Agenda, decisions and minutes

Venue: Conservation Hall - Duxford Imperial War Museum. View directions

Contact: Democratic Services  03450 450 500 Email: democratic.services@scambs.gov.uk

Media

Items
No. Item

1.

Election of Chair of the Council for 2021- 22

To elect the Chair of the Council for the 2021-22 municipal year.

 

In accordance with Article 5 of the Constitution, if more than one nomination is received, a vote by secret ballot will be conducted.

 

The elected Chair to sign and read out the Declaration of Acceptance of Office.

Decision:

Councillor Anna Bradnam was elected unopposed as Chair of Council.

 

Councillor resolved by affirmation to suspend Standing Order 21.2, which required Councillors to stand when speaking at Council.

Minutes:

The Chief Executive asked for nominations for the Chair of the Council.

 

Councillor Bridget Smith, Leader of the Council, nominated Councillor Anna Bradnam. Councillor Peter Fane seconded the nomination.

 

By secret ballot, Councillor Bradnam was elected unopposed as Chair of Council for the municipal year 2021/22.

 

Councillor Bradnam read out and signed her declaration of acceptance of office.

 

The Chair proposed that Standing Order 21.2, which required Councilllors to stand when speaking, be suspended. The motion was seconded by the Leader, and Council 

 

resolved by affirmation to suspend Standing Order 21.2.

 

The Chair invited Members to join her in a moment of silence to reflect on the new municipal year. She then welcomed all those present to the meeting and made a number of housekeeping announcements.

2.

Appointment of Vice Chair of the Council for 2021- 22

To elect the Vice Chair of the Council for the 2021-22 municipal year.

 

In accordance with Article 5 of the Constitution, if more than one nomination is received, a vote by secret ballot will be conducted.

 

The elected Chair to sign and read out the Declaration of Acceptance of Office.

Decision:

Councillor Peter Fane was elected unopposed as Vice Chair of Council.

Minutes:

The Chair nominated Councillor Peter Fane as Vice Chair of Council.

 

Councillor Tumi Hawkins seconded the nomination.

 

A secret ballot being conducted, Councillor Peter Fane was elected unopposed as Vice Chair of Council for the municipal year 2021/22.

 

Councillor Peter Fane read out and signed his declaration of acceptance of office.

3.

Apologies

To receive Apologies for Absence from Members.

Minutes:

Apologies for Absence were received from Councillors Shrobona Bhattacharya, Ruth Betson, Tom Bygott, Clare Delderfield, Sarah Cheung-Johnson, Alex Malyon, Judith Rippeth and Nick Sample.

4.

Declarations of Interest

To receive from Members any declarations of interest in items on this agenda.

Minutes:

The Chair reminded Members that they were required to declare the existence and nature of any interest which affected or related to any item of business to be considered. If the interest became apparent during the meeting, the Member should bring it to the attention of officers at that time.  

5.

Register of Interests

Members are requested to inform Democratic Services of any changes in their Register of Members’ Financial and Other Interests form.

Minutes:

The Chair reminded Members that they should keep their register of interests up to date and that they should inform Democratic Services of any changes.

6.

Minutes

Minutes:

The Chair noted the Minutes of the meeting held on 15 April 2021 were not yet available. The Minutes would be considered at the next meeting.

7.

Announcements

To receive any announcements from the Chair of Council, Leader of the Council, Lead Cabinet Members , or the Head of Paid Service.

Minutes:

The Chief Executive thanked Democratic Services for their hard work in arranging this meeting at the Imperial War Museum at Duxford.  

 

Members indicated their appreciation by way of applause.

8.

Returning Officer's return of Councillors elected pdf icon PDF 106 KB

To receive the Returning Officer’s return of Councillors elected in by-elections held on 6 May 2021.

Minutes:

The Chief Executive presented the return of Councillors elected in by-elections held on 6 May 2021, as set out on the agenda.

 

New Councillors Paul Bearpark, Corinne Garvie, Sally Ann Hart and Fiona Whelan were welcomed and invited to speak.

 

Councillor Paul Bearpark said he was delighted to join the Council and, speaking on behalf of all four new Members, that they were proud to represent their communities.

9.

Political Proportionality, allocation of seats on committees and other appointments - 2021- 22 pdf icon PDF 342 KB

To receive the report on proportionality and

·       Allocate seats on committees

·       Receive Group leaders’ nominations to seats on committees

·       Appoint Chairs and Vice Chairs of committees

·       Re-appoint Grant Osbourn as the Council’s lead Independent Person and Gillian Holmes as the Council’s deputy Independent Person for a further term of two years, subject to annual ratification by the Council

·       Re-appoint Grant Osbourn as a member of the Council’s Independent Remuneration Panel for a further 3-year term and appoint Jane Phillips as a member of the Independent Remuneration Panel, for a 3-year term

Additional documents:

Decision:

Council agreed the following allocation of seas on committees:

 

Table 1 – Proposed Committee Seat Allocation

 

 

No. of seats

 

Liberal Democrat

Conservative

Labour

Civic Affairs

 

9

6

(6.341)

2

(2.250)

1

(0.409)

Audit and Corporate Governance

7

5

(4.932)

2

(1.750)

0

(0.318)

Employment and Staffing

 

7

 

5

(4.932)

2

(1.750)

0

(0.318)

Licensing

 

14

9

(9.864)

3

(3.500)

1

(0.636)

Planning

 

11

7

(7.750)

3

(2.750)

0

(0.500)

Scrutiny and Overview

14

9

(9.864)

3

(3.500)

1

(0.636)

Total

62

44

(43.682)

15

(15.500)

3

(2.818)

 

 

Table 2 – Proposed Joint Committee Seat Allocation

                    

 

No. of seats

Liberal Democrat

Conservative

Labour

Joint Development Control Committee

 

6

4

(4.227)

2

(1.500)

0

(0.273)

Climate Change and Environment Advisory Committee

7

5

(4.932)

2

(1.750)

0

(0.318)

Grants Advisory Committee

5

4

(3.523)

1

(1.250)

0

(0.227)

 

Council received the Group Leaders’ nominations to seats on Committees:

 

Ordinary Committees

 

Body

Notes

Liberal Democrat

Conservative

Labour

Independent (non-Group)

Audit and Corporate Governance Committee

7 members

 

Cabinet members may not serve as committee members.  Scrutiny and Overview Committee Chair may be a member, but may not be Chair.

