Agenda and minutes

To approve as a correct record and sign the Minutes of the meeting held on 10 December 2024.

The Minutes (copies of which had been circulated) of the meeting held on 10 December 2024 were approved as a correct record and signed by the Chair.

Councillors and officers were invited to declare any interests they had in any of the items on the agenda for the meeting.

No declarations of interest were made.

To report any urgent action taken under the Constitution since the last meeting of the Cabinet.

No urgent decisions were reported.

Members of the public are invited to put questions to the Chair and Cabinet Members on any matters within the powers and duties of the Cabinet, subject to the exclusions set out in the Code of Practice.  (Questions must be submitted no later than 3 hours prior to the commencement of the meeting via the Council’s website at www.stockport.gov.uk/publicquestions)

Members of the public were invited to submit questions to the Cabinet on any matters within its powers and duties, subject to the exclusions set out in the Code of Practice.

No public questions were submitted.

To consider whether it is in the public to exclude the public during consideration of the following agenda items which contain information “not for publication” and to consider any representations received to the notice of the intention to consider exempt information at this meeting.

The following representations have been received:-

At the time of publication no representations have been received.

RESOLVED – That in order to prevent the disclosure of information which was not for publication relating to the financial or business affairs of the any particular person (including the authority), the disclosure of which would not be in the public interest, would not be fair and would be in breach of Data Protection principles, the public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of Agenda Item 28 – ‘Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) Fund Procurement Report (PH&T12)’ and Agenda Item 29 - ‘Write Off of Rent Arrears Debt’ in the eventuality it was necessary to discuss the information contained within the ‘not for publication’ appendices to these reports.

To consider a report of the Economy, Regeneration & Climate Change Scrutiny Committee.

The report details the review carried out by the Economy, Regeneration & Climate Change Scrutiny Review Panel into the Accountability of Social Housing Providers to the Council and Residents of Stockport and the proposed recommendations.

(NOTE: The report as published remains subject to the approval of the extraordinary Economy, Regeneration & Climate Change Scrutiny that is due to meet on 3 February 2025).

That the Director of Place Management be requested to prepare a response to the Accountability of Social Housing Providers to the Council and Residents of Stockport scrutiny review and the recommendations contained therein for consideration by the Cabinet at a future meeting.

Officer Contact: Charlotte Douglass 0161 474 3235 | charlotte.douglass@stockport.gov.uk

Councillor Dena Ryness attended the meeting to present the final report of the Scrutiny Review into the Accountability of Social Housing Providers to the Council and Residents of Stockport (copies of which had been circulated) and to answer questions from the Cabinet.

The following comments were made/ issues raised:-

It was noted that the final report had focussed primarily on Stockport Homes.  In response, it was stated that the review had experienced some difficulties in obtaining sufficient evidence to fully explore the accountability other housing providers which had limited the scope of the review.

RESOLVED - (1) That the Director of Place Management be requested to prepare a response to the Accountability of Social Housing Providers to the Council and Residents of Stockport scrutiny review and the recommendations contained therein for consideration by the Cabinet at a future meeting.

(2) That the gratitude of the Cabinet be recorded for the excellent work undertaken by the Scrutiny Review Panel ‘Accountability of Social Housing Providers to the Council and Residents of Stockport’ and others involved in the Review.’

To consider a report of the Cabinet Member for Children, Families & Education.

The report provides an update on the key announcements made by the Department for Education (DfE) on the education funding settlement for 2025/26.

The Cabinet is recommended to:

(1) Note the details of the Education Funding Settlement for 2025/26.

(2) Approve the construction of the early year’s budget as per section 3.1 to 3.2 and the updated 2025/26 local funding formula for schools as outlined in sections 3.3. to 3.5 and detailed in the table(s) in section 6.2 which will form the basis of the calculation of school budgets and be notified to the DfE in accordance with statutory requirements.

Officer contact: Peter Hughes on 0161 474 3947 or by email: peter.hughes@stockport.gov.uk

The Cabinet Member for Children, Families & Education (Councillor Wendy Meikle) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) providing an update on the key announcements made by the Department for Education (DfE) on the education funding settlement for 2025/26.

It was commented that Stockport remained one of the lowest funded local authorities with regard to education, and this are, like so many others, required national government to properly resource local authorities to allow them to provide the services that residents expected.

RESOLVED - (1) That the details of the Education Funding Settlement for 2025/26 be noted.

(2) That approval be given to the construction of the early year’s budget as per section 3.1 to 3.2 and the updated 2025/26 local funding formula for schools as outlined in sections 3.3. to 3.5 and detailed in the table(s) in section 6.2 which will form the basis of the calculation of school budgets and be notified to the DfE in accordance with statutory requirements.

To consider a report of the Cabinet Member for Economy, Regeneration & Housing.

The report details an illustrative Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Budget for 2025/26 including the level of rent and service charges.

The Cabinet is requested to recommend that the Council Meeting give approval to:-

(1) An increase of 2.7% for social and affordable rent;

(2) An increase of 3.2% for rent of shared ownership properties;

(3) Service charge increases as outlined in section 5, with authority delegated to the Director of Finance, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Economy, Regeneration & Housing, to agree a lower increase should this be necessary;

(4) The Housing Revenue Account Budget for 2025/25 as set out in Appendix 1.

Officer contact: Andy Kippax on 474 4319 or email: andy.kippax@stockport.gov.uk

The Leader of the Council (Councillor Mark Hunter) submitted a report of the Cabinet Member for Economy, Regeneration & Housing (copies of which had been circulated) detailing the proposed rent levels and service charges for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) and a recommended budget for 2025/26.

