Agenda, decisions and minutes

The Mayor welcomed all those present to the meeting and thanked everyone for their attendance.

Apologies for absence were received from Councillors Begum, Hirani & J.Patel.

The Mayor reported that apologies for absence had been received from Councillors Begum, Hirani and Jayanti Patel.

To confirm as a correct record, the minutes of the previous Council meeting held on Wednesday 21 September 2022.

AGREED that the minutes of the Council meeting held on Wednesday 21 September 2022 be approved as a correct record, subject to clarification within Min 12 – Questions from the Opposition and other Non-Cabinet Members that the question raised during the open session by Councillor Kansagra (vii) related to the installation of cladding rather than cavity wall insulation.

It was RESOLVED that the minutes of the previous meeting held on Wednesday 21 September 2022 be approved as a correct record.

Members are invited to declare at this stage of the meeting, the nature and existence of any relevant disclosable pecuniary or personal interests in the items on this agenda and to specify the item(s) to which they relate.

No declarations of interest were made at the meeting.

There were no declarations of interest made at the meeting.

To receive any announcements from the Mayor.

Announcements from the Mayor were noted in relation to:

·             Thanks being expressed for the attendance of the Deputy Mayor at recent Mayoral events.

·             Remembrance Sunday

·             Black History Month

·             Islamophobia Awareness Month

·             Petitions

Prior to commencing his announcements the Mayor took the opportunity to thank Councillor Hylton, as Deputy Mayor, for her support in covering the mayoral engagements whilst he had been away.  He then moved on to make the following announcements:

(i)       Remembrance Sunday

The Mayor advised he had been honoured to attend the recent ceremony held to commemorate Remembrance Sunday and all those who had lost their lives in various conflicts throughout the world.

The ceremony had been held at the Barham Park Memorial with the Mayor thanking everyone who had attended in order to pay tribute.

(ii)       Black History Month

The Mayor took the opportunity to thank the Cultural Diversity Network for the work undertaken to prepare and deliver such an engaging and successful programme of activities during Black History month.

Particular highlights had included the 21-day virtual equality challenge and the Black History month Civic Centre takeover undertaken in partnership with the local community, Public Health and the Gender Network, included as new events in the programme both of which had been well received by staff and residents.

(iii)      Islamophobia Awareness Month

The Mayor advised he was also pleased to be supporting Islamophobia Awareness month which, as part of the programme of activities, had included him joining the Brent Multi-Faith Forum peace walk and tree planting.  This event had been undertaken to symbolise peace, unity and solidarity between all communities and to raise awareness in an attempt to bring people together to stand against discrimination and hate crime.

Other events included Stand against Islamophobia, which members were reminded was being held at the Civic Centre on Wednesday 23 November 2023.

(iv)   Petitions

Finally, the Mayor referred members to the list of current petitions tabled at the meeting, in accordance with Standing Orders which also detailed the action being taken to deal with them.

To agree any appointments to Committees and Outside Bodies in accordance with Standing Order 30(g).

The Mayor advised that there were no appointments to Council Committees, Sub Committees and other bodies which had been received for consideration so moved straight on to the next item.

To hear any deputations requested by members of the public in accordance with Standing Order 32.

No deputations were received at the meeting.

The Mayor advised that no deputations had been requested for presentation at the meeting.

7.1   To receive questions submitted by the public to Cabinet Members, in accordance with Standing Order 33.

Members are asked to note that three public question have been received, which have been attached along with their written response.

7.2   To receive questions submitted from Brent Youth Parliament to Cabinet Members, in accordance with Standing Order 33(c).

One question has been received under this item, which has been attached along with the written response provided.

NOTED

1.          The written and supplementary verbal response provided by the Cabinet Member for Environment, Infrastructure & Climate Action to a public question submitted by Nichola Rogers regarding the implementation of a plant based food policy within schools and at Council and Civic events.

2.          The written and supplementary verbal response provided by the Cabinet Member for Housing, Homelessness and Renters Security to a public question submitted by Jeanette Audrey about the impact of the Windmill Court Infill housing development on local residents, the surrounding local environment and adjacent properties.

3.          The written and supplementary verbal response provided by the Cabinet Member for Regeneration & Planning to a public question submitted by Siobhan Culhane regarding the Transport Planning Assessment relating to the Windmill Court Infill housing development and its impact, from a fire safety perspective.

