Apologies for absence were received from Councillor Bambos Charalambous (Associate Cabinet Member) and Andrew Fraser (Director of Schools and Children’s Services).

Councillor Doug Taylor (Leader of the Council) reminded Members of the restrictions which applied during the purdah period.

Members of the Cabinet are invited to identify any disclosable pecuniary, other pecuniary or non pecuniary interests relevant to items on the agenda.

There were no declarations of interest in respect of any items listed on the agenda.

The Chairman will consider the admission of any reports (listed on the agenda but circulated late) which have not been circulated in accordance with the requirements of the Council’s Constitution and the Local Authorities (Executive Arrangements) (Access to Information and Meetings) (England) Regulations 2012.

Note: The above requirements state that agendas and reports should be circulated at least 5 clear working days in advance of meetings.

NOTED that the reports listed on the agenda had been circulated in accordance with the requirements of the Council’s Constitution and the Local Authorities (Executive Arrangements) (Access to Information and Meetings) (England) Regulations 2012, with the exception of Report Nos. 226 and 228 – Meridian Water: Programme Update, as detailed in Minute Nos. 17 and 29 below. These requirements state that agendas and reports should be circulated at least 5 clear days in advance of meetings.

AGREED that the above reports be considered at this meeting.

To note that no requests for deputations have been received for presentation to this Cabinet meeting.

NOTED that no requests for deputations had been received for presentation to this Cabinet meeting.

To agree that the following reports be referred to full Council:

1.               Report No.220 – Approval of a new Strategy for Leisure and Culture Policy for the Council and its partners

2.               Report Nos. 225 and 227 – Alma Estate Regeneration – Programme Update (including Dujardin Mews project)

AGREED that the following reports be referred to the next ordinary business meeting of full Council:

1.     Report No.220 – Approval of a new Strategy for Leisure and Culture Policy for the Council and its partners

2.     Report Nos. 225 and 227 – Alma Estate Regeneration – Programme Update (including Dujardin Mews project)

A report from the Director of Finance, Resources and Customer Services is attached. This sets out the Council’s revenue budget monitoring position based on information to the end of February 2015.  (Key decision – reference number 3953)

(Report No.215)

(8.20 – 8.25 pm)

Councillor Andrew Stafford (Cabinet Member for Finance) introduced the report of the Director of Finance, Resources and Customer Services (No.215) setting out the Council’s revenue budget monitoring position based on information to the end of February 2015.

NOTED

1.               Members’ attention was drawn to Table 2 in the report outlining the forecast outturn table. The departmental monitoring information indicated that all departments were projecting a level outturn position with the exception of Schools and Children’s Services forecasting a £1.95m overspend which was due to demand led pressures, as detailed in the report.

2.               The progress on the achievement of savings as detailed in section 8 of the report.

3.               The key risks set out in section 13 of the report.

4.               The Treasury Management position detailed in section 6 and Appendix B of the report. The average interest rates for both investments and borrowing were noted.

5.               That the report provided clear evidence of sound financial management and efficient use of resources.

Alternative Options Considered: Not applicable to this report.

DECISION: The Cabinet agreed to note the £1.95m overspend revenue outturn projection.

Reason: To ensure that Members were aware of the projected budgetary position for the Authority for the current and future years including all major budget pressures and underspends which had contributed to the present monthly position and that were likely to affect the Council’s finances over the period of the Medium Term Financial Plan.

(Key decision – reference number 3953)

A report from the Director of Finance, Resources and Customer Services is attached. This seeks approval of the Sustainable Procurement Policy 2015-19. (Key decision – reference number 3999)

(Report No.216)

(8.25 – 8.30 pm)

Councillor Alan Sitkin (Cabinet Member for Economic Development) introduced the report of the Director of Finance, Resources and Customer Services (No.216) seeking approval to the refreshed Sustainable Procurement Policy.

NOTED

1.               That the Sustainable Procurement Policy 2015-19 was a refresh of the 2011-15 policy; the key objectives and required positive outcomes of the policy were noted as detailed in the report. Councillor Sitkin expressed his thanks and appreciation to David Levy, Assistant Director Procurement.

2.               Councillor Brett requested an additional element to the social impacts detailed in paragraph 3.7 of the report – to also address social impacts by providing opportunities for companies addressing the issue of economically underprivileged groups. In addition, it was requested that a review of this element of the policy be undertaken in 12 months’ with any relevant data available being provided to Members.

3.               Councillor Stafford highlighted the financial implications of the policy as set out in section 6.1 of the report.