RESOLVED – That the Council Meeting be recommended to give approval to:-

(1) An increase of 2.7% for social and affordable rent;

(2) An increase of 3.2% for rent of shared ownership properties;

(3) Service charge increases as outlined in section 5, with authority delegated to the Director of Finance, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Economy, Regeneration & Housing, to agree a lower increase should this be necessary;

(4) The Housing Revenue Account Budget for 2025/25 as set out in Appendix 1.

To consider a report of the Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources.

The report provides an update on the revenue budget forecast outturn as at the end of November 2024 (Quarter 2+). The report also provides an update on the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG), Housing Revenue Account (HRA), Collection Fund, Reserves and Capital Programme as at Quarter 2+.

The Cabinet is recommended to:

(1) Approve the virements to the Revenue Budget;

(2) Note the Cash Limit and Non-Cash Limit forecast outturn positions for 2024/25 as at Quarter 2+;

(3) Note the DSG, HRA and Collection Fund forecast outturn positions for 2024/25 as at Quarter 2+;

(4) Note the update on Reserves;

(5) Note the forecast position for the 2024/25 Capital Programme;

(6) Note the changes to the Capital Programme and re-phasing of schemes during Quarter 2+; and

(7) Note the 2024/25 Capital Programme Prudential Indicators.

Officer contact: Jonathan Davies on 0161 218 1025 or email jonathan.davies@stockport.gov.uk

The Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources (Councillor Jilly Julian) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) detailing the Quarter 2+ revenue forecast outturn including an update on the Dedicated Schools Grant, Housing Revenue Account, Collection Fund, Reserves updates to the Capital Programme.

Members expressed their thanks and gratitude to the Council’s finance team and the Director of Finance for their hard work in ensuring that Stockport maintained its reputation for sound financial responsibility.

RESOLVED - (1) That approval be given to the virements to the Revenue Budget;

(2) That the Cash Limit and Non-Cash Limit forecast outturn positions for 2024/25 as at Quarter 2+ be noted.

(3) That the DSG, HRA and Collection Fund forecast outturn positions for 2024/25 as at Quarter 2+ be noted.

(4) That the update on Reserves be noted.

(5) That the forecast position for the 2024/25 Capital Programme be noted.

(6) That the changes to the Capital Programme and re-phasing of schemes during Quarter 2+ be noted.

(7) That the 2024/25 Capital Programme Prudential Indicators be noted.

To consider a joint report of the Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources.

The Cabinet is requested to recommend that the Council Meeting:-

(1) Approve the refreshed version of the Stockport Council Plan 2024-27.

(2) Note that the refreshed plan will provide the basis for detailed Portfolio Performance and Resources Agreements (PPRAs) and resource planning for 2025/26.

(3) Note that progress on delivery will continue to be reported in-year through the Portfolio Performance & Resources Reports (PPRRs), the Corporate Performance & Resources Report (CPRR) and accompanying online dashboards.

Officer contact: Kathryn Rees on 0161 474 3174 or email: kathryn.rees@stockport.gov.uk

The Leader of the Council (Councillor Mark Hunter) submitted a joint report of the Leader of the Council and the Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources (copies of which had been circulated) detailing a refresh of the Stockport Council Plan 2024 -2027 and outlining how the refreshed plan had developed from the original version.

The following comments were made/ issues raised:-

·         The report provided useful context for the budget conversations that took place at this time of year.

·         The movement to a longer-term plan was welcomed.

·         The report set out the positive vision that the Council had for making the place residents lived, better.

·         The vast range of services provided by the council was highlighted which gave a comprehensive view of the work that was provided by the council and its staff.

RESOLVED – That the Council Meeting be recommended to give approval to the refresh of the 2024-2027 Council Plan.

To consider joint reports of the Leader of the Council and the Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources.

Within this report and appendices, we provide a further update on our strategic approach in responding to the review of the Medium-Term Financial Plan (MTFP). This follows on from the report presented at the cabinet meeting in September 20241 and scrutiny committees during November 2024 and January 2025. It includes our final change proposals within the appendices following consultation and scrutiny comment ahead of the Budget Council meeting later this month.

This report outlines the change proposals being considered by the cabinet to address our financial challenges and balance the rising cost of delivering services to the people in our communities who need it most. The report sits alongside a suite of budget papers presented elsewhere on this agenda.

The Cabinet is recommended to:-

(1) Note the further development of proposals and the feedback received from the engagement and consultation carried out.

(2) Approve the proposals for inclusion within the Cabinet’s proposed 2025/26 Revenue Budget.

Officer contact: Gill Lawton on 0161 474 3014 or email gill.lawton@stockport.gov.uk

The Leader of the Council (Councillor Mark Hunter) and the Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources (Councillor Jilly Julian) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) providing an update on its strategic approach in responding to the review of the Medium Term Financial Plan and included the change proposals being considered by the cabinet to address our financial challenges and balance the rising cost of delivering services to the people in our communities who needed it most.

The following comments were made/ issues raised:-

·         The financial challenges facing many local authorities were overwhelming with a number asking for permission from the government to increase Council Tax above 4.99%.

·         It was noted that Stockport was one of the only local authorities not to receive any addition funding from the Recovery Grant.

·         The council would nonetheless maintain is reputation for robust and resilient financial management.

·         It was commented that for the 16th consecutive year there was insufficient funding that was needed to protect the borough’s most vulnerable residents.

·         There was a further shortfall of £233k in the funding received from government by way of compensation for the increase in employer national insurance contributions.

·         It was becoming increasingly difficult to find ways to alleviate the impact of underfunding on residents.

