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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.

Earlier - Later

Decisions published

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.


08/08/2019 - Quarterly Write-off report - Quarter 1, 2019-20 ref: 1068    Recommendations Approved

A quarterly report regarding write-offs of Council Tax, NNDR, Housing Benefit Overpayments and Former Client Rent Arrears

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 08/08/2019

Effective from: 16/08/2019

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


08/08/2019 - Rating Advisory Panel 16.7.2019: Determination of National Non-Domestic Rates Discretionary and Hardship Relief Applications ref: 1067    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: 08/08/2019

Effective from: 08/08/2019

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 16 July 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


08/08/2019 - Rating Advisory Panel 11.06.19 ref: 1066    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 08/08/2019

Effective from: 08/08/2019

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 11 June 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.

 

Lead officer: Susan Bush


15/07/2019 - Adoption of the London Living Wage ref: 1065    Recommendations Approved

Considerations relating to the adoption of London Living Wage/National Living Wage Policy (LLW/NLW) for Westminster City Council

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Decision published: 16/07/2019

Effective from: 25/07/2019

Decision:

1.        That the Council takes steps to adopt a Living Wage policy whereby staff working for contractors delivering services on behalf of the Council are paid at least the London Living Wage (LLW) or the National Living Wage outside of London.

 

2.        The Council continues to pay its own London based staff LLW and to broaden this to apply to its apprentices.

 

3.        The Council seeks Living Wage Foundation accreditation as a public pledge of its commitment.

 

4.        That a phased approach to implementation is adopted which means that the Living Wage will be incorporated as contracts are retendered with appropriate legal advice taken on a case by case basis.

 

 

 

 

1.        The decisions directly supports the City for All priorities, specifically:

 

- Caring fairer City and
- City of opportunity

 

 

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Snowia Hussain


11/07/2019 - Mayfair Neighbourhood Plan Decision Statement ref: 1063    Recommendations Approved

Seeking approval to make examiner's suggested modifications to the neighbourhood plan and proceed to referendum

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Place Shaping and Planning

Decision published: 11/07/2019

Effective from: 11/07/2019

Decision:

Summary of Decision

 

That the Cabinet Member agreed:

 

A)         That the recommendations of the examiner as set out in the council’s Decision Statement (see Appendix 1), be accepted.

           

B)         That the examiner’s recommendation that the Mayfair Neighbourhood Plan, as modified in Appendix 2, proceed to referendum.

           

C)        That in accordance with the examiner’s recommendation, the referendum area be restricted the neighbourhood area designated by the council on 5th April 2013 as the Mayfair Neighbourhood Area.

 

 

Reasons for Decision 

 

The examiner’s recommendations will ensure the Mayfair Neighbourhood Plan is clear and effective as a framework for making decisions on planning applications in the Mayfair Neighbourhood Area. They address the concerns raised by the council and other stakeholders, and ensure the plan meets the basic conditions prescribed by legislation.

Before a neighbourhood plan can be made, it is a statutory requirement that it is first subject to local referendum. As Mayfair Neighbourhood Area is also designated as a business area, two referendums are required – one for residents, and one for businesses. In advance of the referendums, the council must publish a Decision Statement setting out the actions it proposes to take in response to the examiner’s report

 

Stuart Love, Chief Executive,

Westminster City Hall,

64 Victoria Street

LONDON SW1E 6QP

 

Publication Date:

 

11 July 2019

Implementation Date:

 

11 July 2019

Reference:

 

CMfPS&P/2/2019/20

 

Wards affected: Knightsbridge and Belgravia; West End;

Lead officer: Sean Walsh


11/07/2019 - Policy, Performance & Communications re-organisation ref: 1062    Recommendations Approved

Review of consultation for directorate re-organisation. Decision required: approval of new directorate organisation.

Decision Maker: Leader of the Council

Decision published: 11/07/2019

Effective from: 11/07/2019

Decision:

That the implementation of the proposed structure chart for the Policy, Performance and Communications Department contained at Appendix 2 of the report be approved.