Alternative Options Considered: Not producing a sustainable procurement policy. This would be unusual for a public organisation and might be viewed as bad practice.

DECISION: The Cabinet

1.               agreed to approve the refreshed Sustainable Procurement Policy.

2.               Noted some of the key objectives from the policy, as follows:

·       Recommending a minimum 10% weighting for sustainability criteria in tenders;

·       Negotiating additional jobs and training opportunities in our contracts;

·       Exploring the establishment of a centrally managed pool of apprentices, enabling us to allocate apprentices to contracts;

·       Supporting small and local businesses to bid for our contracts as far as lawful and appropriate;

·       Ensuring carbon and pollution reduction was built into the design of building projects.

3.               Agreed that the social impacts of the policy be reviewed in 12 months as detailed above.

Reason: The existing policy was due for renewal. The refreshed policy would renew the Council’s commitment to economic, social and environmental responsibility. There was a preference among stakeholders for separate sustainable procurement policy documents.

(Key decision – reference number 3999)

A report from the Chief Executive is attached. This sets out the key aims, objectives and governance of the North East London Strategic Alliance (NELSA) and seeks approval to Enfield Council’s membership of NELSA and being the accountable body for the organisation. (Non key)

(Report No.217)

(8.30 – 8.35 pm)

Councillor Doug Taylor (Leader of the Council) introduced the report of the Chief Executive (No.217) setting out the key aims, objectives and governance of the North East London Strategic Alliance (NELSA) and seeking approval to Enfield Council’s membership of NELSA and being the accountable body for the organisation.

NOTED

1.               That there was a typographical error in Annex B of the report, paragraph 2 of the annex referred. The Vice Chair should be the Leader or Mayor of Authority One (which was Barking and Dagenham) and not Six (which was Waltham Forest), as there was only one representative from each authority and Waltham Forest was already scheduled to be the Chair.

2.               Noted the key objectives of NELSA as detailed in the documentation presented to Members to consideration. The Alliance would maximise the ability of the local authorities to influence on a sub-regional basis and move forward the devolution agenda in London.

3.               That the annual contribution per Borough was £10,000 to be found from existing resources within the Chief Executive budget, paragraph 6.1 of the report referred.

Alternative Options Considered: Enfield Council did not join a London sub-regional grouping. This would leave Enfield isolated, with reduced influence and the potential for missing out on current and future funding streams.

DECISION: The Cabinet agreed to Enfield Council joining the North East London Strategic Alliance (NELSA) and authorised the Council Leader, Councillor Doug Taylor, to sign the Partnership Protocol for the North East London Strategic Alliance and the Inter Authority Agreement in Relation to Funding for NELSA.

Reason: Sub-regional groupings were becoming more important as the discussions around devolution of powers from central government to a more local level were continuing and feature strongly in the election manifestos. National and European funding bodies were looking at functional economic areas that were bigger than individual local authorities. It was also clear that there were some major challenges such as employment and skills, housing and health that would be more effectively addressed through a cross-borough approach through a sub-regional grouping. Joining NELSA would enable Enfield to participate fully in addressing these challenges and had greater influence in discussions with national and regional government.

(Non key)  

A report from the Director of Schools and Children’s Services is attached. This updates Cabinet on the work of the Adoption Service since April 2014. (Non key)

(Report No.218)

(8.35 – 8.40 pm)

Councillor Ayfer Orhan (Cabinet Member for Education, Children’s Services and Protection) introduced the report of the Director of Schools and Children’s Services (No.218) updating Cabinet on the work of the Adoption Service since April 2014.

NOTED, that the report provided an update to Members on the work of the Adoption Service since April 2014. It was a requirement of the national minimum adoption standards that Members received regular reports on the work of the Adoption Service. Members noted the details contained within the report and highlighted in the executive summary on the relevant statistics for the service since April 2014. Enfield compared well to national standards.

Alternative Options Considered: None, the report was for information.

DECISION: The Cabinet noted the findings of the report and agreed that the Overview and Scrutiny Committee and the Cabinet receive an annual report on the performance of the Adoption Service.

Reason: To report to Cabinet Members on the work and performance of Enfield’s Adoption Service.

(Non key)

A report from the Director of Schools and Children’s Services is attached. This updates Cabinet on the performance of the fostering service since April 2014. (Non key)

(Report No.219)

(8.40 – 8.45 pm)

Councillor Ayfer Orhan (Cabinet Member for Education, Children’s Services and Protection) introduced the report of the Director of Schools and Children’s Services (No.219) updating Cabinet on the performance of the fostering service since April 2014.

