Agenda and minutes

To approve as a correct record and sign the Minutes of the meeting held on 11 November 2014.

The Minutes (copies of which had been circulated) of the meeting held on 11 November 2014 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.

The following interest was declared:-

Personal Interest

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

Members of the public are invited to put questions to the Chair and Executive Councillors on any matters within the powers and duties of the Executive, subject to the exclusions set out in the Code of Practice.  (Questions must be submitted no later than 30 minutes prior to the commencement of the meeting on the card provided.  These are available at the meeting. You can also submit via the Council’s website at www.stockport.gov.uk/publicquestions)

No public questions were submitted.

To consider a report of the Executive Councillor (Corporate, Customer & Community Services)

Stockport’s Council Tax Support (CTS) and Council Tax Discount (CTD) scheme has been running since April 2013. This report considers the impact of the schemes to date.

Both schemes have been running successfully with few problems.

It is a requirement that the CTD and CTS schemes are formally considered for the year 2015/16. The schemes agreed will have budget implications for the 2015/16 budget.

This report proposes that the schemes be maintained for 2015/16 with some minor clarifications:

·         That customers are encouraged to receive Personal Budgeting Support  by linking it to entitlement to discretionary payments 

·         Around how CTS claims are calculated where the customer has claimed Universal Credit. 

·         That War Pensions be disregarded in the calculation of CTS in line with the agreed approach for Council Tax Benefit

The clarification seeks to confirm the approach being taken in assessments and has no material impact on customers.

The Executive is asked to approve the following recommendations

Business Rates Relief

·         That support continues for Business rates relief for

·         CASC organisations as outlined at 3.3 of the report be continued

·         not for profit organisations as outlined at 3.6 of the report

·         That further support for Charities is limited to mandatory relief (see paragraph 3.4 of the report) and that any village shop entitlement (3.5 of the report) be considered through the local business rates relief scheme.

·         That the localised discount scheme for businesses as outlined in section 3.7 and 3.8 of the report continues

·         That officers continue to explore where appropriate, through the Investing in Stockport programme, ways of converting grants into business rates relief as outlined in 3.9 of the report.   

·         That organisations and initiatives which are considered to be essential for the Council to achieve its priorities as outlined at 3.10 of the report continue to be considered for business rates relief.

Council Tax

·         That Stockport’s empty property discount scheme is maintained for 2015/16 as described at section 4.3 of this report.

·         That Stockport’s Council Tax Support scheme is maintained for 2015/16 as detailed at section 4.4 of the report and Appendix 5.

·         That the qualifying criteria for a discretionary CTS payment be amended so that it is no longer essential to have been in receipt of Council Tax Benefit on 31st March 2013 as shown at 4.5 of the report.

·         That any awards of discretionary CTS be linked to the customer receiving Personal Budgeting Support to prevent repeat applications and prepare customers for the introduction of Universal Credit. 

·         That the start date of CTS entitlement for customers in receipt of Universal Credit is aligned with the payment date for UC and awarded from the Monday of the start of the week in which payment is due as shown at 4.6 of the report.

·         That the full amount of Universal Credit is used in the CTS calculation net of housing cost as outlined at 4.6.6 of the report.

·         That if primary legislation is not passed, claims for CTS from EEA jobseekers are aligned with HB regulations and excluded from entitlement as outlined at 4.7 of the report.

·         That the treatment of War Pensions as an income in the calculation of CTS be brought in line with the Housing Benefit provision and be totally disregarded.

Officer contact: Alison Blount, 0161 474 5107, alison.blount@stockport.gov.uk      

The Executive Councillor (Corporate, Customer & Community Services) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) inviting the Executive to approve changes proposed to the Council Tax Support and Council Tax Discount schemes as a result of the operation of the schemes and changes to Government policy and regulation since the adoption of the schemes. The proposed changes would be minor and would have no material impact on customers.

RESOLVED – (1) That in relation to Business Rates Relief:

·         support continues for Business Rates Relief for

-       Community Amateur Sports Club organisations as outlined at 3.3 of the report be continued

-       not for profit organisations as outlined at 3.6 of the report

·         further support for charities be limited to mandatory relief (see paragraph 3.4 of the report) and that any village shop entitlement (3.5 of the report) be considered through the local Business Rates Relief scheme;

·         the localised discount scheme for businesses as outlined in sections 3.7 and 3.8 of the reports continue;

·         officers continue to explore where appropriate, through the Investing in Stockport programme, ways of converting grants into business rates relief as outlined in 3.9 of the report;

·         organisations and initiatives which were considered to be essential for the Council to achieve its priorities as outlined at 3.10 of this report continue to be considered for Business Rates Relief.

(2) That in relation to Council Tax

·         Stockport’s Empty Property Discount scheme be maintained for 2015/16 as described at section 4.3 of the report;

·         Stockport’s Council Tax Support Scheme be maintained for 2015/16 as detailed at section 4.4 and Appendix 5 of the report;

·         the qualifying criteria for a discretionary Council Tax Support payment be amended so that it was no longer essential to have been in receipt of Council Tax Benefit on 31 March 2013 as shown at 4.5 of the report;

·         any awards of discretionary Council Tax Support be linked to the customer receiving Personal Budgeting Support to prevent repeat applications and to prepare customers for the introduction of Universal Credit;

·         the start date of Council Tax Support entitlement for customers in receipt of Universal Credit be aligned with the payment date for Universal Credit and awarded from the Monday of the start of the week in which payment was due, as shown at 4.6 of the report;

·         the full amount of Universal Credit be used in the Council Tax Support calculation net of housing cost as outlined at 4.6.6 of the report;

·         if primary legislation was not passed, claims for Council Tax Support from Economic Employment Area jobseekers be aligned with Housing Benefit regulations and excluded from entitlement as outlined at 4.7 of the report;

·         the treatment of War Pensions as an income in the calculation of Council Tax Support be brought in line with the Housing Benefit provision and be totally disregarded.

