councils only. 

It was understood that the Council still had a best value duty to transfer at market value, acknowledging restrictions and proposed use. Undervalue transfers would be considered where clear and sustained social, economic, or environmental benefits existed, though an independent valuation may be required.

Cllrs Harrison, Pentland and Howes spoke in favour of the proposals with involvement of the Executive Advisory Panels noted.

RESOLVED:

KEY DECISION

That the Executive approved the Community Asset Transfer Policy at Appendix A to the report

The reasons for the recommendation are:

·         The policy supports good governance in relation to the Councils’ obligations to comply with the legislation that govern land transfers.

·         The policy and process support the evaluation of community asset transfer enquires and provide a guide to community organisations.  ...  view the full minutes text for item 217.

RESOLVED:

KEY DECISION

That the Executive approved the Community Right to Bid (Assets of Community Value) Policy.

The reasons for the recommendation are:

·         The Council has a legal responsibility to process and maintain a list of assets of community value, the policy and processes support the council in discharging this obligation.

·         Adopting the policy provides for a consistent and transparent approach to be administered which reduces the risks associated with such decisions.

·         Adopting the policy supports the Council’s Corporate Plan.

Alternative Options Considered: The Council has a statutory duty to keep a record of assets that have been nominated as community assets and, for the successfully listed assets, provide regulatory oversight to ensure that a moratorium is provided for should the owner decide to sell the asset. Additionally, the considerations for determining if an asset of community value should be listed are defined by legislation. The Council therefore has limited alternative options to deviate from the proposed policy structure.  

Cllr Graham Lawman, Executive Member for Highways, Travel and Assets introduced a report that sought Executive approval for a Community Right to Bid (Assets of Community Value) Policy.

Cllr Lawman noted that Assets of Community Value was another scheme arising from the 2011 Localism Act, with the Council having responsibility for determining applications.

It was noted that applications could apply to any land or building in North Northamptonshire that was nominated by an eligible group.The main purpose of the legislation was to provide a degree of protection to community facilities from being redeveloped for alternative uses against the wishes of the local community.

Details of the processes involved in the nomination and listing of Assets of Community Value were provided to the meeting, with members noting that legislation prescribed who could nominate an asset and the criteria to be considered as part of the application. Ward councillor, parish council and asset owner consultation would also be included. The meeting heard that clear evidence to substantiate the application was required, with the burden being on the nominator to provide this evidence. The policy had been developed to support groups in considering this. 

Once the listing of an asset had been approved, an obligation was placed on the owner of the asset to notify the Council if it decided to sell the asset within the five-year listing period. This notification would trigger an initial six-week moratorium on sale during which a community group could submit an expression of interest. This, in turn, would trigger a six-month moratorium during which no sale could proceed while the community group could work up plans to bid for the property. The Council’s role was to administer the moratorium process rather than be involved in the bid development, sale process or terms.

It was noted that legislation placed no obligation on the owner to engage with a community group or give preferential treatment to a group’s bid and at the end of the six-month moratorium the owner could dispose of the asset as they saw fit. The policy also provided appeal and compensation processes, which followed legislation.

The meeting heard that the Council was required to keep a record of Asset of Community Value decisions, with existing lists from former sovereign councils consolidated into one and put on the Council website.

RESOLVED:

KEY DECISION

That the Executive approved the Community Right to Bid (Assets of Community Value) Policy.

The reasons for the recommendation are:

·         The Council has a legal responsibility to process and maintain a list of assets of community value, the policy and processes support the council in discharging this obligation.

·         Adopting the policy provides for a consistent and transparent approach to be administered which reduces the risks associated with such decisions.

·         Adopting the policy supports the Council’s Corporate Plan.

Alternative Options Considered: The Council has a statutory duty to keep a record of assets that have been nominated as community assets and, for the successfully listed assets, provide regulatory oversight to ensure  ...  view the full minutes text for item 218.

That the Executive:

a)    Noted the ongoing legal obligations on the Council created by the Landowner agreement.

b)    Delegated authority to the Executive Member for Highways, Travel & Assets,in consultation with the Assistant Director for Assets & Environment, to agree future land sales for the Stanton Cross development site that are covered by the existing Landowner Agreement.

The reasons for the recommendation are:

·       The Council has a legal responsibility to process land sale requests in a timely manner within the conditions of the landowner agreement.