 

Reasons forDecision

 

To provide the Leader, Cabinet, Chief Executive and Executive Leadership Team with the resource and capability needed to drive the delivery of the council’s priorities, the new organisation of PPC will drive efficiency and pace through:

·       Providing a single source of information for all corporate change projects within the Council, creating corporate visibility of projects and the associated benefits through robust and transparent monitoring and reporting practices. 

·       Enhancing the support provided to Cabinet Members and Executive Directors to ensure all activity within their portfolio delivers to the council’s City for All priorities.   

·       Ensuring all communications activity makes a strategic contribution towards achieving our City for All goals.  

·       Putting insight and evaluation at the heart of what we do, making sure our policies and communications are evidence based and impactful.   

The new organisation will:

·       Drive a culture of organisational efficiency and delivery.

·       Build our capabilities around insight and intelligence, making sure evidence drives communications and decision making.

 

Lead officer: Julia Corkey, Lloyd Runham-Cuenca


10/07/2019 - Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel: (04.06.2019) Determination of Discretionary Housing Payment Review Applications ref: 1061    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval sought.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 10/07/2019

Effective from: 10/07/2019

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 4 June 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.


11/06/2019 - Drury House, 34-43 Russell Street London WC2B 5HA ref: 1060    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Planning Applications Sub-Committee (1)

Made at meeting: 11/06/2019 - Planning Applications Sub-Committee (1)

Decision published: 09/07/2019

Effective from: 11/06/2019

Decision:

Use of basement, part ground and upper floors as a hotel (Class C1) with ancillary bars at basement and new 7th floor level; two-storey roof extension with roof terrace; refurbishments to external facade including lighting; alterations and relocation of entrance to Russell Street facade; installation of plant at roof level; and associated works.

 

Additional representations were received from Covent Garden Community Association (4.6.2019) and Gerald Eve (5.6.2019)

 

Late representations were received from Gerald Eve (10.6.2019) and Apcar Smith Planning (10.6.2019).

 

The presenting officer tabled the following amendments to conditions 27 and 28:

 

Additional conditions

 

Condition 27 ‘Cycle Store Access’:

Notwithstanding what is shown on drawing A-2201 Rev A, you must apply to us for approval of detailed drawings showing the following alteration to the scheme:

 

- Means of access to the cycle store at ground floor level.

 

 You must not start on these parts of the work until we have approved what you have sent us. You must then carry out the work according to the approved drawings.

 

Condition 28 ‘Internal Activity’:

(1) Where noise emitted from the proposed internal activity in the development will not contain tones or will not be intermittent, the 'A' weighted sound pressure level from the internal activity within the hotel use hereby permitted, when operating at its noisiest, shall not at any time exceed a value of 10 dB below the minimum external background noise, at a point 1 metre outside any window of any residential and other noise sensitive property, unless and until a fixed maximum noise level is approved by the City Council. The background level should be expressed in terms of the lowest LA90, 15 mins during the permitted hours of use. The activity-specific noise level should be expressed as LAeqTm,, and shall be representative of the activity operating at its noisiest.

 

(2) Where noise emitted from the proposed internal activity in the development will contain tones or will be intermittent, the 'A' weighted sound pressure level from the internal activity within the hotel use hereby permitted, when operating at its noisiest, shall not at any time exceed a value of 15 dB below the minimum external background noise, at a point 1 metre outside any window of any residential and other noise sensitive property, unless and until a fixed maximum noise level is approved by the City Council. The background level should be expressed in terms of the lowest LA90, 15 mins during the permitted hours of use. The activity-specific noise level should be expressed as LAeqTm, and shall be representative of the activity operating at its noisiest.