1.     Tony Mason

2.     Nick Sample

3.     Jose Hales

4.     Fiona Whelan

5.     Geoff Harvey

 

Substitutes:

1. Steve Hunt

2. Henry Batchelor

 

 

 

1. Mark Howell

2. Heather Williams

 

 

 

 

Substitutes:

1. Nick Wright

2. Bunty Waters

3. Tom Bygott

4. Grenville Chamberlain

5. Graham Cone

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Civic Affairs Committee

9 members

 

Membership must include the Chair of the Council, the Leader, the Deputy Leader and the Leader of the Major Opposition Group.

 

(Note that the Council will be appointing an Independent Person and deputy who are not on the Committee)

 

1.     Anna Bradnam

2.     Claire Daunton

3.     Martin Cahn

4.     Bridget Smith

5.     Aidan Van de Weyer

6.     Henry Batchelor

 

 

Substitutes:

1.     Bill Handley

2.     Geoff Harvey

3.     Steve Hunt

4.     Eileen Wilson

1. Heather Williams

2. Mark Howell

 

 

 

 

 

 

Substitutes:

1. Bunty Waters

2. Nick Wright

3. Richard Williams

4. Sue Ellington

5. Graham Cone

 

 

1. Nigel Cathcart

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Substitute:

  1. Gavin Clayton

 

 

 

Employment and Staffing Committee

7 members

 

Membership must include the Lead Cabinet Member with responsibility for staffing and no other member of Cabinet.

 

 

1.     Henry Batchelor

2.     Dawn Percival

3.     Sally Ann Hart

4.     Claire Daunton

5.     John Williams

 

 

Substitutes:

1.     Jose Hales

2.     Peter McDonald

 

1. Mark Howell

2. Heather Williams

 

 

 

 

Substitutes:

1. Sue Ellington

2. Graham Cone

3. Nick Wright

4. Bunty Waters

5. Grenville Chamberlain

 

 

 

 

 

Licensing Committee

 

14 members

 

The Lead Cabinet Member with responsibility for licensing may serve on this committee.

1.     Anna Bradnam

2.     Eileen Wilson

3.     Clare Delderfield

4.     Fiona Whelan

5.     Jose Hales

6.     Alex Malyon

7.     Geoff Harvey

8.     Steve Hunt

9.     Peter McDonald

 

 

Substitutes:

1. Nick Sample

2. Bill Handley

 

1. Shrobona Bhattacharya

2. Graham Cone

3. Mark Howell

 

 

 

Substitutes:

1. Sue Ellington

2. Nick Wright

3. Bunty Waters

4. Heather Williams

5. Ruth Betson

1. Gavin Clayton

 

 

 

 

 

 

Substitute:

1. Nigel Cathcart

1. Deborah Roberts

Note: seat has been gifted by Liberal Democrat Group

 

Planning Committee

11  ...  view the full decision text for item 9.

Minutes:

Council considered a report on political proportionality, allocation of seats on committees and other appointments. The Democratic Services Manager presented the report, which the Chair then proposed, and the Vice Chair seconded.

 

Councillor Heather Williams said the nomination to the Joint Local Plan Advisory Group would be Councillor Dr Richard Williams, in place of Councillor Nick Wright.

 

Councillor Deborah Roberts thanked the Liberal Democrat Group and Conservative Group for each giving her a place from their allocated seats on committees. She was glad to be able to play a part on the Planning and Licensing committees.

 

Council resolved to allocate the following seats on committees:

 

Committee Seat Allocation

 

 

No. of seats

 

Liberal Democrat

Conservative

Labour

Civic Affairs

 

9

6

(6.341)

2

(2.250)

1

(0.409)

Audit and Corporate Governance

7

5

(4.932)

2

(1.750)

0

(0.318)

Employment and Staffing

 

7

 

5

(4.932)

2

(1.750)

0

(0.318)

Licensing

 

14

9*

(9.864)

3

(3.500)

1

(0.636)

Planning

 

11

7

(7.750)

3*

(2.750)

0

(0.500)

Scrutiny and Overview

14

9

(9.864)

3

(3.500)

1

(0.636)

Total

62

44

(43.682)

15

(15.500)

3

(2.818)

*It was noted that the Liberal Democrat Group gave one seat from the Licensing Committee to Councillor Deborah Roberts, as a Member who was not aligned with a political group and that the Conservative Group gave Councillor Deborah Roberts one seat on the Planning Committee.

 

Joint Committee and Advisory Committee Seat Allocation

                    

 

No. of seats

Liberal Democrat

Conservative

Labour

Joint Development Control Committee

 

6

4

(4.227)

2

(1.500)

0

(0.273)

Climate Change and Environment Advisory Committee

7

5

(4.932)

2

(1.750)

0

(0.318)

Grants Advisory Committee

5

4

(3.523)

1

(1.250)

0

(0.227)

 

Council received the Group Leaders’ nominations to seats on Committees:

 

Ordinary Committees

 

Body

Liberal Democrat

Conservative

Labour

Independent

Audit and Corporate Governance Committee

1.    Tony Mason

2.    Nick Sample

3.    Jose Hales

4.    Fiona Whelan

5.    Geoff Harvey

 

Substitutes:

1. Steve Hunt

2. Henry Batchelor

 

 

 

1. Mark Howell

2. Heather Williams

 

 

 

 

Substitutes:

1. Nick Wright

2. Bunty Waters

3. Tom Bygott

4. Grenville Chamberlain

5. Graham Cone

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Civic Affairs Committee

1.    Anna Bradnam

2.    Claire Daunton

3.    Martin Cahn

4.    Bridget Smith

5.    Aidan Van de Weyer

6.    Henry Batchelor

 

 

Substitutes:

1.    Bill Handley

2.    Geoff Harvey

3.    Steve Hunt

4.    Eileen Wilson

1. Heather Williams

2. Mark Howell

 

 

 

 

 

 

Substitutes:

1. Bunty Waters

2. Nick Wright

3. Richard Williams

4. Sue Ellington

5. Graham Cone

 

 

1. Nigel Cathcart

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Substitute:

  1. Gavin Clayton

 

 

 

Employment and Staffing Committee

1.    Henry Batchelor

2.    Dawn Percival

3.    Sally Ann Hart

4.    Claire Daunton

5.    John Williams

 

 

Substitutes:

1.    Jose Hales

2.    Peter McDonald

 

1. Mark Howell

2. Heather Williams

 

 

 

 

Substitutes:

1. Sue Ellington

2. Graham Cone

3. Nick Wright

4. Bunty Waters

5. Grenville Chamberlain

 

 

 

 

 

Licensing Committee

 

1.    Anna Bradnam

2.    Eileen Wilson

3.    Clare Delderfield

4.    Fiona Whelan

5.    Jose Hales

6.    Alex Malyon

7.    Geoff Harvey

8.    Steve Hunt

9.    Peter McDonald

 

 

Substitutes:

1. Nick Sample

2. Bill Handley

 

1. Shrobona Bhattacharya

2. Graham Cone

3. Mark Howell

 

 

 

Substitutes:

1. Sue  ...  view the full minutes text for item 9.

10.

Notification by Leader of the Council of the membership of the Cabinet for 2021-22

The Leader to notify the Council of the number of members she is appointing to the Cabinet, their names and their areas of responsibility.

Decision:

Council noted the Leader’s appointment of the following councillors to Cabinet for 2021-22:

Leader: Councillor Bridget Smith

Deputy Leader and Lead Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning & Transport and Transformation & Projects: Councillor Neil Gough

Lead Cabinet Member for Community Resilience, Health & Wellbeing: Councillor Bill Handley

Lead Cabinet Member for Finance: Councillor John Williams

Lead Cabinet Member for Housing: Councillor John Batchelor

Lead Cabinet Member for Planning Policy and Delivery: Councillor Dr. Tumi Hawkins

Lead Cabinet Member for Environmental Services and Licensing: Councillor Brian Milnes

Lead Cabinet Member for Business Recovery and Skills: Councillor Peter McDonald

Minutes:

The Leader of the Council, Councillor Bridget Smith, announced the membership and roles of her Cabinet and said Councillor Dr Aidan Van de Weyer had stepped down from the Cabinet. She expressed sincere thanks for the support he had given.

 

Council noted the Leader’s appointment of the following councillors to Cabinet for 2021-22:

 

Deputy Leader and Lead Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning & Transport and Transformation & Projects: Councillor Neil Gough

 

Lead Cabinet Member for Community Resilience, Health & Wellbeing: Councillor Bill Handley

 

Lead Cabinet Member for Finance: Councillor John Williams

 

Lead Cabinet Member for Housing: Councillor John Batchelor

 

Lead Cabinet Member for Planning Policy and Delivery: Councillor Dr Tumi Hawkins

 

Lead Cabinet Member for Environmental Services and Licensing: Councillor Brian Milnes

 

Lead Cabinet Member for Business Recovery and Skills: Councillor Peter McDonald

11.

Appointments to Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority pdf icon PDF 221 KB

To request the Council to make appointments to the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority for the municipal year 2021/22.

Additional documents:

Decision:

Council agreed to make the following appointments to the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority:

Appointment

Member(s) nominated

Combined Authority

Bridget Smith

Substitute: Neil Gough

Combined Authority Overview and Scrutiny Committee

1.    Peter Fane

2.    Judith Rippeth

Substitute: Ian Sollom

Substitute: Aidan Van de Weyer

Combined Authority Audit and Governance Committee

1.    Tony Mason

Substitute: Peter Fane

 

Minutes:

Council considered a report seeking appointments to the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority for the municipal year 2021/22 and authorising the Chief Executive to make any amendments to the appointments if required before the next Combined Authority council meeting.

 

The Chair drew Members’ attention to a correction notified by the Combined Authority following publication of the agenda, indicating that the political proportionality had been revised. The change meant the recommendation in respect of nominations to the Combined Authority’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee would be for two members of the Liberal Democrat party.

 

The Chair proposed the motion as amended by the supplementary report circulated to Members. The Vice Chair seconded the motion.

 

By affirmation, Council resolved

 

1.    to make the following appointments to the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority:

 

Appointment

Member(s) nominated

Combined Authority

Bridget Smith

Substitute: Neil Gough

Combined Authority Overview and Scrutiny Committee

1.    Peter Fane

2.    Judith Rippeth

Substitute: Ian Sollom

Substitute: Aidan Van de Weyer

Combined Authority Audit and Governance Committee

1.    Tony Mason

Substitute: Peter Fane

 

2.    To authorise the Chief Executive to make any amendments to the appointments to the Overview and Scrutiny Committee and the Audit and Governance Committee in consultation with the political group leaders, if the political balance were to be amended by the Combined Authority before the next council meeting.

12.

Appointments to outside bodies pdf icon PDF 212 KB

To approve any amendments needed to non-executive outside body appointments.

Decision:

Council agreed to appoint Councillors to the following Outside Bodies for 2021/22.