NOTED

1.               The performance figures highlighted in the executive summary of the report which indicated an improved position in Enfield.

2.               That both the fostering and adoption services had recently been reviewed and judged as “good” following the recent Ofsted inspection in Enfield.

Alternative Options Considered: None, this report was for information.

DECISION: The Cabinet noted the findings of the report and agreed that the Overview and Scrutiny Committee and the Cabinet receive an annual report on the performance of the Fostering Service.

Reason: To ensure that Cabinet Members were updated on the work of the fostering service.

(Non key)

A report from the Director of Finance, Resources and Customer Services is attached. This seeks approval of the new leisure and culture strategy, Active and Creative 2015-2020. (Key decision – reference number 4015)

(Report No.220)

(8.45 – 8.50 pm)

Councillor Doug Taylor (Leader of the Council) introduced the report of the Director of Finance, Resources and Customer Services (No.220) seeking approval to the new leisure and culture strategy, Active and Creative 2015-2020.

NOTED that the Strategy would be considered at the next ordinary meeting of full Council.

Alternative Options Considered: NOTED that alternative options would be considered post consultation.

DECISION: The Cabinet agreed that Active and Creative 2015-2020, the new leisure and culture strategy be approved for recommendation to full Council.

RECOMMENDED TO COUNCIL that Active and Creative 2015-2020, the new leisure and culture strategy be approved.

Reason: There was currently no Leisure and Culture Strategy for Enfield, the strategy would provide the future direction of Leisure and Culture in the Borough. This would further support and grow the established partnerships in the sector. It also positioned the Council well for external funding by demonstrating a strategic commitment to the field.

(Key decision – reference number 4015)

A report from the Director of Regeneration and Environment is attached. This presents, for approval, a highway asset management policy and strategy. (Key decision – reference number 4088)

(Report No.221)

(8.50 – 8.55 pm)

Councillor Chris Bond (Cabinet Member for Environment and Community Safety) introduced the report of the Director of Regeneration and Environment (No.221) presenting, for approval, a highway asset management policy and strategy.

NOTED, that the Council had very good highway asset management practices in place and was continually developing them, as detailed in the report and accompanying policy and strategy.

Alternative Options Considered: To not have in place a clear policy and strategy on highway asset management would not meet the drivers for such documents as outlined in section 3 of the report and could prejudice funding opportunities from central government.

DECISION: The Cabinet agreed that the Highway Asset Management Policy and Strategy be approved.

Reason: Enfield, as a highway authority, should have in place a policy and strategy for its highway asset management, which was endorsed by senior decision makers.

(Key decision – reference number 4088)

A report from the Director of Regeneration and Environment is attached. This presents the proposed Street Works Enforcement and Prosecution Policy. (Key decision – reference number 4042)

(Report No.222)

(8.55 – 9.00 pm)

Councillor Chris Bond (Cabinet Member for Environment and Community Safety) introduced the report of the Director of Regeneration and Environment (No.222) presenting the proposed Street Works Enforcement and Prosecution Policy, which set out when and how enforcement powers were used and when prosecution would be considered, which was open and transparent to the utility companies which operated within the Borough.

NOTED

1.               That the proposed Policy set out when and how enforcement powers were used and when prosecution would be considered, which was open and transparent to the utility companies which operated within the Borough.

2.               The consultation exercise which had been undertaken with major utility companies as detailed in section 3.6 of the report. Councillor Brett asked if it would be possible to provide designated named liaison officers for each of the companies listed.

Alternative Options Considered: Although there was no statutory requirement under street works legislation for a Highway Authority to have an enforcement and prosecution policy and all actions undertaken by the Council were covered by statute and all officers involved in the process operate under approved delegated powers, the alternative option of not having an enforcement and prosecution policy was not considered appropriate.

DECISION: The Cabinet agreed to approve the Street Works Enforcement and Prosecution Policy.

Reason: The setting out of a highway authority’s policy in respect of when and how enforcement powers were used and when prosecution would be considered, which was open and transparent to the utility companies, was considered good practice and help repudiate any claims of unfair use of the Council’s powers by a particular utility company.

(Key decision – reference number 4042)

A report from the Director of Regeneration and Environment is attached. This report seeks approval to spend grant funding provided by Transport for London for the design, consultation and implementation of Cycle Enfield schemes. (Key decision – reference number 4083)

(Report No.223)

(9.00 – 9.05 pm)

Councillor Chris Bond (Cabinet Member for Environment and Community Safety) introduced the report of the Director of Regeneration and Environment (No.223) seeking approval to spend grant funding provided by Transport for London (TfL) for the design, consultation and implementation of Cycle Enfield schemes detailed in the report.