 

 

(3) Following completion of the development, you may apply in writing to the City Council for a fixed maximum noise level to be approved. This is to be done by submitting a further noise report including a proposed fixed noise level for approval by the City Council. Your submission of a noise report must include:

 

(a) The location of most affected noise sensitive receptor location and the most affected window of it;

 

(b) Distances between the application premises and receptor location/s and any mitigating features that may attenuate the sound level received at the most affected receptor location;

 

(c) Measurements of existing LA90, 15 mins levels recorded one metre outside and in front of the window referred to in (a) above (or a suitable representative position), at times when background noise is at its lowest during the permitted hours of use. This acoustic survey to be conducted in conformity to BS 7445 in respect of measurement methodology and procedures;

 

(d) The lowest existing LA90, 15 mins measurement recorded under (c) above;

 

(e) Measurement evidence and any calculations demonstrating that the activity complies with the planning condition;

 

(f)  The proposed maximum noise level to be emitted by the activity.

 

The presenting officer tabled the following amendments to conditions 12, 16, 20, 23, 25 and 26:

 

Revised conditions

 

Condition 12 ‘Live Music’:

 

No live or recorded music shall be played in the hotel use as such as to be audible at a distance of 1m from any neighbouring residential window.

 

Condition 15 Cycle parking’:

You must apply to us for approval of details of secure cycle storage for a minimum of 18 spaces. You must not start any work on this part of the development until we have approved what you have sent us. You must then provide the cycle storage in line with the approved details prior to occupation. You must not use the cycle storage for any other purpose.

 

Condition 20 ‘Thames Water’:

No properties shall be occupied until confirmation has been provided that either:

 

- All combined water network upgrades required to accommodate the additional flows from the development have been completed; or

 

- A hotel and infrastructure phasing plan has been agreed with Thames Water to allow the hotel to be occupied. Where a hotel and infrastructure phasing plan is agreed no occupation shall take place other than in accordance with the agreed hotel and infrastructure phasing plan.

 

Condition 23 ‘Balconies’:

The fifth floor level balconies on the Drury Lane elevation must not be used for sitting out or for any other purpose. You can however use the balconies to escape in an emergency.

 

Condition 25 Coach bookings’:

The operator of the hotel must not knowingly accept bookings from parties using a vehicle with a capacity of 15 or more persons to travel to and from the premises.

 

Condition 26 ‘No music roof terrace’:

No live music or  amplified music shall be played on the the hotel roof terrace.

 

Mr Robert Staffler addressed the Committee in support of the application. 

 

Mr Matthew Firsht addressed the Committee in objection to the application.

 

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY:

 

That conditional permission be granted subject to the changes to conditions as tabled and set out above.

 

Wards affected: St James's;


19/06/2019 - Westminster's City Plan Regulation 19 consultation ref: 1058    Recommendations Approved

Decision to publish Westminster's City Plan and Integrated Impact Assessment for formal Regulation 19 consultation

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Place Shaping and Planning

Decision published: 19/06/2019

Effective from: 19/06/2019

Decision:

Summary of Decision

 

That the Cabinet Member for Place Shaping and Planning agreed the Proposed Documents for publication under Regulation 19 of the Town and Country Planning Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2012 attached as Appendices 1 - 3 to this report:

 

1.                  The Publication Draft City Plan 2019 - 2040

2.                  Integrated Impact Assessment

3.                  Revised Policies Map

 

Reasons for Decision 

 

To provide a robust and up to date policy framework within the statutory local plan for the taking of planning decisions across the city and delivery of City for All commitments.

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Kimberley Hopkins


17/06/2019 - Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel: (30.04.2019) Determination of Discretionary Housing Payment Review Applications ref: 1056    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval sought for recommendations of the Panel.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 17/06/2019

Effective from: 17/06/2019

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 30 April 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.


17/06/2019 - Purchase of flat in WC2 ref: 1628    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 17/06/2019

Effective from: 17/06/2019

Decision:

Summary of 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 agreed to delegate authority to the Executive Director of Finance and Resources to purchase the long-leasehold interest in the property as specified in the report, and to conclude all necessary negotiations and oversee legal documentation.

