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Decisions

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

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

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Decisions published

13/02/2020 - Council Tax, National Non-Domestic Rates, Housing Benefit Overpayments and Former Client Rent Arrears - Irrecoverable Debts - Quarter 3 2019/20 ref: 1150    Recommendations Approved

A report requesting write off of specific debts - Quarter 3 (2019/20)

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 13/02/2020

Effective from: 21/02/2020

Decision:

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

 

2.              That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approved the writing off of the irrecoverable debt shown as shown in paragraph 5.1 of the report.

 

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

 

Reasons for Decision 

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

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Martin Hinckley


06/02/2020 - Renovation Works at The Portman Centre to create a new Family Hub ref: 1149    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 06/02/2020

Effective from: 15/02/2020

Decision:

Recommendations

That the Cabinet Member for Children’s Services and the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration grant approval to enter into a contract for works at Portman Children’s Centre with Diamond Build Plc, for the value of £2,262,328.00.

Reasons for Decision  

The key reasons and rationale for supporting this decision are as follows:

3.1 The tender evaluation report (Gate 3) was presented to the Procurement Assurance Board (PAB) on the 21 January 2020. PAB approved the recommendation of the Bi Borough Executive Director of Children’s Services and Executive Director of Finance and Resources to award the contracts to Dimond Build Plc.     

 

3.2       The Gate 3 paper and the cost consultant commercial tender review are attached as       Appendix D

(1)    Take the opportunity to remodel and alter the building by creating a fit for purpose family hub achieving the Council’s objective

(2)    The existing building is in need of Health and Safety Works to ensure the staircase serving the building is compliant from a Building Control and Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) perspective

(3)    The current heating system including boilers and distribution pipework is at the end of its lifespan and requires complete renewal. 

3.2   The Portman Centre is one of three sites identified to become a family hub.  Now that the building has been vacated by the service end users an opportunity has arisen to undertake the heating renewal and remodelling work in one single phase whilst the building is unoccupied.  This will enable the work to be undertaken in the most efficient timescale.  

3.3   The proposed project will create a larger, more welcoming, reception area, a new two-storey extension to the rear of the existing building creating an outside/inside space.  The two-storey extension will increase the area of the nursery on the ground floor and provide additional office accommodation and space for general community use on the first floor.

3.4   The proposed works will also comprise re-configuring and re-modelling the internal layout of the building creating a better use of space for the community culminating in a new Family Hub.  The work will also include installing a new DDA compliant lift, which will extend to the roof terrace, enabling service users with a physical disability to maximise their access to utilising the space.

3.5   As stated in item 3.1 the proposed work will include replacing the existing heating system with a far more enhanced system which will produce cost savings on heating bills creating a far more energy efficient building contributing to one of the City for All objectives in creating a greener city.

3.6   By undertaking the work included in items 3.1, 3.3 and 3.4, the new Centre will enhance the                 standard of services that it offers, provide more effective care for families, and create a new    Family Service capable of supporting the community in a far more efficient and effective way.

Lead officer: Andrew Ioannou


03/02/2020 - 300 Harrow Road - Outline Business Case ref: 1148    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval sought for the Outline Business Case.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 03/02/2020

Effective from: 11/02/2020

Decision:

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

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

1)          The Outline Business Case for the 300 Harrow Road scheme on the basis that there is an opportunity to deliver a housing led scheme in line with the Council’s strategic objectives.

2)          That Option 5 is the Preferred Way Forward for this development site. Option 5 outlines a scheme with 49% affordable housing (based on floorspace) which will be delivered through the Westminster Housing Investments Limited (WHIL) in a single phase;

3)          That the number and tenure of affordable housing units proposed delivers good value for the Council;

4)          To approve a spend of an additional £8.75M in the Housing Revenue Account (HRA), increasing the total approval to £9.55m, to take the project to Full Business Case (FBC) stage, which will be recovered in full from Westminster Housing Developments Limited (WHDL) upon signing of the Agreement for Lease;

5)          That the development of the scheme will be delivered through the WHIL and WHDL, with work carried out by Council officers and recharged to the WHIL;

6)          To delegate authority to the Executive Director of Growth Planning and Housing in consultation with the Bi-Borough Director of Law to appropriate for planning purposes the site shown edged red on the attached plan  comprising the Warwick Community Hall, Harrow Road Nursery and car park, and to exercise powers under section 203 of the Housing and Planning Act 2016 to override third party rights.

7)          To delegate authority to the Executive Director of Growth, Planning and Housing to enter into a Section 106 Unilateral Undertaking. The report sets out details and reasons for this undertaking.

8)          That Westminster City Council, WHIL and WHDL can enter into contracts as necessary to Final Business Case, including for pre- contract design and enabling works.

Reasons for the Decision

 

Outline Business Case

1.          The site at 300 Harrow Road provides a valuable opportunity to deliver new homes, jobs and community facilities for local people. The site comprises the Community Hall and Harrow Road Nursery. These two low rise buildings, the surrounding land and car park are owned by Westminster City Council, therefore this site offers a cost effective opportunity to upgrade the community amenities and deliver new mixed tenure homes to meet the needs of local people.

 

2.          The proposed scheme will provide:

·     a new community hall;

·     a purpose built nursery;

·     family sized affordable rent homes;

·     intermediate rent (below market rent) homes;

·     private homes;

·     affordable workspace;

·     a canal side café; and

·     significant green landscaping, opening up the canal.


29/01/2020 - Arrangement for Demolition and Construction Work including Initial Demolition Notices for Ebury Bridge Estate and Vacant Possession in line with the Decant Policy for Housing Renewal Areas ref: 1147    Recommendations Approved

Officer Report

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 29/01/2020

Effective from: 29/01/2020

Decision:

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

         (i)         Approved formal Decant Status – for all secure tenants on the Ebury Bridge Estate.

         (ii)        Approved the implementation of the Policy for Tenants in Housing Renewal Areas across Ebury Bridge Estate.

         (iii)        Authorised the serving of Demolition Notices (initial and final) in accordance with the Housing Act 1985 to secure tenants on the Ebury Bridge Estate.

 

(iv)       Delegated to the Executive Director of Growth Planning and Housing, the authority to take all necessary steps to implement the policy and serve the Demolition Notices.

2.       Agreed to delegate the serving of the notices subject to the oversight and authority of the Executive Director of Growth, Planning and Housing to:

           (i)       Implement a process of serving Demotion Notices.

           (ii)      Ensure effective communications continue with secure tenants to support them through the process and provide detail for the reason the initial demolition notice are required.

(iii)           Continue to work with secure tenants to implement their rehousing choices – both temporary and permanently, off-site and inter-estate as appropriate.

           (iv)      Take all other steps as necessary.

3.        That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration noted that no new spending commitments arise from this report.

Reasons for Decisions

The drivers for decision making are:

(i)              To enable the Council to proceed with the redevelopment of the estate without incurring further costs or unanticipated programme delays.

(ii)             To support an accelerated vacant possession resulting in more new homes earlier.

(iii)            Provide a high-quality neighbourhood offering a ladder of opportunities for existing and new residents to live and work in the area.

(iv)          Acknowledge and take into consideration the views of existing residents and those waiting to return to provide a range of new homes as quickly as practicable.

(v)             To make best use of the Council’s assets in delivery of its objectives and relieving the pressure on the housing waiting list, especially family sized, lifetime homes.

 

Wards affected: Churchill;

Lead officer: David Thompson


29/01/2020 - National Non-Domestic Rates Relief for Grass Roots Music Venues ref: 1146    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval sought.

Decision Maker: Leader of the Council

Decision published: 29/01/2020

Effective from: 29/01/2020

Decision:

That the Leader of the Council gave approval to provide a Business Rate National Non-Domestic Rates “Localism” allowance of a 100% of the annual net business rate liability under section 47 of the Local Government Finance Act 1988, as amended by the Localism Act 2011, to organisations occupying properties that meet the criteria outlined in section 4 of this report (up to the State Aid annual limit). 

 

Reason for Decision

 

The proposed National Non-Domestic Rates “Localism” allowance supports the Council’s commitment under the City Plan to support Grassroots Music venues in the Soho Special Policy Area.  The Soho Special Policy Area is shown in Appendix A of the report.


24/01/2020 - St. Marylebone Bridge Special School - Contract Award ref: 1145    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval sought.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Education and Skills

Decision published: 24/01/2020

Effective from: 24/01/2020

Decision:

 

1.     That Part B of this report be exempt from disclosure under s100B(2) and Schedule 12 A of the Local Government Act 1972, (as amended) in that it contains information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information).

 

2.     That a Pre-Construction Services Agreement (PCSA) for the development of St. Marylebone Bridge Special School with Galliford Try Building Limited, for the value of £384,285.55 be approved.

 

3.     That the Bi Borough Executive Director of Children’s Services be authorised to award the second stage (construction phase) contract to Galliford Try Building Limited for the value of £8,796,015.09.

 

4.     That Galliford Try provide a performance bond for the value of £4,268.84 at the Council’s expense.

 

5.     That the Director of Law be given delegated authority to negotiate and sign an Agreement for Lease with the DfE and any other agreements necessary to give effect to the decision set out above including but not limited to the PCSA, the build contract and performance bond.

 

 

The Council has reached agreement with the Department for Education to build a new special school to replace the interim accommodation at 17-23 Third Avenue.

 

The tender evaluation report (Gate 3) was presented to the Procurement Assurance Board (PAB) on the 26 November 2019. PAB approved the recommendation of the Executive Director of Children’s Services to award the contracts to Galliford Try Building Limited.     

 

The proposed contract value is within the programme budget negotiated with the Department for Education. Overall expenditure is in line with the Pre-Tender Estimate and has been verified by Finance.

 


23/01/2020 - St Martins Lane BIDS ref: 1144    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Leader of the Council

Decision published: 23/01/2020

Effective from: 23/01/2020

Decision:

That the HOLBA’s proposal to establish new Occupier and Property

Owner BIDs for St Martin’s Lane be approved.

 

That the Chief Executive as Returning Officer and “Ballot Holder” hold a ballot on behalf of HOLBA for each new proposed BID.

 

That the Director of Law be authorised on behalf of the City Council to enter into the necessary legal agreements for collection of the BID Levy service specifications for all services which the City Council will deliver throughout the BIDs’ duration and any other necessary matters for the proposed BIDs in consultation with the appropriate officers.

 

HOLBA has a strong collaborative relationship with the City Council.

Examples include:

·        Targeting the problem of unregulated waste together resulting in Piccadilly and St James’s area having a 70% reduction in unregulated waste.

·        Continuously working together on street cleansing to keep the area clean.

·        Partnership working to address illegal street trading in Leicester Square.

·        Placing the issue of pedicabs on the government agenda with the ultimate objective of a legislative change.

·        There is ongoing work with the events team at Westminster City Council to understand road closures and protests, so HOLBA can notify members of protests and / or road closures in a timely fashion to help manage freight, deliveries and visitors to the area.

·        Collaborative working to deliver the Leicester Square brand identity and guidelines and hosting HOLBA’s annual summer screening in Leicester Square. More recent collaborative working to introduce exciting new film related statues to the Leicester Square area.

·        Partnership working to deliver a seasonal planting scheme across our public spaces.

·        The Leicester Square redevelopment which was completed in 2012 was an example of public and private collaboration – between Westminster City Council, Heart of London and property owners in the area.

·        Partnership working to raise standards in the evening and night-time economy, with regular pub watch meetings which council officers attend, Purple Flag and the introduction of Best Bar None.

·        Work between HOLBA and the Integrated Street Engagement Unit and the tasking group to help rough sleepers and clear tents on Great Windmill Street

·        Guest speakers from Westminster City Council contributing to numerous Perspective events for HOLBA members.

 

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

 

 

 

Lead officer: Ezra Wallace


21/01/2020 - Business Rate Pool ref: 1141    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 21/01/2020

Effective from: 21/01/2020

Decision:

1.              That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approved the Council’s formal commitment to be a member of the London-wide business rates Pooling arrangement (with distributions of any surplus as set out in the Pooling Memorandum of Understanding) for 2020/21 under the powers contained within the Constitution to determine policy in respect of business rates.