To consider a report of the Executive Councillor (Corporate, Customer & Community Services)

This report deals with the forecast Collection Fund outturn position for 2014/15, the setting of the Council Tax Base for 2015/16 and also presents a forecast for Business Rates income for 2015/16.

These items form an integral and important part of the Council’s budget setting process.

Within the Collection Fund, Council Tax and Business Rates revenues are separately identified.  For the Council Tax element, a surplus of £3.050m is forecast for 2014/15 of which Stockport’s share is £2.650m.  The forecast for the Business Rates element is a surplus of £0.273m; of which Stockport’s share is £0.134m.  Further details are provided in section two of the report.

The calculation of the Council Tax Base is highly prescribed and set out in government regulations. The calculation is prepared at a specified date and is submitted in a statutory return to Central Government. This calculation and the associated collection rate represents the Council Tax Base to be used for budget setting purposes.  Further details are set out in section three of the report.

A Council Tax Base of 89,500.5 is recommended and the calculation and assumptions are set out in this report.

Section four of the report sets out the Business Rates income forecast for 2015/16 which, assuming no further adjustment is required, will form the basis of a return submitted to central government by 31 January 2014.  The latest forecast suggests income of £90.515m will be achieved; Stockport’s share being £44.352m.  The forecast may vary following publication of the local government finance settlement.  The report therefore recommends delegating any decision to vary the Business Rates forecast to the Corporate Director, Corporate and Support Services, in consultation with the Executive Councillor for Corporate, Customer and Community Services.

Finally, section five sets out the latest position regarding the proposal for the pooling of business rates revenues across Greater Manchester and Cheshire East Council.

(1)          The Executive is recommended to:

·                    Declare a forecast Collection Fund surplus relating to Council Tax Revenues of £3.050m for 2014/15 and a forecast Collection Fund surplus relating to Business Rates of £0.273m

·                    Approve the Council Tax Base for 2015/16 at a Band D equivalent figure of 89,500.5;

·                    Provisionally approve the forecast for Business Rates Income of £90.515m for 2015/16.

(2)          The Executive is recommended to delegate the following decisions to the Corporate Director for Corporate and Support Services, in consultation with the Executive Councillor (Corporate, Customer and Community Services):

·                    any decision to vary the Business Rates forecast presented at paragraphs 4.9 to 4.12 of the report;

·                    the decision as to whether or not to join the Greater Manchester/Cheshire East Business Rates Pool as set out in section 5.

Officer contact: Andy Moran, 0161 474 4086, Andrew.moran@stockport.gov.uk

The Executive Councillor (Corporate, Customer & Community Services) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) inviting the Executive to consider a forecast for the outturn position of the Council Tax Collection Fund for 2014/15 as well as the projected Council Tax Base for 2015/16, and presenting a forecast for Business Rates income for 2015/16.

RESOLVED – (1) That

·                a forecast Collection Fund surplus relating to Council Tax Revenues of £3.050m for 2014/15 and a forecast Collection Fund surplus relating to Business Rates of £0.273m be declared;

·                the Council Tax Base for 2015/16 at a Band D equivalent figure of 89,500.5be approved;

·                the forecast for Business Rates Income of £90.515m for 2015/16 be provisionally approved.

(2) That the following decisions be delegated to the Corporate Director for Corporate and Support Services, in consultation with the Executive Councillor (Corporate, Customer & Community Services):

·                any decision to vary the Business Rates forecast presented at paragraphs 4.9 to 4.12 of the report;

·                the decision as to whether or not to join the Greater Manchester/Cheshire East Business Rates Pool as set out in section 5 of the report.

To consider a report of the Executive Councillor (Corporate, Customer & Community Services)

This report presents the forecasts for the Council’s finances for the period 2015/16 to 2018/19 taking as its starting point the position set out in the budget reports considered at the Executive Meeting on 15 July 2014.

The report will inform:

·         The deliberations around priorities and outcomes for next and future years’ Council Plans;

·         The preparation of medium term business plans covering all of the Council’s services; and

·         The development of a balanced and sustainable budget for 2015/16 and a longer term forecast moving beyond the current Comprehensive Spending Review period up to 2018/19.

Since the previous forecast, there have been further developments which impact on the Council’s medium term financial plans including:

·         The Local Government Finance Settlement Technical Consultation published in July 2014;

·         Policy announcements relating to Business Rates covered in the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement published on 3 December 2014;

·         The Council Tax Base and Non-Domestic Rates forecasts included in a further report (elsewhere on the agenda);

·         A review of other key assumptions underpinning the forecast.

At this stage the best estimate of the reductions necessary to bring forecast spending down to match likely resource levels suggests that savings of around £17.681m are required for 2015/16 and that the cumulative on-going savings requirement to 2018/19 will amount to some £66.2m.

The Executive is recommended to:

·         Note the recent announcements in the Autumn Statement and their potential impact on the planned reductions in local government expenditure and Settlement Funding Assessments;

·         Note, and comment upon as appropriate, the financial forecasts for 2015/16 to 2018/19, and the key issues to be addressed in formulating a response to the financial challenges facing the Council;

·         Approve the adjustments to the medium term financial plan set out in the tables at paragraphs 3.2 and 4.2;

·         Note the indicative cumulative savings requirement for 2015/16 of £17.7m, £38.8m for 2016/17 rising to £66.2m by 2018/19 along with the sensitivity analysis included at Appendices One and Three;

·         Request that Executive Councillors and Corporate Directors continue to develop their spending plans and savings proposals to address the budget requirements for 2015/16 and to report on progress;

·         Take the steps necessary to propose a balanced budget for 2015/16 and an updated Medium Term Financial Plan for presentation to the Budget Council meeting on 26 February 2015.

Officer contact: Andy Moran, 0161 474 4086, andrew.moran@stockport.gov.uk

The Executive Councillor (Corporate, Customer & Community Services) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) updating the Executive on forecasts for the Council’s finances for the period 2015/16 to 2018/19 to inform the development of a balanced and sustainable budget for 2015/16.

