Agenda and minutes

Venue: Civic Offices, Shute End, Wokingham, RG40 1BN

Contact: Anne Hunter  Service Manager, Democratic Services

Items
No. Item

24.

Minute Silence

Minutes:

Prior to the commencement of the meeting, the Mayor paid tribute to the victims of the Nice attack and led the Council in a minute of silence.

25.

Apologies

To receive any apologies for absence

Minutes:

Apologies for absence were submitted from Chris Bowring, UllaKarin Clark, Kate Haines, Pauline Helliar-Symons, John Jarvis, John Kaiser, Barrie Patman, Ian Pittock, Wayne Smith, Paul Swaddle and Oliver Whittle.

26.

Minutes of Previous Meeting pdf icon PDF 216 KB

To confirm the Minutes of the Meeting held on 19 May 2016 and the Minutes of the Extraordinary Meeting held on 9 June 2016.

 

Additional documents:

Minutes:

The Minutes of the Meeting held on 19 May 2016 and the Minutes of the Extraordinary Meeting held on 9 June 2016 were confirmed as a correct record and signed by the Chairman.

27.

Declarations of Interest

To receive any declarations of interest

Minutes:

There were no declarations of interest received.

28.

Update on the Thames Valley Berkshire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP)

To receive a presentation from Tim Smith, Chief Executive of the Thames Valley Berkshire Local Enterprise Partnership on the work being undertaken by the LEP.

 

A period of approx. 5 minutes will be provided for Members to ask questions.

Minutes:

The Council received a presentation from Tim Smith, Chief Executive of the Thames Valley Berkshire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).

 

The presentation gave details of the development of the LEP and its strategic aim to sustain the area’s status as the most productive sub-region in the UK. The LEP’s activities were underpinned by a Strategic Economic Plan with four programmes covering infrastructure, enterprise and business growth, skills and employment and international links.

 

The presentation gave examples of the LEP’s investment in the Borough in relation to road and rail improvements (including planning for the third Thames Crossing), digital technology, education and the Growing Places Fund.

 

Following the presentation, Members raised issues relating to the business orientation and leadership of the LEP, the potential funding implications following Brexit and the potential impact of a third runway at Heathrow airport.

 

RESOLVED: That Tim Smith be thanked for the presentation to Council on the work of the Thames Valley Berkshire Local Enterprise Partnership.

29.

Public Question Time

To answer any public questions

 

A period of 30 minutes will be allowed for members of the public to ask questions submitted under notice.

 

The Council welcomes questions from members of the public about the work of the Council

 

Subject to meeting certain timescales, questions can relate to general issues concerned with the work of the Council or an item which is on the Agenda for this meeting.  For full details of the procedure for submitting questions please contact the Democratic Services Section on the numbers given below or go to www.wokingham.gov.uk/publicquestions

 

 

Minutes:

In accordance with the agreed procedure the Mayor invited members of the public to submit questions to the appropriate Members.

29.1

Guy Grandison asked the Executive Member for Highways and Transport the following question:

Question

Could the Executive Member for Highways give us an update on the Third Thames Bridge Project, specifically the traffic modelling progress being carried out by WBC?

Minutes:

Could the Executive Member for Highways give us an update on the Third Thames Bridge Project, specifically the traffic modelling progress being carried out by WBC?

 

Answer

Work is proceeding on the completion of a Strategic Outline Business Case (SOBC).  The business case development is based on the five case model approach which shows whether a scheme:

 

         is supported by a robust case for change that fits with wider public policy objectives – the ‘strategic case’

         demonstrates value for money – the ‘economic case’

         is financially affordable – the ‘financial case’

         is commercially viable – the ‘commercial case’

         is achievable – the ‘management case’.

 

The SOBC focuses on the Strategic Case and the Economic Case. Only an outline of the Financial Case, Commercial Case and Management Case is expected to support the SOBC.

 

The Economic Case requires the use of a traffic model.  For this we are using the updated Wokingham Strategic Transport Model.  The work to update the model started in

September 2015 and has been proceeding as planned and is on-going. A significant number of traffic surveys were undertaken in September 2015 in and around Wokingham, Reading and Oxfordshire. The current programme shows the transport model is expected to be ready towards the end of the summer. Work is ongoing to produce the Strategic Case.  This is programmed to be completed in July 2016. 

 

Environment work to support the business case is also progressing in parallel following a procurement process earlier this year. Based on the current programme we are anticipating completion of the SOBC late Autumn/Winter 2016.

 

Supplementary Question

 

In relation to the Strategic Plan you just mentioned, will it be coming back to this chamber to keep the public informed?

 

Answer

 

Yes, something of that significance, certainly we will be keeping the public informed of events as and when they are relevant and have some substance.

29.2

Nicola Greenwood asked the Executive Member for Environment the following question:

Question

Thank you for accepting Wokingham Bridleway Group's petition for an increase in the % of equestrian access in the Borough, the subsequent meeting and letter following the meeting. Please could I ask if the petition issues comes back to council and if not please could you explain how the matter now lies?

 

Minutes:

Thank you for accepting Wokingham Bridleway Group's petition for an increase in the % of equestrian access in the Borough, the subsequent meeting and letter following the meeting. Please could I ask if the petition issues comes back to Council and if not please could you explain how the matter now lies?

 

Answer

There is no formal requirement for the petition to report back to Council about the outcome.  However, for clarity I can confirm that we had a successful meeting with yourself as lead petitioner, myself as Executive Member for Environment and two senior officers of the Council and you agreed to share the outcome of our conversations and our subsequent letter with your networks.

 

I think you will agree that the meeting was successful and we acknowledged your concerns regarding the new development taking place in the Borough and your wish to ensure that there is continuing access for equestrians to use the public rights of way network. I hope that you could see from the meeting that we do appreciate the popularity of horse riding in our Borough.

 

During the meeting we noted that whilst it is true that 10% of the Borough’s rights of way are bridleways, it is worth noting that a further 24% are restricted byways and byways which can be used by equestrians. The total network accessible to equestrians is actually currently around 34%, and could reach upwards of 40% over the next ten years.

 

We have high aspirations around improved access and as you know, we are working hard to deliver an enhanced network for equestrian users. (For example we have recently secured a new circular bridleway as part of the mineral restoration plans that are being created at Fleet Hill and Manor Farms in Finchampstead, which will link over the River Blackwater into a bridleway network within Hampshire.)