·       The agreement seeks to ensure successful development of Stanton Cross, supporting the growth and prosperity of North Northamptonshire, whilst generating a land receipt for the Council.

Alternative Options Considered:

·       To require each decision to go to the Executive for consideration. Given votes on land sales are majority led, it is likely a decision by the two other landowners will have been determined prior to any report being considered by the Executive.

·       The terms of the Landowner agreement are binding, including any minimum land value receipts received, therefore cannot be renegotiated or reneged on.  

Cllr Graham Lawman, Executive Member for Highways, Travel and Assets introduced a report that sought Executive approval to grant delegations to the Executive Member for Highways, Travel and Assets, in consultation with the Assistant Director of Assets and Environment, to authorise all future land sales that formed part of the Stanton Cross development.

Cllr Lawman advised the meeting that the report provided an update on the position with the Stanton Cross sustainable urban extension to the east of Wellingborough and sought to formalise some existing arrangements as successor to the legacy council of Northamptonshire County Council.

It was heard that whilst many of the plots at the site had been sold to individual developers, responsibility for much of the work on the sustainable urban extension lay with Stanton Cross Developments LLP. They were one of three landowners; the other two being the British Steel pension fund and the Council as a 27% shareholder.

As part of the original landowner agreement, when plots of land were sold, the funds were held centrally and not distributed in order to meet commitments towards the infrastructure of the development. There was an agreed minimum sum of £10,000 per acre, however, this could rise substantially depending upon the actual capital sales and cost of development.

Disposals had been continuing periodically, but it was now thought appropriate to formalise the situation and agree delegations as these disposals would be over the value permitted in the Council’s constitution under delegated authority to officers. It was noted that, under the agreement, the Executive was required to authorise transactions, subject to certain criteria and within 10 days.

The meeting heard that extensive legal and specialist surveying advice was received for each transaction to ensure best value.

RESOLVED:

KEY DECISION

That the Executive:

a)    Noted the ongoing legal obligations on the Council created by the Landowner agreement.

b)    Delegated authority to the Executive Member for Highways, Travel & Assets,in consultation with the Assistant Director for Assets & Environment, to agree future land sales for the Stanton Cross development site that are covered by the existing Landowner Agreement.

The reasons for the recommendation are:

·       The Council has a legal responsibility to process land sale requests in a timely manner within the conditions of the landowner agreement.

·       The agreement seeks to ensure successful development of Stanton Cross, supporting the growth and prosperity of North Northamptonshire, whilst generating a land receipt for the Council.

Alternative Options Considered:

·       To require each decision to go to the Executive for consideration. Given votes on land sales are majority led, it is likely a decision by the two other landowners will have been determined prior to any report being considered by the Executive.

·       The terms of the Landowner agreement are binding, including any minimum land value receipts received, therefore cannot be renegotiated or reneged on.  

RESOLVED:

KEY DECISION

That the Executive:

a)     Approved the Tenancy and Estate Management Policy at Appendix A to the report

b)     Approved the Lettable Standard and Tenant Involvement Plan at Appendix B to the report

c)      Approved the Tenant Involvement Plan at Appendix C to the report

d)     Approved the creation of a Tenancy Advisory Panel as part of the Tenant Involvement Plan and delegates authority to the Executive Member for Housing and Communities in consultation with the Assistant Director of Housing and Communities to agree Terms of Reference.

e)     Delegated authority to the Executive Member for Housing and Communities, in liaison with the Executive Director, Adults, Communities and Wellbeing to take any further decisions and/or actions required to implement these policy documents. This will include changing some of the photographs within both the Lettable Standard and the Tenant Involvement Plan and making minor amendments.

Reasons for Recommendations: -

·           Offer one consistent approach to the tenancy and estate management part of the tenancy and landlord services.

·           Comply with regulation that requires all social housing providers to incorporate tenant involvement into their service.

·           Offer one consistent standard for letting council owned homes throughout the North Northamptonshire area.

Alternative Options Considered: -

·         The only other option is to do nothing or to delay the harmonisation of working practices across the two teams.

·         This is not an option that can continue to be maintained effectively over time. The best option is to harmonise working practices as soon as possible to ensure consistency of service, reduce the risk of challenge, and most importantly make improvements to the service.

The Chair welcomed Cllr Lyn Buckingham to the meeting to address Executive. Cllr Buckingham welcomed both the Lettable Standard Policy and Tenant Involvement Plan, but raised concerns with regard to the Tenancy and Estate Management Policy. Cllr Buckingham considered that this policy was not fit for purpose and lacked detail regarding standards expected of estates or what the Council expected from its tenants and residents.

