Agenda, decisions and minutes

Apologies for absence were received from Carolyn Downs (Chief Executive) & Gail Tolley (Strategic Director, Children & Young People who was represented by Nigel Chapman)

Apologies for absence were received from Carolyn Downs (Chief Executive) & Gail Tolley (Strategic Director, Children & Young People who was represented by Nigel Chapman Operational Director Integration & Improved Outcomes).

It was noted that whilst also present, Councillors Nerva and Southwood would not be able to formally participate in any formal decisions taken during the meeting given they were in remote attendance.

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.

None.

None.

To approve the minutes of the previous meeting held on Monday 14 June 2021 as a correct record.

Cabinet RESOLVED that the minutes of the previous meeting held on Monday 14 June 2021 be approved as an accurate record of the meeting.

RESOLVED that the minutes of the previous Cabinet meeting held on Monday 14 June 2021 be approved as an accurate record of the meeting.

To consider any matters arising from the minutes of the previous meeting.

None

None.

To discuss any petitions from members of the public, in accordance with Standing Order 66.

Cabinet received a petition submitted by Mr Sanjeev Shah representing parents of children who play for Forest United Youth FC.  The petition called on the Council to intervene in order to save the Football Club and provide them with a permanent home.  In presenting the petition Mr Shah highlighted what he felt to be the important legacy and role the Football Club played within the local community.  Highlighting its proximity to Wembley as the home of football, Mr Shah was keen to ensure the clubs future was secured within Brent along with the provision of permanent facilities and a clubhouse on John Billam and Tenterden Sports Ground.

Councillor Tatler (as Lead Member for Regeneration, Property & Planning) in responding to the petition began by recognising the role which the club served within the local community.  Highlighting the Council’s support for all grass roots sports clubs across the borough, an assurance was provided of the Council’s intention to continue working with the club in order to maintain and secure their continued provision and appropriate facilities at John Billam and Tenterden Sport Ground.  Clarification was provided that the current relocation of the club had been on a temporary basis to enable essential drainage works to be undertaken in order to secure and protect the long term future of the playing fields and the clubs ongoing use of the facility.  It was also noted that a formal response would be provided to the various issues raised under the petition and in supporting correspondence from the Club.

Having noted the response provided Councillor M.Butt (Leader of the Council) ended by welcoming the contribution at the meeting and reaffirming the Council’s support and commitment to securing the clubs future within Brent given its value to the local community and in order to continue delivering the best outcome for all.

Cabinet received a petition submitted by Mr Sanjeev Shah representing parents of children who played for Forest United Youth FC.  The petition called on the Council to intervene in order to save the Football Club and provide them with a permanent home.  In presenting the petition, Mr Shah highlighted what he felt to be the important legacy and role the Football Club played within the local community.  Highlighting its proximity to Wembley Stadium as the home of the national football team, Mr Shah was keen to ensure the clubs future was secured within Brent along with the provision of permanent facilities and a clubhouse on John Billam and Tenterden Sports Ground.

In responding to the petition, Councillor Tatler (as Lead Member for Regeneration, Property & Planning) began by recognising the role which the club served within the local community.  Highlighting the Council’s support for all grass roots sports clubs across the borough, an assurance was provided of the Council’s intention to continue working with the club in order to maintain and secure their provision and appropriate facilities at John Billam and Tenterden Sport Ground.  Clarification was provided that the current relocation of the club had been on a temporary basis to enable essential drainage works to be undertaken in order to secure and protect the long term future of the playing fields and the clubs ongoing use of the facility.  It was also noted that a formal response would be provided on the various issues raised under the petition and in supporting correspondence from the Club.

Having noted the response provided, Councillor M.Butt (Leader of the Council) ended by welcoming the contribution at the meeting and reaffirming the Council’s support and commitment to securing the clubs future within Brent given its value to the local community and in order to continue delivering the best outcome for all.

To consider any reference reports from any of the Council’s two Scrutiny Committees.

There were no references from Scrutiny submitted for consideration at the meeting.

There were no references from Scrutiny submitted for consideration at the meeting.

This report provides an update on progress towards delivering against the Council’s housing target for new affordable homes over the five-year period (2019 – 2024).

Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)     To note the contents of the report and progress to date on delivering both the New Council Homes Programme (NCHP) and other programmes and projects to deliver 5,000 new affordable homes in the borough by 2024.

(2)     To note the demand forecasts and that the current programme would continue to reduce the demand for permanent Council Homes.

(3)     To delegate authority to the Strategic Director, Community Wellbeing, in consultation with the Lead Member for Housing and Welfare Reform, to agree pre-tender considerations, invite tenders, evaluate tenders and thereafter to award development / construction contracts with developers / contractors in respect of the site listed in section 6.5 of the report (Church End).