RESOLVED – That

·         the recent announcements in the Autumn Statement and their potential impact on the planned reductions in local government expenditure and Settlement Funding Assessments be noted;

·         the financial forecasts for 2015/16 to 2018/19, and the key issues to be addressed in formulating a response to the financial challenges facing the Council be noted;

·         the adjustments to the Medium Term Financial Plan set out in the tables at paragraphs 3.2 and 4.2 be approved;

·         the indicative cumulative savings requirement for 2015/16 of £17.7m, £38.8m for 2016/17 rising to £66.2m by 2018/19 along with the sensitivity analysis included at Appendices One and Three be noted;

·         that Executive Councillors and Corporate Directors be requested to continue to develop their spending plans and savings proposals to address the budget requirements for 2015/16 and to report on progress;

·         the steps necessary be taken to propose a balanced budget for 2015/16 and an updated Medium Term Financial Plan for presentation to the Budget Council meeting on 26 February 2015.

To consider a joint report of the Leader of the Council (Policy, Reform & Finance) and the Executive Councillor (Corporate, Customer & Community Services)

The proposals contained in this report build upon those contained in previous reports to the Executive in July, August and September. They respond to the updated financial forecasts for 2015/16 to 2018/19 set out in the report of the Corporate Director, Corporate and Support Services elsewhere on the agenda for this meeting.  That report estimates that there is a cumulative budget reduction requirement of £17.7m in 2015/16, £38.8m for 2016/17 and rising to £66.7m by 2018/19.

This report follows the decision taken by the Executive on 30 September 2014 to make available for consultation, in draft form, a number of proposed investment business cases.  It reiterates the Executive’s strategic approach to managing growth and public service reform through the Investing in Stockport programme; responds to a number of points from the Medium-Term Financial Forecast; sets out the agreed strategic context; outlines the proposals for implementation in 2015/16 and draft proposals for 2016/17, and the approach to and feedback from consultation on these; sets out the workforce implications of the proposals; and suggests appropriate risk assessed use of reserves and balances. 

An Equality Impact Assessment, indicative budget proposals, and a full report on consultation activity are appended to the report.  Final business cases for 2015/16 Investing in Stockport proposals, and updated draft business cases for 2016/17 proposal, are included in the appendices to the report.

The Executive is recommended to:

·         Agree the indicative cash limit budget allocations outlined in appendix one and the proposed two year indicative budget for 2015-17 set out in appendix two.

·         Agree those proposals that are in Final Business Case format and ask officers to proceed to implementation for 2015/16.

·         Agree those proposals that are to return to Executive in February 2015 for implementation in 2015/16 via the January cycle of Scrutiny Committees.

·         Request officers continue to work on the detail of draft business cases for consideration at future Executive meetings with detailed plans for consultation and implementation in 2016/17.

·         Continue with the steps necessary to agree and reach a final balanced budget proposal for 2015/16 for presentation to the Council Budget meeting in February 2015.

Officer contact: Laureen Donnan, 0161 474 3181, Laureen.donnan@stockport.gov.uk

A joint report of the Leader of the Council (Policy, Reform & Finance) and the Executive Councillor (Corporate, Customer & Community Services) was submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) inviting the Executive to consider the proposed response of the Executive to the updated financial forecasts for 2015/16 to 2018/19. The report contained proposals to address the savings requirements necessary to achieve a balanced budget for 2015/16. The report contained in its appendices a full report on the consultation activity undertaken on the draft Business Cases following the Executive’s decision to publish these on 30 September 2014, as well as an Equality Impact Assessment and copies of the updated Business Cases.

The Executive Councillor (Corporate, Customer & Community Services) commended officers, partners and residents for their involvement in developing the proposals which, if approved, would mean the Council Meeting would be in a strong position to set a balanced budget for the next two years.

RESOLVED – That

·                the indicative cash limit budget allocations outlined in appendix one and the proposed two year indicative budget for 2015-17 set out in appendix two be approved;

·                those proposals that were in Final Business Case format be approved and officers be requested to proceed to implementation for 2015/16;

·                where appropriate, the Draft Business Cases for implementation in 2015/16 return to Executive in February 2015 via the January cycle of Scrutiny Committees;

·                officers be requested continue to work on the detail of draft business cases for consideration at future Executive meetings with detailed plans for consultation and implementation in 2016/17;

·                the steps necessary to agree and reach a final balanced budget proposal for 2015/16 for presentation to the Council Budget meeting in February 2015 continue to be taken.

To consider a report of the Executive Councillor (Adult Care Services)

This report outlines proposals to modernise the Council’s approach to community meals provision and ancillary catering services in line with the direction of social care policy towards individual choice, using personal budgets as appropriate. The Council would continue to offer assistance to people in arranging meal provision but not in the future act as a commissioner or provider of this service.

The proposed change to the model of service provision and funding arrangements to meet this critical and substantial need could deliver significant savings.

The Executive is asked to consider the details included in this report and the proposed plans to consult on the potential de-commissioning of the community meals service.

The recommendation is to approve further work to examine the proposal as outlined in the report including completion of the equality impact assessment informed by the consultation with key stakeholders involving all service users/carers/families, relevant staff groups and meals provider organisations.

Officer contact: Vince Fraga, 0161 474 4401, vincent.fraga@stockport.gov.uk

The Executive Councillor (Adult Care Services) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) inviting the Executive to consider proposals to modernise the Council’s approach to community meals provision and ancillary catering services to bring this in line with the direction of social care policy toward individual choice and personal budgets. The new model of service would seek to work with service users, and their carers and families, to make individually tailored arrangements for their meals, but the Council would no longer act as a commissioner or provider of the service. The proposals would be subject to further consultation with stakeholders.

The Executive Councillor highlighted the valuable discussions at the Adult Social Care & Housing Scrutiny Committee that had further informed the proposals in the report.