The Chair thanked Cllr Buckingham for her comments, before Cllr Andy Mercer, Executive Member for Housing & Communities introduced a report that sought approval for a harmonised Tenancy and Estate Management Policy, a new Lettable Standard and a new Tenant Involvement Plan.

Cllr Mercer stated that the Lettable Standard provided a clear acceptable standard that would be applied to all Council-owned properties prior to letting. The Tenancy and Estate Management Policy would provide clarity as to how the Council managed tenancies to meet current legislation and its statutory obligations as a landlord, with the approach taken to maintaining well-managed neighbourhoods forming the Estate Management element.

Cllr Helen Harrison noted that a number of the areas mentioned by Cllr Buckingham as not being included within the Tenancy and Estate Management Policy were covered within the Tenant Involvement Plan. It was also noted that the aforementioned policy was a living document and would be regularly revised to keep it in line with government legislation and the Council’s aspirations.

Cllr Mercer advised the meeting that further housing-related policies would be brought to the Executive in future as the harmonisation process continued.

RESOLVED:

KEY DECISION

That the Executive:

a)     Approved the Tenancy and Estate Management Policy at Appendix A to the report

b)     Approved the Lettable Standard and Tenant Involvement Plan at Appendix B to the report

c)      Approved the Tenant Involvement Plan at Appendix C to the report

d)     Approved the creation of a Tenancy Advisory Panel as part of the Tenant Involvement Plan and delegates authority to the Executive Member for Housing and Communities in consultation with the Assistant Director of Housing and Communities to agree Terms of Reference.

e)     Delegated authority to the Executive Member for Housing and Communities, in liaison with the Executive Director, Adults, Communities and Wellbeing to take any further decisions and/or actions required to implement these policy documents. This will include changing some of the photographs within both the Lettable Standard and the Tenant Involvement Plan and making minor amendments.

Reasons for Recommendations: -

·           Offer one consistent approach to the tenancy and estate management part of the tenancy and landlord services.

·           Comply with regulation that requires all social housing providers to incorporate tenant involvement into their service.

·           Offer one consistent standard for letting council owned homes throughout the North Northamptonshire area.

Alternative Options Considered: -

·         The only other option is to do nothing or to delay the harmonisation of working practices across the two teams.

·         This is not an option that can continue to be maintained effectively over time. The best option is to harmonise working practices as soon as possible to ensure  ...  view the full minutes text for item 220.

RESOLVED:

KEY DECISION

Cllr Lloyd Bunday, Executive Member for Finance and Transformation introduced a report which sought approval to commence a procurement process for a new unified telephony system for the Council.

Cllr Bunday stated that the existing infrastructure inherited from the former sovereign council was outdated and negatively affected the customer journey and hampered effective customer service. A new cloud-based system would offer minimal downtime, economies of scale and flexibility. In addition, the option was beneficial to the environment reducing the number of separate infrastructures in operation.

Cllrs Howell, Mercer and Brackenbury welcomed the proposal and the potential to greatly improve the customer experience when contacting the Council.

The Chair also welcomed the proposal and stated that a speedy procurement and implementation of a new harmonised system would be beneficial for the Council’s customers.

RESOLVED:

KEY DECISION

RESOLVED:

KEY DECISION

That the Executive:

a)    Noted the continued progress to procure new arrangements for highways and transport services and the readiness to make an award post Final Tender submission and evaluation;

b)    Agreed to delegate authority to the Executive Member for Highways, Travel and Assets in consultation with the Executive Member for Finance and the Executive Director for Place and Economy, Executive Director for Finance and the Monitoring Officer to award the contract and to take any further decisions and /or actions required to conclude the procurement.

Reason for Recommendations:

·         The Council has a statutory duty to provide highways services as set out in the Highways Act 1980, which are currently met by the hosting arrangement with WNC;

·         The Council must provide these services and the Council is procuring a new contract in order to do so in the future;

·         Failure to make an award will have a number of implications for the Council, not least the need to establish and mobilise alternative delivery arrangements from the end of the KierWSP contract in September 2022 and the cost and risk associated with commissioning and /or delivering an alternative solution in the medium to long term;

·         The delegations requested will enable the procurement process to proceed with appropriate governance through to its conclusion within the required timeframes.