 

2.              That the Council’s Section 151 Officer be delegated authority to agree the operational details of the pooling arrangements with the participating authorities and to enter the Pooling Memorandum of Understanding.

 

Reasons for Decision 

 

The offer for London to enter a Pooling arrangement, as contained in the Provisional Local Government Finance Settlement, requires each London Borough and the Greater London Authority to review and notify the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government by 16 January 2020 if it decides to withdraw from the pool.

 

Lead officer: Gerald Almeroth


17/01/2020 - Petition: Blomfield Mews ref: 1140    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member response to petition in respect of Blomfield Mews.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 17/01/2020

Effective from: 17/01/2020

Decision:

That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration:

 

·                            Noted the submitted petition from the local community and acknowledged the concerns of those who have signed it regarding the Blomfield Mews proposal.

 

·                            Acknowledged the need to develop on the currently under-utilised site in order to deliver 14 much needed affordable homes in the area, contributing to the Council’s City For All priorities to deliver an increase in levels of affordable housing for the residents of Westminster.

 

 

·                            Committed to engage with the local community and ward members on the proposed development and the next steps.

 

Reasons for Decision 

 

1.              The proposal at Blomfield Mews delivers new affordable homes for local people on what is currently a poor-quality brownfield garage site, meeting the key objectives of the adopted City Plan.

 

2.              The Planning Applications (Major) Sub-Committee on 24 September 2019, after considering all the material planning considerations, which included all the concerns raised in the subsequent petition to which this report relates, resolved to grant conditional permission subject to the completion of a legal agreement. The basis on which the Sub-Committee found the proposed development to be acceptable is set out in detail in the officers report to the Planning Applications (Major) Sub-Committee on 24 September 2019 (hereafter ‘the Committee report’). The Committee report and minutes, are at Appendix B.


13/01/2020 - Belgravia Neighbourhood Forum Re-designation and Chelsea Barracks Neighbourhood Area Application ref: 1139    Recommendations Approved

Approval required to re-designate Belgravia Neighbourhood Forum in advance of current designation expiring

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Place Shaping and Planning

Decision published: 13/01/2020

Effective from: 13/01/2020

Decision:

Summary of Decision

 

That the Cabinet Member agreed to:

a) re-designate the Belgravia Neighbourhood Forum for a further period of 5 years and a formal designation notice be published under delegated authority by the Director of Policy, Performance and Communications;

b) maintain the existing boundaries of Belgravia Neighbourhood Area and Ebury Bridge Neighbourhood Area; and

c) reject the proposal to designate a new Chelsea Barracks Neighbourhood Area and a formal decision document be published under delegated authority of the Director of Policy, Performance and Communications.

 

Reasons for Decision 

 

Re-designation of Belgravia Neighbourhood Forum

Section 61F (7) of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as inserted into the Act by the Localism Act, Schedule 9) sets out the conditions that a neighbourhood forum must meet, as well as the considerations that a local planning authority must take into account, when determining an application for the designation (or re-designation) of a neighbourhood forum.  The 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 are met as set out in the report.

The City Council is required to have regard to whether membership is drawn from different places in the neighbourhood area concerned and from different sections of the community in that area. The application submitted by Belgravia Neighbourhood Forum states that membership stands at over 300 members who live or work in the neighbourhood area. It further states that membership has been drawn widely from the designated area and the list of members have also been provided by the Forum. Post-code mapping the addresses provided confirms wide membership across the neighbourhood area, as shown in Appendix 4 of the report.  Notably this includes a significant number of members within the area proposed for inclusion in the application for a new Chelsea Barracks Neighbourhood Area.

In determining the application for re-designation, the City Council is also required to assess whether the purpose of the neighbourhood forum reflects (in general terms) the character of the area. The application submitted by Belgravia Neighbourhood Forum states that the Forum was established in response to the Localism Act with the express purpose of promoting and improving the social, economic and environmental wellbeing of Belgravia. It also states that this is being addressed through the production of a neighbourhood plan that addresses matters of importance to residents and workers.

As set out in the report, consultation responses on the re-designation of the Belgravia Neighbourhood Forum were largely supportive, albeit a small number of objections were received (some of which were submitted outside of the consultation period).

 

Chelsea Barracks Neighbourhood Area application

 

Section 61G of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as inserted into the Act by the Localism Act, and supplemented through the Neighbourhood Planning Act 2017) sets out that:

·       applications for neighbourhood areas must be made by an organisation that is or is capable of becoming a neighbourhood forum

·       neighbourhood areas cannot overlap with one another;

·       that in determining any neighbourhood area application, the local planning authority can modify existing designations;

·       that in determining an application, the local planning authority must have regard to the desirability of maintaining the boundaries of existing neighbourhood areas; and

·       that if the application is refused, the local planning authority must give their reasons to the applicant.

 

The Chelsea Barracks Neighbourhood Area application refers to the establishment of a minimum 21 representatives from a broad mix of residents, local businesses and other key stakeholders. However, at the time of writing (12 weeks since the Neighbourhood Area application was submitted) no evidence has been provided to support this - despite officers encouraging the applicant to also put forward a Neighbourhood Forum application concurrent with the Neighbourhood Area application to support its case. It is therefore currently unclear if a representative, open and inclusive group exists to take forward neighbourhood planning in the area.

 

As shown at Appendix 1 of the report, the proposed Chelsea Barracks Neighbourhood Area would result in an overlapping of neighbourhood areas with the existing Belgravia Neighbourhood Area. If supported, it would therefore necessitate amendments to the boundary of Belgravia Neighbourhood Area – an area where an established group with an open and inclusive membership already exists to take forward neighbourhood planning matters.

 

In terms of the desirability of amending neighbourhood area boundaries, regard needs to be had to existing planning designations in the proposed area, and the progress Belgravia Neighbourhood Forum have made on neighbourhood planning matters. Importantly, all of Belgravia Conservation Area, and all of Pimlico Road Local Centre, fall within the existing Belgravia Neighbourhood Area. The proposed Chelsea Barracks Neighbourhood Area application would result in both designations being split across separate neighbourhood areas, therefore risking inconsistent policy approaches coming forward through separate neighbourhood plans. Furthermore, as set out in section 9 below, protecting the heritage of the area and enhancing Pimlico Road as a retail and community hub, have both been identified by Belgravia Neighbourhood Forum as key priorities that they intend to address in the Belgravia Neighbourhood Plan.

 

As was the case when Belgravia Neighbourhood Area and Ebury Bridge Neighbourhood Area were originally designated, it is maintained that the permitted plans for the Chelsea Barracks site are of a character and orientation that is in keeping with that of the wider Belgravia Neighbourhood Area. Finally, consultation on the Chelsea Barracks Neighbourhood Area application has generated only one letter of support, and a number of objections, as set out in the report.

 

For all these reasons, the Chelsea Barracks Neighbourhood Area is rejected and no changes to the boundaries of the existing Belgravia Neighbourhood Area or Ebury Bridge Neighbourhood Area are considered necessary.

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

 

13 January 2020

Implementation Date:

 

13 January 2020

Reference:

 

CMfPS&P/11/2019/20

 

Wards affected: Churchill; Knightsbridge and Belgravia; Warwick;

Lead officer: Sean Walsh


02/01/2020 - Council Tax Discounts (including Council Tax Local Reduction Scheme) and Council Tax Base report ref: 1138    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval sought.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 02/01/2020

Effective from: 02/01/2020

Decision:

1.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and  Regeneration approved the following recommendations to be made to the Council for the financial year 2020/21:-

 

(i)            that the Council Tax discount for second homes remains at 0%

(ii)          the Council Tax discounts for empty properties, including the discounts that replaced the previous Class A and C Council Tax exemptions, remain at 0%. 

(iii)         that a Long-Term Empty Property Premium continues at the maximum percentage allowed for by the current legislation, which is for 2020/21:

 

-       Properties empty between 2 years - 5 years:            100% Increase

-       Properties empty over 5 years:                                    200% Increase

 

(iv)          That the Head of Revenues and Benefits be given delegated authority to determine any individual local discount applications received from

Council Taxpayers during the 2020/21 financial year under section 13A(1)(c) of the Local Government Finance Act 1992. 

           

2.         That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration recommended that the Council approves the same Council Tax Reduction Scheme for 2020/21 which has operated successfully since 2013/14 and that the following be noted: The scheme is based on the Default Scheme Regulations, updated to reflect changes made via the Prescribed Requirements Amendment Regulations and with War Disabled Pensions, War Widow, Pensions and Armed Forces Compensation scheme payments disregarded in full when calculating a claimant’s income. A minor change is proposed for 2020/21. The Scheme applies a capital cut off limit of £16,000, so that anyone with savings of £16,000 or more is not entitled to Council Tax Support. It is proposed that any capital and income received as a result of a charitable or support payment connected with the Grenfell Tower fire is fully disregarded when deciding eligibility for Council Tax Support. This is expected to only apply to a small number of households who have been permanently rehoused in Westminster after losing their homes in the Grenfell Tower and Grenfell Walk. This is a change recommended by central government to all local authorities.

 

3.         That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration recommended that the Council agrees that the Council Tax Base for 2020/21 for the Whole City is 132,698.31equivalent Band D properties, for Montpelier Square alone 97.08 equivalent Band D properties and for Queen’s Park 3,554.14 equivalent Band D properties.

 

4.         That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration recommended that the Council agrees that the figures as set out in 3. above for the Council Tax Base for 2020/21 be used by the Council to make a determination pursuant to the requirements of the Local Government Finance Act 1992.

 

Reasons for Decision

 

1.         The taxbase decision is sought in order that the Council complies with the requirements of the Local Government Finance Act 1992.

 

2.         The retention of the same levels of Council Tax discount for empty properties and second homes will continue to deliver additional Council Tax income for the Council without disadvantaging any vulnerable members of the community.

 

3.         The recommendation to allow the Head of Revenues and Benefits to continue to determine any individual local discount claims will enable assistance to be given to individual Council Taxpayers if required, especially as there is no longer the ability for taxpayers to claim Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP) in relation to their Council Tax liability. This also provides the mechanism for granting the local Council Tax discount for Care Leavers.

 

4.         The Council’s proposed Council Tax Reduction Scheme will mean that the level of Council Tax Support provided to the borough’s working age claimants will effectively mirror that previously provided under the national Council Tax Benefit scheme.

 

5.         The recommendation to set the Long-Term Empty Property Premium at the new maximum allowed for within current legislation aligns with the Council’s City for All agenda and the Council’s aim of a fairer Council Tax system for all residents. 

 

Wards affected: (All Wards);


24/12/2019 - Mayfair Neighbourhood Plan ref: 1137    Recommendations Approved

Approval sought to make i.e. adopt the Mayfair Neighbourhood Plan following its support at referendum

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Place Shaping and Planning

Decision published: 24/12/2019

Effective from: 24/12/2019

Decision:

Summary of Decision

 

That the Cabinet Member approved that the Mayfair Neighbourhood Plan be formally made part of the Statutory Development Plan, following the referendum held on 31 October 2019.

 

 

Reasons for Decision 

 

To meet the requirements of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended), the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004, the Localism Act 2011, the Neighbourhood Planning Act 2017, and the Neighbourhood Planning (General) Regulations 2012 (as amended). 

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

 

24 December 2019

Implementation Date:

 

24 December 2019

Reference:

 

CMfPS&P/10/2019/20

 

Wards affected: Knightsbridge and Belgravia; West End;

Lead officer: Sean Walsh


19/12/2019 - Proposed Scheme at the Portman Children Centre ref: 1136    Recommendations Approved

Re-modelling, refurbishing and renewing the heating system at the Children Centre. 

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 19/12/2019

Effective from: 31/12/2019

Decision:

That the Cabinet Member for Family Services and Public Health, the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration and the Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Education and Skills agreed approval to spend of up to £2.951m for the re-modelling of the building and the renewal of the existing heating system at the Portman Children Centre, 12 Salisbury Street, London, NW8 8DE.