·         There was a further emphasis on early intervention and prevention in adult social care to enable the council to identify additional savings in this area.

·         There had been a significant response to the consultation on changes to waste collection services; however, this had not taken away the need for the council to make the saving.

RESOLVED - (1) That the further development of proposals and the feedback received from the engagement and consultation to date be noted.

(2) That approval be given to the proposals for inclusion within the Cabinet’s proposed 2025/26 Revenue Budget.

The purpose of the report is to update the council’s 2025/26 to 2028/29 Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) forecasts and assumptions as part of setting a robust and resilient budget and financial plan for the council.

The Cabinet is recommended to:-

(1) Note the details of the 2025/26 Provisional Local Government Finance Settlement;

(2) Note, and comment upon as appropriate, the financial forecasts and assumptions for 2025/26 to 2028/29.

(3) Note and approve the indicative budget adjustments since the MTFP Update presented to the cabinet meeting on 18 September resulting in savings requirement of £10.048m in 2025/26;

(4) Approve the allocation of £7.779m of the corporate contingency budgets to service budgets as part of the budget setting process;

(5) Note the Director of Finance – Section 151 Officer’s recommendation to hold the council’s General Fund Balance at its current level £15.183m in 2025/26 aligned to his risk assessment of the budget and the adequacy of reserves and balances to support the council’s 2025/26 Budget; and

(6) Take the necessary steps to propose a final balanced 2025/26 Budget including any proposed Council Tax increase to be recommended for approval at the Council meeting on 27 February 2025.

Officer contact: Lisa Joy on 07966372177 or by email: lisa.joy@stockport.gov.uk

The Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources (Councillor Jilly Julian) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) providing an update on the Council’s 2025/26 to 2028/29 Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) forecasts and assumptions as part of setting a robust and resilient budget and financial plan to meet the unprecedented uncertainty, volatility, and risk within the financial landscape.

The Cabinet was provided with an update to the report at the meeting such that the overall adverse impact to the Council that was referenced in the report had increased by a further £165k. 

RESOLVED -  (1) That the details of the 2025/26 Provisional Local Government Finance Settlement be noted.

(2) That the financial forecasts and assumptions for 2025/26 to 2028/29 be noted.

(3) That approval be given to the indicative budget adjustments since the MTFP Update presented to the cabinet meeting on 18 September resulting in savings requirement of £10.048m in 2025/26;

(4) That approval be given to the allocation of £7.779m of the corporate contingency budgets to service budgets as part of the budget setting process;

(5) That Director of Finance (Section 151 Officer’s) recommendation to hold the council’s General Fund Balance at its current level £15.183m in 2025/26 aligned to his risk assessment of the budget and the adequacy of reserves and balances to support the council’s 2025/26 Budget, be noted.

(6) That approval be given to take the necessary steps to propose a final balanced 2025/26 Budget including any proposed Council Tax increase to be recommended for approval at the Council meeting on 27 February 2025.

The purpose of the report is to present our proposed 2025/26 Revenue Budget. The report highlights our strategic approach to responding to the significant medium-term financial pressures whilst ensuring a sustainable and stable financial position to deliver our overarching priorities and desired outcomes.

The Cabinet is requested to recommend that the Council Meeting:-

(1) Approve the Budget for 2025/26 described in the report and set out in Appendix 2 and 3;

(2) Note the risk assessment of the 2025/26 Budget at Appendix 5 and the report of the Director of Finance - Section 151 Officer on the adequacy of proposed financial reserves and robustness of the estimates also included at Appendix 5;

(3) Approve the required Council General Fund Balance to reflect the Director of Finance - Section 151 Officer’s assessment of risks;

(4) Note, comment upon, and approve the financial forecasts and assumptions for 2025/26 to 2028/29 at Appendix 6, and the key issues to be addressed in formulating a response to the future financial challenges facing the council; and

(5) Pass the appropriate Council Tax resolutions which produce a Council Tax increase of 4.99% in 2025/26 (2.99% General increase, 2% Adult Social Care Precept increase) as illustrated in Appendix 7.

Officer contact: Jonathan Davies on  0161 218 1025 or email: jonathan.davies@stockport.gov.uk

The Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources (Councillor Jilly Julian) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) presenting the 2025/26 Revenue Budget outlining the Council’s strategic approach to responding to the significant medium-term financial pressures whilst ensuring a sustainable and stable financial position to deliver our overarching priorities and desired outcomes.

RESOLVED – That the Council Meeting be recommended to:-

(1) Approve the Budget for 2025/26 described in the report and set out in Appendix 2 and 3.

(2) Note the risk assessment of the 2025/26 Budget at Appendix 5 and the report of the Director of Finance - Section 151 Officer on the adequacy of proposed financial reserves and robustness of the estimates also included at Appendix 5.

(3) Approve the required Council General Fund Balance to reflect the Director of Finance - Section 151 Officer’s assessment of risks.

(4) Note, comment upon, and approve the financial forecasts and assumptions for 2025/26 to 2028/29 at Appendix 6, and the key issues to be addressed in formulating a response to the future financial challenges facing the council.

(5) Pass the appropriate Council Tax resolutions which produce a Council Tax increase of 4.99% in 2025/26 (2.99% General increase, 2% Adult Social Care Precept increase) as illustrated in Appendix 7.

To consider a report of the Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources.

The report proposes the 2025/26 Capital Strategy and Capital Programme, which are written in accordance with the CIPFA Prudential Code.