 

In addition the Greenways project aspires to create up to 42km of multi-use access for users including horse riders.

 

I appreciate another issue in linking different rights of way where riders have to use ever busier public roads.  We will look to try to make these transition routes safer but this will not always, unfortunately, be possible.

 

29.3

Bill Soane (on behalf of Claire Symes) asked the Executive Member for Highways and Transport the following question:

Question

I am writing with regard to a safe walking and cycling route to the new Bohunt School, Wokingham from The Lilacs in Barkham. My son is due to start at the school this September. This was our first choice school, and as we live under 3 miles away, I believe that free transportation will not be provided by WBC. We were hoping that our son would be able to cycle to school, providing a healthy and independent means of travel.

 

However, at present, this is not a safe option from The Lilacs. The speed limit on the Bearwood Road only drops to 30 mph at the end of the road, near the roundabout. The WBC factsheet on road speeds states that a child hit by a vehicle driving at 40mph is likely to die! How can I send my child safely off to school on his bike or by foot, when he is at serious risk of death?

 

There is no safe crossing at the bottom of Bearwood Road, which is a very busy road during rush hour/school commuting times; and there is no safe crossing on the Barkham Road/Barkham end of Langley Common Road. Furthermore, the pavement around the Barkham Manor is dangerously narrow, with a high wall to one side. Traffic regularly speeds around this corner, with little regard for pedestrians.

 

I urge you to press for a reduced speed limit of 30 mph on the Bearwood Road and to provide a safe crossing on the Bearwood Road and Barkham Road/Langley Common Road, as well as considering what needs to be done to improve the safety of pedestrians and cyclists travelling past the Barkham Manor.

 

We were encouraged to consider Bohunt as an option, and were assured that whilst the Arborfield development was in progress, the council would ensure that there were safe routes to Bohunt from Barkham, or alternatively, free transportation until this was established.

 

Minutes:

I am writing with regard to a safe walking and cycling route to the new Bohunt School, in Wokingham, from The Lilacs in Barkham. My son is due to start at the school this September. This was our first choice school, and as we live under 3 miles away, I believe that free transportation will not be provided by WBC. We were hoping that our son would be able to cycle to school, providing a healthy and independent means of travel.

 

However, at present, this is not a safe option from The Lilacs. The speed limit on the Bearwood Road only drops to 30 mph at the end of the road, near the roundabout. The WBC factsheet on road speeds states that a child hit by a vehicle driving at 40mph is likely to die! How can I send my child safely off to school on his bike or by foot, when he is at serious risk of death?

 

There is no safe crossing at the bottom of Bearwood Road, which is a very busy road during rush hour/school commuting times; and there is no safe crossing on the Barkham Road/Barkham end of Langley Common Road. Furthermore, the pavement around the Barkham Manor is dangerously narrow, with a high wall to one side. Traffic regularly speeds around this corner, with little regard for pedestrians.

 

I urge you to press for a reduced speed limit of 30 mph on the Bearwood Road and to provide a safe crossing on the Bearwood Road and Barkham Road/Langley Common Road, as well as considering what needs to be done to improve the safety of pedestrians and cyclists travelling past the Barkham Manor.

 

We were encouraged to consider Bohunt as an option, and were assured that whilst the Arborfield development was in progress, the council would ensure that there were safe routes to Bohunt from Barkham, or alternatively, free transport until this was established.

 

Answer

As part of the new school the Council is committed to providing walking routes to the school. As with other walked routes to the new school the route from Barkham has been inspected by officers. The inspection identified various works such as clearing vegetation and improving visibility to assist highway users. There are some areas where vegetation has grown over and narrowed the footways due to lack of use over the years. The Council will be looking to clear this vegetation and growth in some sections to restore the route to its original full width.

 

Regarding your comment associated with Bearwood Road. The inspection identified this issue and we are looking to make improvements to pedestrian movements at this junction to assist with crossing the road. With regards to the crossing of Langley Common Road, the available walking route utilises the subway adjacent to Rickman Close and I would urge you to ensure your son to be aware of this.

 

Clearly the Council are working to ensure the identified works are completed prior to the opening of  ...  view the full minutes text for item 29.3

30.

Petitions

To receive any petitions which Members or members of the public wish to present.

Minutes:

There were no petitions received.

31.

Mayor's Announcements

To receive any announcements by the Mayor.

Minutes:

The Mayor informed Members that, in relation to Mayoral engagements, the month of June had been one of the busiest for the past ten years. The Mayor stated that he had intended to comment on the recent rise in hate crime and challenges to positive race relations but, as there was a Motion on this subject before Council, he had decided not to make a statement.  The Mayor did comment on a recent visit to the Mosque in Earley and the prevailing sentiment that it was better to build bridges between communities rather than walls. He felt that this was a thought for everyone to consider.

 

On a personal note, the Mayor stated that he would be getting married shortly and that he would be the first Borough Mayor to wed during a term of office. Members from across the chamber congratulated the Mayor on his announcement.

32.

Localism Act Pay Policy Statement 2016/17 pdf icon PDF 78 KB

To consider a proposed Pay Policy Statement for 2016/17 in accordance with the Localism Act 2011.

 

RECOMMENDATION: That Council approve the Policy Pay Statement for 2016/17 for publication on the Council’s website in accordance with the Localism Act 2011.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

The Council considered a report from the Director of Finance and Resources, set out on Agenda pages 63 to 71, which included a Pay Policy Statement for 2016/17. The report reminded Members that the Localism Act 2011 required all local authorities to approve and publish a Pay Policy Statement each year.

 

The proposed Pay Policy Statement included details of senior management pay and benefit arrangements and the ratio of senior management salaries to other benchmarked salaries across the organisation. The Pay Policy Statement had been recommended for approval by the Personnel Board at its meeting on 5 July 2016.

 

It was moved by Keith Baker and seconded by Pauline Jorgensen that the recommendation set out in the report be approved.

 

RESOLVED: That the Pay Policy Statement for 2016/17 be approved, for publication on the Council’s website, in accordance with the Localism Act 2011.

33.

Economic Development Strategy 2016-2021 pdf icon PDF 102 KB

To consider the Economic Development Strategy 2016-2021; which was considered by the Executive on 30 June 2016.