(4)     To delegate authority to the Strategic Director, Community Wellbeing, in consultation with the Lead Member for Housing and Welfare Reform, to agree pre-tender considerations, invite tenders, evaluate tenders and thereafter to award development / construction contracts with developers / contractors in respect of the sites listed in section 6.3, 6.7 and 6.10 of the report, should the Council be unable to agree costs with the contractor appointed from the SCAPE Framework.

(5)     To delegate authority to the Strategic Director, Community Wellbeing, in consultation with the Lead Member for Housing and Welfare Reform, to agree pre-tender considerations, invite tenders, evaluate tenders and thereafter to award any High Value supply, services and/or design contracts in respect of the sites listed in section 6.0 of the report.

Councillor Southwood as Lead Member for Housing & Welfare Reform introduced the report providing a six monthly update on progress towards delivery of the Council’s housing target for new affordable homes over the five year period 2019-2024.

Members noted the updated housing demand analysis and forecasts, as detailed within section 3 of the report, along with the progress in delivery of the New Council Homes Programme, pipeline of developments and delivery of other large scale development schemes, including the South Kilburn and St Raphael Estate projects.  In considering the report, members were also advised of the way in which the approach towards the programme had been refined to ensure that it was not only delivering affordable homes but was also being shaped to meet the needs of homeless households in Brent as well as informing wider supply work, including maximising use of existing stock.

Details were also provided on the bid submitted through the GLA Affordable Homes Programme to fund ongoing delivery and development of the programme, as detailed within section 4 of the report, on which it was noted a final decision was awaited.

In commending and congratulating the Lead Member and officers on the progress made in delivery against the housing targets within the programme, members also felt it was important to recognise the ambitious nature of future targets being set and the Council’s ongoing commitment towards meeting the housing needs and improving the quality of life for Brent’s residents through the provision of affordable, safe and secure high quality housing.

Having considered the report Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)    To note the contents of the report and progress to date on delivering both the New Council Homes Programme (NCHP) and other programmes and projects to deliver 5,000 new affordable homes in the borough by 2024.

(2)    To note the demand forecasts and that the current programme would continue to reduce the demand for permanent Council Homes.

(3)    To delegate authority to the Strategic Director, Community Wellbeing, in consultation with the Lead Member for Housing and Welfare Reform, to agree pre-tender considerations, invite tenders, evaluate tenders and thereafter to award development / construction contracts with developers / contractors in respect of the site listed in section 6.5 of the report (Church End).

(4)    To delegate authority to the Strategic Director, Community Wellbeing, in consultation with the Lead Member for Housing and Welfare Reform, to agree pre-tender considerations, invite tenders, evaluate tenders and thereafter to award development / construction contracts with developers / contractors in respect of the sites listed in section 6.3, 6.7 and 6.10 of the report, should the Council be unable to agree costs with the contractor appointed from the SCAPE Framework.

(5)    To delegate authority to the Strategic Director, Community Wellbeing, in consultation with the Lead Member for Housing and Welfare Reform, to agree pre-tender considerations, invite tenders, evaluate tenders and thereafter to award any High Value supply, services and/or design contracts in respect of the sites listed in section 6 of the report.

This report provides an update on two current Housing projects at Kilburn Square; the major refurbishment of 5-90 Kilburn Square and the proposed infill development of new council homes.

Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)      To note the importance of the refurbishment works for the tower block and low rise maisonettes, and endorse the timeline and intention to establish a portfolio of options to support leaseholders with the payment of the recharge for the refurbishment works.

(2)      To note the increased engagement that was planned, primarily but not exclusively with residents of Kilburn Square for the proposed development, and endorse the project team to recommended changes to the designs following the outcome of engagement.

(3)      To delegate authority for the Strategic Director Community Wellbeing in consultation with the Lead Member for Housing and Welfare Reform to consult with those affected by the appropriation of Kilburn Square Site, the Clinic Site or the Brondesbury Road Site, (the Sites) and to consider the results from the equality monitoring highlighted in 6.2 of the report to ensure compliance with the Public Sector Equality Duty as well as the responses of the consultation and thereafter, and where relevant, to appropriate the Sites for planning purposes in order to facilitate the redevelopment of the site for which planning permission was being sought.

(4)      To delegate authority to the Strategic Director Community Wellbeing in consultation with the Lead Member for Housing & Welfare Reform to make an application to seek the Secretary of State’s consent under section 19 of the Housing Act 1985 to appropriate for another purpose (here for planning purposes in order to facilitate the redevelopment of the Sites for which Planning Permission is being sought) any part of Kilburn Square Site, the Clinic Site or the Brondesbury Road Site including any part consisting of a house or part of a house so that parts of these sites are no longer held for the purposes of Part ll of the Housing Act 1985.