RESOLVED – That proposed consultation with key stakeholders on the potential de-commissioning of the Community Meals Service be approved.

To consider a report of the Executive Councillor (Corporate, Customer & Community Services)

This report proposes a strategic approach to planning and procuring what is considered to be essential new infrastructure technology to achieve greater benefits over individual purchasing decisions, following a comprehensive review in the summer of 2014. It also outlines how the investment could be financed and the ongoing financial benefits that could be gained.

The Executive is asked to consider the rationale for investment set out in this report and to support the recommended investment proposal set out in option 2 of the report.

Officer contact: Paul James, 0161 474 5430, paul.james@stockport.gov.uk

The Executive Councillor (Corporate, Customer & Community Services) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) inviting the Executive to consider the outcome of a comprehensive review of the Council’s ICT infrastructure, including the Data Centre, and proposing a strategic approach to planning and procuring what is considered to be essential new infrastructure technology to achieve greater benefits over individual purchasing decisions. It also provided a detailed proposal on how the investment could be financed over the next five years.

RESOLVED – That the proposed ICT Investment programme set out at Option 2 in the report be approved.

To consider a report of the Executive Councillor (Corporate, Customer & Community Services)

The purpose of this report is to seek approval to the Asset Management Plan (AMP) capital programme for 2015/16 to 2017/18 and the funding arrangements to support the programme. At this stage, given the prospect of significant changes in the Council’s property requirements as the Investing In Stockport programme is developed and implemented, the Executive is being asked to approve the 2015/16 programme for implementation and funding, and to approve as indicative the programme for 2016/17–2017/18 subject to a further update and recommendations during 2015/16.

The Executive is recommended to approve the following:-

·         The 2015/16 AMP programme for implementation and funding and the Indicative AMP programme for 2016/17 to 2017/18

·         The application of corporate resources to fund the AMP programme 2015/2016 to 2017/2018; with the application of funding types (capital receipts (including total achieved from ORP) and borrowing) being delegated to the Corporate Director, Corporate and Support Services in conjunction with the Estates Strategy Group (ESG).

·         The ECP phase 1 for implementation, where the funding required is derived from the energy reduction measures within the programme and the matching of Salix funding capital projects where appropriate up to the proposed allocation outlined in the report.

·         That the Executive and the CRMG Scrutiny Committee receive annual updates, which will report progress and the effects of any other programmes, in particular Investing in Stockport.

Officer contact: Murray Carr, 0161 474 3649, murray.carr@stockport.gov.uk

The Executive Councillor (Corporate, Customer & Community Services) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) inviting the Executive to approve the Asset Management Plan Capital Programme for 2015/16 to 2017/18 and its supporting funding arrangements.

RESOLVED – That

·         the 2015/16 Asset Management Plan programme for implementation and funding and the Indicative Asset Management Plan programme for 2016/17 to 2017/18 be approved;

·         the application of corporate resources to fund the Asset Management Plan programme 2015/16 to 2017/18 be approved; with the application of funding types (capital receipts (including total achieved from Office Rationalisation Programme) and borrowing) being delegated to the Corporate Director for Corporate and Support Services in conjunction with the Estates Strategy Group;

·         the Energy Capital Programme Phase 1 be approved for implementation, where the funding required was derived from the energy reduction measures within the programme and the matching of Salix funding capital projects where appropriate up to the proposed allocation outlined in the report;

·         the Executive and the Corporate, Resource Management & Governance Scrutiny Committee receive annual updates, which will report progress and the effects of any other programmes, in particular Investing in Stockport.

To consider a report of the Executive Councillor (Communities & Sustainability)

This report provides an update on:

·        the progress with delivering the various phases of the SEMMMS (South East Manchester Multi Modal Strategy) Road schemes. The three phases are A6 to Manchester Airport Relief Road, Poynton Relief Road and A6 to M60 Relief Road

·        the Poynton Relief Road consultation on the preferred route option and its future work programme including proposals for a section 8 agreement to be drafted to allow Cheshire East to lead this scheme development and delivery.

·        progress with the A6 to Manchester Airport Relief Road scheme which is progressing through the statutory processes stages and subject to satisfactory completion describes the steps required to deliver the scheme

·        An update is also provided on the status of the A6 to M60 route.

The Executive is requested to approve the following recommendations in relation to the Poynton Relief Road scheme:

·        Note the findings of the Public Consultation report Appendix 2.

·        Approve the Green route be taken forward as the preferred route as set out in the Preferred Route Assessment Report.

·        Approve that the necessary steps are taken to protect the preferred route shown in Appendix 4 from future development including introducing the necessary modifications into the Local Plan Core Strategy at the earliest opportunity.

·        Reemphasis Stockport Council’s recommendation that appropriate mitigation is provided to ensure that the impact of the Green route on properties within Stockport is managed to a level similar to that for the existing (extant) protected route and request that council officers work with Cheshire East’s officers to implement this recommendation.

·        Remove the extant route protection for the former route of the road from the Council’s Local Plan policy once the new preferred route has been fully protected.

·        Approve that the alignment of the preferred route is further developed to enable the submission of a planning application, reflecting where possible feedback received through consultation, and that the business case for the scheme is developed to the next level and that work is commissioned for the Phase 2 A523 multi-modal study.         

·        Approve that officers work with Cheshire East’s officers to develop the scheme, undertake further consultation and develop any necessary mitigation in Stockport and also take part in the A523 study.

·        Agree that officers work with Cheshire East’s officers to develop a section 8 agreement which would allow CEC to take the lead and responsibility for managing the scheme within SMBC, be responsible for delivery of any necessary improvements within SMBC and accept liability for compensation aspects of the scheme within SMBC and approve that developing the detail of this agreement and signing it is delegated to the Corporate Director Place Management and Regeneration in consultation with the Executive Councillor (Communities & Sustainability).