 

Name

Current Representative(s)

Bassingbourn Village College Centre Management Committee

Nigel Cathcart

 

 

Cambridge & District Citizens’ Advice Bureaux Management Committee Trustee Board

 

Jose Hales

Cambridge Airport Consultative Committee

 

John Williams

Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Association of Local Councils (CAPALC)

 

Peter Fane

Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Waste Partnership

 

 

 Brian Milnes

Sub: Peter Fane

Cambridgeshire and District Blue Plaque Scheme

 

Corinne Garvie

Cambridgeshire Community Covenant Board

 

 Jose Hales

Cambridgeshire County Council Health Committee

 

1.    Corinne Garvie

Sub: Alex Malyon

Cambridgeshire Health and Wellbeing Board

1. Corinne Garvie

Sub: Alex Malyon

Cambridgeshire Horizons Board

 John Williams

Cambridgeshire Police and Crime Panel

(Must be a Liberal Democrat)

1.    Claire Daunton

2.    Anna Bradnam

Carers Trust Cambridgeshire

 

Pippa Heylings

Comberton Village College Governing Body Sub-Committee

 

Ian Sollom

 

Conservators of the River Cam

Peter Fane

 

County Advisory Group on Archives & Local Studies

 

Claire Daunton

East West Rail Consortium

 

Neil Gough

Emmaus Cambridge Community

Judith Rippeth

Ermine Street Housing Ltd

1. Peter Fane

2. Ian Sollom

 

Farmland Museum Trustees

Anna Bradnam

 

Greater Cambridge Partnership Executive Board

  1. Neil Gough

 

Sub:

1.    Bridget Smith

 

Local Access Forum

Note: this is a statutory group administered by Cambridgeshire County Council which liaises with groups interested in footpaths, bridleways and access to the countryside.

Martin Cahn

Natural Cambridgeshire

Pippa Heylings

Needingworth Quarry Liaison Committee

 

Bill Handley

North Herts & District Citizens Advice Bureau

 

 Vacant

Old West Internal Drainage Board

1. Bill Handley

2. Neil Gough

3. Eileen Wilson

Over & Willingham Internal Drainage Board

Bill Handley

 

Responsive Repairs Partnership Management Board

1. Bunty Waters

2. Jose Hales

3. Eileen Wilson

 

Sawston Patient Reference Group

 

Clare Delderfield

Shifting Offered Furniture Around (SOFA)

 

Peter Fane

Swaffham Internal Drainage Board

 

John Williams

Swavesey Byeways Advisory Committee

1. Sue Ellington

2. Tumi Hawkins

 

Swavesey Internal Drainage Board

1. Bill Handley

2.  Alex Malyon

Swavesey Village College Community Committee

Sue Ellington

 

Waterbeach Level Internal Drainage Board

 

1. Anna Bradnam

2.  Vacancy

 

 

Minutes:

Council considered the report on Outside Bodies appointments.

 

In response to a question from Councillor Heather Williams, Councillor Claire Daunton said the nomination to the remaining vacancy on the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Police and Crime Panel was Councillor Anna Bradnam.

 

The Chair proposed a motion to agree the nominations as set out in the report with this addition. The motion was seconded by the Vice Chair.

 

By affirmation, Council resolved to appoint Councillors to the following Outside Bodies for 2021/22.

 

Name

Current Representative(s)

Bassingbourn Village College Centre Management Committee

Nigel Cathcart

 

 

Cambridge & District Citizens’ Advice Bureaux Management Committee Trustee Board

 

Jose Hales

Cambridge Airport Consultative Committee

 

John Williams

Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Association of Local Councils (CAPALC)

 

Peter Fane

Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Waste Partnership

 

 

 Brian Milnes

Sub: Peter Fane

Cambridgeshire and District Blue Plaque Scheme

 

Corinne Garvie

Cambridgeshire Community Covenant Board

 

 Jose Hales

Cambridgeshire County Council Health Committee

 

1.     Corinne Garvie

Sub: Alex Malyon

Cambridgeshire Health and Wellbeing Board

1. Corinne Garvie

Sub: Alex Malyon

Cambridgeshire Horizons Board

 John Williams

Cambridgeshire Police and Crime Panel

(Must be a Liberal Democrat)

1.     Claire Daunton

2.     Anna Bradnam

Carers Trust Cambridgeshire

 

Pippa Heylings

Comberton Village College Governing Body Sub-Committee

 

Ian Sollom

 

Conservators of the River Cam

Peter Fane

 

County Advisory Group on Archives & Local Studies

 

Claire Daunton

East West Rail Consortium

 

Neil Gough

Emmaus Cambridge Community

Judith Rippeth

Ermine Street Housing Ltd

1. Peter Fane

2. Ian Sollom

 

Farmland Museum Trustees

Anna Bradnam

 

Greater Cambridge Partnership Executive Board

  1. Neil Gough

 

Sub:

1.     Bridget Smith

 

Local Access Forum

Martin Cahn

Natural Cambridgeshire

Pippa Heylings

Needingworth Quarry Liaison Committee

 

Bill Handley

North Herts & District Citizens Advice Bureau

 

 Vacant

Old West Internal Drainage Board

1. Bill Handley

2. Neil Gough

3. Eileen Wilson

Over & Willingham Internal Drainage Board

Bill Handley

 

Responsive Repairs Partnership Management Board

1. Bunty Waters

2. Jose Hales

3. Eileen Wilson

 

Sawston Patient Reference Group

 

Clare Delderfield

Shifting Offered Furniture Around (SOFA)

 

Peter Fane

Swaffham Internal Drainage Board

 

John Williams

Swavesey Byeways Advisory Committee

1. Sue Ellington

2. Tumi Hawkins

 

Swavesey Internal Drainage Board

1. Bill Handley

2.  Alex Malyon

Swavesey Village College Community Committee

Sue Ellington

 

Waterbeach Level Internal Drainage Board

 

1. Anna Bradnam

2.  Vacancy

 

 

13.

Designation of Scrutiny and Overview Committee as crime and disorder committee

To designate the Council’s Scrutiny and Overview Committee as its crime and disorder committee in accordance with sections 19 and 20 of the Police and Justice Act 2006.

Decision:

Council agreed to designate the Council’s Scrutiny and Overview Committee as its crime and disorder committee in accordance with sections 19 and 20 of the Police and Justice Act 2006.

Minutes:

Council considered the proposal as set out on the agenda.

 

The Chair proposed a motion to approve the motion, which was seconded by the Vice Chair.

 

By affirmation, Council resolved to designate the Council’s Scrutiny and Overview Committee as its crime and disorder committee in accordance with sections 19 and 20 of the Police and Justice Act 2006.

14.

Agreement of scheme of delegation of Council functions

To agree the scheme of delegation of Council functions as set out in Table 3, Part 3 of the Constitution. Table 3 sets out the committees which the Council has established, with the respective composition of members as set out, with responsibility to carry out the functions as set out.