The Capital Strategy provides a framework for the council’s capital investment plans, ensuring effective planning, option appraisal, risk management, and governance processes.  It is a high-level overview of capital investment offering Members sufficient details to understand how stewardship, value for money, prudence, sustainability and affordability will be secured.

The report includes the 2025/26 to 2027/28 Capital Programme and sets out the prudential indicators, which demonstrate that the Council’s capital investment plans are affordable, prudent, and sustainable.  In addition, future plans in key areas of major capital investment have been included.

The Cabinet is requested to recommended that the Council Meeting approve:

(1) The Capital Strategy at appendix one.

(2) The prudential indicators supporting the 2025/26 Capital Programme set out in appendix one (under appendix a).

(3) The 2025/26 to 2027/28 Capital Programme and the funding arrangements as described in the report and set out at appendix two.

Officer Contact: Paula McDonald on 0161 474 4708 or email: paula.mcdonald@stockport.gov.uk

The Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources (Councillor Jilly Julian) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) detailing the draft 2025/26 to 2027/28 Capital Strategy and Capital Programme, developed in accordance with the CIPFA Prudential Code, which provided a framework for the Council’s capital investment plans.

RESOLVED – That the Council Meeting be recommended to give approval to:-

(1) The Capital Strategy at appendix one.

(2) The prudential indicators supporting the 2025/26 Capital Programme set out in appendix one (under appendix a).

(3) The 2025/26 to 2027/28 Capital Programme and the funding arrangements as described in the report and set out at appendix two.

To consider a report of the Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources.

This comprehensive report proposes the 2025/26 Treasury Management Strategy, Annual Investment Strategy, Minimum Revenue Provision Policy and prudent and sustainable Treasury and Prudential Indicators, which are constructed in compliance with the CIPFA Treasury Management Code of Practice.

The Council has delegated the role of ensuring effective scrutiny of its Treasury Management Strategy to the Corporate, Resource Management and Governance Scrutiny Committee (CRMG).  As such, the views of CRMG were sought and any opinions or suggestions made have been taken into account when formulating the Council's Treasury Management Strategies for 2025/26.

The first part of the report details the Council’s Capital expenditure plans and Strategy which are a key driver to the long-term borrowing aspect of treasury management activity and strategy; these are reflected in a number of prudential and treasury indicators. 

The report develops to show how capital expenditure funded by prudential borrowing is subsequently charged against the Council’s revenue resources in the Minimum Revenue Provision (MRP) Policy Statement.

Fundamentals of the Council’s investment policy, approach to creditworthiness and investment strategies for 2025/26 are included in the Annual Investment Strategy statement.  The report provides an economic commentary and interest rate forecast, detailing likely scenarios for the economy and financial markets in 2025/26 based on current information.

The Cabinet is requested to recommend that the Council Meeting approves:

(1) The Minimum Revenue Provision Policy for 2025/26.

(2) The Capital Expenditure Forecasts and Capital Financing Requirement projections.

(3) The Treasury Management Strategy 2025/26.

(4) The Treasury and Prudential Indicators and Limits 2025/26-2027/28.

(5) The Annual Investment Strategy (AIS) 2025/26.

Officer Contact: Lorna Soufian on 0161 474 4026 or email: lorna.soufian@stockport.gov.uk

The Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources (Councillor Jilly Julian) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) the Treasury Management Strategy and Annual Investment Strategy Mid-Year Review Report 2025/26.

RESOLVED – That the Council Meeting be recommended to approve:-

(1) The Minimum Revenue Provision Policy for 2025/26.

(2) The Capital Expenditure Forecasts and Capital Financing Requirement projections.

(3) The Treasury Management Strategy 2025/26.

(4) The Treasury and Prudential Indicators and Limits 2025/26-2027/28.

(5) The Annual Investment Strategy (AIS) 2025/26.

To consider a report of the Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources.

The report proposes a change to the current management arrangements between Stockport Council and Stockport Active CIC (trading as Life Leisure).

The Cabinet is recommended to:-

(1) Consider these proposals together with any comments arising following scrutiny committee meeting, and if thought fit:

(2) Delegate authority to the Director of Finance and the Assistant Director of Governance, in consultation with the Cabinet Members for Finance & Resources and Communities, Culture and Sport, to take all action necessary to progress to the new arrangements and negotiate and enter into the new contractual documents that will be required to give effect to these proposals from 1st April 2025.

Officer contact: Peter Ashworth on 07891 949 473 or email peter.ashworth@stockport.gov.uk

The Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources (Councillor Jilly Julian) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) detailing a proposal to change to the current management arrangements between Stockport Council and Stockport Active CIC (trading as Life Leisure).

RESOLVD – That authority be delegated to the Director of Finance and the Assistant Director of Governance, in consultation with the Cabinet Members for Finance & Resources and Communities, Culture and Sport, to take all action necessary to progress to the new arrangements and negotiate and enter into the new contractual documents that will be required to give effect to these proposals from 1 April 2025.

To consider a report of the Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources.

The Pay Policy Statement sets out the Council’s approach to pay policy in accordance with the requirements of Section 38 of the Localism Act 2011. The statement also has due regard for the associated statutory guidance including supplementary guidance issued in February 2013 and the Local Government Transparency code 2014. The statement also incorporates the Council’s Gender Pay Gap (GPG) information which the Council is obliged to publish on an annual basis under the GPG reporting requirements.

The purpose of the statement is to provide transparency with regard to the Council’s approach to setting the pay of its employees (excluding teaching staff working in local authority schools) by confirming the methods by which salaries of Council employees are determined; the detail and level of remuneration of its most senior staff i.e. ‘chief officers’, as defined by the relevant legislation; the responsibility of the Appointments Committee to ensure the provisions set out in this statement relating to the Chief Executive, Deputy Chief Executive, Executive Director and Directors are applied consistently throughout the Council and recommend any amendments to the Council.