 

Reasons for Decision

 

1)              The key reasons and rationale for supporting this decision were as follows:

 

(1)    Take the opportunity to remodel and alter the building by creating a fit for purpose family hub achieving the council’s objective;

(2)    The existing building was in need of Health and Safety Works to ensure the staircase serving the building is compliant from a Building Control and Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) perspective

(3)     The current heating system including boilers and distribution pipework was at the end of its lifespan and required complete renewal.

 

2)        The Portman Children Centre was one of three sites identified to become a family hub.  Now that the building had been vacated by the service end users an opportunity had risen to undertake the heating renewal and remodelling work in one single phase and whilst the building was unoccupied.  This would enable the work to be undertaken in the most efficient timescale.

 

3)        The proposed project would create a larger more welcoming reception area, a new two-storey extension to the rear of the Children Centre creating an outside/inside space.  The two-storey extension would essentially increase the area of the nursery on the ground floor and provide additional office accommodation and space for general community use on the first floor.

 

4)        The proposed works would also comprise re-configuring and re-modelling the internal layout of the building creating a better use of space for the community culminating in a new Family Hub.  The work would also include installing a new DDA compliant lift, which would extend to the roof terrace enabling service users with a physical disability to maximise their access to utilising the space.

 

5)        As stated in item 1) the proposed work will include replacing the existing heating system with a far more enhanced system which would produce cost savings on heating bills creating a far more energy efficient building contributing to one of the City for all objectives in creating a greener city.

 

6)        By undertaking the work included in item’s 1), 3) and 4) would mean that the new Family Hub would increase the standard of services that it offered, provide more effective care for families which would create a new Family Hub Service capable of supporting the community in a far more efficient way.


13/12/2019 - Nomination and Appointment of Local Authority School Governors ref: 1131    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Education and Skills

Decision published: 13/12/2019

Effective from: 13/12/2019

Decision:

Summary of Decision

 

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

 

2.         That the recommendations of the Local Authority School Governors Advisory Panel set out in Appendix A to the report be approved.

 

Reasons for Decision

 

Every maintained school governing body must contain at least one local authority appointed school governor.

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

 

13 December 2019

Implementation Date:

 

13 December 2019

Reference:

 

CMfEDE&C/4/2019/2020

 

Lead officer: Jackie Saddington


13/12/2019 - Petition: The Jubilee Site Re-Development Project ref: 1130    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member to consider response to the petition.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 13/12/2019

Effective from: 13/12/2019

Decision:

That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration and Cabinet Member for Sports, Culture and Community;

 

·                 Acknowledge Queen’s Park residents’ request for Phase 2 of the Moberly and Jubilee Sport Centre Regeneration to commence.

·                 Recognise the need for this former Jubilee Sports Centre site to be redeveloped and create 56 new homes and a new community sports centre as granted in the detailed planning consent.

·                 Support the delivery of a community sports centre on the former Jubilee Sports Centre site.

 

 

Reasons for Decision 

 

A forthcoming key decision was due regarding ‘Enabling the redevelopment of Jubilee Sports Centre’. This is in relation to the development of a new community sports centre and 56 homes on the former Jubilee Sports Centre site.

 

Following full consideration of the petition it was considered that the requests raised and illustrated in section 1.1) are aligned with the subject matter of this forthcoming key decision. Approval of the recommendations contained within this report will indicate further recognition of the need to commence Phase 2 of the Moberly and Jubilee Sports Centre Regeneration as quickly as possible.


12/12/2019 - Enabling the redevelopment of Jubilee Sport Centre ref: 1129    Recommendations Approved

The development of a new community sports centre and 56 homes on the former Jubilee Sports Centre site.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 12/12/2019

Effective from: 20/12/2019

Decision:

1.                Recommendations

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

1.2             That the Cabinet Members agreed to;

·      Approve Phase 2 of this project to proceed, in accordance with the steps outlined in this report.

 

·      Authorise a mitigation payment as capital expenditure, subject to any required Secretary of State consent and no State Aid implications being confirmed as detailed in the legal implications (section 9) of this report.

 

·      Approve additional budget for:

 

·               securing the site

·               carrying out minor pre-commencement works prior to the completion of the legal agreements to allow an accelerated construction works programme

·               property and legal advice associated with the delivery of Phase 2 of this project.

·               procurement of fit-out works and FF&E equipment for the new community Jubilee Sports Centre.

 

·     Approve for the General Fund to invest into WHIL to forward fund 19 units on Jubilee phase 2, subject to approval of the WHIL board.

 

·      Delegate authority to the Executive Director of Growth Planning and Housing working with the Director of Law to;

 

·                          Agree the negotiated mitigation position with EcoWorld to reduce the land value to zero.

·                          Approve all necessary legal documentation and variations as required for the project. This is including but not limited to, making variations required in the Development Agreement, entering into supplemental agreements regarding the forward fund of the 19 homes and any other agreement as deemed necessary to facilitate the delivery of the scheme, subject to Section 123 valuation.

·                          If required, apply for Secretary of State consent, to enable Phase 2 of this project to proceed.

·                          Finalise the ‘Post Planning Appraisal’ for the project as required by the Development Agreement’s mitigation clause and as detailed in the Financial Implications section of this report.

 

2.                Reasons for Decision

2.1             Approval of the recommendations contained within this report would enable the Active Queens Park project to conclude and realise a significant capital investment in new sports facilities within the Queens Park area. As part of this, this decision would permit the Jubilee Sports Centre to be constructed now, in accordance with the current detailed planning consent.

2.2             Cabinet Member approval was now required for the project to enable Council officers to agree to the negotiated mitigation position with EcoWorld to permit the commencement of Phase 2 of this project.

2.3             Since the closure of Jubilee Sports Centre, the site had been illegally occupied and attracted graffiti. This had been managed and rectified by Council Officers but a start on site would help to alleviate these issues for the benefit of the local neighbourhood going forward.

Wards affected: Queen's Park;

Lead officer: Dominic Wilde


10/12/2019 - Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel: (19.11.2019) Determination of Discretionary Housing Payment Review Applications ref: 1127    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval sought.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 10/12/2019

Effective from: 10/12/2019

Decision:

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

           

2.         That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approved the recommendations of the Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel meeting held on 19 November 2019.

 

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 of the report, which are more fully set out in the case papers submitted to the Panel.


10/12/2019 - Council Tax and NNDR Quarterly Write-off report ref: 1128    Recommendations Approved

Contains write-offs for noting and write offs for approval where the debt is greater than £100,000

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 10/12/2019

Effective from: 18/12/2019

Decision:

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

 

2.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approved the writing off the irrecoverable debt as shown in paragraph 5.1 of the report.

 

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

 

Reasons for Decision 

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

 

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Martin Hinckley


21/11/2019 - Rating Advisory Panel 29th October 2019: Determination of National Non-Domestic Rates Discretionary and Hardship Relief Applications ref: 1125    Recommendations Approved

Recommendations from Rating Advisory Panel for formal decision

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 21/11/2019

Effective from: 21/11/2019

Decision:

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

 

2.        That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approved the recommendations of the Rating Advisory Panel held on 29th October 2019 and determines the applications for National Non-Domestic Rates Discretionary and Hardship relief set out in Appendix A of the report.

Reasons for Decision

 

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

 

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Susan Bush


21/11/2019 - Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel: (25.10.2019) Determination of Discretionary Housing Payment Review Applications ref: 1124    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval sought for recommendations of the Panel held on 4 December 2018.

 

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 21/11/2019

Effective from: 21/11/2019

Decision:

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

           

2.         That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approved the recommendations of the Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel meeting held on 25 October 2019.

 

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 of the report, which are more fully set out in the case papers submitted to the Panel.

 


21/11/2019 - Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel: (10.09.2019) Determination of Discretionary Housing Payment Review Applications ref: 1123    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval sought for recommendations of the Panel held on 30 October 2018.

 

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 21/11/2019

Effective from: 21/11/2019

Decision:

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

           

2.         That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approved the recommendations of the Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel meeting held on 10 September 2019.

 

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 of the report, which are more fully set out in the case papers submitted to the Panel.


21/11/2019 - Development Sales Programme - Delegated Authority Paper ref: 1122    Recommendations Approved

Agreement of Cabinet Member sought to extend our current delegated authority levels.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 21/11/2019

Effective from: 29/11/2019

Decision:

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

2.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration delegated authority to the Executive Director of Growth, Planning and Housing or Director of Development and named officers to approve reservations and the sale terms of private sales units at The Masefield, 111 Shirland Road in accordance with section 5 of the report.

3.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration The delegated authority to the Executive Director of Growth, Planning and Housing or Director of Development and named officers to enter into all associated legal agreements in relation to decision 2 above.

Reasons for Decision

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


21/11/2019 - Utility Diversion Works for Ebury Bridge Estate Renewal ref: 1121    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval sought.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 21/11/2019

Effective from: 29/11/2019

Decision:

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

2.         That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration gave approval to commit to expenditure up to a maximum level to the value as set out in the report to deliver the necessary diversion. 

 

Reasons for Decision 

 

This recommendation will enable Phase 1 works and homes to be delivered on Ebury.  It will also enable subsequent phases to be delivered.

Wards affected: Churchill;


19/11/2019 - Heart of London Business Alliance Property Owner Business Improvement Districts Renewal Proposal 2020-25 ref: 1120    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Leader of the Council

Decision published: 19/11/2019

Effective from: 19/11/2019

Decision:

Summary of Decision

 

  1. That the HOLBA’s Renewal Proposal for the Leicester Square & Piccadilly Circus and Piccadilly and St James’s Property Owner BIDs be endorsed.

 

  1. That the request for the Chief Executive as Returning Officer and “Ballot

Holder” to hold a ballot for the Leicester Square & Piccadilly Circus and Piccadilly and St James’s Property Owner BIDs Renewal Proposal be approved.

 

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

 

Reasons for Decision

 

HOLBA has a strong collaborative relationship with the City Council.

Examples include:

·       Targeting the problem of unregulated waste together resulting in Piccadilly and St James’s area having a 70% reduction in unregulated waste.

·       Continuously working together on street cleansing to keep the area clean.

·       Partnership working to address illegal street trading in Leicester Square.

·       Placing the issue of pedicabs on the government agenda with the ultimate objective of a legislative change.

·       There is ongoing work with the events team at Westminster City Council to understand road closures and protests, so HOLBA can notify members of protests and / or road closures in a timely fashion to help manage freight, deliveries and visitors to the area.

·       Collaborative working to deliver the Leicester Square brand identity and guidelines and hosting HOLBA’s annual summer screening in Leicester Square. More recent collaborative working to introduce exciting new film related statues to the Leicester Square area.

·       Partnership working to deliver a seasonal planting scheme across our public spaces.

·       The Leicester Square redevelopment which was completed in 2012 was an example of public and private collaboration – between Westminster City Council, Heart of London and property owners in the area.

·       Partnership working to raise standards in the evening and night-time economy, with regular pub watch meetings which council officers attend, Purple Flag and the introduction of Best Bar None.

·       Work between HOLBA and the Integrated Street Engagement Unit and the tasking group to help rough sleepers and clear tents on Great Windmill Street

·       Guest speakers from Westminster City Council contributing to numerous Perspective events for HOLBA members.

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

 

19 November 2019

Implementation Date:

 

19 November 2019 at 5pm

Reference:

 

CMfEDE&S/2/2019/2020

 

Lead officer: Barbara Brownlee


18/11/2019 - Underletting of Offices ref: 1118    Recommendations Approved

Short term sublease of circa 9.000 sq ft of offices

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 19/11/2019

Effective from: 18/11/2019

Decision:

 

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

2.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration delegated authority to the Executive Director of Finance and Resources to Direct that CityWest Homes Limited enter into a sub-lease with the organisation detailed in the report, based on the agreed terms as summarised within this report confirming in the agreement for lease the consent of Westminster City Council, in their capacity as CityWest Homes Limited’s guarantors but also as the party liable for all contractual obligations and debts in the name of CityWest Homes Limited as per the Termination Agreement dated 24 December 2018.

3.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration noted that as the leasehold interest to be sublet is vested in CityWest Homes Limited, CityWest Homes Limited need to resolve to grant the sublease.