 

The relevant section may be viewed at the following link:

 

Part 3 of Constitution

Decision:

Council agreed the scheme of delegation of Council functions as set out in Table 3, Part 3 of the Constitution.

 

Table 3 sets out the Committees which the Council has established, with the respective composition of members as set out, with responsibilities to carry out the functions as set out.

Minutes:

Council considered the recommendation to agree the Council’s scheme of delegation, as set out in the Constitution.

 

The Chair proposed the recommendation which was seconded by Councillor Peter Fane.

 

Councillor Heather Williams proposed an amendment to powers and functions delegated by the Planning Committee, in relation to Part 3, Table 5.

 

Councillor Heather Williams said whilst the existing scheme of delegation might be the right option, it should have been brought in after first consulting, in the interest of rebuilding trust.

 

Councillor Heather Williams tabled a written copy of her amendment, as follows:

 

that after the sentence in Table 5 “Applications for consent or permission under the Town and Country Planning Acts and listed Building and Conservation Area Acts shall be dealt with under delegated powers unless”, the following words at the end of the first paragraph be deleted “and sound planning reasons are given for why this is considered necessary and the request is accepted by the Joint Director of Planning and Economic Development, in consultation with the Chair of Planning Committee (or Vice Chair in their absence), and that the following words be inserted: “and the officer’s recommendation is in conflict with that of the parish council or the local Member who has made the request”; 

 

the words in brackets be deleted “(Footnote: Notwithstanding any decision is ultimately one for the officer themselves, the committee’s guidance in terms of decisions made in accordance with the delegation rules is that in cases which raise issues which are sensitive or controversial, the committee would expect the officer normally to refer the matter to committee)”;and

 

that after the words “The request by Parish Councils should be made within 21 days of the date of registration and by local Members not later than 28 days of the date of registration of the application, or within 14 days of receipt of any subsequent significant amendment to a current proposal”, the following words be deleted:  “If the Joint Director, in consultation with the Chair, declines a request, a written explanation shall be given to the Parish Council and copied to the local Member.”

 

Councillor Dr Richard Williams seconded the amendment.

 

Councillor Deborah Roberts said she supported the amendment as she was aware of disquiet among parish councils that their concerns were brought to the Planning Committee, and that they felt these were being disregarded.

 

Councillor Dr Tumi Hawkins, Lead Cabinet Member for Planning, said whilst she was not surprised to see this amendment, she was disappointed. This was a forward-looking council. She could not accept this amendment to the process which the Council had put in place for working with parish councils, and she did not recognise the disquiet Councillor Roberts had mentioned. The Council had been holding quarterly meetings with parish councils and none had said they were unhappy with this current process.

 

Councillor Dr Tumi Hawkins said officers made their decisions based on material considerations. The minutes of the senior officers’ meetings were published and the parish councils were contacted to let  ...  view the full minutes text for item 14.

15.

Questions From the Public

To answer any questions asked by the public.

 

The deadline for receipt of public questions is noon on Thursday 13 May 2021.

 

The Council’s scheme for public speaking at meetings may be inspected here:

 

Public speaking guidance

Minutes:

The Chair said no questions from the public had been received, but that representatives from Histon and Impington Parish Council were present, and she would allow them the opportunity to speak at the start of the item on the agenda relating to the Histon and Impington Local Plan.  

15a

Business Plan 2020-25 (Cabinet 22 March 2021) pdf icon PDF 238 KB

1.    To approve the 2020-25 Business Plan at Appendix A to the report (with the Action Plan primarily focused on delivery 2021-22); and

 

2.    Authorise the Chief Executive to make any minor wording changes required to the final draft, in consultation with the Deputy Leader.

 

 

Additional documents:

Decision:

Council Agreed

 

A)       To approve the 2020-25 Business Plan at Appendix A to the report (with the Action Plan primarily focused on delivery 2021-22); and

 

B)       Authorise the Chief Executive to make any minor wording changes required to the final draft, in consultation with the Deputy Leader, including the percentage of total homes built that will be Council houses over the coming year.

Minutes:

Council considered the 2020-25 Business Plan. Councillor Neil Gough, Deputy Leader and Lead Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Transport and for Transformation and Projects, presented a report. He highlighted the fact that delivery of actions was in the context of the pandemic, and moved the recommendations as set out.

 

Councillor Peter McDonald, Leader Cabinet Member for Business Recovery and Skills, seconded the motion. He said the allocation of grants to businesses had been done effectively and had provided a lifeline to businesses. He said the council was one of the best performing councils in the county and that it had passed the threshold to secure future Government grants. He thanked all  officers involved for their support for ensuring rapid deployment of grants.

 

Councillor John Williams, Lead Cabinet Member for Finance, said he supported this strong business plan and that the council needed a strong financial base. He referred to progress over the last three years and the income from investment and business rates. He said the council had delivered a sound financial base for this business plan and commended colleauges and officers for their work to produce it.

 

Councillor Bill Handley, Lead Cabinet Member for Community Resilience, Health and Wellbeing, said the communities team had worked extremely hard in delivering much of the work arising from Covid-19. He commended the fantastic service they had given.

 

Councillor John Batchelor, Lead Cabinet Member for Housing, said he had taken on the housing portfolio only recently, but had been impressed. He highlighted the fact that from its significant housing asset base the council still provided affordable housing and support for tenants. He welcomed the measures being taken to green the housing stock, including a trial with Southampton University. The words “Green to our Core” were apt, as the council had been recognised in the public sector transformation awards. He highlighted the dedicated officer role for climate change which had been set up, and a number of other initiatives and the aspiration of the council to conduct air quality monitoring through the district.

 

Councillor Deborah Roberts said it was the government to whom people should be grateful, for providing the money to councils to help people through the pandemic. She referred to the history of her having fought to keep housing under the authority’s control, which she said the current administration was now taking the credit for. She referred also to risks of a fall in value of the commercial property investments the council was making, which she considered was being conducted without transparency and openness, and to the need for the authority’s accounts to be audited.