NOTED

1.               The programme of works for 2015/16 as detailed in the report and appendix 1 to the report. Members were advised that discussions were taking place with TfL with regard to the possibility of bringing forward further funding from 2016/17. It was noted that the £2.15m of borough resources identified was from an existing or planned borough source.

2.               Councillor Orhan praised the schemes and proposals set out for improving cycling provision in Enfield. In response to questions raised, Ian Davis (Director of Regeneration and Environment) confirmed that the Borough’s Local Implementation Plan included a comprehensive schools programme. Councillor Orhan would be provided with a briefing on the work which was being undertaken and any areas for further development identified.

3.               Councillor Savva informed Members of his involvement in promoting the Cycle Enfield initiative within the south-east of the Borough. The scheme had been welcomed by residents. He looked forward to continuing to work with residents as the schemes were implemented.

Alternative Options Considered: The Council could decline the Mini Holland funding. However, this would mean forgoing £30 million of investment in the borough and the associated environmental, health, public realm and transport benefits.

DECISION: The Cabinet agreed to approve

1.               Expenditure of the £1,913,152 Mini Holland funding provided to date by TfL to progress the programme of works for 2015/16 set out in Appendix 1 of the report.

2.               Delegation of authority to the Cabinet Member for Environment and Community Safety to (a) approve expenditure of any additional funding provided by TfL for 2015/16 in order to progress the programme set out in Appendix 1 of the report; and (b) amend the programme as necessary for operational reasons.

Reason: To spend the Mini Holland funding awarded by TfL to progress the delivery of the programme of works set out in Appendix 1 of the report. The overall aims of the programme were: to get more people cycling; to increase the number of short journeys made by bike instead of the car; to improve air quality; to reduce congestion; and, to regenerate town centres.

(Key decision – reference number 4083)

A report from the Director of Finance, Resources and Customer Services is attached. This outlines the progress made in exercising the new roles of the Associate Cabinet Members and provides the work programme outcomes/summaries of activities up to March 2015. (Non key)

(Report No.224)

(9.05 - 9.10 pm)

Councillor Doug Taylor (Leader of the Council) introduced the report of the Director of Finance, Resources and Customer Services (No.224) providing an update on the work of Associate Cabinet Members.

NOTED

1.               The work programme updates provided by the three Associate Cabinet Members.

2.               Councillor Savva highlighted the activities which he had undertaken in his role as an Associate Cabinet Member and, expressed his thanks to Cabinet colleagues and officers for their support during a busy year.

Alternative Options Considered: The option to continue with the present arrangements had been considered but discounted on the grounds that they would not meet the new democratic imperative being sought by the administration and would fail to prepare the Council for future challenges arising from significant future budgetary pressures and changes to wider Government Policy.

DECISION: The Cabinet

1.               Noted the progress made in exercising the new roles of the Associate Cabinet Members and the updates provided through the work programme outcomes/summaries of activities up to March 2015.

2.               Agreed that a further outcomes updates be presented to Cabinet in October 2015 and April 2016 as specified in the previous Council report (No.1 – June 2014) that established the roles.

3.               Agreed that a formal evaluation of the impact of the Associate Cabinet Member role be commenced in January 2016 and a report with recommendations would come to Cabinet in April 2016.

Reason: To note the work programme updates presented and to agree the timescales for future updates and a formal evaluation.

(Non key)

A report from the Director of Regeneration and Environment and Director of Finance, Resources and Customer Services is attached. This provides a programme update. (Report No.227, agenda part 2 also refers). (Key decision – reference number 3967)

(Report No.225)

(9.10 – 9.15 pm)

Councillor Ahmet Oykener (Cabinet Member for Housing and Estate Regeneration) introduced the report of the Director of Regeneration and Environment and Director of Finance, Resources and Customer Services (No.225) providing a programme update on the Alma Estate Regeneration, including the Dujardin Mews project.

NOTED

1.               That Report No.227 also referred as detailed in Minute No.28 below.

2.               The programme update provided within the report. Councillor Oykener outlined the key issues and changes for Members’ attention together with any budget implications, as set out in the report. This programme represented the largest estate improvement scheme in the Borough.

3.               Councillor Stafford reported that the recommendations contained within the report could be achieved within the combined budget already agreed for the two schemes, as highlighted in section 6.1.1 of the report.