4.          The written response provided by the Cabinet Member for Children, Young People & Schools to a question submitted by Brent Youth Parliament regarding support for the Education for Life Campaign.  No supplementary question was received.

8.1      Questions from the Public

The Mayor advised that the following three questions had been received from members of the public:

Question 1 from Nichola Rogers to Councillor Krupa Sheth, Cabinet Member for Environment, Infrastructure and Climate Action regarding the introduction of a plant-based food policy where catering was provided at Council and Civic events and also within schools.

Question 2 from Jeanette Audrey to Councillor Knight, Cabinet Member for Housing, Homelessness and Renters Security, regarding the impact of current housing infill development proposals on local residents at Windmill Court

Question 3 from Siobhan Culhane to Councillor Tatler, Cabinet Member for Regeneration & Planning, regarding the transport assessment undertaken as part of the infill development proposals at Windmill Court.

Members noted the written responses provided on each of the questions, which had been circulated with the agenda.  The Mayor advised that each member of the public had been invited to attend the meeting and all three were present in order to ask a supplementary question following the written responses provided.

Having been welcomed to the meeting, the following supplementary questions were asked of the relevant Cabinet Member(s).

Question 1: Supplementary question from Nichola Rogers to Councillor Krupa Sheth, Cabinet Member for Environment, Infrastructure and Climate Action

Having noted and thanked Councillor Krupa Sheth for the written response provided, Nichola Rogers advised she was pleased for the acknowledgement regarding the impact that consuming less meat and reducing food waste would have as part of Council’s Climate Emergency Strategy and in reducing the effects of the climate crisis.  Whilst welcoming the efforts being made, however, she felt that the Council could take an even more proactive approach and as a supplementary question therefore asked if the Council would consider introducing a plant based food policy at all future Council and Civic catered events, as had been the case in other local authorities.

In thanking Nichola Rogers for her question, Councillor Krupa Sheth advised that whilst willing to work with the Mayor in terms of future Civic events, the Council already ensured plant-based options were available at the limited range of events where catering was now provided, in support of the theme relating to consumption, resources and waste within the Climate Emergency Strategy.

Question 2: Supplementary Question from Jeanette Audrey to Councillor Knight, Cabinet Member for Housing, Homelessness and Renters Security.

Having noted the written response provided, Jeanette Audrey highlighted concern at what she felt had been the lack of consultation and engagement with local residents regarding development of the infill proposals.  In expressing specific concerns at what was felt to be an unacceptable loss of daylight and sunlight amenity to surrounding properties and overall negative impact of the development, she again asked the Cabinet Member to justify the basis on which such an excessive development had been able to proceed given what local residents felt to be its adverse and overbearing effect on the amenity of the surrounding area and overall financially viability in terms of the provision of genuinely affordable housing.

In  ...  view the full minutes text for item 8.

For Members to consider any petitions with more than 200 signatures on which a debate has been requested, in accordance with the Council’s Petition Rules and Standing Order 66.

No petitions were presented at the meeting.

The Mayor advised that no requests for debates on any petitions had been received for consideration at the meeting.

To receive a report from the Leader of the Council in accordance with Standing Order 31 providing an update on any key or significant issues arising from any matter within the responsibility of the Cabinet.

NOTED the report and update provided at the meeting by Councillor Muhammed Butt, as Leader of the Council, highlighting the work being undertaken across each Cabinet portfolio in order to provide ongoing support and services to residents within the borough.  As part of the update the Leader took the opportunity to outline the work being undertaken to manage the Council’s finances as efficiently as possible within the current economic climate reflecting the Government’s recent fiscal statement and developing priorities within the Borough Plan; to deliver the Councils new council housing programme alongside its wider estate and regeneration programme and to focus on the protection of housing tenants and those living within the private rental sector.  As part of the ongoing process in seeking to engage and support local residents, particularly in tackling the cost-of-living crisis, he also took the opportunity to highlight the Council’s upcoming budget consultation process which he was keen to ensure as many residents were able to engage with as possible.

The Mayor then invited Councillor Muhammed Butt, as Leader of the Council, to introduce the report updating members on the work being undertaken across each Cabinet portfolio in order to provide ongoing support and services to residents within the borough.