 

3.              That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration noted the Stamp Duty Land Tax costs and legal costs estimated for the acquisition as detailed in the report.

 

Reasons for Decision

The property will be held for investment purposes and may be used for temporary accommodation or let under Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs).

 

Lead officer: Sarah-Jayne Hurst


17/06/2019 - Purchase of Investment Property in WC2 ref: 1057    Recommendations Approved

Freehold of multi-tenanted mixed use building currently being openly marketed.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 17/06/2019

Effective from: 25/06/2019

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 agreed to delegate authority to the Executive Director of Finance and Resources to purchase the long-leasehold interest in the property as specified in the report, and to conclude all necessary negotiations and oversee legal documentation.

 

3.            That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration noted the Stamp Duty Land Tax costs and legal costs estimated for the acquisition as detailed in the report.

 

Reasons for Decision

The property will be held for investment purposes and may be used for temporary accommodation or let under Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs).

Wards affected: St James's;

Lead officer: Philip Owen


06/06/2019 - Church Street Sites A B and C - Preferred Way Forward ref: 1053    Recommendations Approved

The council has developed four options for Sites A B and C and this report recommends one of the four to proceed with and develop further resulting in a full OBC.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 06/06/2019

Effective from: 14/06/2019

Decision:

That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration:

1.            Approved option 3 as the Preferred Way Forward to progress Sites A, B and C and Church Street market and to return to Cabinet Member with an Outline Business Case for approval in Autumn 2019;

2.            Authorised Officers to consider the inclusion of the properties on Edgware Road on Site C in the scope of redevelopment of option 3;

3.            That in connection with progressing option 3, authorised Officers to enter into voluntary negotiations with leaseholders in any or all blocks within Sites A, B and C (with the exception of Kennet House) to apply the acquisition budget to acquire all leasehold interests by agreement at open market value and offer compensation in line with the Council’s Policy on Leaseholders in Housing Renewal Areas;

4.            That also, in connection with progressing option 3, authorised the implementation by Officers of the Council’s Policy for Tenants in Housing Renewal Areas (as updated from time to time) to include all blocks in Sites A, B and C (with the exception of Kennet House).

Reasons for Decision 

The decisions requested in this report will:

·                                          enable the proposals of the chosen option to be progressed and developed into an Outline Business Case for consideration by the Cabinet Member in Autumn of 2019;

·                                          enable the achievement of vacant possession of all blocks on Sites A, B and C (except Kennet House) in readiness for redevelopment in accordance with the emerging development programme timetable.

Wards affected: Church Street;

Lead officer: Archika Kumar


06/06/2019 - Lisson Grove Programme ref: 1054    Recommendations Approved

Cabinet Member approval sought for proposals.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 06/06/2019

Effective from: 14/06/2019

Decision:

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

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

·         Take forward option 3 as the Preferred Way Forward for Gayhurst House & 6-12 Lilestone Street.

·         To progress Gayhurst House and 6-12 Lilestone Street in conjunction with the wider programme of sites and return to the Cabinet Member with an Outline Business Case in autumn 2019.

·         Authorised Officers to enter into voluntary negotiations with residents and organisations and to spend the acquisitions budget to acquire all interests by agreement at open market value and offer compensation in line with the Council’s Policy for Leaseholders in Housing Renewal Areas.

 

Reasons for Decision 

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

2.    The decisions requested in this report will enable the design of the chosen option to be progressed, informed by comments received from the consultation and to be developed into an Outline Business Case for consideration by the Cabinet Member in autumn 2019.

3.      To allow the Council as much time as possible to acquire interests by agreement and achieve vacant possession in accordance with the regeneration programme.