4.               Councillor Orhan reported that she had attended a number of community engagement groups in her role as a Ward Councillor for Ponders End. The reception from residents had been overwhelmingly positive. The project would enhance Ponders End and was an exciting project for the Borough. Councillor Orhan highlighted the need to keep street clutter to a minimum.

5.               Councillor McGowan expressed his appreciation to Cabinet Members, the Labour Group and Officers for pushing the project forward. The project would transform this area of Ponders End.

6.               Councillor Brett highlighted the importance of wireless connectivity and satellite provision. Councillor Oykener confirmed that these issues were being considered.

7.               Councillor Sitkin highlighted the proposals with regard to community and retail provision and the processes which would be followed. He was pleased to note the proposed use of the Lee Valley Heat Network.

8.               Councillor Orhan questioned the future provision for existing businesses. It was noted that Cabinet had already given a commitment that these lessees should have first right of refusal on the new commercial premises, as detailed in paragraph 3.23 of the report.

9.               Councillor McGowan asked that effective monitoring be undertaken of the use of local labour on the development.

Alternative Options Considered: NOTED the alternative options which had been considered as set out in full in section 4 of the report.

DECISION: The Cabinet

1.               In relation to both schemes, noted that all of the recommendations could be achieved without exceeding the combined budget for the two schemes.

In relation to the Alma Estate, Cabinet:

2.               Noted the progress being made in obtaining vacant possession on the Alma Estate as described in paragraphs 3.11 and 3.12 of the report and approved the budget detailed in the part 2 report (Minute No.28 below refers) from the Housing Revenue Account to obtain vacant possession of the homes.

3.               Agreed the proposal at paragraph 3.27 of the report to increase the number of Council homes included in Phase 1 of the proposed redevelopment of the Alma Estate from 80 to approximately 98, subject to planning.

4.               Noted that, based on current predictions of tenants indicating they would like to remain on the Estate, there was a risk that the Council might be  ...  view the full minutes text for item 16.

A report from the Director of Regeneration and Environment and Director of Finance, Resources and Customer Services will be circulated as soon as possible. This provides a programme update and seeks further decisions on the way forward.  (Report No.228, agenda part two also refers).  (Key decision – reference number 4033)

(Report No.226) TO FOLLOW

(9.15 – 9.20 pm)

Councillor Alan Sitkin (Cabinet Member for Economic Development) introduced the report of the Director of Regeneration and Environment and Director of Finance, Resources and Customer Services (No.226) providing a programme update on Meridian Water.

NOTED

1.               That Report No.228 also referred as detailed in Minute No.29 below.

2.               That the Council had completed the acquisition of three sites within the Meridian Water development area.

3.               The report sought authority to acquire more land at Meridian Water to enable the delivery of a further 2,000 homes and employment. The report also recommended commencing the procurement of a master developer, undertaking the procurement of a remediation contractor and establishing a Meridian Water Member Oversight Group to provide robust governance. The target date for commencement of works was 2016.

4.               Councillor Oykener highlighted the good progress which was being made and noted that further reports would be presented to Cabinet in due course.

Alternative Options Considered: Declining the possible purchase of the land potentially available to the Council had been considered, but rejected due to the uncertain timescales associated with their owner bringing the land to market and securing development and consequent benefits for the community. The use of compulsory purchase powers to acquire the land that comprised the opportunity, either as a package or individually had also been considered, but it would be premature at this stage, given that planning was not in place and currently negotiations were ongoing with the landowners.

DECISION: The Cabinet

1.               Noted the progress made to date to bring forward the Meridian Water development opportunity.

2.               Agreed to delegate authority to the Director of Regeneration and Environment and the Director of Finance, Resources and Customer Services to develop and finalise the Heads of Terms (HoTs) for the acquisition of the land identified in the part 2 report (as detailed in Minute No.29 below). The proposed generic HoTs were detailed in the part 2 report.

3.               Agreed to delegate authority to the Cabinet Member for Economic Development, and the Cabinet Member for Finance acting with the Director of Regeneration and Environment and the Director of Finance, Resources and Customer Services authority to exchange and complete the purchase agreements and enter into such legal documents arising from the acquisitions.

4.               Agreed to delegate to the Director of Regeneration and Environment, acting with the Director of Finance, Resources and Customer Services authority to obtain any necessary environmental liability insurance in relation to the additional sites to be acquired.

5.               Agreed to authorise the posting of a notice on the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU) advertising for a Master Developer to develop the entirety of Meridian Water.