 

Councillor Grenville Chamberlain said the Business Plan contained much that was good, but investment in commercial property was risky. There was in his view no doubt the market was debating whether to reduce space requirements, with break clauses for some in the future. He had grave concerns at the prospect of such investments.

 

Councillor Grenville Chamberlain referred to the liaison meetings being run to minimise disruption  ...  view the full minutes text for item 15a

16.

Scrutiny and Overview Committee annual report 2020-21 pdf icon PDF 185 KB

To receive the Scrutiny and Overview Committee annual report for 2020-21.

Minutes:

Members considered the Scrutiny and Overview Committee’s annual report for 2020-21. Councillor Grenville Chamberlain, presenting the report, thanked the Chief Executive and other officers for helping the committee focus on the significant issues and to achieve manageable agenda packs. He thanked the Committee’s members and in particular those who had served on the Committee’s Task and Finish Groups and paid tribute to Councillor Judith Rippeth as Vice Chair of the Committee for her support.

 

Councillor Grenville Chamberlain said the Committee had looked closely at the planning process and he was delighted to hear the Planning Service had achieved an aware for delivery of large applications. He asked that they continue to take care with small applications, referring to a resident having complained recently of waiting 14 months for a certificate of lawful development.

 

The Chair thanked Councillor Grenville Chamberlain for his even handedness in chairing the Committee.

 

The Chief Executive thanked Councillors Grenville Chamberlain and Judith Rippeth, and to Councillor Brian Milnes who had been the previous Chair of this Committee, for their having provided a safe pair of hands in a non-political way, as this had significantly contributed to the operation and policy of the council.

 

The Council noted the report.

 

The Chair adjourned the meeting at this point for a 10 minute break until 4pm.

17.

Civic Affairs Committee annual report 2020-21 pdf icon PDF 160 KB

To receive the Civic Affairs Committee annual report 2020-21.

Minutes:

Members received the report of the Civic Affairs Committee for 2020-21. Councillor Claire Daunton, presenting the report, said the Committee had addressed a number of significant matters during the year and she wished to record her thanks to the Committee and to its former Chair, Dr Douglas de Lacey.

 

Council noted the report.

18.

Constitution amendments pdf icon PDF 213 KB

To adopt the changes to the constitution outlined at Appendix A and authorise the Chief Executive to make the necessary changes.

 

Additional documents:

Decision:

Council agreed to adopt the changes to the Constitution outlined as Appendix A and authorise the Chief Executive to make the necessary changes.

Minutes:

Members considered the report on Constitution amendments.

 

The Monitoring Officer highlighted the main points of the report.

 

The Chair proposed a motion to accept the recommendations, which was seconded by the Vice Chair.

 

Council resolved to adopt the changes to the Constitution outlined as Appendix A and authorise the Chief Executive to make the necessary changes.

19.

Write Off of Outstanding Debt 2020-21 pdf icon PDF 323 KB

To note the amounts written off under delegated powers.

Minutes:

Council received a report on the write off of outstanding debts, presented by Councillor John Williams, Lead Cabinet Member for Finance.

 

Council noted the report.

20.

Adjustment to Council Tax resolution to correct the precepts for the parishes of Heydon and Wimpole pdf icon PDF 167 KB

To approve a correction to the precept and charges for the parish councils of Heydon and Wimpole, as set out at paragraph 5 of the report.

Decision:

Council agreed to approve a correction to the precept and charges for the parish councils of Heydon and Wimpole, as set out at paragraph 5 of the report.

Minutes:

Council considered a report seeking a correction to an error in setting the precept and council tax charges for the parishes of Heydon and Wimpole. Councillor John Williams, presenting the report, apologised for the error.

 

The Chair proposed a motion to accept the recommendation. The motion was seconded by the Vice Chair.

 

Council resolved to approve a correction to the precept and charges for the parish councils of Heydon and Wimpole, as set out at paragraph 5 of the report.

21.

Making of the Cottenham Neighbourhood Plan pdf icon PDF 262 KB

To approve recommendations that the Council:

 

a.    Notes that the referendum for the Cottenham Neighbourhood Plan took place on 6 May 2021;

b.    As it was a successful referendum, that it ‘makes’ (adopts) the Cottenham Neighbourhood Plan; and

c.     Delegates to the Joint Director of Planning and Economic Development in liaison with the Lead Cabinet Member for Planning and the Parish Council Chair, the making of minor non-material changes and updates to the Referendum version of the Neighbourhood Plan (Appendix 1) to enable preparation of a final made (adopted) Cottenham Neighbourhood Plan.

 

Additional documents:

Decision:

Council

 

Agreed to

 

A)       Note that the referendum for the Cottenham Neighbourhood Plan took place on 6 May 2021;

 

B)       As it was a successful referendum, that it “makes” (adopts) the Cottenham Neighbourhood Plan; and

 

C)       Delegate to the Joint Director of Planning and Economic Development in liaison with the Lead Cabinet Member for Planning and the Parish Council Chair, the making of minor non-material changes and updates to the Referendum versions of the Neighbourhood Plan (Appendix 1) to enable preparation of a final made (adopted) Cottenham Neighbourhood Plan.

Minutes:

Council received a report on the making of the Cottenham Neighbourhood Plan.

 

The Chair invited Councillor Neil Gough, as one of the ward Members for Cottenham, to read out a statement on behalf of the Chair of Cottenham Parish Council, Councillor Peter Hewitt. He said the Parish Council wished to record its thanks for the hard work which had gone into achieving the Neighbourhood Plan, to all those involved, including the former Chair of the Parish Council, Councillor Frank Morris, and to the parishioners, 88% of whom had voted in favour of the Plan.

 

Councillor Dr Tumi Hawkins, Lead Cabinet Member for Planning, said Neighbourhood Plans were an important tool for development. She emphasised how important local democracy was in the planning process. Eighteen more areas had been designated for neighbourhood plans. She proposed a motion to support the recommendation.

 

Councillor Eileen Wilson said she was delighted to second the motion. This Neighbourhood Plan gave a voice to the community to ensure Cottenham remained a good place to live. She thanked all involved for this achievement which had already brought about a new village hall.