In presenting the report, the Leader began by highlighting the challenging nature of the current economic position faced by the Council.  This was not only in terms of the impact of the Governments recent fiscal interventions and programme of austerity in terms of funding available for services across the public sector but also level of savings which the Council and other key public sector stakeholders had needed to identify and deliver as a result, ongoing uncertainty in relation to future funding settlements and impact of the cost of living crisis and ongoing economic uncertainty on inflation and interest rates.  Despite these challenges, the Leader highlighted how the report detailed the work being undertaken to manage the Council’s finances as efficiently as possible whilst also seeking to deliver on the emerging priorities within the Borough Plan and protect the most vulnerable including the continued support for the Residents Support Fund, Council Tax Support Scheme and Brent Hubs.  In closing his update, the Leader advised that given the nature and extent of the financial challenges needing to be addressed he was keen to encourage as many people as possible to engage with the upcoming consultation on the budget proposals for 2023-24.   Finally, members were asked to note the details on Executive decision(s) that had been taken under the Council’s urgency procedures, since the previous update provided for the Council meeting in July, as tabled at the meeting.

The Mayor thanked the Leader for his report and it was RESOLVED (having allowed a brief point of order to be raised by Councillor Kansagra) to formally note the update provided.

For questions to be put to members of the Cabinet by Opposition and Non-Cabinet Members in accordance with Standing Order 35.

Five advance notice questions have been received under this item, which have been attached along with the written responses provided.

Members are asked to note that this session will also include an opportunity (within the time available) for other Non-Cabinet members and the Opposition to ask questions of Cabinet Members.

NOTED

1.     The written and supplementary verbal response provided by the Cabinet Member for Public Health & Adult Social Care to a question submitted by Councillor Fraser regarding the recognition, impact and support available for residents and staff experiencing the impact of long covid.

2.     The written and supplementary verbal response provided by the Cabinet Member for Children, Young People & Schools to a question submitted by Councillor Gbajumo in relation to the support available for Looked After Children and impact of the cost-of-living crisis as part of the Council’s Corporate Parent role.

3.     The written and supplementary verbal response provided by the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Resources & Reform to a question submitted by Councillor Akram regarding the impact of the current economic position on the Council’s budget and provision of services and in highlighting the need for reform of the current system for funding local government.

4.     The written and supplementary verbal response provided by the Cabinet Member for Environment, Infrastructure & Climate Action to a question submitted by Councillor Mistry regarding the need to ensure more vigorous parking enforcement in cycle lanes along Kingsbury Road.

5.     The written and supplementary verbal response provided by the Cabinet Member for Environment, Infrastructure & Climate Action to a question submitted by Councillor Lorber regarding the consultation undertaken on introduction of a new trial recycling scheme and concerns raised in relation to implementation of new street cleaning arrangements.

Responses were also provided by the relevant Cabinet Members on the following additional questions raised during the open session of this part of the meeting:

·             Councillor Kansagra regarding current levels of crime recorded across the borough and specific measures in place to tackle ongoing concerns regarding knife crime.

·             Councillor Afzal regarding the positive action being taken by the Council working with the Multi-Faith Forum to recognise and welcome the diverse nature of communities across the borough and in seeking to support ongoing delivery of the recommendations made by the Poverty Commission and within the Black Community Action Plan.

·             Councillor Lorber relating to the local environmental impact of the targets within the Local Plan for the delivery of new homes across the borough.

·             Councillor Kelcher regarding the plans to ensure local residents were aware of the changes due to be implemented in relation to voter identification as a means of seeking to avoid those impacted being disenfranchised at future elections.

·             Councillor Georgiou regarding the appropriateness of Shared Ownership being included as a genuinely Affordable Housing option in the development of housing schemes across Brent.

·             Councillor Kennelly in seeking confirmation of the Council’s ongoing support for the LGBTQ+ community across the borough, particularly given its location as the home of the Football Association (FA) and national football team and in view of the stance taken by Qatar as the host nation of the FIFA World Cup.

·             Councillor Long highlighting concerns about the use of rental e-bikes on pavements across the borough.

Before moving on to consider the questions submitted by non-Cabinet members, the Mayor reminded Members that a total of 30 minutes had been set aside for this item, which would begin with consideration of the written questions submitted in advance of the meeting along with any supplementary questions. Once these had been dealt with, the remaining time available would then be opened up for any other non-Cabinet members to question Cabinet Members (without the need for advance notice) on matters relating to their portfolio.

