Issue - meetings

A report from the Executive Director Place is attached.  (Key decision – reference number 5380)

Councillors Nesil Caliskan (Leader of the Council) and Guney Dogan (Cabinet Member for Commercial Services) introduced the report of the Executive Director Place seeking approval to proceed with the development of a new burial ground.

NOTED

1.    The proposals were put forward in recognition of the shortfall in burial capacity in the borough and meeting local communities’ needs.

2.    Residents would be provided with a natural/woodland burial option.

3.    The proposals made good commercial sense.

4.    It was confirmed that the National Planning Policy Framework considered cemeteries as “appropriate development” on green belt, and that the proposals would be in line with the Enfield Local Plan.

5.    Benchmarking against other local authorities confirmed the expected income generation.

6.    Progressing this option would considerably lessen the need for the other potential sites for burial space in the borough to be pursued.

7.    The full burial needs assessment was available for further information.

8.    Members raised the point that the needs of the borough must be articulated accurately in supporting documents, reflecting the diversity of our faith community, including the Alevi community in Enfield.

9.    The Leader confirmed that the provision would be multifaith and there would be further engagement with all faith groups in relation to their needs.

Alternative Options Considered: 

NOTED the detailed options considered as set out in paragraphs 110 to 121 of the report.

DECISION:  The Cabinet agreed to

1.    Approve the project for the development of a burial ground at Sloemans Farm, Whitewebbs Lane, Enfield, using landscaping - soil importation processes on site to improve and landscape the whole farm area.

2.    Re-allocate £1,800,000 from the cemetery/ crematorium budget within the 10-year capital programme to cover the design, project management, staff and construction costs. To note that the business case models the project costs to be funded through royalty income from soil recycling processes.

3.    Delegate authority to approve the final scheme proposal to the Director of Environment and Operations, in consultation with the Cabinet Members for Commercial Services and Environment.

4.    Delegate authority to approve the procurement strategy for the delivery of the scheme to the Director of Environment and Operations in consultation with the Executive Director for Resources and the Director of Law and Governance.

5.    Delegate authority to award and enter into the main build contract, professional service contracts, and any other ancillary documents and consents required in relation to the development of scheme up to the maximum total value of £1,800,000 Director of Environment and Operations. Form of contract to be agreed by Director of Law and Governance.

Reason: 

NOTED the detailed reasons for the proposals as set out in paragraphs 8 to 16 of the report.

(Key decision – reference number 5380)