4.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration noted that the Termination Agreement dated 24 December 2018 states, at clause 17.1, that all contracts in the name of CityWest Homes Limited, to include that of 21 Grosvenor Place, be novated or assigned to the Council or terminated in due course before or after 1 April 2019.

5.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration agreed that once the transaction goes through of the sub-lease with the organisation referred to in the report, that all three leases at 21 Grosvenor Place in the name of CityWest Homes Limited be assigned to the Council, subject to the permission of the landlord being obtained.

Reasons for Decision 

The decision will:

·                         Enable surplus space to be occupied by an external party without undertaking/incurring further works and costs

·                         Significantly reduce the Council’s net liabilities on the office space virtually up to the date to expiry of the head-lease.

·                         Provide a contribution to the Council’s likely dilapidations liability upon expiry of the head-lease

·                         A review of other options including surrendering or assigning the lease were undertaken, with the sub-let option considered to be the most favourable.

Wards affected: Knightsbridge and Belgravia;

Lead officer: Philip Owen


12/09/2019 - Cabinet Member for Housing Services Update ref: 1114    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Housing, Finance and Regeneration Policy and Scrutiny Committee

Made at meeting: 12/09/2019 - Housing, Finance and Regeneration Policy and Scrutiny Committee

Decision published: 13/11/2019

Effective from: 12/09/2019

Decision:

5.1       Members had before them an update from Councillor Andrew Smith (Cabinet Member for Housing Services). The Committee sought further information in respect of progress on fire doors and sprinklers, including fire doors in tower blocks. In respect of the consultation underway for the process of issuing leaseholder bills, Members asked what would happen to those leaseholders who had already received their bills. Members asked what criteria was used in respect of prioritising major works. Details were also sought on the Section 20 process in relation to providing estimated major works charges.

 

5.2       Members welcomed the steps being taken on homelessness prevention and asked if the main causes of homelessness in Westminster had been identified. In addition, Members enquired if

there were any preparations in helping homeless people with the onset of winter. In noting the number of people in temporary accommodation, a Member asked why a substantial amount of accommodation being built would be available at market rates. It was also asked why there was no mention of customers in the five key priorities set out for Housing Services. Another Member welcomed progress on implementing traffic management orders and asked how many orders were now in place.

 

5.3       In reply, Councillor Smith advised that consultation with leaseholders regarding fire doors was taking place as part of the major works planning. There was also a specific fire door programme in respect of tower blocks. With regard to prioritising major works, Councillor Smith advised that consideration was given as to what was viewed as most urgent and steps were being taken to ensure that access to sites happened earlier. Councillor Smith commented that there was a focus on early intervention in tackling homelessness and there was on-going consultation in developing the Homelessness Strategy. Councillor Smith added that there was a cold weather protocol in place in respect of homelessness. Members heard that 1,850 new affordable homes were planned for Westminster and residents on the housing list would also receive support in finding long term accommodation in the private sector.

 

5.4       Neil Wightman (Director of Housing) advised that there was every intention to ensure that Housing Services was customer focused and this would be made more clear in future communication.

 

5.5       ACTIONS:

 

1.    How much parking enforcement has been rolled out on former CityWest Homes estates under the Traffic Management Orders programme to date and what is the completion date for the programme. (Action: Sam Swales [Project Manager] and Kevin Goad [Director of City Highways].)

 

2.    Briefing note to be sent to Councillor Matt Noble on the Section 20 process. (Action: Neil Wightman [Director of Housing Services].)

 

3.    Provide a timeline for the Council acquiring property and an update on the property acquired to date, to be provided in the next update. (Action: Gemma Stanton [Cabinet Officer].)

 

4.    Reply to be provided on Councillor Richard Elcho’s query raised at the previous meeting on the use of drop keys at Orsett Terrace in Bayswater. (Action: Neil Wightman [Director of Housing].)


12/11/2019 - Infill Development Programme ref: 1117    Recommendations Approved

The Cabinet Member Report provides an update on all the infill schemes which are currently in construction, planning and feasibility. The paper seeks approval to spend against the infill projects; requests the draw down of the Affordable Housing Fund; provides updates on project programmes; highlights the next Infill sites to come forward and recommends both design team and contractor procurement strategies to take.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 12/11/2019

Effective from: 20/11/2019

Decision:

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

2.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approved the proposed spend as detailed in the report from the Housnig Revenue Account (HRA) Infill Programme budget.

3.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approved the spend as detailed in the report from the HRA Infill Programme for the procurement of a multi-disciplinary design team for the Phase 3 sites identifed.

4.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approved the allocation as detailed in the report from from the Council’s Affordable Housing Fund (AHF) to this programme.

5.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approvesd the draw down of funding from the AHF once a scheme starts on site.

6.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approvesd the  utilisation of the Greater London Authority Architecture Design and Urbanism Panel framework when procuring multi-disciplinary design team services for Phase 3

7.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration granted approval to substitute sites within the programme, should any of the phase three sites be deemed unsuitable for development once through the initial due diligence and planning stage and noted that any substitution will be within the agreed budget and funding within this report.

Reasons for the Decision

1.            The Council is satisfied that the Infill Programme will contribute towards meeting the City for All objectives, in particular Building Homes and Celebrating Neighbourhoods.

2.            The Council’s 2017/18 City For All objectives set a commitment to deliver 1,850 affordable homes by 2023. Of the 1,850, 171 are to be delivered through the Infill Programme, as set out in the HRA Business Plan. 

3.            Phase 2 and Phase 3 of the Infill Programme will contribute146 new affordable homes towards the Council’s target of 1,850 by 2023.

Wards affected: Abbey Road; Bayswater; Churchill; Harrow Road; Little Venice; Maida Vale; Queen's Park; Regent's Park; Vincent Square; Westbourne;

Lead officer: Barbara Brownlee


11/11/2019 - Approval of School Capital Projects and Use of SEN Capital Grant Funding ref: 1116    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Education and Skills

Decision published: 11/11/2019

Effective from: 11/11/2019

Decision:

Summary of Decision

 

That the schemes set out in Appendix 2 of the report be approved and added to the Council’s Capital Programme.

 

That the use of the SEN Capital Grant to fund the schemes set out in Appendix 2 of the report be approved.

 

Reasons for Decision

 

Westminster City Council has received an allocation from the DfE of £2.444m for SEN Capital Grant to fund capital schemes in schools.

 

The grant is not ring-fenced or timebound and local authorities are able to use it at their discretion to improve special provision for children and young people with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). The funding can be invested in mainstream schools and academies, special units, special schools and academies, early years settings, further education colleges, or to make other provision for children and young people aged from 0 to 25. The grant conditions require that revenue implications from any investment is minimised.

 

It was agreed that the principal need to be addressed is around the autistic spectrum (ASD) and to enable schools to enhance inclusivity, or to address gaps in provision such as hearing impairment.

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

 

11 November 2019

Implementation Date:

 

18 November 2019

Reference:

 

CMfEDE&S/1/2019/2020

 

Lead officer: Ian Heggs


19/12/2019 - The Greater London Dockless Vehicle Hire Byelaw ref: 1134    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management

Decision published: 11/11/2019

Effective from: 19/12/2019

Decision:

2.        Recommendations

2.1      The Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management approved the delegation of the City Council’s authority to make the byelaws to LC TEC, so that a single byelaw can be created across all the London Boroughs at the request of the LC TEC members, for a pan-London dockless regulatory approach.

 

2.2      The Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management delegated authority to the Executive Director for City Management and Communities to agree on a final byelaw and to enter into any necessary legal agreements with TfL. In consultation with the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management where necessary.

 

 

3.        Reasons for Decision

 

3.1      The proposed byelaw defines clearly that no dockless operators shall cause or permit dockless vehicles to be placed on any highway or public place, other than a permitted dockless parking space agreed by the Authority or private land owners. Failure to comply with the byelaw will result in prosecution of offending operators.

 

3.2      The proposed byelaw also states that no dockless operator can offer the hiring of a dockless vehicle other than on terms which prohibit the hirer from leaving the vehicle on any section of highway or other public place other than within a designated ‘dockless parking space’.

 

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Steve Tse


17/12/2019 - Central London Cycle Grid: Quite Cycle Way Fitzrovia to Pimlico ref: 1133    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management

Decision published: 11/11/2019

Effective from: 26/12/2019

Decision:

2.        Recommendations

 

2.1      The Cabinet Member for Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management reaffirmed the City Council’s support for the Quietway Fitzrovia to Pimlico scheme, as part of the Central London Cycle Grid, and agreed to it being implemented.

 

2.2      Approval was granted by the Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management for officers to undertake design and implementation of the proposed Quietway Fitzrovia to Pimlico scheme, as part of the Central London Cycle Grid.

 

2.3      The Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management gave delegated authority to the Executive Director for City Management and Communities to agree final scheme proposals and to enter into any necessary legal agreements with Transport for London, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management.

 

2.4      The Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management gave delegated authority to the Executive Director for City Management and Communities to make any requisite traffic regulation orders associated with the scheme.

 

2.5      The Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management approved capital expenditure in the sum of £1,484,827to complete the scheme.

 

3.        Reasons for Decision

 

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

·         Provide legible and safer routes for cycle traffic.

·         Improve the public realm and pedestrian facilities.

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

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

·         Reduce CO2 emissions. This will be achieved in part by encouraging modal shift from private motor vehicles to bicycles.

·         Reduce overcrowding on public transport. This will be achieved in part by encouraging more journeys to be made by bicycle.

 

Wards affected: Marylebone; St James's; Vincent Square; West End;

Lead officer: Anthony Sabato


08/11/2019 - Project Resource Contracts for Oxford Street ref: 1115    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval sought.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 08/11/2019

Effective from: 16/11/2019

Decision:

1.            That Part B of this report be exempt from disclosure under s100B(2) and Schedule 12 A of the Local Government Act 1972, (as amended) in that it contains information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information).

 

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

 

·         Approved the award of a contract for the provision of project and programme services (the “Project and Programme Management Services Contract”) to Turner and Townsend Project Management Limited for a period of three years for the Oxford Street District Programme and other regeneration programmes and schemes;

 

·         Delegated to the Executive Director of Growth, Planning and Housing authority:

o   to agree that the services provided under the Project and Programme Management Services Contract may be provided by the contractor in respect of other suitable projects and, if so,

o   to take such steps  and execute such documents as may be necessary to enable that service to be provided in respect of such other projects. 

 

·         Delegated to the Executive Director of Growth, Planning and Housing authority to award and execute a contract with a selected contractor in respect of the Commercial and Cost Management Services as set out in section 5 of this report.

Reasons for Decision

 

The Oxford Street District Programme contributes to the City for All as a key scheme to Westminster as part of the theme a City that Celebrates Communities and is critical  to the future of the district.  A decision concerning the award of the design and build contract is due to be taken shortly and is the subject of a Cabinet Member Report dated 12 September 2019. These resources contracts will drive the implementation of the programme and ensure that the design and build contractor is held to account and to ensure that the contractor keeps within the agreed budgets and programme.


06/11/2019 - Luxborough Street ref: 1113    Recommendations Approved

Decisions required prior to planning submission.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 06/11/2019

Effective from: 14/11/2019

Decision:

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

2.         That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approved the preferred option for the redevelopment of the site to provide a ground floor community use with 14 affordable units above, in the form of intermediate rent as set out in paragraph 3.2 of the report.

 

3.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration delegated the final decision to determine the type of community use that will provided within the scheme to the Executive Director of Growth, Planning and Housing.

4.         That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration Approve direct development as the delivery option as set out in paragraph 3.10.

 

Reasons for Decision

 

1.         In 2017, Cabinet Member approval was received for a total budget of £2.262M for the project. Circa £800K of this was for historic spend on the project, therefore a budget of £1.4M was confirmed for further project spend and approval to take the design to RIBA Stage 4 and progress the options outlined in the Cabinet Member Report in July 2017.

 

2.         The following potential scoping options have been considered for this scheme:

 

§  Option 1: Reinstatement of the kickabout site

§  Option 2: Community Use with Residential above

§  Option 3: Mixed Tenure Residential

§  Option 4: Fully affordable residential scheme

 

3.         Each of the Scoping Options were assessed against the project objectives and Critical Success Factors, the in-depth assessment can be found in the appended Outline Business Case.