The Cabinet is requested to recommend that the Council Meeting approve and adopt the 2025/26 Annual Pay Policy Statement and agree to publish the Council’s Gender Pay Gap information.

Officer contact: Andrea Steward on 07891949054 or email: andrea.steward@stockport.gov.uk

The Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources (Councillor Jilly Julian) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) detailing the Council’s Annual Pay Policy Statement for 2025/26 and the Gender Pay Gap figures.

RESOLVED – That the Council Meeting be recommended to adopt the Annual Pay Policy Statement and agree to publish the Council’s Gender Pay Gap information.

To consider a report of the Cabinet Member for Economy, Regeneration & Housing.

The report provides a summary of the findings and recommendations of the independent review of Stockport’s housing management arrangements which was commissioned following a Council Meeting resolution in February 2024. The report also outlines a plan of actions which the Council intends to carry out to address the priority recommendations of the review.

Cabinet are asked to consider these proposals together with any comments arising following scrutiny committee meeting, and if thought fit:

(1) accept the findings of the independent review.

(2) delegate authority to the Director of Place Management in consultation with the Cabinet Members for Finance and Resources and for Economy, Regeneration and Housing to develop a joint action plan to address the recommendations of the report including dialogue and discussions with the Board and Chief Executive of Stockport Homes Group.

(3) delegate authority to the Director of Place Management in consultation with Cabinet Members for Finance and for Economy, Regeneration and Housing to progress the draft priority actions to include dialogue and discussions with the Board and Chief Executive of Stockport Homes Group.

(4) delegate authority to the Director of Place Management and Assistant Director for Governance in consultation with Cabinet Members for Finance and for Economy, Regeneration and Housing to undertake all actions necessary to establish the Cabinet Sub-Committee for Housing and disestablish the Members Committee.

Officer contact: Mark Glynn 0161 474 3700 email mark.glynn@stockport.gov.uk

The Leader of the Council (Councillor Mark Hunter) submitted a report of the Cabinet Member for Economy, Regeneration & Housing (copies of which had been circulated) providing a summary of the findings and recommendations of the independent review of Stockport’s housing management arrangements which was commissioned following a Council Meeting resolution in February 2024 which included a plan of actions which the Council intended to carry out to address the priority recommendations of the review.

A further update was provided at the meeting in response to the consideration of the report by an extraordinary meeting of the Economy, Regeneration & Climate Change Scrutiny Committee the preceding evening such that it was no longer proposed to disestablish the Member Committee, and that element of the recommendations would not be carried forward.

The following comments were made/ issues raised:-

·         The timing of the extraordinary Economy, Regeneration & Climate Change Scrutiny Committee had presented challenges to the ability of the Cabinet to make an informed response to the views of scrutiny.

·         It was noted that there was a desire to see better scrutiny of Stockport Homes, and area committees could play a key role in that.

·         Broader scrutiny arrangements were in the gift of the Scrutiny Co-ordination Committee within the resource envelope available for scrutiny.

·         Stockport Homes was a high performing organisation , and the proposals in the report provided the foundations for the governance arrangements that would be put in place and the council’s relationship with Stockport Homes in the future.

RESOLVED - (1) That the findings of the independent review be accepted.

(2) That authority be delegated to the Director of Place Management in consultation with the Cabinet Members for Finance and Resources and for Economy, Regeneration and Housing to develop a joint action plan to address the recommendations of the report including dialogue and discussions with the Board and Chief Executive of Stockport Homes Group.

(3) That authority be delegated to the Director of Place Management in consultation with Cabinet Members for Finance and for Economy, Regeneration and Housing to progress the draft priority actions to include dialogue and discussions with the Board and Chief Executive of Stockport Homes Group.

(4) That authority be delegated to the Director of Place Management and Assistant Director for Governance in consultation with Cabinet Members for Finance and for Economy, Regeneration and Housing to undertake all actions necessary to establish the Cabinet Sub-Committee for Housing.

To consider a report of the Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources.

The report sets out the progress of the 2024/25 Asset Management Plan (AMP) capital programme, the programme of work for inclusion in the 2025/26 financial year and the indicative programme up to 2028/29.

The Cabinet is recommended to:-

(1) Approve the programme for 2025/26 and the financing thereof, and the Indicative AMP programme for up to 2028/29, as set out in the report;

(2) Approve the application of corporate resources to fund the AMP programme 2024/25 to 2028/29; with the application of funding types (capital receipts and borrowing) being delegated to the Director of Finance (S151 Officer) in conjunction with the Capital Board;

(3) Delegate authority to the Deputy Chief Executive to procure the works and services, and subsequently determine the outcome of any contract award process for any project specified in the asset management plan.

(4) Delegate authority the Director of Development & Deputy Chief Executive Regeneration to award professional services and construction contracts, as required, to deliver the works programme.

(5) Delegate authority to the Capital Board to reprofile the proposed spending to address urgent priorities that emerge during the years covered by this report.

Officer contact: James Kington at james.kington@stockport.gov.uk

The Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources (Councillor Jilly Julian) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) detailing a proposed Asset Management Plan (AMP) for 2024/25 setting out details of the capital programme for 2025/26 financial year and the indicative programme up to 2028/29.