4.      Option 3 is viewed as the Preferred Way Forward following a period of resident consultation. It brings about the most beneficial changes when judged against the Evaluation Criteria (see Appendix E). This assessment incorporates an evaluation of Viability and the Masterplans 4 Key Themes; Homes, Health & Wellbeing, Market & Economy and Making Connections across all 3 options and is supported by:

·         Wide ranging consultation with the community including the Priorities Consultation and the Options Consultation;

·         Soft Market Testing with a broad range of potential delivery partners;

5.      Option 3 provides a compelling case in the public interest for regeneration following an extensive series of consultations including a dedicated Options Consultation.  Option 3 provides a total of 73 new homes, including 28 re-provided affordable homes and 16 new affordable homes in addition to improved public realm and open space opportunities. Further engagement is proposed with community groups and key stakeholders as the design is developed.

Wards affected: Church Street;


22/05/2019 - The Installation of a Christmas tree in front of Wyndham Place ref: 1051    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Sports, Culture and Community

Decision published: 22/05/2019

Effective from: 22/05/2019

Decision:

Summary of Decision

 

That the expenditure of £30,000 in respect of the proposal detailed in the report be agreed.

 

Reasons for Decision

 

£30,000 will contribute towards the costs involved for the installation of foundations, to allow for a Christmas tree to be installed each year, in front of St Mary’s Church on Wyndham Place. This would cover costs of a C2 stats survey, topographical survey and basement survey, as well as costs for the construction of foundations, pavements and contingency costs. 

 

 

 

Wards affected: Bryanston and Dorset Square;

Lead officer: Janis Best


27/02/2019 - Electoral Review of the City of Westminster by the Local Government Boundary Commission - Submission from the City of Westminster (TO FOLLOW) ref: 1004    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: General Purposes

Made at meeting: 27/02/2019 - General Purposes

Decision published: 22/05/2019

Effective from: 27/02/2019

Decision:

4.1       The Committee considered a draft submission by the City of Westminster to the Local Government Boundary Commission for England on the council size. This submission formed part of the preliminary stage of the Commission’s Electoral Review of the City of Westminster.

 

4.2       The Manager of Legal and Electoral Services Support tabled a revised draft submission which included more detail on the rationale for reducing the number of councillors from 60 to 54. This included evidence of the increasing number of backbench councillors that are not involved in the broader governance of the council and how the interaction between councillors, stakeholders and residents had evolved since the last review approximately twenty years ago as well as a comparison of electoral population to councillors in neighbouring boroughs. 

 

4.3       The Committee agreed that the proposal to reduce the number of members from 60 to 54 was feasible but that any further reduction would have an adverse impact on council business and councillor’s work load. Members noted that since 2006 a significant number of Members had not sat on either a Policy and & Scrutiny Committee or an Audit & Performance Committee. The Committee agreed that for optimum councillor effectiveness, a significant majority of members should have a place in the Executive or the broader governance of the Council as a whole, as well as their Ward role.

 

4.4       Members discussed the current ratio of councillors per ward. It was suggested that retaining three councillors per ward was preferable. Members commented that a reduction in numbers could make it more challengeable and cause difficulties for ward councillors in particular in balancing their daily Council duties and those of their constituencies. Members commented that having an odd number of councillors in each Ward would help to alleviate the above-mentioned concerns.

 

4.5       Members supported the inclusion of information regarding the Council’s vision to create a ‘City of All’ alongside the ‘unique characteristics’ that are found within the Borough.

 

4.6       The Committee discussed Westminster’s future population projections which were set out in section 4.4 of the submission. Members requested that the Boundary Commission’s electoral and growth forecasts be removed as it was considered that the Council’s own projections, which include regional planning approvals, would be more accurate. The Committee noted that a reduction to 54 Councillors would still put Westminster City Council in the lower quartile of councillors to electors in London.   

 

4.7       The Committee also put forward a number of minor additional formatting revisions.

 

          RESOLVED:

 

1.     That the revised submission as tabled be agreed as the Council's submission to the Local Government Boundary Commission for England on Council size subject to the requested amendments as set out above.