 

4.         Option 2 was found to meet all of the objectives and Critical Success Factors. This option provides a wider range of benefits to the community as it would include affordable housing as well as a community use on the ground floor of the development. It would also be deemed acceptable to planning given that it provides the D1 Community use class. For these reasons, it is considered that Option 2 (community use with residential) is the preferred option.

Wards affected: Marylebone;

Lead officer: Emily Myers


29/10/2019 - Rating Advisory Panel 17.9.2019: Determination of National Non-Domestic Rates Discretionary and Hardship Relief Applications ref: 1112    Recommendations Approved

This report contains recommendations from the Rating Advisory Panel in respect of applications for Hardship and Discretionary relief from National Non-Domestic Rates (NNDR).

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 29/10/2019

Effective from: 29/10/2019

Decision:

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

 

2.        That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approved the recommendations of the Rating Advisory Panel held on 17 September 2019 and determined the applications for National Non-Domestic Rates Discretionary and Hardship relief as set out in Appendix A of the report.

Reasons for Decision

 

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

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Susan Bush


29/10/2019 - Contract Award for the EnforcementAgent Service ref: 1111    Recommendations Approved

The contract award for the Enforcement Agent service (Lot 2 under the Revenues & Benefits procurement)

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 29/10/2019

Effective from: 29/10/2019

Decision:

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

2.        That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approved the award of concession contracts for the Enforcement Agent Servicefor the period of five years from 1 November 2019, as set out in the report.

 

Reasons for Decision 

The Council’s current Enforcement Agent service contracts expire on 31 October 2019 and the Council therefore must procure new contracts.

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Martin Hinckley


28/10/2019 - Westminster City Plan Submission to the Secretary of State ref: 1110    Recommendations Approved

Report requesting that the Cabinet Member recommends to the Full Council that the City Plan 2019 - 2040 is submitted to the Secretary of State for examination

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Place Shaping and Planning

Decision published: 28/10/2019

Effective from: 28/10/2019

Decision:

Summary of Decision

 

That the Cabinet Member agreed:

 

i.                to consider the public responses to the Regulation 19 consultation on the draft City Plan and endorse the officers’ comments (shown in the Consultation Statement at Appendix 2) and the resulting minor modifications contained in Appendix 3;

 

ii.               to recommend the draft City Plan and the supporting documents (appended to this report) to Full Council on the 13th November 2019 for approval prior to submission to the Secretary of State for approval by way of the Examination;

 

iii.              to delegate power to the Executive Director Policy, Performance and Communications, to make minor modifications to the City Plan and accompanying documents throughout the Examination as are necessary, where these do not affect the meaning or interpretation of any policy in the City Plan.

Reasons for Decision 

 

The council’s corporate strategy, City for All, sets an ambition for Westminster to be a place where people are born into a supportive and safe environment, grow and learn throughout their lives, build fantastic careers in world-leading industries, have access to high quality, affordable homes and retire into the community with dignity and pride.

 

The City Plan is the spatial interpretation of this strategy, providing a framework for all future development in the city. To provide a robust and up to date policy framework for the taking of planning decisions across the city, the council has undertaken a full revision to the City Plan pursuant to Regulation 22 of the Town and Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2012.

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

 

28 October 2019

Implementation Date:

 

28 October 2019

Reference:

CMfPS&P/9/2019/20

 

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Kimberley Hopkins


22/10/2019 - Queensway Public Realm, Remaining Phases; South of Porchester ref: 1109    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management

Decision published: 22/10/2019

Effective from: 22/10/2019

Decision:

Summary of Decision

 

  1. That the Cabinet Member for Place Shaping and Planning approves the design for Queensway Public Realm Improvements, stages 3 to 6 (see Appendix B) be in line with the strategic vision which is set out in the Cabinet Member Report of November 2018.

 

  1. That the Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management approves the Stage 3 Detailed Design (see Appendix A) and proposed street layout arising from the Concept Design for Queensway and its connector streets, which will be Works Package 2 – Phase 3-6 - west Queensway between Bayswater Road and Inverness Place and on the eastern side of Queensway between Bayswater Road and Porchester Gardens.
  2. That the Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management approves the capital expenditure of £3,867,385.64 to proceed to implement public realm changes on west Queensway between Bayswater Road and Inverness Place and on the eastern side of Queensway between Bayswater Road and Porchester Gardens.
  3. That the Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management approves the implementation of the proposed changes to kerbside management and parking on Queensway and in the local area arising from the Traffic Management Order (TMO) consultation undertaken in July 2019.

 

Reasons for Decision 

 

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

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

 

22 October 2019

Implementation Date:

 

29 October 2019 at 5pm

Reference:

CMfPS&P/8/2019/20

 

 

Wards affected: Bayswater;

Lead officer: Scarlett Bochan


22/10/2019 - Mandela Way, Units B, C and D, lease re-gear ref: 1108    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval sought to enter into a reversionary lease.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 22/10/2019

Effective from: 22/10/2019

Decision:

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

2.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration delegated authority to the Executive Director of Finance and Resources to enter into a reversionary lease with the current tenant for Mandela Way units B, C and D from January 2025 to December 2035, based on the agreed terms. 

Reasons for Decision 

The decision will provide security of an existing income stream to the Council until December 2035.


22/10/2019 - Mandela Way - Unit A ref: 1107    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval sought for lease renewal with London Bus Services Ltd (Transport for London).

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 22/10/2019

Effective from: 22/10/2019

Decision:

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

 

2.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration delegated authority to the Executive Director of Finance and Resources to grant the lease renewal to the organisation as referred to in the report, based on the agreed terms as set out in section 4 of the report.

 

Reasons for Decision 

The decision will provide the Council with a guaranteed income over the term of the lease and also provide the Council with additional sums as set out in the report.


18/10/2019 - Central London Cycle Grid: Cycle Quietway Hyde Park to Fitzrovia ref: 1106    Recommendations Approved

Westminster City Council, in partnership with Transport for London and other local authorities, is supporting the delivery of a proposed Central London Cycle Grid. This Cycle Grid is being funded under the Mayor of London's Vision for Cycling, a 10-year plan delivering cycling improvements across London. The plan includes a network of Quietways and Cycle Superhighway routes, providing connected ways for cycling across central London.

This project aims to improve provisions for cycling on streets along a proposed Quietway route between Hyde Park and Fitzrovia. It will benefit all people who want to cycle in the area, particularly those wishing to avoid some of the busier, highly trafficked main roads. Improvements to pedestrian facilities have also been proposed as part of the scheme.

The section of this route consulted on within the City of Westminster is approximately 3km in length. The streets affected by these proposals are:
Stanhope Place
Connaught Square
Connaught Street
Porchester Place
Norfolk Crescent
Kendal Street
George Street
Spanish Place
Manchester Street
Manchester Square
Hinde Street
Bentinck Street
Welbeck Street
Queen Anne Street
Wimpole Street
New Cavendish Street.

This Quietway will connect with other proposed cycle routes on the Central London Cycle Grid, and the potential alignment of Cycle Superhighway 11, which is planned along Portland Place and subject to future consultation by Transport for London in early February 2016. This Quietway will connect to existing cycle routes in Hyde Park and Howland Street and Maple Street in the London Borough of Camden.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management

Decision published: 18/10/2019

Effective from: 26/10/2019

Decision:

1.         That the Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management reaffirmed the City Council’s support for the Quietway Hyde Park to Fitzrovia scheme, as part of the Central London Cycle Grid, and agreed to it being implemented.

 

2.         That the Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management gave approval for officers to undertake design and implementation of the proposed Quietway Hyde Park to Fitzrovia scheme, as part of the Central London Cycle Grid.

 

3.         That the Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management delegated authority to the Executive Director for City Management and Communities to agree the final scheme proposals and to enter into any necessary legal agreements with Transport for London, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management.

 

4.         That the Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management delegated authority to the Executive Director for City Management and Communities to make any requisite traffic regulation orders associated with the scheme.

 

5.         That the Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management approved capital expenditure in the sum of £1,851,656to complete the scheme.

Reasons for Decision

 

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

 

·           Provide legible and safer routes for cycle traffic.

·           Improve the public realm and pedestrian facilities.

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

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

·           Reduce CO2 emissions. This will be achieved in part by encouraging modal shift from private motor vehicles to bicycles.

·           Reduce overcrowding on public transport. This will be achieved in part by encouraging more journeys to be made by bicycle.

 

Wards affected: Bryanston and Dorset Square; Marylebone;

Lead officer: Jayne Rusbatch


17/10/2019 - Oxford Street District - Procurement Decision ref: 1105    Recommendations Approved

Decision related to the award of contract for the design and build contract.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 17/10/2019

Effective from: 25/10/2019

Decision:

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

 

2.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration and the Cabinet Member for Place Shaping and Planning approved the award of a contract for the Design and Build of the Oxford Street District project to the preferred bidder and noted that this joint venture covers both design and build services with the design elements being subcontracted to a sub-consultant as detailed in the report.

 

Reasons for Decision

The preferred bidder has provided a compliant and high quality tender submission.

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

Lead officer: Susanne Afra


17/10/2019 - Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel: (02.07.2019) Determination of Discretionary Housing Payment Review Applications ref: 1104    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval sought.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 17/10/2019

Effective from: 17/10/2019

Decision:

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

           

2.         That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approved the recommendations of the Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel meeting of 2 July 2019

 

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 of the report, which are more fully set out in the case papers submitted to the Panel.


15/10/2019 - CLCH Health Visiting Contract Extension ref: 1103    Recommendations Approved

This report seeks approval to proceed with an extension for the current CLCH Health Visiting Service contract for a six-month period from the 1st October 2019 until the 31st March 2020.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Family Services and Public Health

Decision published: 15/10/2019

Effective from: 24/10/2019

Decision:

1.                      RECOMMENDATIONS

1.1.                 That the Cabinet Member for Family Services and Public Health approved the proposed contract extension of the CLCH Health Visiting Service. The total cost of the six-month contract extension period was £1,725,909.

1.2.                 That the Cabinet Member for Family Services and Public Health agreed the recommendation to allow the Family Nurses Partnership contract to end and that this group of young families were supported through a more enhanced Health Visiting offer and Early Help offer.

2.                      REASON FOR DECISION

2.1.                 This presented a timely opportunity to review current service delivery and outcomes as part of a wider pre-birth to five years pathway redesign. This six-month extension ensured continuity of service whilst an option for a longer-term model of delivery was developed. We had taken a partnership approach to exploring alternative ways to delivering elements of the Healthy Child Programme to consider and identify opportunities to ensure it was aligned into wider pre-birth to five years pathways including best start, school readiness and with a good focus on speech and language development.

2.2.                 The contract extension period would also provide us with time to identify at test new ways of working and to develop the service specification ready for a new contract. It would accompany the pre-birth to five years agenda and would be sustainable by utilising the wider workforce. The contract extension period would provide us with additional time to develop and pilot and to embed an integrated model utilising the wider workforce which would inform the future delivery model and commissioning intentions.

2.3.                 Negotiations with the current provider have ensured that the quality of the service will continue alongside this work to support the development of a new model in the longer term.

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Gaynor Driscoll


09/10/2019 - Re-designation of Notting Hill East Neighbourhood Forum ref: 1098    Recommendations Approved

Approval required to re-designate Notting Hill East Neighbourhood Forum in advance of current designation expiring

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Place Shaping and Planning

Decision published: 09/10/2019

Effective from: 09/10/2019

Decision:

Summary of Decision

 

That the Notting Hill East Neighbourhood Forum be re-designated for a further period of 5 years and a formal designation notice be published under delegated authority by the Director of Policy, Performance and Communications.

 

Reasons for Decision 

 

Section 61F (7) of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as inserted into the Act by the Localism Act, Schedule 9) sets out the conditions that a neighbourhood forum must meet, as well as the considerations that a local planning authority must take into account when determining an application for the designation of a neighbourhood forum.