In relation to the A6 to Manchester Airport Scheme the Executive will be requested to approve the following recommendations:

·        That the Executive, having previously approved the making of The Metropolitan Borough of Stockport (Hazel Grove (A6) to Manchester Airport A555 Classified Road) Compulsory Purchase Order 2013 and The Metropolitan Borough of Stockport (Hazel Grove (A6) to Manchester Airport A555 Classified Road) (Side Roads) Order 2013, authority is given for –

·        The Chief Executive and Corporate Director Corporate and Support Services to take all necessary steps to bring the aforementioned compulsory purchase order and side roads order into operation, provided that the Orders are confirmed by the Secretary of State for Transport, and to continue to enter into negotiations and to agree terms for the Council to acquire by voluntary means all the land and other interests and the rights needed to facilitate the proposed A6 to Manchester Airport relief road scheme and

·        where applicable, to exercise compulsory purchase powers to open negotiations and to acquire such interests and to create such rights that are necessary to enable the relief road to be implemented, subject to there being no material change in circumstances that would  ...  view the full agenda text for item 12.

The Executive Councillor (Communities & Sustainability) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) updating the Executive on progress with delivering the various phases of the SEMMMS (South East Manchester Multi Modal Strategy) Road schemes, namely the three phases of the A6 to Manchester Airport Relief Road, Poynton Relief Road and A6 to M60 Relief Road. In particular, the report highlighted the outcomes of the consultation on the Poynton Relief Road and the subsequent decision by Cheshire East Council to designate the ‘Green Route’ as the preferred route, and the further steps needed to progress the A6 to Manchester Airport Relief Road scheme.

The Executive Councillor reported that since publication of the agenda the report had been subject to further consultation with Area Committees, and that the Bramhall & Cheadle Hulme South Area Committee had made specific comments to the Executive about the Poynton Relief Road scheme inviting them to (i) resolve to favour the ‘blue route’, and (ii) establish a liaison forum for residents in Woodford most directly affected by the route. The Executive Councillor stated that the Executive had previously made a representation in respect of the preferred route and so he did not propose making a further recommendation to Cheshire East Council on the route, but would recommend accepting the proposal in respect of the liaison forum.

RESOLVED – (1) That in relation to the Poynton Relief Road scheme

·         the findings of the Public Consultation report at Appendix 2 be noted;

·         approval be given to the Green route being taken forward as the preferred route as set out in the Preferred Route Assessment Report;

·         approval be given to taking the necessary steps to protect the preferred route shown in Appendix 4 from future development including introducing the necessary modifications into the Local Plan Core Strategy at the earliest opportunity;

·         Reemphasis be given to Stockport Council’s recommendation that appropriate mitigation be provided to ensure that the impact of the Green route on properties within Stockport is managed to a level similar to that for the existing (extant) protected route and that Council officers be requested to work with Cheshire East Council’s officers to implement this recommendation;

·         the extant route protection for the former route of the road be removed from the Council’s Local Plan policy once the new preferred route has been fully protected;

·         approval be given to the alignment of the preferred route being further developed to enable the submission of a planning application, reflecting where possible feedback received through consultation, and that the business case for the scheme be developed to the next level and that work is commissioned for the Phase 2 A523 multi-modal study;

·         officers work with Cheshire East Council’s officers to develop the scheme, undertake further consultation and develop any necessary mitigation in Stockport and also take part in the A523 study;

·         that officers work with Cheshire East Council’s officers to develop a Section 8 Agreement which would allow Cheshire East Council to take the lead and responsibility for managing the scheme within the Borough of Stockport, be responsible for delivery of any necessary improvements within the Borough of Stockport and accept liability for compensation aspects of the scheme within the Borough of Stockport and that developing the detail of this agreement and signing be delegated to the Corporate Director for Place Management and Regeneration in consultation with the Executive Councillor (Communities & Sustainability);

·         officers be requested to establish a Local Liaison Forum for the residents closest to the proposed Poynton Relief Road scheme to allow them the opportunity to have a greater input into the scheme as it developed.

(2) That in relation to the A6 to Manchester Airport Scheme:

·         having previously approved the making of The Metropolitan Borough of Stockport (Hazel Grove (A6) to Manchester Airport A555 Classified Road) Compulsory Purchase Order 2013 and The Metropolitan Borough of Stockport (Hazel Grove (A6) to Manchester Airport A555 Classified Road) (Side Roads) Order  ...  view the full minutes text for item 12.

To consider a report of the Executive Councillor (Communities & Sustainability)

This report provides an update on the progress of developing the Stockport Town Centre Access Plan (STCAP) including the consultation process, development and submission of the business case for the full scheme and the final business cases for the phase one and two schemes and requests the necessary approvals for the implementation of this plan.

The town centre access package is a £73.2m scheme which has been prioritised within the Greater Manchester Growth Plan for delivery between 2015 and 2020. The package provides a multi modal plan to improve access to and around Stockport town centre including the routes to the M60 junctions. Appendix 1 provides a summary of the proposed schemes in phase one and two.

The Executive is requested  to:

·         Approve the approach to the development and submission of the full business case and phase one and two final business cases including the consultation process.

·         Delegate to the Corporate Director Place Management and Regeneration in consultation with Executive Councillor (Communities & Sustainability) the authority to approve the full business case, the final phase one business case and the phase two business cases and consultation reports.

·         Authorise the section 151 officer, the Corporate Director for Corporate and Support Services, the Chief Executive and Corporate Director for Place Management and Regeneration to sign off the full business case and final phase one and two business cases.

·         Approve that the phase two schemes are developed and the necessary powers are obtained including the making of compulsory purchase orders, side road orders and planning applications to deliver the schemes.

·         Approve where applicable, the exercise of compulsory purchase powers to acquire such interests and to create such rights that are necessary to enable the link road to be implemented, subject to there being no material change in circumstances that would mean that the Council is unable to properly implement the Orders and proceed with the scheme.