The Mayor advised that five written questions had been submitted in advance of the meeting for response by the relevant Cabinet Member and the written responses circulated within the agenda were noted. The Mayor then invited supplementary questions on the responses which had been provided:

11.1  Councillor Fraser thanked Councillor Nerva, as Cabinet Member for Public Health and Adult Social Care, for the written response in relation to her question regarding the recognition, impact and support available for residents and staff experiencing the impact of long covid. As a supplementary question, she asked whether Councillor Nerva agreed that central government should recognise long-covid in legislation and require that employers make reasonable adjustments for those experiencing symptoms.

In response, Councillor Nerva expressed concern at the current waiting time of 6-8 weeks in being able to access support in relation to long-covid and agreed with the need for a national approach to be developed in addressing the issues identified supported through legislation, where necessary.  Whilst recognising the new service established by the NHS to address post-covid syndrome he also felt it important to recognise the disproportionate impact of covid within Brent meaning that the number of people requiring support was also likely to be higher.  In order to reflect this position and recognise the associated strain being placed on health services, Councillor Nerva was also keen to encourage the NHS across North-West London to continue seeking long-term funding from central government to support the ongoing provision of support.  Recognising not only the health but also social, emotional and financial legacy of long covid, Councillor Nerva also praised the support being provided through initiatives such as the Brent Health Matters programme, in order to assist residents seeking access to NHS and community support, and the Resident Support Fund.  Given the importance of the issue, Councillor Nerva ended by advising members that he would also be seeking to continue monitoring the impact of long-covid on residents and the health service in Brent through the Health and Wellbeing Board.

11.2  Councillor Gbajumo thanked Councillor Grahl, as Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Schools, for the written response in relation to her question on support available for Looked After Children (LAC) and the impact of the cost-of-living crisis as part of the Council’s Corporate Parent role. In welcoming the support outlined within the response, Councillor Gbajumo, as a supplementary question, sought clarification on the extent to which it was felt the cost-of-living crisis had been connected to the increase  ...  view the full minutes text for item 11.

To receive reports from the Chairs of the Council’s Scrutiny Committees in accordance with Standing Order 36.  The reports have been attached as follows:

11.1    Community & Wellbeing Scrutiny Committee

11.2    Resources & Public Realm Scrutiny Committee

(Agenda republished to include Resources & Public Realm Scrutiny Committee Chair’s Update report on 16 November 2022)

Members are asked to note that this session will include an opportunity (within the time available) for Non-Cabinet Members to ask questions of relevant Scrutiny Chair’s in relation to the remit of their Committees.

NOTED the update reports provided by the Chair of the Community and Wellbeing Scrutiny Committee and Chair of the Resources & Public Realm Scrutiny Committee.

Before being presented with the updates from each Scrutiny Committee, the Mayor reminded members the time set aside for this item was 12 minutes, with each Chair having up to three minutes in which to highlight any significant issues arising from the work of their Committees.  Once these updates had been provided, the remaining time available would then be opened up for any other non-Cabinet members to question (without the need for advance notice) the Scrutiny Committee Chairs on matters relating to the work of their Committee.

Councillor Ketan Sheth was then invited to introduce the update report on the work being undertaken by the Community and Wellbeing Scrutiny Committee, with the following issues highlighted:

·            Key issues considered at the previous Community and Wellbeing Scrutiny Committee had included a review of the Council’s Early Help Strategy and Family Wellbeing Centres, with Brent recognised as being ahead of the national debate on Early Help with the introduction of its hub model of service delivery.  In addition, the Committee had reviewed the impact arising from implementation of potential changes to the services for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) including the High Needs Funding Block, as set out within a recently published Green Paper.  The Committee had been keen to focus these reviews on the outreach support being provided for the most vulnerable families as well as the engagement with key partners and associated funding impacts.

·            In terms of the North West London Joint Health Overview & Scrutiny Committee (JHOSC) the committee remained focussed on the emerging priorities of the newly established North West London Integrated Care System (ICS), with the previous meeting having included a review and made a number of recommendations in relation to the primary care strategy and performance across North West London.  In addition, the Committee had reviewed and made recommendations in relation to Accident and Emergency Pathways and London Ambulance Service Performance across North West London before receiving an update on the Community based specialised Palliative Care Improvement Programme and work streams being progressed by the North West London ICS with the ongoing importance in scrutiny continuing to work in partnership with the NHS to ensure the best outcomes were being delivered for local residents again highlighted.