Cllr Graham Lawman, Executive Member for Highways, Travel and Assets introduced a report that updated Executive on the project to procure a new highways contract for the Council and sought approval to delegate authority to award the contract to the successful bidder to the Executive Member for Highways, Travel and Assets, in consultation with the Executive Member for Finance and Transformation, the Executive Director for Place and Economy, the Executive Director for Finance and the Monitoring Officer.

Cllr Lawman stated that the condition of highways and pathways in North Northamptonshire was of paramount importance to the Council and, more importantly, residents and businesses, so it was important to get the best service possible.

The Executive noted that the Highways contract was one of the largest and most complex contracts that the Council let, with a lengthy procurement process started by the former County Council and continued by the Council in partnership with West Northamptonshire Council drawing to a conclusion.

It was heard that there were three bids currently being considered by officers alongside consultants and advisors. Procurement rules for the contract were based upon 50% price and 50% quality, meaning that the bid scoring the best would automatically be awarded the contract, subject to legal and other formalities and due diligence.

Members noted that whilst Executive and Council would be kept fully apprised of the process, there was no opportunity for Executive to select or interview as part of it. As part of the Council’s declaration to be carbon zero by 2030, this had been introduced into the process to ensure compliance by the contractor.

Cllr Lawman concluded by stating that as the Council had a degree of certainty about government funding for the next three years, it must ensure that it got best value for money alongside improving the highways network to the highest level.

RESOLVED:

KEY DECISION

That the Executive:

a)    Noted the continued progress to procure new arrangements for highways and transport services and the readiness to make an award post Final Tender submission and evaluation;

b)    Agreed to delegate authority to the Executive Member for Highways, Travel and Assets in consultation with the Executive Member for Finance and the Executive Director for Place and Economy, Executive Director for Finance and the Monitoring Officer to award the contract and to take any further decisions and /or actions required to conclude the procurement.

Reason for Recommendations:

·         The Council has a statutory duty to provide highways services as set out in the Highways Act 1980, which are currently met by the hosting arrangement with WNC;

·         The Council must provide these services and the Council is procuring a new contract in order to do so in the future;

·         Failure to make an award will have a number of implications for the Council, not least the need to establish and mobilise alternative delivery arrangements from the end of the KierWSP contract in September 2022 and the cost and risk associated with commissioning and /or delivering an alternative solution in the  ...  view the full minutes text for item 222.

RESOLVED:

KEY DECISION

That the Executive:

a)  Approved the procurement of a new, modern Income Management Solution and

b)  Delegated authority to the Member for Finance and Transformation in consultation with the Director of Transformation to conclude the procurement, award the contract and implement the new system

Cllr Lloyd Bunday, Executive Member for Finance and Transformation introduced a report that sought approval to procure and award a contract for the provision of a new Income Management Solution for the Council and its partners Cambridgeshire County Council, Milton Keynes Council and West Northamptonshire Council.

Cllr Bunday noted that contracts for the incumbent Income Management Solution inherited from the former county council were nearing expiry and required replacement by 1^st April 2023. West Northamptonshire Council would take the lead role for procurement and contract on behalf of all the authorities involved, with a proposed contract duration of four years with a share of costs to the Council of an estimated £1.43m over the duration.

RESOLVED:

KEY DECISION

That the Executive:

a)  Approved the procurement of a new, modern Income Management Solution and

b)  Delegated authority to the Member for Finance and Transformation in consultation with the Director of Transformation to conclude the procurement, award the contract and implement the new system

RESOLVED:

KEY DECISION

That the Executive:

a)    Noted the disaggregation of the former County Council loan book based on the agreed methodology of Council Tax base 2020/21 and the novation of individual loans to reflect this split as closely as possible, including the consideration of the repayment requirements.

b)    Approved an equalisation payment of £193k to West Northamptonshire Council based on the proposed split of the loan book.

c)    Delegated authority to the Executive Member for Finance and Transformation in consultation with the Executive Director of Finance and the Monitoring Officer to finalise the novation of the loans to North Northamptonshire Council.

Reasons for Recommendation are set out in greater detail within section 5 of the report, but can be summarised as:

·         To note proposed split of the loan book of the former County Council to North Northamptonshire Council and West Northamptonshire Council and based on the detailed review in section 5, recommend the equalisation payment to West Northamptonshire of £193k.