 

RECOMMENDATION:  That Council

 

1)        approve the Economic Development Strategy 2016-2021;

 

2)        note that any investment  needed to deliver the strategy (over and above what would be delivered currently through existing budgets) will be brought back to the Executive for a decision

 

Additional documents:

Minutes:

The Council considered a report from the Director of Environment, Agenda pages 73 to 82, which set out an Economic Development Strategy for the Borough for the period 2016 to 2021.

 

The proposed strategy, which had been agreed by the Executive at its meeting on 30 June 2016, set out how the Council aimed to facilitate economic growth locally within the context of the Government’s wider agenda for growth and the Thames Valley Berkshire Local Enterprise Partnership Strategic Economic Plan. The Strategy’s key objectives were summarised as:

 

·         Creating a place where businesses thrive by offering good quality housing and infrastructure;

·         Facilitating business growth through business support and inward investment;

·         Ensuring that people have the skills that businesses need and are able to support themselves into employment;

·         Encouraging innovation and technology to build a competitive business environment.

 

An Action Plan was being developed with SMART targets setting out delivery against priorities. The Action Plan would be updated at least annually.

 

It was moved by Anthony Pollock and seconded by Stuart Munro that the recommendations set out in the report be approved.

 

RESOLVED That:

 

1)      the proposed Economic Development Strategy for 2016/21 be approved;

 

2)      the Council notes that any investment needed to deliver the strategy (over and above investment delivered through existing budgets) be reported to the Executive for approval.

34.

Statements by the Leader of the Council, Executive Members and Deputy Executive Members

To receive any statements by the Leader of the Council, Executive Members and Deputy Executive Members.

 

In accordance with Procedure Rule 4.2.23 the total time allocated to this item shall not exceed 20 minutes, and no Member shall speak for more than 5 minutes

Minutes:

Keith Baker, Leader of the Council, made the following statement:

At the Annual Council I made several changes to the Executive. In those changes I appointed two new Executive Members and five new Deputy Executive Members. It is not easy to step into Executive roles although both had previously been Deputies so they were not totally thrown in the deep end. All of them have really got stuck into their areas and I do hope that both Councillors and residents have seen a noticeable improvement. Speaking personally, I am extremely pleased with their performance and I think it bodes extremely well for the future.

 

I will try not to steal anyone’s thunder as you listen to their reports during this agenda item. However, I would like to draw your attention to the collaborative work being undertaken with neighbouring councils for the update to the existing local plan, formerly known as the Core Strategy. In the past, because of different timings the ability to co-operate more fully was always hampered as authorities were all at different stages. This time around Bracknell, West Berkshire, Reading and ourselves are working closely together. This means we can develop all of our plans such that we get a higher level of mutual benefit from each other. We all know that boundaries between Councils are artificial and therefore cross boundary working must inevitably be better. After all, a road or a housing estate doesn’t stop at the borders of the Borough. We have a long way to go on the development of our update but it is highly likely we will continue the concept of concentrating on Strategic Development Locations or SDL’s but nothing is set in stone.

 

My participation continues in the Berkshire Leaders’ Group and the Local Enterprise Partnership or LEP, where I am the representative of all the Berkshire Leaders. At these meetings significant strategic issues are discussed with the aim of close co-operation amongst us all. We are extremely lucky to have a LEP that has a strong reputation at all levels, up to national government, which often puts us in a good position where funding is involved.

 

From a personal development perspective, I am extremely pleased that three of our councillors have applied to become members of a variety of working groups or committees of the Local Government Association or LGA. I cannot remember ever having any of our councillors wishing to work at this level, let alone three. If they are successful it will give us a direct insight of the LGA thinking on some key areas. I wish them well in the selection process.

 

As this is the last Full Council before the August break can I wish everyone a happy holiday. Please recharge your batteries as we have a lot of important matters to progress on your return.

 

Finally, I wish to send this Council’s congratulations to one of our local MPs, Theresa May, who has gone from MP to Prime Minister. I had the great privilege to  ...  view the full minutes text for item 34.

35.

Statements from Council Owned Companies pdf icon PDF 88 KB

To receive any statements from Directors of Council Owned Companies.

 

In accordance with Procedure Rule 4.2.24 the total time allocated to this item shall not exceed 10 minutes, and no Director, except with the consent of Council, shall speak for more than 3 minutes.

Minutes:

Anthony Pollock, Non-Executive Director, Optalis:

Optalis continues to prosper. We celebrated our 5th birthday on 6th June and I am looking forward shortly to signing our next five year contract with Wokingham Borough Council. I would particularly like to pay tribute to our current Managing Director, Mette le Jacobsen, who has been with the company since it started, first as Operations Director and, in the last year, as managing Director.

 

As an accountant, I prefer numbers and am a little suspicious of the feely stuff around the public sector and business. But I have been really impressed with the way that Mette has picked up the company’s Vision Statement and turned it into reality for the staff. We have recently appointed Andrew Crammond as our new Director of Quality and Delivery, which is Operations to the layman, and Alan Rawlings as Finance Director, which is self-explanatory. I am very pleased with these appointments and am confident that they will contribute significantly to the development of the business in the future.

 

We recently set up a Star Awards system whereby staff can nominate other members of staff for an award and we recently held an awards event at Easthampstead Park. Simon Weeks stood in for me and presented the awards. It was a very successful day and the staff really appreciated it.

 

 

Gary Cowan, Non-Executive Director, Loddon Homes:

I am very pleased to confirm that the submission made to the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) for Loddon Homes Ltd (LHL) to become the first Council owned for profit registered housing provider has proved successful. This is a notable achievement and full credit has to go to the Board of Wokingham Housing Ltd (WHL) for having the initiative to start this process and maintain the tenacity to proceed despite the changing market conditions.

 

The submission transferred to the Board of Loddon Homes as that company structure was put in place and the new Board, which I chair, has seen the complicated application through to completion. Congratulations to the staff of LHL and WHL and thanks to our consultant, Dave Williams, our specialist solicitors and all those unsung helpers amongst the staff of Wokingham Borough Council who assisted in developing a series of interlocking and complicated internal procedures to meet the stringent demands of the HCA.