·            As a further update, members were also advised of the first meeting of the four acute provider Trusts in North West London which Brent had been pleased to host, given Councillor Ketan Sheth’s role as Chair of the North West London JHOSC.  It was felt this provided further evidence of the increasing collaboration between acute Trusts across North West London as well as highlighting Brent’s ambition to contribute towards and support the vital role of the NHS across North West London.

·            As a final update, Councillor Ketan Sheth also highlighted the progress being made by the Task Group establishment by the Committee to explore and review the use of social prescribing in Brent along with their participation in the Scrutiny Budget Task Group.

The Mayor thanked  ...  view the full minutes text for item 12.

To receive a report from the Vice-Chair of the Audit & Standards Advisory Committee, in accordance with Standing Order 37.

NOTED the update report provided by the Vice Chair of the Audit & Standards Advisory Committee.

The Mayor invited Councillor Chan, as the Vice-Chair of the Audit & Standards Advisory Committee, to introduce the report updating members on the work of the Committee.

In terms of issues highlighted, Councillor Chan drew members’ attention to the important role and work undertaken by the Committee in relation to monitoring and advising on various governance matters relating to audit activity, the Council’s finance, accounting and regulatory framework and members standards of conduct.  As one of their key responsibilities, members were advised that the Committee had agreed to authorise sign off of the Council’s Annual Statement of Accounts 2021-22 having considered the External Auditors report, subject to the resolution of a national financial regulatory issue by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities relating to the accounting for infrastructure assets.  The Committee were also continuing to monitor the performance management and accounts of the Council’s two subsidiary companies i4B and First Wave Housing Ltd along with the approach towards emergency planning and monitoring of the Councillor Code of Conduct.  The Committee had also taken an active interest in the measures introduced by the Council to mitigate against the impact of the current economic uncertainty and cost-of-living crisis being experienced both in relation to the delivery of Council services and support for residents.  As part of their focus on this issue, members had been keen to continue monitoring development of the Financial Inclusion Dashboard being used as a business tool to assist in targeting support for local residents.

Councillor Chan advised the Committee were looking forward to continuing their work with members and other key stakeholders to ensure the necessary focus was maintained in relation to compliance and control of the Council’s key governance arrangements.

The Mayor thanked Councillor Chan for the update provided and it was RESOLVED that the report be noted.

To enable Non Cabinet Members to raise an issue of relevance to Brent for debate on which notice has been provided in accordance with Standing Order 34 and to receive reports from Cabinet members, as required, on any issues previously raised.

Members are asked to note that the subject identified for debate at this meeting is as follows:

Building the Homes our Community Needs

The motion submitted as the basis for this debate has been attached along with a proposed amendment submitted by the Labour Group.

(Agenda republished to include the motion accompanying the Non Cabinet Member debate on 16 November 2022 and proposed amendment from the Labour Group on 21 November 2022)

The following substantive motion (as amended) was AGREED as the outcome of the non-cabinet member debate:

“Building the Homes our Community Needs 

This Council notes:

The pressures on Council Housing stock are immense and in the absence of Government investment, will not ease in the coming months and years, rather they will grow even more. For example, in Brent there are currently 25,853 households on our housing waiting list, containing 53,644 individuals. Even at a record-breaking pace of building, without a renaissance in Government investment in the social housing sector, many of these families will regrettably wait many years for a home.

The Cost of Living Crisis, compounded by a Government that has created a disastrous macroeconomic situation in the UK, has seen more local residents turn to the council for support with their housing needs, with a 33% increase in approaches in the last year. As an authority we are working around the clock to provide support to households effected by the Cost of Living Crisis, with a Resident Support Fund that has distributed £8.46 million to 4,045 households, aiding hundreds of families with Rent Arrears and Mortgage payments; and those in need of food and fuel support. 

We are proud that Brent has made progress in seeking to supply Council Homes, with a record of consistently being one of the leading boroughs in providing social homes in London. There is still more to do and we need to see greater, more urgent resolve from all political parties to deliver more Council Homes for our tenants. There have been 20 ministers for housing in the past 25 years and four housing secretaries in just over a year. We desperately need action from our new Minister, on waiting lists for council housing, supporting private tenants that are made homeless, aiding cladding victims that remain trapped in unsellable flats and homeowners living in fear of their next mortgage bill.  Finally, without the abolition of Right to Buy London will continue to see more council homes sold and private-let with 54,000 and counting across the capital.