RESOLVED - (1) That approval be given to the programme for 2025/26 and the financing thereof, and the Indicative AMP programme for up to 2028/29, as set out in the report;

(2) That approval be given to the application of corporate resources to fund the AMP programme 2024/25 to 2028/29; with the application of funding types (capital receipts and borrowing) being delegated to the Director of Finance (S151 Officer) in conjunction with the Capital Board;

(3) That authority be delegated to the Deputy Chief Executive to procure the works and services, and subsequently determine the outcome of any contract award process for any project specified in the asset management plan.

(4) That authority be delegated the Director of Development & Deputy Chief Executive Regeneration to award professional services and construction contracts, as required, to deliver the works programme.

(5) That authority be delegated to the Capital Board to reprofile the proposed spending to address urgent priorities that emerge during the years covered by this report.

To consider a report of the Cabinet Member for Children, Families & Education.

The Council is the Strategic Commissioner of Education Provision in Stockport. This document sets out how we will carry out our responsibility, in line with the commitments made in the One Stockport Borough Plan to ensure there are sufficient places in good and improving local inclusive schools at the heart of the community that children and families want to go to. This means having the right number and type of school places, in the right place, at the right time to meet demand.

The school investment plan aims to set out its strategy and capital investment pipeline for the next 5 years; securing an education estate that provides a safe, accessible, secure and stimulating learning environment, which is sustainable and provides value for money, is fit for current and future needs and reduces environmental impact.

The Cabinet is recommended to:-

(1) Agree the terms outlined in the strategy and the associated investment detailed in the Education Asset Management Plan (Appendix 2).

(2) Delegate authority to the Assistant Director of Estates and Asset Management, in consultation with members of the LA’s Capital Board to procure the works and services, and subsequently determine the outcome of any contract award process for any project specified in the asset management plan.

(3) Delegate authority to the Director of Education, Work, and Skills to determine, allocate, and deploy capital funding to projects, schools, or trusts to create additional mainstream, resource base, special school places.

(4) Delegate authority to the Director for Education, Work, and Skills to instruct the Assistant Director of  Governance to negotiate terms and enter into funding agreements as necessary with schools and trusts that are linked to the investment and creation of new school places.

(5) Delegate authority to the Director for Education, Work, and Skills and Assistant Director of Estates and Asset Management to instruct the Assistant Director of Governance to negotiate terms and enter into necessary legal agreements required to successfully convert a school into a multi-academy trust.

Officer contact: Christopher Harland on 0161 521 1707 or by email at christopher.harland@stockport.gov.uk

The Cabinet Member for Children, Families & Education (Councillor Wendy Meikle) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) detailing a proposed school investment plan that sets out a proposed strategy and capital investment pipeline for the next 5 years; securing an education estate that provided a safe, accessible, secure and stimulating learning environment, which was sustainable and provided value for money, was fit for current and future needs and reduced environmental impact.

RESOLVED - (1) That approval be given to the terms outlined in the strategy and the associated investment detailed in the Education Asset Management Plan (Appendix 2).

(2) That authority be delegated to the Assistant Director of Estates and Asset Management, in consultation with members of the LA’s Capital Board and the Cabinet Member for Children, Families & Education to procure the works and services, and subsequently determine the outcome of any contract award process for any project specified in the asset management plan.

(3) That authority be delegated to the Director of Education, Work, and Skills, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Children, Families & Education, to determine, allocate, and deploy capital funding to projects, schools, or trusts to create additional mainstream, resource base, special school places.

(4) That authority be delegated to the Director for Education, Work, and Skills, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Children, Families & Education, to instruct the Assistant Director of Governance to negotiate terms and enter into funding agreements as necessary with schools and trusts that are linked to the investment and creation of new school places.

(5) That authority be delegated to the Director for Education, Work, and Skills and Assistant Director of Estates and Asset Management, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Children, Families & Education, to instruct the Assistant Director of Governance to negotiate terms and enter into necessary legal agreements required to successfully convert a school into a multi-academy trust.

To consider a report of the Cabinet Member for Children, Families & Education.

All admission authorities are required to consult on changes to their coordinated admissions scheme and admission arrangements and where no changes are proposed to the coordinated admissions scheme or admission arrangements, there is no requirement to consult.  Admission authorities must ensure that their determined admission arrangements comply with the mandatory requirements of the School Admissions Code 2021. 

This report outlines the recent consultation on and makes recommendations for amendments to the admission arrangements and published admission numbers for community and voluntary controlled infant, primary, junior and secondary schools in Stockport for which Stockport Council is the admission authority.

The report also outlines the consultation that has taken place on the proposal to amalgamate Lark Hill Nursery School and Lark Hill Primary School and change the age range at Lark Hill Primary School following the announcement of the retirement of the Headteacher at Lark Hill Nursery School.

The Cabinet is recommended to approve that:-

(1) The admission arrangements for Stockport community and voluntary controlled schools are determined for September 2026 as set out in Appendix 1.

(2) The published admission number at Abingdon Primary School is reduced to 30 from September 2026

(3) The published admission number at Arden Primary School is reduced to 60 from September 2026

(4) The published admission number at Lum Head Primary School is reduced to 30 from September 2026.

(6) The published admission number at St Paul’s C of E Primary School is reduced to 45 from September 2026

(7) The published admission number at Westmorland Primary School is reduced to 60 from September 2026

(8) The age range of Lum Head Primary School is expanded to 3 - 11

(9) The age range of Highfields College Pupil Referral Service is expanded to 11 – 19

(10) Lark Hill Nursery School is discontinued with effect from 25 July 2025 and the age range of Lark Hill Primary School is changed from 4 -11 to 2 -11 to create a primary school with nursery provision with effect from 1 September 2025.