 

It is worth reiterating the length of time this has taken to achieve, nearly 18 months in total, encompassing a change in the application criteria, reorganisation in Whitehall and, finally, the new Housing Act. The extent of the achievement cannot be underestimated. Even though uncertainties continue as we await the Housing and Planning Act outcome, the Loddon Board is focussing on developing good governance and policies and working closely with WHL on development sites that will sit within Loddon Homes.

 

Finally, a copy of the certificate has been forwarded to Democratic Services which, I hope, can be included in the next set of minutes.

 

David Chopping, Non-Executive Director, Wokingham Housing Ltd:

To bring everyone  ...  view the full minutes text for item 35.

36.

Member Question Time

To answer any member questions

 

A period of 20 minutes will be allowed for Members to ask questions submitted under Notice

 

Any questions not dealt with within the allotted time will be dealt with in a written reply.

 

 

Minutes:

In accordance with the agreed procedure the Mayor invited Members to submit questions to the appropriate Executive Member or Committee Chairman, etc.

36.1

Charles Margetts asked the Deputy Executive Member for Highways and Transport the following question:

Question

I travel regularly between Wokingham and Waterloo and the train service seems to be inordinately slow.  Can the Deputy Executive Member please tell me what representations Wokingham Borough Council has made to seek shorter journey times?

 

Minutes:

I travel regularly between Wokingham and Waterloo and the train service seems to be inordinately slow.  Can the Deputy Executive Member please tell me what representations Wokingham Borough Council has made to seek shorter journey times?

 

Answer

Our Public Transport Plan adopted in January 2012 has an aspirational journey time of no more than 59 minutes representing a 15% reduction on the current 68 minute timing.  We have consistently lobbied for this improvement and played a full part in the various stakeholder meetings held by Network Rail to develop the Wessex Route Study.  It is Network Rail that is responsible for strategic planning to estimate demand and then prepare plans to cope with that demand and does this through the Long Term Planning Process that looks forward to 2043.  The Wessex Route Study was published as a draft for consultation, to which we responded, with the final report being issued in August last year.  Although it recommended doubling the frequency of the services to Wokingham with 2 trains per hour termed as fasts, they only offered a 4 minute reduction on current times with the same stopping pattern which seemed to confirm the degree of padding in the current timetable.  The route study also contained a table of average journey times with Wokingham being rock bottom on 32 mph, the next slowest being Portsmouth with 44 mph, an average speed about which we can only dream.

 

Following a decision by the Department for Transport not to proceed with a Direct Award Franchise to South West Trains, the Department issued a consultation on a replacement South Western Franchise and all 54 then Councillors were invited to comment and a number did including Prue and the Deputy Mayor.  We then submitted an 8 page response to the consultation with our principal target being our 59 minute timing.  There are 2 bidders for the new franchise, the incumbent Stagecoach Group and a joint bid led by First Group, the owning company of GWR.  Members of both bid teams have visited Shute End for briefings.  The Invitation to Tender, which calls for ambitious and innovative bids, was issued in June with bids to be returned in early September with the new franchise due to start on 25th June next year.  The bidders have a train service specification to meet and the ITT indicates that we will get major timetable changes in December 2018, when the frequency will be increased to 4 trains per hour with some likely journey time reductions, and again in December 2020 when further reductions should be achieved.  Therefore I am hopeful that we will finally get the journey time improvements that we seek.

 

Supplementary Question

The train from Waterloo seems to slow down some distance from Wokingham and crawls the last mile or so. Any idea why?

 

Answer

The answer is that Network Rail has imposed a Temporary Speed Restriction of 30 mph from about the Star Lane Level Crossing to Wokingham Junction, a distance of about one mile.  ...  view the full minutes text for item 36.1

36.2

Alistair Auty asked the Executive Member for Children's Services the following question.

Question

Could the Executive Member please update the Council on the situation with Emmbrook Infant and Junior School?

 

Minutes:

Could the Executive Member please update the Council on the situation with Emmbrook Infant and Junior School?

 

Answer

The situation has moved from one of change and some uncertainty, with no teaching staff from September, to now one which is looking forward positively. The school has just recruited an experienced teacher of the deaf who has been appointed for this September. Dialogue with parents and professional stakeholders has established a shared understanding and interest in the future of this provision.

 

Annual reviews for the four pupils due to stay on in the Hearing Impairment Unit provision at Emmbrook led to two of the children then being placed elsewhere, with agreement from their parents, to meet their needs from this September onwards. The new teacher of the deaf will work with the two remaining pupils, plus one new arrival, and another pupil on an outreach basis who will move to his local school.

 

We will continue to explore options for a closer relationship with the Berkshire Sensory Consortium, so the future of the Emmbrook provision will be looked at in that wider context.

 

Supplementary Question

Whilst this further work is continuing, does that mean that the paper scheduled to go to the Executive on 28 July will still go forward, or does that now not need to happen?

 

Answer

No, indeed the paper will not go to the Executive on 28 July. It has been a changeable position, as described in my original answer. Further, very recent discussions with stakeholders, in particular the school and parents has identified potential partnership solutions requiring more exploration and, in particular, more time. Consideration will be given to these and we will explore the operational implications in due course. I would particularly like to thank the parents who have taken part in the consultation so far and would like to put my thanks formally on the record.

36.3

Tim Holton asked the Executive Member for Environment the following question.

Question

Could the Executive Member explain the basis for the Council’s current approach to grass-cutting in the Borough?

 

Minutes:

Could the Executive Member explain the basis for the Council’s current approach to grass-cutting in the Borough?

 

Answer

 

A number of things have informed the Council’s approach to grass cutting across the borough:

·         Firstly, the 2014 grass cutting consultation;

·         Wokingham Borough Council’s Biodiversity Action Plan;

·         Regional and national policies and strategies that we do our best to follow.

 

The new approach seeks to develop an appropriate cutting regime throughout the area, enabling us to cut some areas like sports pitches, play areas, residential verges, and cemeteries to a higher standard than the past whilst allowing areas of grassland and wild flowers to establish on large verges, parklands and some sections of open space.

 

To achieve this we have procured an outcome based partnership contract with ISS Facilities Services – Landscaping, thereby moving away from the previous rigid and prescribed contract which allowed grass cutting in all areas to be carried out eight times a year irrespective of whether this was too little or too often. This new and modern outcome based contract will deliver higher standards of biodiversity and horticulture than before, and is complemented by an assured contract term of 10.5 years which enables, and gives confidence, for ISS to invest in Wokingham’s green space.