The latest report to Cabinet, entitled, ‘Update on the supply of New Affordable Homes’, sets out where Brent is when it comes to the delivery of the New Council Homes Programme (NCHP), our programme to develop 1,000 new council homes by 2025. To date, the Council has developed and let 684 new homes to Brent households and there are 616 homes on site and on track to be completed before 2025. This programme has been made possible through a grant in excess of £100m from the Mayor of London, Labour’s Sadiq Khan, and an investment of more than £200m of the council’s own money.

Spiralling inflation, exacerbated by a botched mini-budget has not only impacted Brent residents, but has also put our council house building programme at risk. As such, on the 14^th November, the Cabinet was asked to formalise a change of approach that would allow Brent Council to deliver much needed housing,  ...  view the full decision text for item 14.

In accordance with Standing Order 34, the Mayor advised that the next item on the agenda was the non-cabinet member debate, with the subject chosen for consideration being the Council’s approach to the delivery of social council housing.

Members were advised that the motion submitted as the basis for the debate had been circulated with the agenda and that the time available for the debate was 25 minutes.

The Mayor then invited Councillor Georgiou to introduce the motion. As context for the debate, Councillor Georgiou highlighted what he regarded to be the fundamental right to housing, with concern expressed at the increasing pressure on Council Housing stock as a result of the current cost-of-living crisis and economic uncertainty.  Given the pressures being experienced, the motion highlighted the priority to ensure action continued to support delivery of Council homes for social tenants in an effort to reduce the growing housing waiting list and the number of residents in temporary accommodation which, he pointed out, also reflected the approach recommended by the Council’s Poverty Commission.  Whilst reflecting on the progress made to date, concerns were expressed at the change of approach recently agreed by Cabinet in relation to delivery of the New Council Homes Programme (NCHP) impacting on the percentage of new stock to be delivered at Council and London Affordable Housing rent and potential to include elements of shared ownership, which it was felt would adversely effect the delivery of genuinely affordable housing supply for those most in need.  With private developments also not felt to be supporting the type of housing provision needed across the borough, Councillor Georgiou advised that the motion was calling on the Council to focus its approach around the delivery of genuinely affordable social housing, excluding shared ownership provision, and to hold developers to account to ensure the homes being delivered across the Borough were of the type and size needed to support local housing demand.  He also took the opportunity in closing his comments to highlight his opposition to the amendment to the motion for debate, which had been circulated in advance of the meeting from the Labour Group.

The Mayor thanked Councillor Georgiou for introducing the motion and then drew member’s attention to an amendment submitted by Councillor Tatler on behalf of the Labour Group, which had been circulated in advance of the meeting.

In moving the amendment Councillor Tatler began by supporting the need to recognise the importance of housing as a fundamental right in the delivery of life opportunities and social aspiration and concerns highlighted in relation to increased pressure on the supply and delivery of social housing as a result of the cost-of-living crisis and governments mismanagement of the economy.  Whilst highlighting Brent’s success as one of the leading boroughs in delivering social housing in London, she felt it important to also recognise the challenges and risks in relation to the programme as a result of the lack of government investment or leadership and current challenging economic conditions affecting the viability  ...  view the full minutes text for item 14.

To receive a report from the Corporate Director Resident Services seeking approval, following a review of the Cumulative Impact Assessment, to renew the existing ten Cumulative Assessment Zones (CIZs) and to extend the policy to covert two new areas within the London Borough of Brent.

Council RESOLVED to:

(1)      Approve the retention of the Cumulative Impact Assessment in the current 10 areas.

(2)      Approve the creation two new Cumulative Impact Zones (CIZs) in Wembley Park and Cricklewood Broadway.

(3)      To approve the updates to Policy 9 and Appendix 6 of the Licensing Policy to reflect the agreed changes proposed in Appendix C of the report.

(4)      To note that the Policy including the Cumulative Impact Assessments will have to be reviewed within 2 years.

The Mayor then invited Councillor Farah, as Cabinet Member for Community Safety & Public Protection, to introduce a report from the Corporate Director of Resident Services detailing the outcome of a review of the Council’s existing Cumulative Impact Policy and Cumulative Impact Assessment Zones.