·         Approve that officers carry out and enter into arrangements to secure where necessary, the appropriation for planning purposes of land required for the link road or other schemes in order to utilise the power contained in Section 237 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990.

·         Agree to the making of a Compulsory Purchase Order under s.226(1)(a) and s226(3)(a)  of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended), s.13 of the Local  Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976, s.1 of the Localism Act 2011 and Side Road Orders under and all other relevant powers to acquire all outstanding land and interests required for the new link road and other elements of the phase two schemes where required. to allow the building of the new link road and the other phase two schemes.

·         Authorise the Chief Executive and Corporate Director for Corporate and Support Services to take all necessary steps to bring the aforementioned compulsory purchase order and side roads order into operation, provided that the Orders are confirmed by the Secretary of State for Transport, and to continue to enter into negotiations and to agree terms for the Council to acquire by voluntary means all the land and other interests and the rights needed to facilitate the proposed link road and other schemes.

·         Agree that if the CPO is confirmed, the Executive authorises the acquisition of the land and rights the subject of the CPO subject to there being no material change in circumstances that would mean that it could not properly pursue the CPO.

·         Authorise the Corporate Directors for Place Management and Regeneration and Corporate and Support Services (1) to take all necessary steps to implement these resolutions and to appropriate land, in accordance with the terms set out in this Report and (2) to approve agreements with landowners setting out the terms of withdrawals of objections to the Order including where appropriate the exclusion of land from the Order, to make deletions from, and/or minor amendments,  ...  view the full agenda text for item 13.

The Executive Councillor (Communities & Sustainability) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) updating the Executive on progress with developing the Stockport Town Centre Access Plan, including the outcome of consultations and the development of the business case for the full scheme and phase one and two scheme final business cases as set out in the report.

RESOLVED – That in relation to the Town Centre Access Package

·         the approach to the development and submission of the full business case and phase one and two final business cases including the consultation process as set out in the report be approved;

·         the Corporate Director Place Management & Regeneration in consultation with Executive Councillor (Communities & Sustainability) be authorised to approve the full business case, the final phase one business case and the phase two business cases and consultation reports;

·         the Corporate Director for Corporate and Support Services (as Section 151 Officer), the Chief Executive and the Corporate Director for Place Management & Regeneration be authorised to sign off the full business case and final phase one and two business cases;

·         approval be given to the phase two schemes being developed and the necessary powers obtained, including the making of compulsory purchase orders, side road orders and planning applications to deliver the schemes;

·         where applicable, the exercise of compulsory purchase powers to acquire such interests and to create such rights as were necessary to enable the link road to be implemented, be approved subject to there being no material change in circumstances that would mean that the Council was unable to properly implement the Orders and proceed with the scheme;

·         officers be requested to carry out and enter into arrangements to secure where necessary, the appropriation for planning purposes of land required for the link road or other schemes in order to utilise the power contained in Section 237 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990;

·         agreement be given to the making of a Compulsory Purchase Order under Section 226(1)(a) and Section 226(3)(a) of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended), Section 13 of the Local  Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976, Section 1 of the Localism Act 2011 and Side Road Orders and all other relevant powers to acquire all outstanding land and interests required for the new link road and other elements of the phase two schemes where required, to allow the building of the new link road and the other phase two schemes;

·         the Chief Executive and Corporate Director for Corporate and Support Services be authorised to take all necessary steps to bring the aforementioned Compulsory Purchase Order and Side Roads Order into operation, provided that the Orders are confirmed by the Secretary of State for Transport, and to continue to enter into negotiations and to agree terms for the Council to acquire by voluntary means all the land and other interests and the rights needed to facilitate the proposed link road and other schemes;

·         that should the Compulsory Purchase Order be confirmed, the acquisition of the land and rights subject of the Compulsory Purchase Order be approved, subject to there being no material change in circumstances that would mean that it could not properly pursue the Compulsory Purchase Order;

·         he Corporate Directors of Place Management & Regeneration and Corporate and Support Services be authorised (1) to take all necessary steps to implement these resolutions and to appropriate land, in accordance with the terms set out in this report and (2) to approve agreements with landowners setting out the terms of withdrawals of objections to the Order including where appropriate the exclusion of land from the Order, to make deletions from, and/or minor amendments, and modifications to the proposed Order and Order Plans, to agree to refrain from vesting any land/rights included within the Order should this be in their opinion appropriate, and to negotiate terms for the acquisition by agreement of any outstanding interests/rights in the land within the  ...  view the full minutes text for item 13.

To consider a report of the Executive Councillor (Communities & Sustainability)

There is evidence to show that releases of sky lanterns present an avoidable fire and safety risk. There is also evidence to indicate that mass balloon releases are a risk to livestock and wildlife. Given the evidence of harm to wildlife and the environment the Council should adopt a policy to ban mass balloon or sky lantern releases from Council land.

The Executive is invited to:

·         Approve the mass balloon or sky lantern releases policy, as set out at in Appendix One.

·         Incorporate the prohibition of sky lanterns and mass balloon releases into the terms and conditions for the use of Parks & Public Spaces and Conferences and Events organised in Council buildings.

Officer contact: Megan Black, 0161 218 1410, megan.black@stockport.gov.uk

The Executive Councillor (Communities & Sustainability) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) inviting the Executive to approve a prohibition on organised balloon and sky lantern releases from Council land in view of the impact of the debris from such activity posing a fire risk and a danger to the environment and wildlife.

The Executive Councillor recommended that for the avoidance of confusion, the title of the proposed policy be amended to replace the word ‘mass’ with ‘organised’.

RESOLVED – That, subject to the replacement of the word ‘mass’ with ‘organised’:-

·         approval be given to the organised balloon or sky lantern release policy as set out at appendix one of the report;

·         the prohibition of sky lantern and organised balloon releases be incorporated into the terms and conditions for the use of Parks & Public Spaces, and Conferences and Events organised in Council buildings.