 

This new partnership with ISS allows a far more flexible service which allows for experimentation with grass cutting, among other grounds maintenance services, which will become fine-tuned each year in consultation with Members, residents and stakeholders. It is because of this new approach that we are now able to be far more outward looking and focused on improving standards.     

 

Supplementary Question

In light of that answer, please can you explain what steps the Council is taking to address the concerns raised by residents that the grass in their area has not been cut to a standard that they would like?

 

Answer

First of all, I have to say that it has become very evident that residents have very polarised views about how they see their local grass being maintained. We have, in every case, initiated local discussions, often involving yourselves as local Councillors, and the Officers to try to reach a consensus and not bow to the loudest views only. I believe that we have largely reached that position by our Officers’ efforts. It is not what any one resident requires but the consensus.

36.4

Kate Haines had asked the Executive Member for Children's Services the following question but due to her inability to attend the meeting the following written answer was provided:

Question

Does the Executive Member agree that the Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub will lead to more effective pooling of knowledge between the Council, the NHS, the Police and the Probation Service, in order to ensure the safety of our children?

 

Minutes:

Does the Executive Member agree that the Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub will lead to more effective pooling of knowledge between the Council, the NHS, the Police and the Probation Service, in order to ensure the safety of our children?

 

Answer

The multi-agency safeguarding hub (also known as MASH) was launched in Wokingham Children Services on the 11 April 2016.

 

It was part of a pan-Berkshire project to establish MASHs across Children’s Services and statutory partners (which means Police, Health, Education, Probation and voluntary organisations) involved in the safeguarding of children and the assessment of needs and services.

 

MASH is a tried and tested process enabling the timely sharing of information.  It is a model and design supported by the review of child protection arrangements undertaken by Professor Eileen Munro on behalf of the Department of Education in 2010 and it is a recommended approach by the statutory regulator Ofsted.

 

The design and implementation of MASH in Wokingham has taken the best aspects and learning from other MASH across the country.

 

MASH is managed under an information sharing protocol which gives timely and extensive access to information held by statutory partners. It allows for collaborative decision making between agencies with all professionals sharing their understanding of uncertainty and risks.

 

Feedback from partners and review of the MASH process so far has been positive and the implementation of the model is assessed as effective in identifying and managing risk in a timely manner and directing children to the right help at the right time.

 

So, in conclusion, I believe that the MASH is enabling effective information sharing which underpins and supports effective decision making for children who need support and/or safeguarding by social workers and other partners.

 

36.5

Bill Soane asked the Executive Member for Environment the following question:

Question

Could the Executive Member explain the benefit to residents of the introduction of permits to use recycling centres?

 

Minutes:

Could the Executive Member explain the benefit to residents of the introduction of permits to use recycling centres?

 

Answer

 

The introduction of permits has been prompted by West Berkshire Council giving notice that it intends to stop paying the re3 Councils for waste delivered to re3 recycling centres by West Berkshire residents. This Council and the other two Councils in the partnership (Reading and West Berkshire) believe it is unfair to ask re3 area council taxpayers to fund waste management services for residents in other local authorities and so a system of permits has been introduced from the 1st July.  Every household in the re3 area has been sent a permit which should be displayed in the car windscreen.

 

Early indications from the team at Smallmead and Longshot Lane indicate that the introduction has gone smoothly with most residents understanding the need for the change.  We will continue to reinforce the message of why we needed to restrict access and that permits were able to be produced and distributed in the limited period between when West Berkshire gave notice and when their payment ceased on the 30th June 2016.

 

Supplementary Question

Is the permit scheme the best long term option for controlling access to our recycling centres?

 

Answer

Not necessarily. We obviously had to find a very quick solution to the situation that we find ourselves in. Personally, I would like to see if we can get some sort of smart card scheme with each of the three Boroughs, maybe a different one for each Borough, which would be a multi-use one but would show everybody that needs to see it that you are resident in our Borough and, in the case of the recycling centres, would enable you to access it that way. It is something that the re3 Board and the Officers are working on.

36.6

David Chopping asked the Executive Member for Children's Services the following question:

Question

Can the Executive member for education please update the residents of the Maiden Erlegh Ward on the second stage of the expansion of our primary schools to meet the ever increasing demand resulting from being one of the best Education authorities in the south of England?

 

Minutes:

Can the Executive Member for education please update the residents of the Maiden Erlegh Ward on the second stage of the expansion of our primary schools to meet the ever increasing demand resulting from being one of the best Education authorities in the south of England?

 

Answer

 

Two schemes were agreed by Executive on 28 January 2016 to increase primary capacity in Earley. The first, at Loddon Primary School is progressing well and additional places were offered for September 2016, which is very positive. The second, at Aldryngton Primary School is in development. The transport and design consultants are addressing two significant challenges. Firstly, parking for additional staff (six spaces) and credible measures to manage school run traffic are required. Secondly the new school buildings and additional car parking required present a challenge in terms of retaining the necessary amount of formal and informal play space.

 

At Aldryngton, traffic congestion is a local issue, with two schools on the site and the main access road through a small shopping parade. Transport consultants have completed their initial assessment and are currently working on solutions to the issues that have been identified. This work will feed into the design feasibility work. Once this is complete officers will take stock, determining if not only viable traffic solutions do exist but also if there will be sufficient play areas. In the interests of the local community and future generations of children it is vital that satisfactory proposals emerge before the scheme progresses.

 

Supplementary Question

I had intended to ask when the plans were likely to be finalised, but in light of the answer I would like to ask: a local school is supposed to service the local community, not the other way round. Bearing in mind that only children living 0.22 miles, that’s less than a quarter of a mile, are gaining entrance this year, surely there is no need for major traffic alterations as, apart from the teachers’ cars you have mentioned, everyone should be able to walk there?

 

Answer

In an ideal world, every parent and student in this scenario, particularly at a primary school, would indeed choose to walk. But, as we all know, this does not happen, unfortunately. Indeed, when we surveyed parents, back when we wrote the original primary school strategy, parents said that they all wanted to have a local school and walk or cycle to it. In reality, this is not what happens. A vast majority of our parents choose to get in the car and drive to the local primary school, even if it is just a short walk, even 0.22 miles down the road.