 

The City Council is also required to assess whether the purpose of the neighbourhood forum reflects (in general terms) the character of the area. The application submitted by the Forum for re-designation states that the Forum was established in response to the Localism Act in accordance with the wishes of residents and businesses to promote, enhance and improve the unique qualities of the area. It also makes clear that the continued preparation of a neighbourhood plan that addresses planning and development matters, public realm improvement projects, and environmental policies, is a priority for the Forum. Initial drafting of the plan is well underway and therefore the main purpose for the existence of the Notting Hill East Neighbourhood Forum is stronger now than when it was initially designated.

 

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

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

 

9 October 2019

Implementation Date:

 

9 October 2019

Reference:

CMfPS&P/7/2019/20

 

Wards affected: Bayswater; Westbourne;

Lead officer: Sean Walsh


09/10/2019 - Re-designation of Church Street Ward Neighbourhood Forum ref: 1097    Recommendations Approved

To re-designate the Church Street Ward Neighbourhood Forum for a further period of five years following an application to do so from the existing forum.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Place Shaping and Planning

Decision published: 09/10/2019

Effective from: 09/10/2019

Decision:

That the Church Street Ward Neighbourhood Forum be re-designated for a further period of 5 years and a formal designation notice be published under delegated authority by the Director of Policy, Performance and Communications.

 

Reasons for Decision 

 

Section 61F(7) of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as inserted by the Localism Act, Schedule 9) sets out the conditions that a neighbourhood forum must meet, as well as the considerations that a local planning authority must consider when determining an application for the designation of a neighbourhood forum.  The existing Church Street Ward Neighbourhood Forum meets all these conditions and there has been no change in this since the original designation.

 

In their application for re-designation the Forum state that their goal is to provide guidance for further development in the area, not only through their neighbourhood plan but also by ongoing engagement and communication with the community. The Forum also state in the application that their main focus this year has been to engage with the council in regard to the Masterplan for Church Street. They will continue to engage with the council as the Masterplan evolves.

 

Consultation on the re-designation of the Church Street Ward Neighbourhood Forum did not attract any objections or competing applications.

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

 

9 October 2019

Implementation Date:

 

9 October 2019

Reference:

 

CMfPS&P/6/2019/20

 

Wards affected: Church Street;

Lead officer: Michael Clarkson


24/09/2019 - Declarations of Interest ref: 1095    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Planning (Major Applications) Sub-Committee

Made at meeting: 24/09/2019 - Planning (Major Applications) Sub-Committee

Decision published: 04/10/2019

Effective from: 24/09/2019

Decision:

2.1      Councillor Gotz Mohindra explained that a week before the meeting, all six Members of the Committee were provided with a full set of papers including a detailed officer’s report on each application; together with bundles of every single letter or e-mail received in respect of every application, including all letters and e-mails containing objections or giving support. Members of the Committee read through everything in detail prior to the meeting.  Accordingly, if an issue or comment made by a correspondent was not specifically mentioned at this meeting in the officers’ presentation or by Members of the Committee, it did not mean that the issue had been ignored.  Members will have read about the issue and comments made by correspondents in the papers read prior to the meeting.

 

2.2      Councillor Mohindra then made the following declarations as they related to the agenda:

 

            Item 1: That he had several business interests which rented in the area which the planning application site were located.

 

           Item 3: That he had attended a pre-application meeting with Council officers.

 

           Item 3: That he was a former member of the Arts Club which was adjacent to the site.

 

2.3       Councillor David Boothroyd declared that he is Head of Research and Psephology for Thorncliffe, whose clients are companies applying for planning permission from various local authorities. No current schemes are in Westminster; if there were he would be precluded from working on them under the company’s code of conduct. Some Thorncliffe clients have also engaged planning consultants who are separately representing the applicants at the meeting, these being: Gerald Eve on item 1, DP9 on item 3, and Savills on item 4. However, Councillor Boothroyd stated that he did not deal directly with clients or other members of project teams, and planning consultants are not themselves clients.

 

            In respect of Item 2, he was the Ward Councillor and had met some individuals who had made representation when a previous application was being considered. A representation has been made by Cllr Adam Hug, who was a friend.

 

           In respect of Item 4, he was a member of previous committees deciding applications on this site.

 

2.4       Councillor Murad Gassanly declared that he was a Deputy Cabinet Member for Housing and had an indirect interest in respect to Item 2. Councillor Gassanly advised that if granted the built-out proposal would fall under the ‘Affordable Housing’ Portfolio. Councillor Gassanly advised that he had no previous involvement with this application, the proposed development fell within the ambit of a separate Portfolio, and that he was not involved in any of the discussions of Cabinet Reports which mentioned the proposal. Legal advice was taken, and the Chairman clarified that for Council-own applications all councillors are likely to have an indirect interest as the ultimate beneficiary of such schemes will be the Council (as a whole) and its residents.

 

2.5       Councillor Peter Freeman declared a conflict of interest in respect of items 4 and advised that he was the Chairmen of Chesterfield Lodge. Councillor Freeman withdrew from the Meeting whilst the Application was being considered. 

 


03/10/2019 - Luton Street Regeneration ref: 1094    Recommendations Approved

Finalisation of main contract

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 03/10/2019

Effective from: 11/10/2019

Decision:

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

 

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

 

2.1         Approval for the General Fund to invest as senior lender £28m, into the Council’s wholly owned housing company, Westminster Housing Investments Limited (WHIL).

2.2.      Approval for the General Fund to invest as subordinated debt £15m, with a contingency of a further £3m, into the Council’s wholly owned housing company, WHIL.

 

2.3       Approval for the General Fund to invest as senior debt £28m into the Luton Street Development Limited Liability Partnership (LLP).

 

2.4       Approval for a further investment by the General Fund into WHIL should it be required, of up to £77m to enable it to purchase any unsold units as per the Takeout Agreement and noted that this investment will be split 65% Senior debt, 35% unsecured debt.

 

3.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration delegated authority to the Executive Director for Growth, Planning and Housing to agree any final commercial terms and to enter into a Deed of Variation to the Agreement for Lease (dated September 2016) and any other associated legal agreements.

 

4.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration delegated authority to the Executive Director for Finance and Resources to agree any final commercial terms of the Loan Documents, including tripartite senior and subordinated debt agreements between the Council, WHIL and Bouygues Development Limited (BYD) and any associated legal agreements.

 

5.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration noted the decisions taken by the WHIL Board on 4th September 2019 to enter into commercial terms as recommended in the paper attached in Appendix 1 to this report.

Reasons for the Decision

 

1.            The redevelopment of the Luton Street scheme, which consist of two sites at Luton Street and Fisherton Street, forms an important part of the wider Church Street regeneration. As one of the first major sites to come forward, it will act as a catalyst for further development and improvements in the area.

 

2.            A Business Case has been produced supporting the recommendation that WHIL enters into an LLP with BYD to deliver the Luton Street development, thereby evidencing:

 

·         strategic fit and supporting a compelling case for change

·         Maximising public value, including wider social, environmental and economic benefits

·         commercially viability.

·         affordability and is fundable over time.

·         Successful delivery by the Council and its partners.

 

Wards affected: Church Street;

Lead officer: Barbara Brownlee, Stephen Muldoon


27/09/2019 - Commemorative Green Plaque to William Whiteley founder of Whiteley's department store ref: 1091    Recommendations Approved

To establish whether there is Cabinet Member support for a Commemorative Green Plaque to William Whiteley, founder of Whiteley's department store at his first Bayswater home at 2 Kildare Terrace

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Sports, Culture and Community

Decision published: 27/09/2019

Effective from: 27/09/2019

Decision:

WESTMINSTER CITY COUNCIL

 

STATEMENT OF DECISION

 

 

SUBJECT: 

COMMEMORATIVE GREEN PLAQUE FOR DEPARTMENT STORE RETAILER AND ENTREPRENEUR WILLIAM WHITELEY, AT 2 KILDARE TERRACE

 

Notice is hereby given thatthe Cabinet Member for Sports, Culture & Community has made the following executive decision on the above mentioned subject for the reasons set out below.

 

Summary of Decision

 

That the nomination for a commemorative Green Plaque for William Whiteley at his former home at 2 Kildare Terrace, W2 5LX, is approved.

 

Reasons for decision

 

Whiteleys is a well-known London store which has gone through many transformations in its long history. The department store was founded by Victorian entrepreneur William Whiteley, a larger than life character who, despite opposition, transformed the shopping habits of 1000s of Londoners. His residency in Bayswater would be commemorated at the second of his London homes. 

 

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

5 June 2019

Implementation Date:

5 June 2019

Reference:

 

CMfSC&CL/6/2018/2019

 

Wards affected: Bayswater;

Lead officer: Kim Patterson


27/09/2019 - Little Venice Hanging Baskets (Summer and Winter 2019) ref: 1090    Recommendations Approved

Ward budget spending in Little Venice ward

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Sports, Culture and Community

Decision published: 27/09/2019

Effective from: 27/09/2019

Decision:

WESTMINSTER CITY COUNCIL

 

STATEMENT OF DECISION

 

 

SUBJECT: 

EXPENDITURE FROM THE WARD BUDGETS FOR HANGING BASKETS IN LITTLE VENICE

 

Notice is hereby given thatthe Cabinet Member for Sports, Culture & Community has made the following executive decision on the above mentioned subject for the reasons set out below.

 

Summary of Decision

 

That the expenditure of £20,625 in respect of the proposal detailed in the report be agreed.

 

Reasons for Decision

 

£20,625 will fund the rental of 150 550mm diameter Summer and Winter hanging baskets, in Little Venice ward. The summer hanging baskets will be installed in May 2019 and fully maintained throughout the summer period until late September when they will be removed. Winter/spring hanging baskets will be installed in September/October, and will be fully maintained throughout the winter and spring period May 2020, when they will be removed. 

 

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

19 May 2019

Implementation Date:

19 May 2019

Reference:

 

CMfSC&C/7/2018/19

 

Wards affected: Little Venice;

Lead officer: Janis Best


27/09/2019 - Marylebone High Street Hanging Baskets (Summer and Winter 2019) ref: 1089    Recommendations Approved

Ward budget spending in Marylebone High Street ward

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Sports, Culture and Community

Decision published: 27/09/2019

Effective from: 27/09/2019

Decision:

WESTMINSTER CITY COUNCIL

 

STATEMENT OF DECISION

 

 

SUBJECT: 

EXPENDITURE FROM THE WARD BUDGETS FOR HANGING BASKETS IN MARYLEBONE HIGH STREET

 

Notice is hereby given thatthe Leader of the City Council has made the following executive decision on the above mentioned subject for the reasons set out below.

 

Summary of Decision

 

That expenditure of £32,587.50 in respect of the proposal detailed in the report is approved.

 

Reasons for decision

 

£32,587.50 will fund the rental of 237 Summer and Winter hanging baskets in Marylebone High Street ward. The summer hanging baskets will be installed in May 2019 and be fully maintained throughout the summer period until late September when they will be removed. Winter/spring hanging baskets will be installed in September/October, and will be fully maintained throughout the winter and spring period May 2020, when they will be removed.

 

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

18 June 2019

Implementation Date:

18 June 2019

Reference:

 

CMfSC&C/8/2018/19

 

Wards affected: Marylebone;

Lead officer: Janis Best


27/09/2019 - Commemorative Green Plaque for the former Lady Jane boutique, Carnaby Street ref: 1092    Recommendations Approved

Submission for a commemorative Green Plaque to mark the site of the former Lady Jane boutique at 29 Carnaby Street, W1F 7DH.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Sports, Culture and Community

Decision published: 27/09/2019

Effective from: 27/09/2019

Decision:

WESTMINSTER CITY COUNCIL

 

STATEMENT OF DECISION

 

 

SUBJECT: 

COMMEMORATIVE GREEN PLAQUE FOR THE LADY JANE BOUTIQUE AT 29 CARNABY STREET, W1F 7DH

 

Notice is hereby given thatthe Cabinet Member for Sports, Culture & Community has made the following executive decision on the above mentioned subject for the reasons set out below.

 

Summary of Decision

 

That the nomination for commemorative Green Plaque to mark the site of Carnaby Street’s first women’s fashion store, Lady Jane at 29 Carnaby Street, W1F 7DH be approved subject to Listed Building consent.