To consider a report of the Executive Councillor (Economic Development & Regeneration)

The Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is a new planning charge that came into force on 6 April 2010. The levy allows local authorities in England and Wales to raise contributions from development to help pay for infrastructure that is needed to support planned development. The purpose of this report is to set out the background to CIL, outline progress to date and seek approval to the Preliminary Draft Charging Schedule and the commencement of its statutory stages to adoption.

The Executive is recommended to approve thePreliminary Draft Charging Schedule and the commencement of its statutory stages to adoption.

Officer contact: David Johnstone, 0161 474 4551, david.johnston@stockport.gov.uk

The Executive Councillor (Economic Development & Regeneration) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) inviting the Executive to approve the next steps in the introduction of the Community Infrastructure Levy that would allow the Council to seek contributions from developers to assist with the cost of infrastructure needed to support new developments.

RESOLVED – That the Preliminary Draft Charging Schedule for the Community Infrastructure Levy and the commencement of its statutory stages to adoption be approved.

To consider a report of the Leader of the Council (Policy, Reform & Finance)

This report sets out the implications for Stockport of the recent Agreement with Government to devolve functional and fiscal responsibilities alongside a staged approach to GM governance arrangements.  The report outlines the importance of the Investing in Stockport Strategy (IIS) and its role in shaping GM priorities, the proposed Governance arrangements, and the relationship between the Borough, GMCA and a GM Mayor. The report highlights those areas where there will be further opportunities for devolution in the future. It concludes with the resource implications for the next stages of the work to develop the necessary policy and legislative framework for devolution.

The Executive is recommended:

·         To endorse the principles which have guided Greater Manchester’s approach to devolution and governance changes, as set out in the attached report to the GMCA.

·         To note the wide ranging views of Members at the Council meeting on 27th November 2014 including:

·         The need for the Combined Authority to increase its transparency and accountability, including consideration of the desire of some Members for direct election to the Mayoral Cabinet.

·         The need for greater rigours in the processes of scrutiny of the Combined Authority and the Mayor.

·         The Willingness of Council Members to accept the creation of the post of Mayor of Greater Manchester, albeit reluctantly and on the basis that it proves the sole means of achieving delivery of the proposed devolved powers.

·         To support the proposed changes in governance including an Appointed Mayor as the 11th Member of the GMCA as a transition to a Directly Elected Mayor for Greater Manchester provided that this is the only means by which agreement on the devolution of the powers contained in the agreement can be reached.

·         To note the balance between new powers to be vested in the CA as well as new powers to be vested in the directly elected Mayor who will be the Chair of GMCA and accountable to the Cabinet of Leaders in the exercise of those powers; and the  Mayor and the Cabinet being subject of scrutiny by the GMCA Pool.

·         To agree that the proposed governance arrangements reflect the circumstances within Greater Manchester which has a long track record of collaboration amongst the local authorities and with business.

·         To remind the Government and the range of local stakeholders that Stockport and Greater Manchester will remain fully committed to greater fiscal devolution and to working with other UK City Regions and London in particular to make the case for this over the coming months.

·         To recommend that the GMCA conclude its statutory review of the Governance arrangements as soon as possible to enable a final scheme to be submitted to the Secretary of State as a pre-requisite to the changes being made to the Statutory Orders to give effect to the transitional arrangements.

·         To call upon the GMCA to ensure that this review encompasses the need to ensure that the transparency and accountability of Leaders, acting on behalf of the CA, is improved and that formal scrutiny arrangements are reviewed and strengthened.

·         To delegate authority to the Chief Executive in consultation with the Leader and Group Leaders to respond formally to the GMCA consultation on devolution in the terms set out in this report; and to finalise on behalf of Stockport, the Council’s response to the final terms of the Governance arrangements including the terms of the Statutory Order.

Officer contact: Eamonn Boylan, 0161 474 3001, Eamonn.boylan@stockport.gov.uk

The Leader of the Council (Policy, Reform & Finance) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) setting out the background and implication for Stockport of the recent Agreement with Government to devolve functional and fiscal responsibilities alongside a staged approach to changes to Greater Manchester governance arrangements. The report had been shaped by the debate at the Council Meeting on 27 November 2014 and the key themes to emerge from that meeting had been summarised in the report.

RESOLVED - That

·         the principles which had guided Greater Manchester’s approach to devolution and governance changes, as set out in the report, be endorsed;

·         the wide ranging views of Councillors at the Council Meeting on 27 November 2014 be noted, including:

-       the need for the Combined Authority to increase its transparency and accountability, including consideration of the desire of some Members for direct election to the Mayoral Cabinet;

-       the need for greater rigours in the processes of scrutiny of the Combined Authority and the Mayor;

-       the willingness of Council Members to accept the creation of the post of Mayor of Greater Manchester, albeit reluctantly and on the basis that it proves the sole means of achieving delivery of the proposed devolved powers;

-       the need to re-emphasise the core principle that devolution is a means of drawing power from Government to Greater Manchester, not of drawing power to Greater Manchester from the districts;

·         the proposed changes in governance be supported, including an Appointed Mayor as the 11th Member of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) as a transition to a Directly Elected Mayor for Greater Manchester provided that this was the only means by which agreement on the devolution of the powers contained in the agreement could be reached;

·         the balance between new powers to be vested in the Combined Authority as well as new powers to be vested in the directly elected Mayor who will be the Chair of GMCA and accountable to the Cabinet of Leaders in the exercise of those powers; and the Mayor and the Cabinet being subject of scrutiny by the GMCA Pool, be noted;

·         that the proposed governance arrangements to reflect the circumstances within Greater Manchester which had a long track record of collaboration amongst the local authorities and with business be agreed;

·         the Government and the range of local stakeholders be reminded that Stockport and Greater Manchester will remain fully committed to greater fiscal devolution and to working with other UK City Regions and London in particular to make the case for this over the coming months;

·         the GMCA be recommended to conclude its statutory review of the Governance arrangements as soon as possible to enable a final scheme to be submitted to the Secretary of State as a pre-requisite to the changes being made to the Statutory Orders to give effect to the transitional arrangements;

·         the GMCA be called upon to ensure that this review encompasses the need to ensure that the transparency and accountability of Leaders, acting on behalf of the Combined Authority, was improved and that formal scrutiny arrangements were reviewed and strengthened;

·         authority be delegated to the Chief Executive in consultation with the Leader of the Council and Group Leaders to respond formally to the GMCA consultation on devolution in the terms set out in this report; and to finalise on behalf of Stockport, the Council’s response to the final terms of the Governance arrangements including the terms of the Statutory Order.