 

As we know from the Chief Executive of the LEP here this evening, this is a very vibrant area and people will get in their car and do the school run on the way to work. Unfortunately, without changing the habits of every single parent in our community, I do not think that this is going to happen. So, regrettably,  ...  view the full minutes text for item 36.6

36.7

Lindsay Ferris asked the Executive Member for Environment the following question:

Question

What is the overall cost to the council of the decision by West Berkshire Council to cease paying for its residents to use the RE3 recycling centres and the subsequent introduction of a permit system for residents of Wokingham, Bracknell and Reading?

 

Minutes:

What is the overall cost to the Council of the decision by West Berkshire Council to cease paying for its residents to use the RE3 recycling centres and the subsequent introduction of a permit system for residents of Wokingham, Bracknell and Reading?

 

Answer

Had the changes not been introduced, the total loss of income to the re3 councils as a result of the West Berkshire decision would have been £500,000. However, we estimate that the full year ongoing savings to re3 residents are likely to be around £835,000. (We have calculated this from the average cost per visit and estimated actual use by non-re3 residents). 

 

Set up costs of the new system in the first year are estimated at £340,000 shared across the three re3 councils. It is important to note that those costs cover both the issuing of 182,000 permits and letters, staff costs and engineered traffic management changes at the sites. If the scheme is successful the net savings for remaining part of the financial year will be £395,000.

 

Supplementary Question

I have some specific issues on how we deal with residents. How would we deal with multiple car occupancy, people moving within and around the borough and new people moving into the borough?

 

Answer

At the moment there have not been any problems that have arisen in that way. Clearly, when people move into the Borough, at the same time as getting all the other things that we give them, this will be notified to them and, again, if people move. As part of multiple use, again it is something that we have to monitor and deal with as and when the problem arises.

36.8

Prue Bray asked the Executive Member for Resident Services the following question:

Question

In an attempt to address its financial challenges, the council has begun work on remodelling itself.  We understand that the business case for the 21st Century Council project will come to the Executive in the Autumn.   For this remodelling to succeed, there will need to be a shift in the way the council interacts with the public, so that the public can more easily get their queries answered satisfactorily and the work load on staff is reduced.  This presents both threats and opportunities.  If this is got right, there is a genuine chance to improve the responsiveness of the council to its residents.  What steps does the administration intend to take to involve the public and others in contributing ideas to the changes to its customer-facing functions so that the outcome is as good as it can be?

Minutes:

In an attempt to address its financial challenges, the Council has begun work on remodelling itself.  We understand that the business case for the 21st Century Council project will come to the Executive in the autumn.  For this remodelling to succeed, there will need to be a shift in the way the Council interacts with the public, so that the public can more easily get their queries answered satisfactorily and the work load on staff is reduced. This presents both threats and opportunities. If this is got right, there is a genuine chance to improve the responsiveness of the Council to its residents. What steps does the administration intend to take to involve the public and others in contributing ideas to the changes to its customer-facing functions so that the outcome is as good as it can be?

 

Answer

It is true to say that we have an opportunity to transform the way the Council interacts with our residents to make it easier and simpler for residents to find the information they need, access services they require and track progress on issues on the way to being resolved. This will enable people to track progress of their own requests and queries online, to reduce the risk of email requests being missed and save the cost and inconvenience of having to contact the Council to get an update.

 

As we develop our plans we will, of course, want to capture the views, experiences and ideas of our residents to help us to get the changes right. We will do this through a variety of ways, using existing communication channels such as our website and asking customers who ring us. We will also use our social media presence to engage people. We will hold public events, set out our aspirations and goals and ask our residents to help us achieve them, enabling us to save money and improve the experience people have in dealing with the Council.

 

The Leader and Chief Executive have already offered to meet every Town and Parish Council to discuss the change programme. Many meetings have already been scheduled and we are talking also to our partners in other agencies about the changes and any ideas they have as to how we should go forward.

 

Supplementary Question

My concern is at the margins of society with the most vulnerable who are least likely to cope. Can you explain what you are doing to make sure that they can keep access to their services?

 

Answer

There is no intention of taking access away from people who cannot gain access through electronic means. We know, for instance, in the libraries, that we have people that want to come and visit libraries locally. There is no intention to take the ability to access Council services direct, face to face, away from the public.

 

What we are trying to do is make the people who can, access services electronically; make it easier for them and make it their preferred method and actually  ...  view the full minutes text for item 36.8

36.9

Gary Cowan had asked the Executive Member for Highways and Transport the following question but due to time constraints the written answer below was provided:

Question

At the Arborfield Garrison Public Forum held at Henry Street Garden Centre on June the 29th Officers gave a presentation on safe walking routes to Bohunt School which some residents of both Arborfield and Barkham have serious concerns with.  As the Executive Member responsible do you approve of the plan as presented and therefore accept responsibility for its implementation and have you seen and approved any risk assessment attached to this plan?

 

Minutes:

At the Arborfield Garrison Public Forum held at Henry Street Garden Centre on June the 29th Officers gave a presentation on safe walking routes to Bohunt School which some residents of both Arborfield and Barkham have serious concerns with.  As the Executive Member responsible do you approve of the plan as presented and therefore accept responsibility for its implementation and have you seen and approved any risk assessment attached to this plan?

 

Answer

 

At Arborfield Garrison Public Forum on 29 June 2016, officers advised of available walking routes from Arborfield Village and Barkham to the proposed Bohunt School.  An earlier inspection of the walking routes identified works required to improve the condition and suitability of the existing routes, and the details of these works were presented at the forum.

 

Attendees of the forum were also advised that speed limit reviews will also be conducted on the routes. These speed limit reviews will recommend whether a reduction in a speed limit should be considered on parts of the routes. Should a reduction in speed limits be progressed by the Council these would require both the support of Thames Valley Police who would enforce the new speed limit, and the formal change to the Traffic Regulation Order being a formal process where objections may be received by the Council, prior to the reduced speed limit being introduced and signed on site. 

 

Regarding my role and responsibility regarding this project. As Executive Member for Highways, officers are keeping me informed of progress, and involving me in key issues as the project evolves. I am working with officers and their consultants who are appropriately experienced and trained in civil and road safety engineering, therefore capable of assessing and mitigating risks as necessary, and will ensure the school is served by appropriate walking routes to school.