6.               Agreed to authorise the approach to remediation as described in paragraph 6 of the report.

7.               Agreed to delegate authority to the Cabinet Member for Economic Development, and the Cabinet Member for Finance acting with the Director of Regeneration and Environment and the Director of Finance, Resources and Customer Services the authority to appoint the remediation contractor.

8.               Agreed  ...  view the full minutes text for item 17.

Cabinet decision – 11 March 2015 – Property Acquisition

At its meeting on 1 April 2015 the Overview and Scrutiny Committee considered a call-in of a previous Cabinet decision – Property Acquisition – Cabinet meeting held on 11 March 2015.

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee agreed that the report and previous Cabinet decision should be referred back to Cabinet for re-consideration. Members are therefore asked to consider the attached report and its recommendations (Report No.230, agenda part two also refers).

(Report No.229)

(9.20 – 9.25 pm)

Councillor Andrew Stafford (Cabinet Member for Finance) introduced the report of the Director of Finance, Resources and Customer Services (No.229) asking Cabinet to reconsider (under the call-in process) their original decision and to decide whether, on the basis of the additional information provided, they wished to amend or reconfirm their original decision.

NOTED

1.               That Report No.230 also referred as detailed in Minute No.27 below.

2.               The decision which had previously been made by the Cabinet at its meeting on 11 March 2015. The decision had been called-in by Members of the Opposition, and the Overview and Scrutiny Committee had held a meeting on 1 April 2015 to discuss the call-in. Overview and Scrutiny Committee had requested additional information and had decided to refer the original decision back to Cabinet for reconsideration. The questions and responses were provided in this report and the part 2 report (No.230), as detailed in Minute No.27 below.

3.               The information which had been provided in response to the questions raised by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee. Councillor Stafford and Councillor Keazor confirmed that they were content with the responses which had been provided. It was noted that no Opposition Members were in attendance tonight.

4.               The original report which had been considered by the Cabinet at its meeting on 11 March 2015. The decision made by the Cabinet this evening would not be subject to further call-in.

Alternative Options Considered: Report No.185 – 11 March 2015 – the alternative option considered had been to do nothing and not purchase. This option had not been recommended. The failure by the Council to not pursue this acquisition would be considered a lost opportunity to add a key piece of Green Belt land located within the borough to the Council’s portfolio.

DECISION: The Cabinet agreed to re-confirm its original decision as set out below:

Cabinet approved

1.               The purchase of the asset as detailed in the part 2 report (No.189 – 11 March 2015).

2.               The letting of this asset as detailed in the part 2 report (No.189 – 11 March 2015).

3.               The estimated expenditure associated with the proposed acquisition as detailed in the part 2 report (No.189 – 11 March 2015).

4.               Delegated authority to the Director of Finance, Resources and Customer Services, to agree final terms and enter into appropriate legal agreements for the proposed transactions outlined in paragraph 2.1 of the report (No.185 – 11 March 2015), subject to the Council’s Property Procedure Rules.

Reason: Report No.185 – 11 March 2015 – It would enable the Council to add a key piece of Green Belt land located within the borough to its portfolio.

(Key decision – reference number 3990)

Attached for information is a provisional list of items scheduled for future Cabinet meetings.

NOTED, for information, the provisional list of items scheduled for future Cabinet meetings.

To confirm the minutes of the previous meeting of the Cabinet held on 11 March 2015.

AGREED, that the minutes of the previous meeting of the Cabinet held on 11 March 2015 be confirmed and signed by the Chair as a correct record.

To receive, for information, the minutes of meetings of the Enfield Residents’ Priority Fund Cabinet Sub-Committee held on 24 February and 30 March 2015.

NOTED the minutes of the meetings of the Enfield Residents’ Priority Fund Cabinet Sub-Committees held on 24 February and 30 March 2015.

To receive, for information, the minutes of a meeting of the Enfield Community Support Fund Cabinet Sub-Committee held on 26 March 2015.

NOTED the minutes of a meeting of the Enfield Community Support Fund Cabinet Sub-Committee held on 26 March 2015.

To receive an update on the next steps proposed by the Leaders and Mayors of Barking and Dagenham, Enfield, Greenwich, Havering, Newham, Redbridge, Tower Hamlets and Waltham Forest Councils following the publication of the discussion document “Local London – driving growth through devolution”.

(Report No.231)

(9.30 – 9.35pm)

Councillor Doug Taylor (Leader of the Council) introduced an information briefing note from the Chief Executive on the progress of “Local London – Driving Growth through Devolution”.