Alternative Options Considered:

·         The proposed distribution of the former County Council loans was made to closely reflect the agreed proportionate split of 44.64% and 55.36% between North Northamptonshire Council and West Northamptonshire Council respectively.  The value of each loan, repayment timeline and interest rates were considered in order that each Authority had a comparable and fair distribution.  Alternative options would be to alter the individual loans allocated to each Local Authority which would affect the profiling and any settlement payment.  The allocation of the loans, that form the basis for this report, has been agreed with West Northamptonshire Council (S151 Officer).  There is, therefore, no alternative option proposed. 

Cllr Lloyd Bunday, Executive Member for Finance and Transformation introduced a report that sought approval for the proposed final allocation of loans previously held by the former Northamptonshire County Council to be disaggregated between North Northamptonshire Council and West Northamptonshire Council based on principles agreed prior to vesting day.

Cllr Bunday noted that the overall portfolio of loans to be disaggregated totalled £532.23m and would be distributed pro rata to the Council Tax Base for 2020/21, with 44.64% allocated to North Northamptonshire Council. The loans would be distributed fairly in terms of repayment periods and interest applying. An equalisation payment of £193k would be paid to West Northamptonshire Council to ensure no disadvantage to either council as a result of the disaggregation.

RESOLVED:

KEY DECISION

That the Executive:

a)    Noted the disaggregation of the former County Council loan book based on the agreed methodology of Council Tax base 2020/21 and the novation of individual loans to reflect this split as closely as possible, including the consideration of the repayment requirements.

b)    Approved an equalisation payment of £193k to West Northamptonshire Council based on the proposed split of the loan book.

c)    Delegated authority to the Executive Member for Finance and Transformation in consultation with the Executive Director of Finance and the Monitoring Officer to finalise the novation of the loans to North Northamptonshire Council.

Reasons for Recommendation are set out in greater detail within section 5 of the report, but can be summarised as:

·         To note proposed split of the loan book of the former County Council to North Northamptonshire Council and West Northamptonshire Council and based on the detailed review in section 5, recommend the equalisation payment to West Northamptonshire of £193k.

Alternative Options Considered:

·         The proposed distribution of the former County Council loans was made to closely reflect the agreed proportionate split of 44.64% and 55.36% between North Northamptonshire Council and West Northamptonshire Council respectively.  The value of each loan, repayment timeline and interest rates were considered in order that each Authority had a comparable and fair distribution.  Alternative options would be to alter the individual loans allocated to each Local Authority which would affect the profiling and any settlement payment.  The allocation of the loans, that form the basis for this report, has been agreed with West Northamptonshire Council (S151 Officer).  There is, therefore, no alternative option proposed. 

RESOLVED:

KEY DECISION

That the Executive approved the following changes to the capital programme:

a)    Hazelwood Neighbourhood Centre Development Plan – increase capital programme for 2022/23 by £81,820, which is to be funded £71,820 from FCC Community Foundation Funding and £10,000 from KHL Big Local.

Reasons for Recommendation are set out in greater detail within section 5 of the report, but can be summarised as:

·         To work in partnership with community funding initiatives to help modernise the youth club room at the Hazelwood Neighbourhood Centre into a multipurpose/multiuse community room.

Alternative Options Considered:

·         Use of the funding is in line with the agreement, there is no alternative option proposed.

·         By not approving these recommendations there would be an adverse impact on service provision in North Northamptonshire.

Cllr Lloyd Bunday, Executive Member for Finance and Transformation introduced a report that requested approval for capital schemes that had come forward for inclusion in the Council’s Capital programme. Approval of the funding would allow the schemes to move forward to procurement and delivery.

One scheme was highlighted as per the report and recommendation below.

RESOLVED:

KEY DECISION

That the Executive approved the following changes to the capital programme:

a)    Hazelwood Neighbourhood Centre Development Plan – increase capital programme for 2022/23 by £81,820, which is to be funded £71,820 from FCC Community Foundation Funding and £10,000 from KHL Big Local.

Reasons for Recommendation are set out in greater detail within section 5 of the report, but can be summarised as:

·         To work in partnership with community funding initiatives to help modernise the youth club room at the Hazelwood Neighbourhood Centre into a multipurpose/multiuse community room.

Alternative Options Considered:

·         Use of the funding is in line with the agreement, there is no alternative option proposed.

·         By not approving these recommendations there would be an adverse impact on service provision in North Northamptonshire.