36.10

Clive Jones had asked the Executive Member for Health and Wellbeing the following question but due to time constraints the written answer below was provided::

Question

The Government is conducting a dangerous experiment by cutting funding for pharmacies which will see up to 3000 close, thereby reducing people’s access to medicines and healthcare advice, and putting extra pressure on GPs and hospitals.

 

The proposals put at risk a part of the health system that holds the key to solving many of its problems. Patients would be the biggest losers.  There are particular concerns about the risks to the most vulnerable people and the most deprived communities, where local pharmacies are often (literally) a lifeline.

 

What action will you take to minimise the negative impact on Wokingham Borough residents of this government cut to pharmacy funding?

 

Minutes:

The Government is conducting a dangerous experiment by cutting funding for pharmacies which will see up to 3000 close, thereby reducing people’s access to medicines and healthcare advice, and putting extra pressure on GPs and hospitals.  

 
The proposals put at risk a part of the health system that holds the key to solving many of its problems. Patients would be the biggest losers.  There are particular concerns about the risks to the most vulnerable people and the most deprived communities, where local pharmacies are often (literally) a lifeline.
 
What action will you take to minimise the negative impact on Wokingham Borough residents of this government cut to pharmacy funding? 

 

Answer

The Department of Health (DH) has recently consulted on the future of community pharmacy. The DH believes that there are too many pharmacies and cites clusters of pharmacies on high streets as an example. It is believed they would like to see a reduction of about 3000 pharmacies in England out of a total of 11,674 pharmacies, a 26% reduction. The DH put these proposals out to consultation during spring 2016, ending 24 May. Changes to the funding and number of pharmacies has not therefore been finalised as the DH will seek to review the findings of its consultation. 

 

Healthwatch Wokingham Borough held two consultation events recently to ascertain the views of the public and patients; pharmacies; GPs and other stakeholders. WBC’s Public Health team contributed to both, highlighting the crucial role community pharmacies play in delivering public health services such as the NHS Health Check and Stop Smoking services, as well as being a valued partner in supporting patients to manage their health conditions and prevent further demands on health and care services. Healthwatch have sent their reports of the two meetings to the DH as consultation responses.

 

Wokingham has 23 pharmacies plus 3 dispensing practices – this equates to 17 community pharmacies per 100,000 residents which is below the national average of 20 per 100,000 residents. Public Health provides a Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment (PNA) for the Health and Wellbeing Board to agree every three years – with the current assessment concluding in April 2018.  The current assessment notes the increase in population being driven by new house building in the Borough, and notes that the existing capacity and distribution of pharmacy provision in the Borough is able to meet the needs until 2018. When the next iteration of the PNA is undertaken, this may have changed. A reduction in capacity from the current level of provision may also mean that the capacity and distribution of pharmacies would not meet the population needs.

 

Ultimately, the DH may publish proposals to reduce funding to (and the numbers of) community pharmacies. These proposals would then need to be tested as part of the next PNA process (which includes wide public consultation) and the recommendations of the PNA would need to be agreed by the Wokingham Borough Health and Wellbeing Board. 

 

37.

Minutes of Committee Meetings and Ward Matters

A period of 20 minutes will be allowed for Members to ask questions in relation to the latest circulated volume of Minutes of Meetings and Ward Matters

37.1

Lindsay Ferris asked the Executive Member for Resident Services the following question:

Minutes:

It has been brought to my attention that, during the recent Henley Regatta period, a number of taxis from Wokingham and Reading, located at Twyford station, refused to take local Twyford people to their destination, preferring instead to to only take people to Henley. In addition, I have had concerns raised about some of the charges made for such journeys to the Henley area. What can be done to ensure that such actions do not occur again?

 

Answer

I am not aware of that. If you have a conversation with me or send an email afterwards, I will be happy to look into it with the licensing authorities.

37.2

Gary Cowan asked the Executive Member for Highways and Transport the following question:

Minutes:

 

At the Arborfield Garrison public forum, held on June 29th, Officers gave a presentation on safe walking routes to Bohunt School. As the Exeutive Member responsible, do you approve of the plan and have you seen and approved any risk assessment attached to this plan?

 

Answer

At the Arborfield Garrison public forum, on 29th June this year, Officers advised on available walking routes from Arborfield Village and Barkham to the proposed Bohunt School. An earlier inspection of the walking routes identified works required to improve the condition and suitability of the existing routes. Details of those works were presented at the forum.

 

Attendees at the forum were also advised that speed limit reviews will also be conducted on the routes. These speed limit reviews will recommend that a reduction in the speed limit should be considered on parts of the routes. Should a reduction in speed limits be progressed by the Council these would require both the support of Thames valley Police, who would enforce the new speed limit, and a formal change to the Traffic Regulation Orders, being a formal process where objections may be received by the Council prior to the reduced limit for the site being introduced and signed.

 

Regarding my role and responsibility regarding the project, as Executive Member for Highways, Officers are keeping me informed on progress and involving me in key issues as the project evolves. I am working with Officers and their consultants who are appropriately experienced and trained in civil and road safety engineering, and are, therefore, capable of assessing and mitigating risk as necessary and will ensure that the school is served by appropriate walking routes.

37.3

Prue Bray asked the Executive Member for Highways and Transport the following question:

Minutes:

At last July’s Council meeting I asked a question of the previous Executive Member for Highways about the poor quality resurfacing of the footway along Reading Road in Winnersh, carried out when the cycleway was put in. The answer I got was that there had been a meeting with the construction company and they were going to be asked to come back and re-do the path. A year on, what parts of the footway have been re-done?

 

Answer

I do not have the answer to that question at the moment. I will have to get back to you.

37.4

Clive Jones asked the Executive Member for Highways and Transport the following question:

Minutes:

Since the new Sainsburys store opened in Maiden Place Shopping Centre the volume of traffic has increased. This leads to problems sometimes for parents crossing the road with their children. A number of residents have asked for a zebra crossing to be installed to help them cross the road safely. Would you support this idea and ensure that a crossing is put in as soon as possible?

 

Answer

Again, I will make sure that this request is passed on to the appropriate Officers for decision and we will keep you informed.