NOTED

1.               The publication of the discussion document, “Local London – Driving Growth through Devolution” and the intention of the Leaders and Mayors of the eight boroughs to continue discussions on the potential for devolution in the six policy areas. Copies of the document had previously been circulated to all Members.

2.               That Enfield would be focusing on the policy area of Housing; Crime and Justice would also be considered.

3.               Members endorsed and praised the proposals.

To note that there are no written updates to be received at this meeting.

NOTED that there were no written updates to be received at this meeting.

To note that this is the last Cabinet meeting in the current municipal year.

The first Cabinet meeting in the new municipal year 2015/16 is provisionally scheduled to take place on Wednesday 20 May 2015, subject to approval of the new calendar of meetings at the Annual Council meeting.

NOTED that the meeting provisionally scheduled to take place on Wednesday 20 May 2015 would not now take place, the next meeting of the Cabinet was therefore scheduled to take place on Wednesday 17 June 2015, subject to Council agreement of the new calendar of meetings for the municipal year 2015/16.

Councillor Taylor took this opportunity to express his thanks to Councillors Bond and McGowan for their contributions to the Cabinet and the positive impact on the Borough and its residents.

To consider passing a resolution under Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972 excluding the press and public from the meeting for any items of business listed on part 2 of the agenda on the grounds that they involve the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in those paragraphs of Part 1 of Schedule 12A to the Act (as amended by the Local Government (Access to Information) (Variation) Order 2006).

(Members are asked to refer to the part 2 agenda).

RESOLVED in accordance with Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972 to exclude the press and public from the meeting for the items listed on part 2 of the agenda on the grounds that they involve the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 3 (information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information) of Part 1 of Schedule 12A to the Act (as amended by the Local Government (Access to Information) (Variation) Order 2006).

Cabinet decision – 11 March 2015 – Property Acquisition

At its meeting on 1 April 2015 the Overview and Scrutiny Committee considered a call-in of a previous Cabinet decision – Property Acquisition – Cabinet meeting held on 11 March 2015.

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee agreed that the report and previous Cabinet decision should be referred back to Cabinet for re-consideration. Members are therefore asked to consider the attached report and its recommendations (Report No.229, agenda part one also refers).

(Report No.230)

(9.40 – 9.45 pm)

Councillor Andrew Stafford (Cabinet Member for Finance) introduced the report of the Director of Finance, Resources and Customer Services (No.230) asking Cabinet to reconsider (under the call-in process) their original decision and to decide whether, on the basis of the additional information provided, they wished to amend or reconfirm their original decision.

NOTED

1.               That Report No.229 also referred as detailed in Minute No.18 above.

2.               The information which had been provided in response to the questions raised by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

3.               The original report which had been considered by the Cabinet at its meeting on 11 March 2015. The decision made by the Cabinet this evening would not be subject to further call-in.

Alternative Options Considered: NOTEDthe alternative options which had previously been considered as detailed in Report No.185 – 11 March 2015, Minute No.18 above referred. 

DECISION: The Cabinet agreed to re-confirm its original decision as set out below:

Cabinet noted the confidential information set out in Report No.189, 11 March 2015, and the additional information arising from the consideration of the call-in, which had been considered in conjunction with the part one reports and agreed to approve:

1.               The move within the element of the capital programme earmarked for regeneration of the sum detailed in Report No.189, 11 March 2015, from the 2017/18 Meridian Water Land Acquisition line to meet the purchase of this asset and associated costs in 2015/16.

2.               The expenditure associated with the acquisition as detailed in Report No.189, 11 March 2015, and the addition of the project to the existing Capital Programme.

Reason: The reasons for the recommendations were set out in Report No.189, 11 March 2015, containing exempt information. 

(Key decision – reference number 3990)

A report from the Director of Regeneration and Environment and Director of Finance, Resources and Customer Services is attached. This should be read in conjunction with Report No.225, agenda part one refers. (Key decision – reference number 3967)

(Report No.227)

(9.45 – 9.50 pm)

Councillor Ahmet Oykener (Cabinet Member for Housing and Estate Regeneration) introduced the report of the Director of Regeneration and Environment and Director of Finance, Resources and Customer Services (No.227) providing a programme update on the Alma Estate Regeneration, including Dujardin Mews project.

NOTED

1.               That Report No.225 also referred as detailed in Minute No.16 above.

2.               The variations to the approved budgets for the Alma and Dujardin Schemes as set out in the report.

Alternative Options Considered: As detailed in Report No.225, Minute No.16 above refers.