 

Reasons for decision

While Harry Fox has passed away, Henry Moss is now in his eighties, and it is appropriate that those that made Carnaby Street and ‘Swinging London’ famous throughout the world are acknowledged for their part in Westminster’s social history and celebrated as the last of the 1960’s generation who gave the street its global reputation.

 

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

29 August 2019

Implementation Date:

29 August 2019

Reference:

 

CMfSC&C/11/2018-19

 

Wards affected: West End;

Lead officer: Claire Appleby


27/09/2019 - Cabinet Report_31 Maiden Lane Recording Studios ref: 1093    Recommendations Approved

Proposed commemorative Green Plaque to mark the site of the UK's first recording studio at 31 Maiden Lane in Covent Garden

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Sports, Culture and Community

Decision published: 27/09/2019

Effective from: 27/09/2019

Decision:

WESTMINSTER CITY COUNCIL

 

STATEMENT OF DECISION

 

 

SUBJECT: 

COMMEMORATIVE GREEN PLAQUE FOR BRITAIN’S FIRST GRAMOPHONE RECORDING STUDIO AT 31-32 MAIDEN LANE  WC2

 

Notice is hereby given thatthe Cabinet Member for Sports, Culture & Community has made the following executive decision on the above mentioned subject for the reasons set out below.

 

Summary of Decision

 

That the nomination for a commemorative Green Plaque for Britain’s first gramophone recording studio at 31/32 Maiden Lane, WC2E 7JS, is approved.

 

Reasons for decision

 

As a nation we are proud to have some of the most successful recording artists in the world that make a huge contribution to the UK economy. This huge industry can be traced back to a makeshift recording studio in a rundown hotel in Maiden Lane where opera singers and music hall artists (the pop singers of the day) were recorded for the mass enjoyment of the whole nation and beyond.

 

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

29 August 2019

Implementation Date:

29 August 2019

Reference:

 

CMfSC&C/10/2018-19

 

Wards affected: St James's;

Lead officer: Claire Appleby


26/09/2019 - Designation of Soho Neighbourhood Forum ref: 1085    Recommendations Approved

To re-designate the Soho Neighbourhood Forum for a further period of five years following an application to do so from the existing forum.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Place Shaping and Planning

Decision published: 26/09/2019

Effective from: 26/09/2019

Decision:

Summary of Decision

 

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

 

Reasons for Decision 

 

The City Council is required to assess whether the purpose of the neighbourhood forum reflects (in general terms) the character of the area. The application submitted by the Forum for re-designation states that the Forum was specifically established to “promote and improve the social, economic and environmental well-being of the Soho Neighbourhood Area (SNF) and exercise any powers which attach to the SNF as set out in the Localism Act 2011”. The Soho Neighbourhood Forum is currently in an advance stage of preparation of a neighbourhood plan and therefore the main purpose for the existence of the Soho Neighbourhood Forum is stronger now than when it was initially designated.

 

Consultation on the re-designation of the Soho Neighbourhood Forum did not attract any objections or competing applications.

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

 

24 September 2019

Implementation Date:

 

24 September 2019

Reference:

 

CMfPS&P/4/2019/20

 

Wards affected: West End;

Lead officer: Michael Clarkson


26/09/2019 - Victoria Business Improvement District Renewal & Alteration Proposal 2020-25 ref: 1084    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Leader of the Council

Decision published: 26/09/2019

Effective from: 26/09/2019

Decision:

Summary of Decision

 

  1. That the Victoria BID’s Renewal & Alteration Proposal be endorsed.

 

  1. That the requests for the Chief Executive as Returning Officer and “Ballot

Holder” to hold a ballot for Victoria BID’s proposed Renewal & Alteration

Proposal be agreed.

 

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

 

Reasons forDecision

 

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

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

25 September 2019

Implementation Date:

25 September 2019

Reference:

 

CMfLA/2/2019-2020

 

Lead officer: Ezra Wallace


25/09/2019 - Oxford Street District - Ramillies Project ref: 1081    Recommendations Approved

The Ramillies project is a project that proposes to improve the public realm on Ramillies Street, Ramillies Place and Hills Place. The project also aims to incorporate art into the public realm and is the first work package to be delivered as part of the Oxford Street District programme of works.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management

Decision published: 25/09/2019

Effective from: 03/10/2019

Decision:

Recommendations

 

That the Cabinet Member for Place Shaping and Planning and the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration agree recommendations 2.1 to 2.3 to the extent that the matters fall within their respective Terms of Reference:

 

2.1       Thatapprovalwasgivenforthe initial design fortheRamillies Street Work Package as shown ontheGeneralArrangementdrawing inAppendixB. The site clearance plan was also enclosed in Appendix C.

 

2.2       Thatspendingapprovalwasgiven for the delivery of the remaining stages of the Ramillies Street Work Package funded by the Oxford Street District programme.

 

2.3       That the Director of Place Shaping and Town Planning was given delegated authority to make any necessary changes to the Ramillies Street Work Package design as presented in this report, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Place Shaping and Planning and Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration.

 

          That the Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management agree recommendation 2.4 to the extent that the matters fall within his respective Terms of Reference:

 

2.4       That the authorisation be provided for the making or amending of the necessary Traffic Management Orders under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984.

 

ReasonsforDecision

 

The proposed highway modifications seek to deliver a high-quality public realm scheme in Ramillies Street, Ramillies Place and Hill Place, as part of the Oxford Street District programme. This would benefit place making whilst providing improvements to pedestrian comfort and safety.

 

The detailed design can be undertaken taking into consideration the responses from the Traffic Management Order (TMO) consultation.

 

Consultation with local and other key stakeholders indicate that the project was considered beneficial.

 

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

Lead officer: Susanne Afra


17/09/2019 - Tenant Policy for Housing Renewal Areas ref: 1080    Recommendations Approved

The updated policy will replace the one published in 2015 and will set out the rehousing options, financial compensation and general support for Council tenants where the Council wants to acquire their properties to enable housing renewal to go ahead.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 17/09/2019

Effective from: 17/09/2019

Decision:

1.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration agreed the Policy for Tenants in Housing Renewal Areas 2019as set out in Appendix B and noted that it replaces the Westminster City Council Tenant Decant Policy for Renewal Areas 2015.

 

2.         That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration agreed that the Policy for Tenants in Housing Renewal Areas 2019in Appendix B be applied to current and future designated housing renewal areas.

 

3.         That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration delegated authority to the Director responsible for Regeneration, in conjunction with the Cabinet Member responsible for Regeneration, to decide when the Policy should be implemented. 

 

4.         That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration noted that adjustments as set out below be made to the Council’s Housing Allocation Scheme so that it be in line with the proposed Policy for Tenants in Housing Renewal Areas 2019:

 

4.1       Council tenants that need to move due to housing renewal have the highest priority.

 

4.2       Additional priority is awarded to council tenants that are moving under Options 2 and 3 in the Policy that meet the criteria set out in 7.20, so those with the highest needs are prioritised for local supply.

 

4.3       That the Allocation Scheme makes it clear that there are some variations to the usual Bedroom Standard, which determines the size of the new home, for tenants moving due to housing renewal, such as in the circumstances set out at 7.7, 7.9 and 7.12 of the Policy. 

 

5.         That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Policy and Regeneration noted that adjustments be made to the council’s Accommodation Placement Policy for Homeless Households so households in temporary accommodation in housing renewal areas, that need to move due to housing renewal, will be prioritised for alternative temporary accommodation in London (Band 2 of the Policy), unless they meet the criteria for Band 1.

 

6.         That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration noted that adjustments be made to the selection criteria for Homeownership Westminster, the council’s intermediate housing service, to give council tenants affected by housing renewal high priority for any local home ownership opportunities.

 

Reasons for Decision 

 

1.            An updated Policy for Tenants in Housing Renewal Areas is needed in order to improve the council’s rehousing offer to affected council tenants and to incorporate the learning from the council having run decant programmes for a number of years.

 

2.         An improved Policy will help to ensure that schemes are not delayed due to council tenants not having an attractive offer and being unwilling to move. This in turn will help to ensure that the new affordable homes being developed through housing renewal are delivered as quickly as possible for those in housing need.


09/09/2019 - Ebury Bridge Estate Regeneration ref: 1079    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval sought for award of demolition contract.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 09/09/2019

Effective from: 17/09/2019

Decision:

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

 

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

 

2.1            Approved the award of a contract for the demolition of Ebury Bridge Phase 1 to the preferred bidder over the period 1 October 2019 to 1 October 2021, with the option to extend (no commitment at this stage) for additional potential phases of demolition as follows as set out in section 5 of the report:

 

·         Mercer and Pimlico (Phase 2 blocks with low levels of occupancy) - Additional year

 

·         Remaining Phase 2 blocks - Additional 2 years

 

2.2            Delegated authority to the Executive Director of Growth, Planning and Housing to procure, award and execute a contract with a selected contractor in respect of the Meanwhile Use Works as set out in section 6 of this report.

 

2.3            Delegated authority to the Executive Director of Growth, Planning and Housing in consultation with the Executive Director of Finance and Resources to award and execute:

 

2.3.1the option to extend the Demolition Contract to Mercer and Pimlico as set out in section 5 of the report;

 

2.3.2the Pre-Construction Services Agreement for Phase 1 to a selected Contractor as set out in section 7 of the report; and

 

2.3.3the contracts for multi-disciplinary services for Phase 1 and Phase 2 as set out in Section 8 of the report with a selected consultant.

 

2.3.4Delegated authority to the Executive Director of Growth, Planning and Housing in consultation with the Executive Director of Finance and Resources to agree, enter into and execute any required Basic Asset Protection Agreements, or Asset Protection Agreements, as may be required, with Network Rail or other Body as set out in section 9 of the report. 

 

Reasons for Decision

 

The Ebury Bridge Estate is one of the five priority estates identified in the Council’s Housing Renewal Strategy (2010) as needing significant improvement and investment.  In line with the Council’s City for All objectives, the overarching objective of regenerating Ebury Bridge Estate is to create a comprehensive renewal that brings about physical, economic and sustainable change that creates additional homes and improves the lives of residents, businesses and visitors alike.  Good progress has been made to date in enabling the scheme and the proposals in this report will maintain that momentum and commence delivery of the Council’s promises to the existing community.

 


05/09/2019 - Disposal of Homes ref: 1078    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval sought for disposal of homes.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 05/09/2019

Effective from: 13/09/2019

Decision:

1.            That 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).

 

2.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration and the Cabinet Member for Housing Services approved the disposal of 24 units in Hounslow to the organisation and the agreed disposal price as set out in the report.

 

3.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration and the Cabinet Member for Housing Services authorised the Director of Housing, in conjunction with the Director of Law, to agree the contract terms and to conclude the contract.

 

Reasons for Decision

Approval of the recommendations will enable the City Council to dispose of the 24 Housing Revenue Account owned units to reinvest in replacement homes to be used for Social Housing.

 


04/09/2019 - Ward budget spending from Bayswater ward ref: 1077    Recommendations Approved

Ward budget spend from Bayswater ward

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Sports, Culture and Community

Decision published: 04/09/2019

Effective from: 04/09/2019

Decision:

Summary of Decision

 

That the expenditure of £10,125 to commission Floating Classrooms, which provides ten learning trips for pupils of St Mary of the Angels RC and St Stephen’s CE Primary Schools during the 2019-20 autumn and winter terms be approved.

 

Reasons for decision

 

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

 

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

2 September 2019

Implementation Date:

2 September 2019

Reference:

 

CMfSC&C/9/2018/19

 

Wards affected: Bayswater;

Lead officer: Janis Best


03/09/2019 - Greater London Authority - Affordable Homes Programme - BID ref: 1076    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval sought.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 03/09/2019

Effective from: 03/09/2019

Decision:

1.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration authorised the application for grant funding from the Greater London Authoritty (GLA) Affordable Homes Programme.

2.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration authorised entering into a grant agreement with the GLA.