37.5

Rachell Shepherd-Dubey asked the Executive Member for Highways and Transport the following question:

Minutes:

Can you guarantee that the temporary opening of the Kings Street Lane intersection of the Winnersh Relief Road will be closed in May 2017 and not reopened again until the Council built part of the relief road is opened?

 

Answer

I do not have a crystal ball or the answer to that question at the moment, so I will have to get back to you.

37.6

Beth Rowland asked the Executive Member for Environment the following question:

Minutes:

I would like to address Councillor Ross about the Bulmershe consultation and how disappointed I am with it. Lots of my residents do not know about it. When I am talking to them and saying that you can find it on the website, I could not and they cannot, although I do understand from Prue that she came across it today. Perhaps it needs to be signposted in an even better place. I appreciate that you are going to Woodley Precinct for some weekends. However, only a small percentage of residents go into the precinct on a Saturday. You will be catching some but there are a large amount that you will not be catching. I wonder if you are doing anything to get opinions from those people? You said about talking to schools. My school uses it for swimming and, as far as I am aware, you have not been in touch with Southlake.

 

Answer

I think that there are about eight questions there. The consultation in the Woodley Precinct was remarkably successful with an extensive number of people wanting to come and talk with us, also at the Bulmershe leisure centre the following day. As I said earlier, we are holding another session on Saturday 6 August. The Bulmershe School has definitely been contacted and I will make sure that the others are contacted. Of course, the consultation came towards the end of term when schools were not keen on diverting from the end of term. I will make sure, if necessary, that this will be done at the start of next term. The consultation does continue. It has been on the website. I will follow up and see if it is, in any way, hiding itself. I trust it is not but I will look into that.

38.

Motions

To consider any motions

 

In accordance with Procedure Rule 4.2.11.2 a maximum period of 30 minutes will be allowed for each Motion to be moved, seconded and debated, including dealing with any amendments.  At the expiry of the 30-minute period debate will cease immediately, the mover of the Motion or amendment will have the right of reply before the Motion or amendment is put to the vote.

 

 

38.1

Motion 383 submitted by Lindsay Ferris

Over the past few weeks Wokingham Borough councillors have received numerous communications from residents showing how dissatisfied they are with the new grass-cutting contract that came into force in April 2016.

 

This Council supports the aims of the new contract to provide flexibility and improve bio-diversity, but regrets that the implementation of the contract has been far from satisfactory, and that too little guidance was given on what was an appropriate level of grass-cutting in each area.  This Council calls on the Executive member for Environment to provide in writing for publication on the council website and to issue to the media:

 

·         an apology for the poor implementation of the contract

·         an explanation as to why the contract was allowed to be implemented badly

·         a clear outline of a way forward that will solve the problems.

Minutes:

The Council considered the following Notice of Motion, submitted by Lindsay Ferris and seconded by Prue Bray:

 

“Over the past few weeks, Wokingham Borough Councillors have received numerous communications from residents showing how dissatisfied they are with the new grass-cutting contract that came into force in April 2016.

 

This Council supports the aims of the new contract to provide flexibility and improve bio-diversity, but regrets that the implementation of the contract has been far from satisfactory, and that too little guidance was given on what was an appropriate level of grass-cutting in each area. This Council calls on the Executive Member for Environment to provide in writing for publication on the Council website and to issue to the media:

 

·           An apology for the poor implementation of the contract;

·           An explanation as to why the contract was allowed to be implemented badly;

·           A clear outline of a way forward that will solve the problems.”

 

The following amendment, proposed by Angus Ross and seconded by Parry Batth, was accepted by Lindsay Ferris, the mover of the original motion:

 

“Over the past few weeks Wokingham Borough councillors have received numerous communications from residents showing how dissatisfied they are with the new grass-cutting contract that came into force in April 2016.

 

This Council supports the aims of the new contract to provide flexibility and improve bio-diversity, but regrets that the implementation of the contract has been far from satisfactory, and that there were misunderstandings over what was an appropriate level of grass-cutting in each area. This Council calls on the Executive Member for Environment to provide in writing for publication on the Council website and to issue to the media:

 

·         an apology for the initial poor implementation of the contract;

·         an explanation of the factors which led to the unsatisfactory start of the contract;

·         a clear outline of the actions to date and a way forward that will solve the problems”.

 

Following debate, upon being put to the meeting, the Motion as previously amended, was declared by the Mayor to be carried.

 

RESOLVED:That over the past few weeks Wokingham Borough councillors have received numerous communications from residents showing how dissatisfied they are with the new grass-cutting contract that came into force in April 2016.This Council supports the aims of the new contract to provide flexibility and improve bio-diversity, but regrets that the implementation of the contract has been far from satisfactory, and that there were misunderstandings over what was an appropriate level of grass-cutting in each area. This Council calls on the Executive Member for Environment to provide in writing for publication on the Council website and to issue to the media:

 

·         an apology for the initial poor implementation of the contract;

·         an explanation of the factors which led to the unsatisfactory start of the contract;

·         a clear outline of the actions to date and a way forward that will solve the problems.

38.2

Motion 384 submitted by Keith Baker

We are proud to live in a diverse and tolerant society.  Racism, xenophobia and hate crimes have no place in our country.  Our council condemns racism, xenophobia and hate crimes unequivocally.  We will not allow hate to become acceptable.

 

We will work to ensure that local bodies and programmes have the support and resources they need to fight and prevent racism and xenophobia.

 

We reassure all people living in this area that they are valued members of our community.

 

Minutes:

The Council considered the following Notice of Motion, submitted by Keith Baker and seconded by Prue Bray:

 

“We are proud to live in a diverse and tolerant society. Racism, xenophobia and hate crimes have no place in our country. Our Council condemns racism, xenophobia and hate crimes unequivocally. We will not allow hate to become acceptable.

 

We will work to ensure that local bodies and programmes have the support and resources they need to fight and prevent racism and xenopohobia.

 

We reassure all people living in this area that they are valued members of our community.”

 

Following debate, upon being put to the meeting, the Motion was declared by the Mayor to be carried.

 

RESOLVED: That we are proud to live in a diverse and tolerant society. Racism, xenophobia and hate crimes have no place in our country. Our Council condemns racism, xenophobia and hate crimes unequivocally. We will not allow hate to become acceptable. We will work to ensure that local bodies and programmes have the support and resources they need to fight and prevent racism and xenophobia. We reassure all people living in this area that they are valued members of our community.