DECISION: The Cabinet

1.               Noted the progress at paragraphs 3.11 and 3.12 of the part 1 report (Minute No.16 above refers) being made in obtaining vacant possession on the Alma Estate and approved an increase in the budget to the total amount at paragraph 6.1.1 of the report from the Housing Revenue Account to obtain vacant possession of the homes.

2.               Agreed the proposal at paragraph 3.27 of the part 1 report (Minute No.16 above refers) to increase the number of Council homes included in Phase 1 of the proposed redevelopment of the Alma Estate from 80 to approximately 98, subject to planning, and noted the cash flow effect of implementing this change on the HRA Business Plan in paragraph 6.1.2 of the report.

3.               Noted at paragraph 6.1.3 of the report the cost of constructing the retail element to be included in Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the proposed redevelopment of the Alma Estate.

4.               Noted at paragraph 3.36 of the part 1 report (Minute No.16 above refers) the proposal to bring forward the development of Phase 1 of the proposed redevelopment of the Alma Estate and authorise the Council to give an undertaking in the amount at paragraph 6.1.4 of the report to Countryside to underwrite the costs of demolition.

5.               Agreed to approve an increase in the budget for payments to the developer and staffing and project costs on the Alma Estate scheme in the amounts at paragraphs 6.1.5 and 6.1.6 of the report, noting that this increase could be offset by a reduction in the costs of the Dujardin Mews scheme.

6.               Noted the progress at paragraph 3.46 of the part 1 report (Minute No.16 above referred) being made in the construction of new homes on Dujardin Mews and approved an increase in the budget to the total amount at paragraph 6.1.9 of the report from the Housing Revenue Account to cover increased build costs and the inclusion of one in-house lift in one of the new homes (paragraph 3.47 of the part 1 report referred).

7.               Agreed to approve a budget for staffing and project costs on the Dujardin Mews scheme in the amounts at paragraph 6.1.10 of the report, noting that this increase could be offset by a reduction in costs identified elsewhere within the scheme.

Reason: As detailed in Report No.225, Minute No.16 above refers.

(Key decision – reference number 3967)

A report from the Director of Regeneration and Environment will be circulated as soon as possible. This should be read in conjunction with Report No.226, agenda part one. (Key decision – reference number 4033)

(Report No.228) TO FOLLOW

(9.50 – 9.55 pm)

Councillor Alan Sitkin (Cabinet Member for Economic Development) introduced the report of the Director of Regeneration and Environment and Director of Finance, Resources and Customer Services (No.228) providing a programme update on Meridian Water.

NOTED

1.               That Report No.226 also referred, as detailed in Minute No.17 above.

2.               That the report provided further information about the basis upon which it was proposed to acquire additional land as well as the financial implications of completing these land deals.

3.               A further report would be presented to Cabinet in summer 2015 as detailed in recommendation 2.3 of the report.

4.               That, external consultants had been commissioned as set out in recommendation 2.4 of the report.

5.               That a supplementary appendix to the report had been circulated in advance of the meeting for Members’ consideration.

6.               A proposed amendment to recommendation 2.2 of the report which is reflected in the wording of decision 2 below.

7.               Members considered the proposals outlined in the report and noted the discussions which were currently taking place regarding the sites in question. The financial implications detailed in section 10 of the report were noted.

Alternative Options Considered: As detailed in Report No.226, Minute No.17 above referred.

DECISION: The Cabinet agreed to

1.               Authorise the temporary reallocation of funds from the Neighbourhood Regeneration capital programme to finance the early acquisition of two sites and one land swap in accordance with paragraph 4.23 of the report.

2.               Delegate the authority to acquire the land described within the report in accordance with the Heads of Terms (HoTs) after they had been agreed by the Director of Regeneration and Environment and the Director of Finance, Resources and Customer Services, who would provide a further report confirming that the HoTs had been agreed and were satisfactory to the Council. The proposed generic HoTs for the acquisition of all lands were attached as appendix 1 to the report together with more detailed HoTs which were currently being negotiated, detailed at Appendix 2 of the report, relating to the land described at paragraph 4.5.

3.               Note the intention for a further Cabinet report to be brought forward in summer 2015 which will seek, subject to full Council approval, an increase to the Neighbourhood Regeneration Capital Programme to fund the next stages of Meridian Water.

4.               Note that the Council had commissioned external consultants to prepare a comprehensive financial model for the Meridian Water development opportunity to enable sensitivity testing and risk management at the project developed.

Reason: As detailed in Report No.226, Minute No.17 above referred.

(Key decision – reference number 4033)