 

Councillor Heather Williams welcomed the Neighbourhood Plan which gave an invaluable means of giving weight to the views of communities.

 

Council resolved by affirmationto

 

A)        Note that the referendum for the Cottenham Neighbourhood Plan took place on 6 May 2021;

 

B)        that as it was a successful referendum, to “make” (adopt) the Cottenham Neighbourhood Plan; and

 

C)        Delegate to the Joint Director of Planning and Economic Development in liaison with the Lead Cabinet Member for Planning and the Parish Council Chair, the making of minor non-material changes and updates to the Referendum versions of the Neighbourhood Plan (Appendix 1) to enable preparation of a final made (adopted) Cottenham Neighbourhood Plan.

22.

Making of the Histon and Impington Neighbourhood Plan pdf icon PDF 268 KB

To receive recommendations that Council:

 

a.    Notes that the referendum for the Histon & Impington Neighbourhood Plan took place on 6 May 2021;

b.    As it was a successful referendum, that is ‘makes’ (adopts) the Histon & Impington Neighbourhood Plan; and

c.     Delegates to the Joint Director of Planning and Economic Development, in liaison with the Lead Cabinet Member for Planning and the Parish Council Chair, the making of minor non-material changes and updates to the Referendum version of the Neighbourhood Plan (Appendix 1) to enable preparation of a final made (adopted) Histon & Impington Neighbourhood Plan.

 

Additional documents:

Decision:

Council

 

Agreed to

 

A)       Note that the referendum for the Histon & Impington Neighbourhood Plan took place on 6 May 2021;

 

B)       As it was a successful referendum, that it “makes” (adopts) the Histon & Impington Neighbourhood Plan; and

 

C)       Delegate to the Joint Director of Planning and Economic Development in liaison with the Lead Cabinet Member for Planning and the Parish Council Chair, the making of minor non-material changes and updates to the Referendum versions of the Neighbourhood Plan (Appendix 1) to enable preparation of a final made (adopted) Histon & Impington Neighbourhood Plan.

 

Minutes:

Council considered a report on the making of the Histon and Impington Neighbourhood Plan.

 

At the invitation of the Chair, Councillor Denis Payne, Chair of Histon and Impington Parish Council addressed the meeting.  He said there had been challenges but acknowledged the support of the District Council throughout the engagement process, in particular, the Senior Planning Policy Officer. He thanked Parish Councillor David Jenkins who had led the Working Group, and residents, over 91% of whom who had voted in favour.

 

Councillor Dr Tumi Hawkins said the Histon and Impington Neighbourhood Plan area had been designated in 2014, so it had been a long journey. The Plan would create business growth and the opportunity to protect the local character of the area. She moved the recommendation.

 

Councillor Pippa Heylings seconded the motion, and congratulated all those involved, referring to the designation of open space in particular where it had been impacted by the works to the A14 and was to be regenerated. She encouraged all those communities working on neighbourhood plans to look at how Histon and Impington’s Neighbourhood Plan was helping to shape that regenerated green space.

 

Councillor Steve Hunt said neighbourhood plans were not about setting villages in stone, but aimed to protect them from the threat of suburbanisation. This was a remarkable document and a fantastically dedicated team, whom he saluted.

 

Councillor Heather Williams congratulated the parish council. She said one size did not fit all in planning, and this neighbourhood plan had her full support.

 

By affirmation, Council resolved to

 

A)        Note that the referendum for the Histon & Impington Neighbourhood Plan took place on 6 May 2021;

 

B)        that as it was a successful referendum, to “make” (adopt) the Histon & Impington Neighbourhood Plan; and

 

C)        Delegate to the Joint Director of Planning and Economic Development in liaison with the Lead Cabinet Member for Planning and the Parish Council Chair, the making of minor non-material changes and updates to the Referendum versions of the Neighbourhood Plan (Appendix 1) to enable preparation of a final made (adopted) Histon & Impington Neighbourhood Plan.

 

23.

Oxford-Cambridge Arc Update pdf icon PDF 210 KB

To receive an update on the work of the Oxford-Cambridge Arc.

Minutes:

Councillor Bridget Smith, Leader of the Council, gave an update on the recent activities of the Oxford-Cambridge Arc. She referred to the forthcoming plenary meeting with the Minister, on which she would report further to Members.

24.

Leader of the Opposition's annual statement

To receive the Leader of the Opposition’s annual statement.

Minutes:

Councillor Heather Williams made a statement as Leader of the Opposition.

 

Firstly, I would like to say how wonderful it is to see so many familiar faces at the meeting today safe and well.

I recall a conversation right at the start I had with Councillor Bridget Smith and the most important thing we said to each other is “stay safe.” I would also like to welcome the new members of Council, and I wish them all the best as they start their new term. The Covid pandemic has challenged us all both collectively and individually, I would like to congratulate officers not only in the way they responded to the pandemic but also how quickly we were running business as usual and virtual meetings. The devotion that the public sector workers give whether they are Council, NHS, care workers or emergency services can never be measured or thanked enough, including those in the room with us today. We all owe a great debt of gratitude to them and collectively we would like to say thank you.

As individuals we have all faced our own challenges, for some that may have been adapting to new technology, naming no names for a few virtual meeting blunders, home-schooling, and caring for loved ones. Personally, potty training during a pandemic has led to some very interesting exits from virtual meetings and Councillor Cone having to dramatically interrupt and take over the chair of one of our group meetings. Inevitably there will always be times when we disagree as we have already experienced today, we have not always agreed about planning or how best to spend the Council’s finances but as a group we do not oppose for opposing’s sake. I am pleased we have found agreement on issues such as addressing the effects of climate change, tackling racism and discrimination, and supporting our communities during the pandemic.

This is the first time I am giving the leader of the opposition annual statement and that is quite a mouthful, and I would like to thank members of the Conservative Group of the trust they have given myself and Councillor Cone in our leadership. The support they have given us has led us to be where we are today, and we are grateful for the time and confidence they have shared with us. In our group one key piece of advice is given to us all which is “your priorities are in this order, your family, your residents, your Council, your party and your party is last” when we all come to face the ballot box next year we will be able to look our residents in the eye and know we have put them first, and I do wonder how many other Councillors, Chairman, will have a clear conscience that they also have always put people before party politics.