Officer contact: Christopher Harland on 0161 521 1707 or by email at christopher.harland@stockport.gov.uk

The Cabinet Member for Children, Families & Education (Councillor Wendy Meikle) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) outlining a recent consultation on and making recommendations for amendments to the admission arrangements and published admission numbers for community and voluntary controlled infant, primary, junior and secondary schools in Stockport for which Stockport Council is the admission authority. 

The report also outlined the consultation that had taken place on the proposal to amalgamate Lark Hill Nursery School and Lark Hill Primary School and change the age range at Lark Hill Primary School following the announcement of the retirement of the Headteacher at Lark Hill Nursery School. 

RESOLVED - (1) That approval be given to the admission arrangements for Stockport community and voluntary controlled schools are determined for September 2026 as set out in Appendix 1.

(2) That approval be given to the published admission number at Abingdon Primary School being reduced to 30 from September 2026

(3) That approval be given to the published admission number at Arden Primary School being reduced to 60 from September 2026

(4) That approval be given to the published admission number at Lum Head Primary School being reduced to 30 from September 2026.

(6) That approval be given to the published admission number at St Paul’s C of E Primary School being reduced to 45 from September 2026

(7) That approval be given to the published admission number at Westmorland Primary School being reduced to 60 from September 2026

(8) That approval be given to the the age range of Lum Head Primary School being expanded to 3 - 11

(9) That approval be given to the age range of Highfields College Pupil Referral Service being expanded to 11 – 19

(10) That approval be given to Lark Hill Nursery School being discontinued with effect from 25 July 2025 and the age range of Lark Hill Primary School being changed from 4 -11 to 2 -11 to create a primary school with nursery provision with effect from 1 September 2025.

To consider a report of the Cabinet Member for Health & Adult Social Care.

The report provides details a draft Learning Disability strategy 2025 to 2030 for approval which aims to promote the health, wellbeing and independence of people with learning disabilities. It sets out our strategic priorities to help people with learning disabilities to have happier, healthier and more independent lives.

The Cabinet is recommended to approve and adopt the Strategy.

Officer contact: Emma Gardiner by email: emma.gardiner@stockport.gov.uk

The Cabinet Member for Health & Adult Social Care (Councillor Keith Holloway) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) providing details of a draft Learning Disability strategy 2025 to 2030 for approval which aimed to promote the health, wellbeing and independence of people with learning disabilities.

It also set out the Council’s strategic priorities to help people with learning disabilities to have happier, healthier and more independent lives. 

RESOLVED – That the Learning Disability Strategy be approved and adopted.

To consider a report of the Cabinet Member for Health & Adult Social Care.

The report sets out the Cabinet’s proposed response to the recommendations made by the Adult Social Care & Health Scrutiny Committee as part of its Review into the Adult Social Care IT Systems & Data, that were received by the Cabinet at its meeting on 12 March 2024.

The Cabinet is invited to adopt the draft response as set out in the report.

Officer contact: Sam Powell on 0161 474 2205 or email: sam.powell@stockport.gov.uk

The Cabinet Member for Health & Adult Social Care (Councillor Keith Holloway) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) inviting the Cabinet to agree its response to the recommendations of the Scrutiny Review with regard to ‘Adult Social Care IT Systems & Data’.

RESOLVED – That the response to the recommendations contained in the ‘Adult Social Care IT Systems & Data’ Scrutiny Review carried out by the Adult Social Care & Health Scrutiny Committee be approved.

To consider a report of the Cabinet Member for Children, Families & Education.

The report sets out the Cabinet’s proposed response to the recommendations made by the Children & Families Scrutiny Committee as part of its Review into the Services for Young People, that were received by the Cabinet at its meeting on 12 March 2024.

The Cabinet is invited to adopt the draft response as set out in the report.

Officer contact: Heidi Shaw on 07800 618320 or email: heidi.shaw@stockport.gov.uk

The Cabinet Member for Children, Families & Education (Councillor Wendy Meikle) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) inviting the Cabinet to agree its response to the recommendations of the Scrutiny Review with regard to ‘Services for Young People’.

RESOLVED – That the response to the recommendations contained in the

‘Services for Young People’ Scrutiny Review carried out by the Children & Families Scrutiny Committee be approved.

To consider a report of the Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources.

The report sets out the Cabinet’s proposed response to the recommendations made by the Corporate, Resource Management & Governance Scrutiny Committee as part of its Review into the Financial Impact of Bus Franchising, that were received by the Cabinet at its meeting on 4 February 2024.

The Cabinet is invited to adopt the draft response as set out in the report.

Officer contact: Jonathan Davies on 0161 218 1025 or email jonathan.davies@stockport.gov.uk.

The Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources (Councillor Jilly Julian) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) inviting the Cabinet to agree its response to the recommendations of the Scrutiny Review with regard to the ‘Impact of Bus Franchising’

RESOLVED – That the response to the recommendations contained in the

‘Impact of Bus Franchising’ Scrutiny Review carried out by the Corporate, Resource Management & Governance Scrutiny Committee be approved.

To consider a report of the Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources.

The report sets out The Council’s Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA) Policy which must be considered by elected members annually to set the Policy and to ensure that if the Council is using its RIPA powers, it is doing so appropriately and complying with its own Code of Practice when carrying out covert surveillance.

The Cabinet is recommended to:-

(1) note that the Council has not exercised its RIPA powers since the last report; and

(2) approve the RIPA Policy/ Code of Practice for the forthcoming year.