In introducing the report Councillor Farah advised that the review had been undertaken in accordance with the Licensing Act 2003 and Police and Crime Act 2017, with the Cumulative Impact Policy forming part of the Council’s overall Licensing Policy and Statement of Principles.  Members noted that the review had also been subject to a public consultation process, the outcome of which had ben detailed in Appendix B of the report.

As no other members indicated they wished to speak on the report and Councillor Farah had confirmed he did not need to exercise any right of reply the Mayor then put the recommendations in the report to the vote and they were unanimously declared CARRIED.

Council therefore RESOLVED:

(1)    To approve the retention of the Cumulative Impact Assessment in the current 10 areas.

(2)    To approve the creation two new CIZs in Wembley Park and Cricklewood Broadway.

(3)    To approve the updates to Policy 9 and Appendix 6 of the Licensing Policy to reflect the agreed changes proposed in Appendix C of the report.

(4)    To note that the Policy including the Cumulative Impact Assessments will have to be reviewed within 2 years.

To receive a report from the Corporate Director Governance detailing proposed changes to the Constitution, primarily to reflect the recommended changes following the Independent Review of the Planning Code of Practice.

Council RESOLVED:

(1)      To approve the amendments to the Constitution as set out in Appendix A of the report relating to the Planning Code of Practice.

(2)      To authorise the Corporate Director, Governance to amend the Constitution accordingly, including making any necessary incidental or consequential changes.

The Mayor invited Councillor Muhammed Butt, Leader of the Council, to introduce a report from the Corporate Director of Governance outlining proposed changes to the Constitution.  In introducing the report, it was noted that the changes had primarily been designed to reflect changes made to the Council’s Planning Code of Practice arising from an Independent review of compliance undertaken by the Planning Advisory Service in June 2022.  Members noted the outcome of the review, as detailed within Appendix A of the report, which had identified the Code as representing best practice.

The Mayor thanked the Leader for introducing the report and then opened the debate for contributions from other members.

Councillor Maurice, in highlighting comments raised regarding members role on the Planning Committee, felt it important to assure residents of the open and transparent way in which the Committee operated and the code of practice was applied.

Councillor Lorber also spoke to request minor additional changes he was keen to see included to assist in clarifying the Code of Practice, which included within section 2 (Principles of Planning & Decision Making) clarity around application of the Code to members and also reference to other councillors being included as part of the list Committee members should not allow themselves to be influenced by.

In response to the additional changes identified, the Chief Executive requested that these were submitted in writing in order to enable further consideration prior to them coming forward for approval as potential additional amendments to the Code.

As no other members indicated they wished to speak and Councillor Muhammed Butt confirmed he did not need to exercise his right of reply the Mayor then put the recommendations in the report to the vote and they were unanimously declared CARRIED.

Council therefore RESOLVED:

(1)    To approve the amendments to the Constitution as set out in Appendix A of the report relating to the Planning Code of Practice.

(2)    To authorise the Corporate Director, Governance to amend the Constitution accordingly, including making any necessary incidental or consequential changes.

To debate the motions submitted in accordance with Standing Order 41.

Members are asked to note:

·            The motions submitted for debate have been attached.

·            Where a motion concerns an executive function, nothing passed can be actioned until approved by the Executive or an officer with the relevant delegated power.

(Agenda republished to include the motions submitted for debate on 16 November 2022)

(1)        The following Motion submitted by the Conservative Group, was declared LOST and not approved:

“Measures to tackle Flooding in Brent

In the past few years, flooding in Brent and other areas is getting more frequent and severe. Whilst this is partly due to climate change and global warming, it also reflects the massive level of regeneration, development and building on green and brown fields sites which is detrimental to the drainage of rainwater and it is felt future planning policy must reflect.

We are losing more green and open spaces which used to soak up the rain water. The Council’s policy of tarmacking footpaths also does not allow water to permeate in the ground. Just a little rain and we observe streams of water flowing on the roads and pavements.

We notice that flood water collects in low lying areas and does not recede for a few days after it rains which means that in the current situation more frequent and severe flooding will take place. 

We appreciate that Brent alone cannot stop global warming and climate change and recognise that the borough has a Flood Risk management Strategy in place, however we can take further steps to mitigate the consequences and protect our residents’ lives and property.