 

2.     That the submission to the Local Government Boundary Commission for England be circulated to all members.

 

 


16/05/2019 - Amendments and Clarifications to Delegations as set out in the Register of Authority of the Executive Director For Growth Planning And Housing ref: 1050    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Place Shaping and Planning

Decision published: 16/05/2019

Effective from: 16/05/2019

Decision:

 

 

That the proposed amendments and clarifications to the register of authority of the Executive Director for Growth Planning and Housing, as set out in Appendix 1 of the report be agreed.

 

 

Confirmingthe proposed amendments to the scheme of delegation will allow

for the City Council’s Constitution to be updated to ensure consistency with

national legislation and the City Council’s current planning committee

structure. The proposed inclusion of specific delegated powers relating to the

 stopping up of the highway in connection with developments benefitting from

planning permission and the enforcement of planning and related legislation

will clarify that these powers are delegated to the Executive Director for

Growth Planning and Housing, for the avoidance of doubt.

 

Lead officer: Jane Hamilton


14/05/2019 - Westminster Community Homes - Agency Role and Funding for Renewal Areas Acquisitions ref: 1049    Recommendations Approved

Refresh the Council's agreement with Westminster Community Homes

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 14/05/2019

Effective from: 22/05/2019

Decision:

1.          That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration approved the revision of the existing leaseholder engagement agency agreement for Ebury and Tollgate estates with Westminster Community Homes (WCH) to:

a.   Widen the scope of the agreement to cover all current housing renewal areas by including Church Street.

b.   Provide WCH with funding to acquire property interests in renewal areas sold without vacant possession

2.        That the Cabinet Member for Finance, :Property and Regeneration approved the funding of WCH in any existing or future acquisition of properties within renewal areas and the eight blocks in Church Street where the properties are tenanted and the tenants are protected by Assured Shorthold Tenancies.

3.        That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration delegated authority to the Executive Director of Growth, Planning and Housing to acquire any properties in renewal areas that have been negotiated by WCH and can be sold with vacant possession.

4.         That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration delegated authority to the Executive Director of Growth, Planning and Housing to take transfers of any properties that have been acquired by WCH under decision 2. above and are subsequently capable of being transferred with vacant possession.

5.         That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration delegated authority to the Executive Director of Growth, Planning and Housing to acquire any leasehold interests in the eight blocks known as Blackwater, Eden, Colne, Darent, Derry, Isis, Windrush and Mole Houses (the “Eight Blocks”) at open market value with the addition of home loss and disturbance payments to the eligible leaseholders within the blocks.

6.         That the Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration noted that a delegated authority will follow requesting approval for the Executive Director of Growth Planning and Housing to make all-necessary arrangements to make use of any acquired Church Street properties in the short to medium term.                                                                                                         

Reasons for Decision

The approval requested in this report to appoint WCH as the leaseholder engagement agent will further facilitate the acquisition of leasehold interests across Church Street and all future Westminster City Council housing Renewal Areas.

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Barbara Brownlee


08/05/2019 - Digital Inclusion Project ref: 1048    Recommendations Approved

Ward Budget funding for Digital Inclusion Project

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Sports, Culture and Community

Decision published: 08/05/2019

Effective from: 08/05/2019

Decision:

That the expenditure of £12,000 in respect of the proposal detailed in the report be agreed.

 

Reasons for Decision

 

£12,000 will contribute towards the costs of running Age UK Westminster’s Digital Inclusion Project. The running costs of the project include the salary of the sessional worker, volunteer expenses and training costs, practical costs including publicity, space hire costs, office facility costs and project coordinator and management costs.