To consider a report of the Executive Councillor (Communities & Sustainability)

This report presents a borough wide Highway and Street Furniture Policy. The policy outlines a palette of the materials and street furniture which will be used on the borough’s highways. This is designed to improve the public realm by making it a more legible and coherent environment and improving maintenance by focusing resources on to a smaller palette of materials.  It is also designed to deliver the most efficient use of resources.

The intention is not to remove the current materials in use but to maintain areas in line with current materials used until a large scale refurbishment of the area is undertaken. Any future large scale refurbishment would be done in line with the identified palette of materials.  The policy will also inform what materials and street furniture will be used for new streets and paths and improvements to existing streets and paths to be carried out in association with new development.

The Executive is asked to comment on the proposed Highway and Street Furniture Design Policy and its related maps and drawings and adopt it as policy for the Council.

Officer contact: Sue Stevenson, 0161 474 4351, sue.stevenson@stockport.gov.uk

(NOTE: The Chair was of the opinion that this item, though not included on the agenda should be considered in accordance with Section 100B (4) (b) of the Local Government Act 1972 on the grounds that notice had already been given of the intention for the item to be considered at this meeting)

The Executive Councillor (Communities & Sustainability) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) inviting the Executive to approve a policy to standardise the palette of materials and street furniture used in Stockport to improve the public realm and make more efficient use of resources.

RESOLVED – That the Highway and Street Furniture Design Policy and its related maps and drawings be approved.

To consider a report of the Executive Councillor (Communities & Sustainability)

The current Signage Strategy was written in 2003. Changes in the economic pressures on the Council and the increase in focus on the need to support the local economy make this a good opportunity to review and refocus the strategy.

The review of the Signage Strategy, and the need to support the Town Centre and district centres, also makes this a good time to implement the complementary Wayfinding Action Plan. This work also started in 2003, however, the approach outlined at that time was beyond the available budget.

Both the Strategy (appendix 1) and Action Plan (appendix 2) focus on the need to make sustainable decisions that are affordable in the long term while still supporting the needs of the borough’s economy.

The agreed pedestrian signage for the Town Centre fits within this overall approach. The approach will also support the proposed Stockport Highway and Street Furniture Design Policy.

The Executive is requested to comment on the strategy and Wayfinding action plan and approve its adoption as policy.

Officer contact: Sue Stevenson, 0161 474 4351, sue.stevenson@stockport.gov.uk

(NOTE: The Chair was of the opinion that this item, though not included on the agenda should be considered in accordance with Section 100B (4) (b) of the Local Government Act 1972 on the grounds that notice had already been given of the intention for the item to be considered at this meeting)

The Executive Councillor (Communities & Sustainability) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) inviting the Executive to approval a revised Signage Strategy and a new Wayfinding Action Plan to support the Town and District Centres and to guide decision making in these areas.

RESOLVED – That the Signage Strategy and Wayfinding Action Plan be approved.

To consider a report of the Executive Councillor (Communities & Sustainability)

The report informs the Executive of progress made in the delivery of the Rights of Way Improvement Plan (RoWIP) statement of action and to request approval of the revised statement of action to be used up until the formal review is complete in 2017.

The Executive is asked to note the progress made in the delivery of the Rights of Way Improvement Plan (RoWIP) statement of action.

The Executive is requested to approve the adoption of the revised statement of action to be used until the formal review is complete in 2017.

Officer contact: Sue Stevenson, 0161 474 4351, sue.stevenson@stockport.gov.uk

(NOTE: The Chair was of the opinion that this item, though not included on the agenda should be considered in accordance with Section 100B (4) (b) of the Local Government Act 1972 on the grounds that notice had already been given of the intention for the item to be considered at this meeting)

The Executive Councillor (Communities & Sustainability) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) inviting the Executive to consider progress made with the delivery of the Rights of Way Improvement Plan Statement of Action and to consider a proposal to revise the Statement to be used in advance of a formal review of the Strategy in 2017.

RESOLVED – That

·         the progress made in the delivery of the Rights of Way Improvement Plan Statement of Action be noted;

·         the adoption of the revised Statement of Action be approved for use until the formal review of the Plan was completed in 2017.

To consider a report of the Executive Councillor (Corporate, Customer & Community Services)

The report sets out the programme of meetings for 2015/16 and proposed dates for 2016/17.

The Executive is requested to recommend that the Council Meeting approve the 2015/16 and 2016/17 Business Programme.

Officer contact: Craig Ainsworth, 0161 474 3204, craig.ainsworth@stockport.gov.uk

The Executive Councillor (Corporate, Customer & Community Services) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) inviting the Executive to consider the programme of meetings for 2015/16 and 2016/17.

RESOLVED – That the Council Meeting be recommended to approve the 2015/16 and 2016/17 Business Programme.

To consider a report of the Leader of the Council (Policy, Reform & Finance)

The Executive is invited to note the decisions of the Joint AGMA Executive/ GMCA Board and the GMCA Board meetings held on 31 October 2014.

Officer contact: Jonathan Vali, 0161 474 3201, jonathan.vali@stockport.gov.uk

The Leader of the Council (Policy, Reform & Finance) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) setting out decisions taken by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority & AGMA Executive Board Joint Meeting and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority meetings held on 31 October and 28 November 2014.

RESOLVED – That the report be noted.