As a result this Council calls on Cabinet to:

1)          Reverse the policy of tarmacking the footways and replace with paving slabs and bricks which allows more water to soak in the ground, especially in known flood risk areas;

2)          Reverse the policy of large scale developments which are reducing the green open spaces and making Brent a concrete jungle;

3)          Implement a regular gully cleaning and leaf collection program, especially in the flood prone areas;

4)          Implement a regular program of inspecting all drains and gullies in areas identified as flood risk and repair as necessary and the Council’s responsibility, including Brent’s brooks and rivers;

5)          Introduce a policy that makes it’s illegal to concrete over the whole of a rear garden as this also impedes the draining of rainwater.  We suggest a maximum of 20% of the rear garden can be paved or concreted over.

If Brent is serious about global warming and climate change and wants to protect its citizens now and for future, it's the least it can do.”

(2)    The following Motion submitted by the Liberal Democrats Group was unanimously AGREED:

“Holding Housing Associations to Account

The Council notes:

Many Brent residents live in properties managed by Housing Associations. They may be Housing Association tenants, leaseholders or shared owners.

The number of residents who will live in properties managed by Housing Associations will continue to grow in the coming years, as more large tower blocks and Housing Association managed units are approved and built in our borough.

Housing Associations were originally set up as charitable, non-profit making organisations, with the aim to provide low cost housing for people.

In recent times, as Housing Associations have grown in number and as their stock has vastly increased, their  ...  view the full decision text for item 17.

Before moving on to consider the motions listed on the summons, the Mayor advised members that a total of 40 minutes had been set aside for the consideration of the four motions submitted for debate, based on an initial allocation of 10 minutes per motion. Should the time taken to consider the first motion be less than 10 minutes he advised that the remaining time available would be rolled forward for consideration of the remaining motions.

16.1    1^st Motion (Conservative Group) – Measures to tackle flooding in Brent

The Mayor invited Councillor Kansagra to move the first motion which had been submitted on behalf of the Conservative Group.  Councillor Kansagra began by providing context on what he felt to be the severity of flooding issues in Brent and increase in frequency.  Whilst acknowledging climate change and global warming as factors it was, however, felt that the increasing level of development on green and brownfield sites was also having a detrimental impact on the drainage of rainwater.  In addition, the Council’s policy of tarmacking footpaths was also felt to be making the position worse by increasing surface water run off as opposed allowing water to permeate into the ground naturally.  Although it was recognised that the Council could not prevent global warming and climate change on their own, Councillor Kansagra felt that the suggested actions detailed within the motion would assist in mitigating the consequences of local flood events and protect resident’s lives and properties, which he hoped all members would support.

The Mayor thanked Councillor Kansagra for moving the motion, then invited other members to speak with the following contributions received.

Councillor Lorber, speaking in support of the motion, felt that further consideration was required in relation to the use of asphalt for the repair and replacement of footways, given its effectiveness and impact in terms of surface water pooling and run off.  Reflecting on specific issues in his own ward, he highlighted the issues caused by uneven footway surfaces and pooling of surface water, which he felt not only increased flood risks but also caused potential hazards for elderly and disabled residents.  In concluding his comments, Councillor Lorber also took the opportunity to highlight concerns regarding the potential environmental impacts of what he felt was overdevelopment being permitted in front and back gardens and other green spaces across Brent.

Councillor Krupa Sheth, in responding to the motion as Cabinet Member for Environment, Infrastructure and Climate Action, started by welcoming the reference and acknowledgement within the motion to the impact of climate change.  Highlighting the Council’s commitment towards tackling the climate emergency she highlighted how environmental issues remained a key consideration within policy and new development proposals, with bio-diversity, flooding and drainage assessments routinely included as part of the planning considerations for new developments.  In highlighting what she felt was the governments poor record on environmental issues she also felt it important to recognise that many new developments within the borough were actually designed to enhance bio-diversity and provide  ...  view the full minutes text for item 17.

At the discretion of the Mayor to consider any urgent business, in accordance with Standing Order 37 (r).

No urgent items of business were raised at the meeting.

There were no urgent items of business raised at the meeting so the Mayor, in closing the meeting, thanked all members for their co-operation and support and advised that he looked forward to seeing everyone again in person at the next Full Council which would be the Budget Setting meeting on Thursday 23 February 2023.