 

The project will consist of classroom sessions which aim to help older people become less digitally isolated, and in doing so, increase their confidence in using digital devices and accessing online resources. The sessions will be 2-hours long and held twice monthly, and each session will be allocated a topic of learning. The group learning sessions will be led by a skilled tutor followed by one-to-one sessions, where participants will be buddied with a highly skilled IT volunteer to try out what they have learned on their own device. Sessions will be held in accessible locations in Churchill and Maida Vale

 

Wards affected: Churchill; Maida Vale;

Lead officer: Sonia Sekhon


07/05/2019 - Council Tax, NNDR,Housing Benefi Overpayments and Former Client Rent Arrears - Irrecoverable Debt ref: 1047    Recommendations Approved

Quarterly Write-off report (Quarter 4)

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 07/05/2019

Effective from: 15/05/2019

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 to the writing off the irrecoverable debt as shown in section 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


03/05/2019 - Pay-to-Park Diesel Surcharge ref: 1046    Recommendations Approved

Proposal for the city-wide expansion of the diesel surcharge for all pre-2015 diesel vehicles paying to park in Westminster

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Environment and City Management

Decision published: 03/05/2019

Effective from: 03/05/2019

Decision:

That the expansion of the diesel surcharge to all Westminster Parking Zones for pre-2015 registration diesel vehicles be approved.

That the maintenance of the 50% surcharge on the hourly pay to park rate levied, first piloted as part of the Zone F trial be approved.

That the publication of Variation Notices issued under Section 46A of the Road Traffic Regulation Act (“The 1984 Act”), in order to give effect to the recommended change above be approved.

That the exclusion at this stage of older (pre-2006) petrol vehicles in the surcharge be approved.

That to not apply the diesel surcharge to taxi and coach pay-to-park bays, market trader bays, Parking Cards (scratchcards) or Trades Permits be approved.

That to decommission all remaining Payment Terminals city-wide be approved.

That to initiate the roll out of these policies in line with the timings set out in this report.

 

Reasons for decision

 

The proposed policy will improve air quality across the city, through discouraging disproportionately polluting older diesel vehicles from making journeys into and across the city. This policy is in line with the council’s commitments to a healthier and greener city set out in City for All and Greener City Action Plan strategies.

The council signalled its commitment to the policy in its April 2018 Air Quality Manifesto, subject to a public consultation. The consultation held July – September 2018 received over 1300 responses, with clear support for expanding the diesel surcharge across the city as quickly as feasible. Support for the diesel surcharge was strongest among Westminster residents. Consultation responses have fed into recommendations 2.1, 2.2 and 2.4 of this report.

Recommendations 2.5 and 2.6 are made on the grounds of practicality and cost. These mirror decisions made with regards the original surcharge trial in Parking Zone F.

 

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Darren Montague


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


01/05/2019 - Rating Advisory Panel 19/3/19 ref: 1045    Recommendations Approved

Determination of NNDR Discretionary and Hardship Relief Applications

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Regeneration

Decision published: 01/05/2019

Effective from: 01/05/2019

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 19 March 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.

 

Lead officer: Susan Bush


29/04/2019 - Approval of Funding for the West London Zone (WLZ) Programme ref: 1044    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Family Services and Public Health

Decision published: 29/04/2019

Effective from: 07/05/2019

Decision:

Recommendations

1.            That the Cabinet Member for Family Services & Public Health and Cabinet Member for Finance, Property & Regeneration agreed funding of £0.150m to deliver the programme over an initial two-year period from the Children’s Services Transformation and Innovation Reserve and delegated future decisions on extensions and funding to the Executive Director of Children’s Services in conjunction with the Executive Director of Finance and Resources.

           

2.2      To review after the first two cohorts and provide an evaluation report on the achieved outputs and outcomes. A clear break clause after the two-year period would be inserted into the contract to ensure the maximum financial liability from WCC is capped at £0.150m.

 

Reasons for Decision

 

1.            The WLZ programme provided direct support for children and young people who were having difficulties at school in a number of key educational domains i.e. literacy, maths or, displaying behavioural problems leading to exclusions, warnings etc. The programme offered therapeutic and practical support to improve educational attainment mental health, attendance and behaviour. This report sought the approval of funding to deliver an outcomes-based grant agreement for a total contribution of £150K from Westminster City Council.

Wards affected: (All Wards);