3.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration agreed that initial lettings for London Affordable Rent (LAR) Dwellings (including social rent) be subject to a top slice to support the pan London - Housing Moves portal and noted that this requires a minimum of 5% for LAR Dwellings.

Reasons for the Decision

1.            The Council is satisfied that any grant funding received from the GLA’s – Affordable Homes Programme, will contribute towards meeting the City for All objectives, Building Homes and Celebrating Neighbourhoods.

 

2.            The Council’s 2017/18 City For All objectives set a commitment to deliver 1,850 affordable homes by 2023. Successful bids and thereby draw down of funding will improve capacity and contribute to the delivery of affordable homes in Westminster.


03/09/2019 - New Freehold Commercial Property Acquisition ref: 1075    Recommendations Approved

Mixed use building in W2

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 03/09/2019

Effective from: 11/09/2019

Decision:

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

2.         That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approved a gross spend of up to the amount set out in the report for the acquisition of freeholds as specified in the report located in W2, London and that authority be delegated to the Executive Director of Finance and Resources to conclude negotiations in the best interest of the Council, including the negotiation of all heads of terms and arranging for all legal documentation in association with the purchase to be completed.         

Reasons for Decision    

Recommendation to purchase a mixed use investment to facilitate redevelopment in the area.

Wards affected: Church Street;

Lead officer: Philip Owen


28/08/2019 - Minor Changes to the Tenancy Policy ref: 1074    Recommendations Approved

Minor amendments to the Tenancy Policy to reflect legal advice to implement flexible tenancy reviews and additional changes to update the policy to reflect the current legal framework and current structure

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Hsg Services

Decision published: 28/08/2019

Effective from: 28/08/2019

Decision:

That the Cabinet Member for Housing Services agreed that:

 

With regard to implementing tenancy reviews:

 

(i)           The Tenancy Policy be amended at 3.3, 3.5, 4.7 and 4.16 of the report to reflect circumstances where a new flexible tenancy of more than two or five years may be granted.

 

(ii)          The Tenancy Policy be amended at 4.17 and 4.18 to set out that legal notices to end all flexible tenancies will need to be served, regardless of whether a new flexible tenancy is being offered and to describe the associated information that will accompany this.        

 

With regard to not introducing a local Pay to Stay Scheme:

 

(iii)         The reference to income and capital reviews in the Tenancy Policy at 4.6.3 be removed

 

With regard to generally updating the Tenancy Policy to reflect legislative and organisational changes:

 

(iv)         The Tenancy Policy be amended at 4.14.2 to make it clear that the mandatory right to possession has been implemented as part of the Antisocial Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014

 

(v)          The Tenancy Policy be amended at 3.11 to make it clear that a secure tenancy will be awarded to any secure or assured tenant that needs to move as a result of domestic abuse in line with the Secure Tenancy (Victims of Domestic Abuse) Act 2018

 

(vi)         A range of minor changes be made throughout the Tenancy policy to improve the wording and to reflect updated job titles and practices etc. 

 

(vii)       The Tenancy Agreement and Notices be approved.

 

Reasons for Decision 

 

1.    With regard to implementing tenancy reviews:

 

            Legal advice has been received on the review process and as a result some changes are needed to the Tenancy Policy:

 

·                     The Tenancy Policy currently says that new tenancies will not be for longer than two or five years. Legal advice is that where a new flexible tenancy is offered, it should not cause a tenant to suffer a loss of entitlement. For example, if a further five year tenancy were to be offered at the review (which is held eight months before the tenancy expires) which the tenant accepted by ending his existing five year term early, then he would not have enjoyed the full length of his original term. To avoid this, and to incentivise existing flexible tenants to enter into new flexible tenancies early, new tenancies may be offered for longer than two or five years to ensure that the tenant does not thereby lose any time as a flexible tenant. For example, if the existing term is expressed to end on Monday 2 September 2019 but the tenant enters into a new tenancy that commences on Monday 6 May 2019 the new tenancy term will be expressed to end on Monday 2 September 2024 (a fixed term of five years and four months).

  

·                    The Tenancy Policy currently says that where a decision has been made not to renew a tenancy, a ‘Notice of Non Renewal’ will be served at least six months before the tenancy is due to expire. Legal advice is that a legal notice best described as an “End of Tenancy Notice” must be served on all tenants at least six months before their current tenancy is due to end, even if, the flexible tenancy is being renewed. This is to enable the council to rely on the mandatory right to possession, a right that will have to be invoked if the tenant declines to sign a new flexible tenancy. In the absence of a possession order such a tenant would, by default, become a periodic secure tenant. 

 

2.         With regard to not introducing a local Pay to Stay Scheme:

 

Westminster’s Tenancy Strategy and Tenancy Policy support a Pay to Stay approach, which involves a higher rent being charged if it is identified at the tenancy review that the income of the tenant and their spouse or partner exceeds a certain threshold. It was agreed, as set out in the Supply and Allocation Report of Social Report 2018/19 that this policy should not go ahead at this time and this type of approach would be considered again as part of a full policy review. For completeness, some further additional changes need to be made to the Tenancy Policy to reflect this. 

 

3.            With regard to generally updating the Tenancy Policy to reflect     legislative and organisational changes:

 

            The current Tenancy Policy refers to no further tenancy being granted to flexible tenants if they, or a member of their household, had been convicted of serious housing related anti-social behaviour in another court, and the offence meets the criteria to trigger the proposed mandatory Right of Possession. This right to mandatory possession has now become law as part of theAntisocial Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 and the Tenancy Policy needs to be updated to reflect this. Changes are also needed to make it clear that any existing secure or assured tenant will be offered a secure tenancy in line with the Secure Tenancy (Victims of Domestic Abuse) Act 2018

    

4.         Minor changes are also needed to the Tenancy Policy to improve the wording and to reflect organisational changes and practices.   

 

5.         Changes are also need to the Tenancy Agreement and Notices to improve the wording, ensure they reflect the legislation and changes to the Tenancy Policy, and are fit for purpose going forward.

 

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Cecily Herdman


28/08/2019 - AA920 - Purchase of Communal Electricity and Gas from October 2019 ref: 1073    Recommendations Approved

Officer Report

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Hsg Services

Decision published: 28/08/2019

Effective from: 05/09/2019

Decision:

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

 

2.            That the Cabinet Member for Housing Services delegated authority to the Executive Director of Growth, Planning and Housing to accept offers for gas and electricity on the day they are issued by suppliers, to enable the City Council to enter into one or more contracts for communal electricity and gas supplies for 12 months from 1st October 2019.

 

Reasons for Decision 

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

 

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

 

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Paul Harris


23/08/2019 - Parsons North Development ref: 1072    Recommendations Approved

Parsons North- Approval of Expenditure

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 23/08/2019

Effective from: 03/09/2019

Decision:

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

 

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

 

·         Authorisation to spend £35.416m, as detailed in Section 9 of the report

·         Approved the award of a contract for Parsons North Main Contract to Geoffrey Osborne Ltd for the sum of £27.324m

·         Authorised Legal Services to negotiate and execute the Main Works contract as a Deed.

 

Reasons for the Decision

A Final Business Case has been produced confirming the current proposals to self-develop the site at Parsons North is a Value for Money option that represents a viable proposal from both a Capital and Revenue perspective.

Wards affected: Little Venice;

Lead officer: Sisa Hwalima


23/08/2019 - Aids and Adaptations Contract ref: 1071    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval sought.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Hsg Services

Decision published: 23/08/2019

Effective from: 03/09/2019

Decision:

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

2.         That the Cabinet Member for Housing Services approved the contract award as set out in the report for the period 17 September 2019 to 16 September 2024, with the option to extend for 2 years; and

3.         That the Cabinet Member for Housing Services delegated authority to the Executive Director of Growth Planning and Housing to approve any extension under the contract up to a period of 2 years.

Reasons for Decision 

 

The Care Act 2014 places new duties on local authorities to facilitate and shape their market for adult care and support including delivering adaptations to overcome functional and mobility needs that promote wellbeing of people who need care and support under the directive.


25/09/2019 - Public Realm improvements in Leicester Square ref: 1082    Recommendations Approved

This report presents proposals to design and implement public realm and protective security improvements in Leicester Square

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management

Decision published: 22/08/2019

Effective from: 04/10/2019

Decision:

2.        Recommendations

2.1      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.

 

2.2      That approval be given to design and develop the public realm scheme, in line with the design principles included within this report.

 

2.3      That authority be delegated to the Director of City Highways, to implement the scheme, in line with the design principles, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management.

 

2.4      Approve a budget and include the scheme in the capital programme in 2019/20, which is necessary to commence the design and implement the schemes.

 

2.5      That the Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management approve recommendations 2.1 to 2.4 above

 

3.        Reasons for Decision 

3.1      The proposed public realm scheme improvements identified in this report, will reduce the vulnerability of the area.

 

3.2      The estimated cost to design, procure and implement the security measures is recommended in the report.

 

Wards affected: St James's;

Lead officer: Mark Chalmers


21/08/2019 - Citywide wayleave for broadband ref: 1070    Recommendations Approved

Adoption of a citywide wayleave approach to broadband with implementation subject to technical approval on a site by site basis.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 21/08/2019

Effective from: 21/08/2019

Decision:

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

 

2.         That the Cabinet Member for Housing Services, Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration and the Cabinet Member for Customer Services and Digital authorised the Executive Director of Growth, Planning and Housing to enter into citywide wayleave agreements with operators who apply to install their broadband apparatus across the Council’s housing stock, investment portfolio and operational portfolio on the principles as set out in the report.

 

3.         That the Cabinet Member for Housing Services, Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration and the Cabinet Member for Customer Services and Digital noted the Executive Director of Growth, Planning and Housing’s proposal to the form of citywide wayleave for broadband infrastructure for the Council’s housing, investment portfolio and operational portfolios.

 

4.         That the Cabinet Member for Housing Services, Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration and the Cabinet Member for Customer Services and Digital delegated to the Executive Director of Growth, Planning and Housing’s the signature of city wide wayleaves.

 

5.         That the Cabinet Member for Housing Services, Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration and the Cabinet Member for Customer Services and Digital noted the proposal that site by site technical approvals will be issued by the operational team responsible for technical oversight of the broadband infrastructure programme.

 

6.         That the Cabinet Member for Housing Services, Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration and the Cabinet Member for Customer Services and Digital noted thatthere is no effective method of bringing code rights to an end in respect of individual sites within the context of a citywide wayleave as the termination provisions of the Electronic Communications Code are not consistent with the notion of a citywide or master wayleave supplemented by individual site approvals.  

 

Reasons for Decision 

To agree a way forward on the development of wayleaves for broadband services across the Council’s stock.


26/09/2019 - LED and Smart Lighting System ref: 1088    Recommendations Approved

Decision to allow the installation of a low energy street lighting solution with centralised management control.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management

Decision published: 02/05/2019

Effective from: 05/10/2019

Decision:

2.1             The Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management approved the continued rollout of LED lanterns and CMS for lighting at a calculated gross cost of £6,442,000 as detailed in Section 8.1 and Appendix C, subject to the relevant IT security authorisations being gained.

 

2.2             The Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management delegated to the Executive Director of City Management and Communities the authority to make changes to the programmes agreed, subject to the proviso that the overall budget is not exceeded and that the Cabinet Member is consulted on any significant changes.

 

3.                 Reasons for Decision

3.1             The existing luminaries and CMS system employed are outdated, poorly performing and coming to end of life. The number of lantern faults in the last twelve months was 4,300, far in excess of the acceptable 98% in good working order.  The rollout of LED luminaires will bring all roads and footpaths up to current British lighting standards, reduce energy consumption by a minimum 30% and in so doing carbon output. It will also reduce lighting faults by approximately 60%-70% and will save on maintenance repair visits, all of which supports the City’s Air Quality Manifesto objectives.

 

3.2             A CMS will provide the Council full remote visibility and control of the street lighting stock.  It will allow a reduction in night scout visits and allow intelligent profiling of lighting levels throughout the hours of darkness to appropriately light the road for the given traffic volumes as set out in the British standards.

3.3             The CMS can support a future Smart Cities project through IoT (Internet of Things) sensors which can support other departments across the council.

 

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Philip Robson