Agenda item

The Scrutiny and Overview Committee reviewed the draft budget for 2023-24 alongside an updated probable outturn for 2022-23.

Councillor Richard Stobart expressed concern about pressure surrounding Section 106 income. In reply, Councillor John Williams (Lead Cabinet Member for Resources) attributed this in part to a slow down in the occupation of properties (a common Section 106 trigger point) and the fact that Section 106 Agreements were largely related to major developments. The Joint Director of Planning and Economic Development summarised several measures adopted recently that had resulted in improved working practices and monitoring of Legal Agreements made under Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 and Planning Performance Agreements.

Councillor John Williams assured Councillor Tom Bygott that the Council remained committed to the self-build concept notwithstanding that the current economic climate made viability an important factor.

In response to Councillor Aidan Van de Weyer, the Joint Director of Planning and Economic Development explained how recharges worked with regard to the Greater Cambridge Shared Planning Service and 3C Building Control.

Councillor Helene Leeming asked for clarity on how the Council could prepare for the Fair Funding Review expected in 2025-26. Councillor John Williams said that such review was likely to move central government grant money away from district councils towards county councils and unitary authorities. He added that South Cambridgeshire District Council would therefore be transfer any unused surpluses to its reserves in an effort to minimise the anticipated impact on the Medium-Term Financial Strategy. The Head of Finance assured the Committee that the Council’s finances looked to be stable during 2023-24 and 2024-25.

Members noted that the payback period in respect of the ‘greening of South Cambs Hall’ was likely to be shorter than envisaged because of increases in the cost of gas and electricity.

Members discussed the issue of ambient noise and recognised the nature of evidence needed before the Council could investigate.

Committee members supported the aim of developing an arts and culture policy and noted Councillor Heather Williams’ request that Section 106 monies received in respect of arts and culture, but not yet spent, should be retained.

The Chief Executive explained that potential budgetary implications arising from the introduction of Voter I.D. should be negated by central Government covering the cost in full.

Councillor Sue Ellington mentioned the challenges being faced by small villages in maintaining street lighting in the face of substantially increased costs. Councillor Brian Milnes (Deputy Leader) said he would discuss this at a later date with Councillor Ellington but mentioned that the Eastern Shires Purchasing Organisation (ESPO) was available with whom Parish Councils could jointly procure energy contracts.

Following further discussion, and subject to the comments above, the Scrutiny and Overview Committee noted and supported submission of the Budget to Cabinet on 6 February 2023.