Officer contact: Michelle Dodds on 0161 474 3257 or email michelle.dodds@stockport.gov.uk

The Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources (Councillor Jilly Julian) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) setting out the Council’s Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA) Policy which must be considered by elected members annually to set the Policy and to ensure that if the Council is using its RIPA powers, it is doing so appropriately and complying with its own Code of Practice when carrying out covert surveillance.

RESOLVED - (1) That it be noted that the Council has not exercised its RIPA powers since the last report.

(2) That approval be given to the RIPA Policy/ Code of Practice for the forthcoming year.

To appoint/ nominate Councillor Helen Foster-Grime to replace Councillor Frankie Singleton on the following outside bodies:-

GMCA Statutory Functions Committee   

GM Culture & Social Impact Fund Committee

GM Homelessness Programme Board (substitute)

Stockport Family Partnership Board

RESOLVED - That approval be given to the appointment/ nomination of Councillor Helen Foster-Grime to replace Councillor Frankie Singleton on the following outside bodies:-

GMCA Statutory Functions Committee  

GM Culture & Social Impact Fund Committee

GM Homelessness Programme Board (substitute)

Stockport Family Partnership Board

To consider a report of the Leader of the Council.

The Cabinet is invited to note the decisions of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) held on 13 December 2024.

Officer contact: Damian Eaton on 0161 474 3207 or email: damian.eaton@stockport.gov.uk

The Leader of the Council (Councillor Mark Hunter) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) setting out decisions taken by the GMCA at its meeting on 13 December 2024.

RESOLVED – That the decisions be noted.

On:-

(a)  Matters (if any) referred to the Cabinet Meeting

(b)  Any called-in Cabinet Executive Decisions

There were no recommendations to consider.

To consider a report of the Cabinet Member for Parks, Highways and Transport Services.

The report advises Councillors on progress with the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Fund (LEVI) and requests permission to authorise Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) to undertake the preparatory procurement arrangements that need to be undertaken to deliver the LEVI Programme on behalf of Stockport Council in accordance with Transport for Greater Manchester’s existing Constitutional arrangements.

(NOTE: The report contains a ‘not for publication’ appendix that has been circulated to members of the Cabinet only).

That the Cabinet be recommended to give approval to:-

(1) Pursuant to Article 13 of the council's constitution on Joint Arrangements, the council's procurement functions be delegated to Transport for Greater Manchester to exercise on the council's behalf in respect of the delivery of the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Programme

(2) Delegate authority to the Director of Place Management in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Parks, Highways and Transportation Services, to act on the council’s behalf as required to give effect to the authority agreement for the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure programme.

(3) Delegate authority to the Director of Place Management in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Parks, Highways and Transportation Services to agree final approval for locations of Electric Charging Infrastructure on the Highway Network subject to consultation with the relevant Area Committees where the infrastructure is located. 

(4) A further report will be brought to Scrutiny Committee and Cabinet regarding the decision to award to the contract to the successful supplier.

Officer contact: Jamie Birtles on 07356 120 423 or email jamie.birtles@stockport.gov.uk

The Cabinet Member for Parks, Highways and Transport Services (Councillor Grace Baynham) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) providing an update on progress with the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Fund (LEVI) and requesting permission to authorise Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) to undertake the preparatory procurement arrangements that need to be undertaken to deliver the LEVI Programme on behalf of Stockport Council in accordance with Transport for Greater Manchester’s existing Constitutional arrangements.

(NOTE: The report contained a ‘not for publication’ appendix that had been circulated to members of the Cabinet only).

RESOLVED - (1) That, pursuant to Article 13 of the council's constitution on Joint Arrangements, the council's procurement functions be delegated to Transport for Greater Manchester to exercise on the council's behalf in respect of the delivery of the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Programme

(2) That authority be delegated to the Director of Place Management in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Parks, Highways and Transportation Services, to act on the council’s behalf as required to give effect to the authority agreement for the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure programme.

(3) That authority be delegated to the Director of Place Management in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Parks, Highways and Transportation Services to agree final approval for locations of Electric Charging Infrastructure on the Highway Network subject to consultation with the relevant Area Committees where the infrastructure is located.

(4) That it be noted that a further report will be brought to Communities & Transport Scrutiny Committee and Cabinet regarding the decision to award to the contract to the successful supplier.

To consider a report of the Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources.

The report details a proposal to write off arrears of rent, insurance and service charges in the sum of £175,753.19 that are now deemed irrecoverable associated to the subject property.

(NOTE: Appendices to the report contain information ‘not for publication’ that have been circulated to members of the Cabinet only).

The Cabinet is recommended to:-

(1)  Give approval to write off the arrears of rent, insurance and service charges totalling £175,753.19 that are now deemed irrecoverable as detailed within this report.

(2) Note that the Deputy Chief Executive has the existing delegated authority to proceed to terminate or receive the surrender of the lease in relation to the Property following the approval of the write off of the arrears associated with the tenancy.

Officer contact: Sam Holdcroft on 07356 111176 or by email: sam.holdcroft@stockport.gov.uk

The Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources (Councillor Jilly Julian) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) detailing a proposal to write off arrears of rent, insurance and service charges in the sum of £175,753.19 that are now deemed irrecoverable associated to the subject property.

(NOTE: The report contained a ‘not for publication’ appendix that had been circulated to members of the Cabinet only).

RESOLVED - (1) That approval be given to write off the arrears of rent, insurance and service charges totalling £175,753.19 that are now deemed irrecoverable as detailed within this report.

(2) That it be noted that the Deputy Chief Executive has the existing delegated authority to proceed to terminate or receive the surrender of the lease in relation to the Property following the approval of the write off of the arrears associated with the tenancy.