 

25.

Questions From Councillors

A period of 30 minutes will be allocated for this item to include those questions where notice has been provided (as set out on the agenda below) and questions which may be asked without notice.

 

Members wishing to ask a question without notice should indicate this intention to the Interim Democratic Services Manager prior to the commencement of the item.  Members’ names will be drawn at random by the Chair until there are no further questions or until the expiration of the time period. 

25a

From Councillor Dr Richard Williams

Will the administration of the Council commit to expanding the resources allocated to manging Tree Protection Order applications, Conservation Area matters and Trees works applications in the Council by employing an additional Trees Officer?

 

Minutes:

Councillor Dr Richard Williams asked a question as follows:

 

Will the administration of the Council commit to expanding the resources allocated to manging Tree Protection Order applications, Conservation Area matters and Trees works applications in the Council by employing an additional Trees Officer?

 

Councillor Dr Tumi Hawkins, Lead Cabinet Member for Planning Policy and Delivery, responded as follows:

 

The Shared Planning service currently has two officers employed in managing the tree works programme.

 

Recognising the increased workload, we recently employed additional administrative support on a temporary basis. This temporary support is focused on administration of Tree Protection Order and tree works applications so that we can make best use of the expertise of the two tree officers.

 

In addition, and as part of a service wide program, we are reviewing how such administration can be handled effectively in the future so that we can maximise the skills and capabilities of our officers. 

 

In the meantime, we will continue to keep a close eye on the effectiveness of the support we have just put in so we can use the learning in the wider service.

 

Councillor Dr Richard Williams said the level of work for Tree Officers was huge, and over the preceding 12 months, approximately 1000 applications for tree works had been received. Trees were vital for communities and for climate change objectives. He asked again whether an additional Tree Officer could be employed.

 

Councillor Dr Tumi Hawkins said with the support provided to the Tree Team, processing of tree applications was much quicker and the software to enable faster processing was nearly ready for use. She would be happy to discuss progress with Councillor Dr Richard Williams over the next few months.

26.

From Councillor Nick Wright

Minutes:

Councillor Nick Wright asked a question as follows.

 

In a recent meeting between our MP, Anthony Browne with East West Rail for those parishes north of the A428, Will Gallagher, director of strategy from EWR was questioned as to why the station north of Cambourne was preferred. He pointed the finger at local government bodies, namely South Cambs District Council and the Greater Cambridgeshire Partnership. Please could you tell me what the process was used to reach this conclusion?

 

Councillor Dr Tumi Hawkins said she was puzzled by this assertion as no such indication had been given by East-West officials at any of the meetings she had attended. The question was vague in respect of the phrase “pointing the finger”. The Council’s response to the consultation in 2018 had been published and the response to the current one was due to be considered at the meeting of Cabinet next week. In neither case had reference been made to a preference for a “North Cambourne” station. Sher recalled statements made by the previous Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Mayor and in the campaign of the MP.

 

Councillor Heather Williams said, as a point of information, that the reference made regarding the former Mayor suggested he had supported a station north of Cambourne, but that he had instead supported one on the southern approach at Bassingbourn.

 

Councillor Deborah Roberts said, as a point of order, that the question was not about the MP but about what, if anything, the Council had done in this regard.

 

Councillor Nick Wright, as a supplementary question, said his question had not been answered and he asked what process had caused the official in question to give this opinion. Had there been secret meetings?

 

Councillor Dr Tumi Hawkins said the response had been published and was in the public domain and in neither response was reference made to a preference to north of Cambourne. There had been no secret meetings. The one person she was aware of who had expressed this view had been the MP.

27.

From Councillor Sue Ellington

Minutes:

Councillor Sue Ellington asked a question as follows.

 

Why are the sheltered housing residents of Thistle Green in Swavesey not allowed to use their communal rooms until the end of June, when they are paying for them? They are doubly vaccinated and are very able people who have taken advice.

 

Councillor John Batchelor, Lead Cabinet Member for Housing, replied that a risk assessment for the sheltered housing communal areas was being finalised and that it needed to take account of the fact the areas had been closed for 12 months. Cases of the new Covid variant were on the rise and the Council was taking a cautious approach following government guidelines. Events could take place out of doors and information would be circulated in the June Housing newsletter.

 

As a supplementary question, Councillor Sue Ellington said residents wished to have communal areas available which was important where so many had had experience of loneliness in the past year.  

 

Councillor John Batchelor said the council was doing all it could to protect its residents. He had spoken with the Chair of the tenants’ forum to make him aware of the approach being taken. Of the 41 sheltered housing schemes, this was the only one which had raised this matter.

28.

Dates of Council meetings 2021-22

Council, at its meeting held on 23 February 2021, approved the following dates for meetings in the 2021-22 municipal year.

 

Thursday 22 July 2021 – 2pm

Thursday 23 September 2021 - 2pm

Thursday 25 November 2021 – 2pm

Tuesday 22 February 2022 – 2pm

Thursday 21 April 2022 – 2pm

Thursday 26 May 2022 (annual meeting) – 2pm

 

In order to avoid holding an ordinary meeting of the Council during the pre- election period in April 2022, Council is invited to change the date of the meeting scheduled for 21 April 2022, to an alternative date of 23 March 2022.

Decision:

Council agreed to move the date of its meeting on 21 April 2022 to 23 March 2022.

Minutes:

Council agreed to move the date of its meeting on 21 April 2022 to 23 March 2022.

29.

Chair's Engagements

To note the Chair’s engagements since the last Council meeting:

 

Date

Venue / Event

29 April 2021          Inaugural meeting of the Interim

Council for Northstowe Town Council

Minutes:

Council noted the attendance of the Chair whilst in her capacity as Vice Chair of the Council at the inaugural meeting of the Interim Council for Northstowe Town Council.

 

Councillor Bridget Smith, Leader of the Council, congratulated Councillor Anna Bradnam and Councillor Peter Fane for their conduct of the annual meeting.