(5)     To delegate authority to the Strategic Director Community Wellbeing in consultation with the Lead Member for Housing and Welfare Reform to undertake the consultation pursuant to section 122 (2A) of the Local Government Act 1972 to consider the response to the consultation to appropriate the open space for planning purposes in order to facilitate the redevelopment of the open space for which Planning Permission was being sought.

(6)     To agree to apply section 203 of the Housing and Planning Act to override third party rights and to pay affected third parties compensation where required by statute.

Councillor Southwood, as Lead Member for Housing & Welfare Reform introduced the report providing an update on two current housing projects at Kilburn Square involving the major refurbishment of 5-90 Kilburn Square and proposed infill development of new council homes.

Cabinet noted the scope of work proposed as part of the Kilburn Square refurbishment programme, as detailed within section 3.13 of the report, which included works to external fabric, roofing, windows and lifts as well as fire safety works.  The current infill development proposals (as detailed within section 3.26 – 3.34 and Appendix 1 of the report) had been designed to provide 179 new homes along with an Extra Care facility and a revised landscape strategy.  In addition members noted the update provided in relation to the current status of the Kilburn Square Tenancy Management Organisation (TMO) and ongoing work to stabilise, support and work constructively with them on both schemes and in order to update the current Modular Management Agreement.

In presenting the report, Councillor Southwood also highlighted the efforts being made to consult and communicate with tenants and leaseholders on the proposals along with the challenges created by the pandemic in terms of the engagement process.  In response to resident feedback, an Independent Tenant & Leaseholder Advisor had been appointed to support the ongoing and extended engagement process.  Cabinet noted the concerns which had already been raised in relation to the potential scale of the development along with costs to leaseholders on which it was noted a range of support options were being considered.  An assurance was also provided at the meeting that whilst changes may need to be made to the design options as a result of the consultation, no final decision would be made on these until the extended consultation process had been completed.

Cabinet were supportive of the aims and objectives which the proposals had been designed to address along with the co-ordinated approach being developed in terms of the planning requirements and as a result it was RESOLVED:

(1)        To note the importance of the refurbishment works for the tower block and low rise maisonettes, and endorse the timeline and intention to establish a portfolio of options to support leaseholders with the payment of the recharge for the refurbishment works.

(2)        To note the increased engagement that was planned, primarily but not exclusively with residents of Kilburn Square for the proposed development, and endorse the project team recommending changes to the designs following the outcome of engagement.

(3)        To delegate authority for the Strategic Director Community Wellbeing in consultation with the Lead Member for Housing and Welfare Reform to consult with those affected by the appropriation of Kilburn Square Site, the Clinic Site or the Brondesbury Road Site, (the Sites) and to consider the results from the equality monitoring highlighted in 6.2 of the report to ensure compliance with the Public Sector Equality Duty as well as the responses of the consultation and thereafter, and where relevant, to appropriate the Sites for planning purposes in  ...  view the full minutes text for item 8.

The report provides an update on the proposed housing development projects at Watling Gardens and Windmill Court.

Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)     To authorise the Strategic Director Community Wellbeing to seek the approval of the Secretary of State to redevelop the sites under Ground 10A of Schedule 2 of the Housing Act 1985 to obtain vacant possession of properties at Watling Gardens and Windmill Court separately in order to redevelop and or demolish each of the Sites.

(2)     To delegate authority for the Strategic Director Community Wellbeing to make an application to seek the Secretary of State’s consent under section 19 of the Housing Act 1985 to appropriate any part of Watling Gardens, Windmill Court or Kilburn Square including any part consisting of a house or part of a house so that parts of these sites were no longer held for the purposes of Part ll of the Housing Act 1985.

(3)     To delegate authority to the Strategic Director Community Wellbeing in consultation with the Lead Member for Housing & Welfare Reform to consider the impact of the Public Sector Equality implications and to ensure compliance with such duty and thereafter to consult with those affected by the appropriation of Watling Gardens and Windmill Court and to consider the responses of the consultation and thereafter and where appropriate to appropriate each of the sites separately for planning purposes in order to facilitate the redevelopment of the site for which planning permission was being sought.

(4)     To note the offers made to secure tenants and leaseholders within Appendix 1 and 2 of the report which aimed to maximise choice and secure a better match with individual circumstances, by offering shared ownership and shared equity options and reversion to tenancy for vulnerable leaseholders.

(5)     To authorise the purchase of leasehold interests required for the schemes by private treaty and delegate authority to Strategic Director Regeneration & Environment, in consultation with the Lead Member for Regeneration, Property and Planning to agree the terms of each purchase and enter into Contracts and to agree the payment of compensation in accordance with the Circular mentioned in section 6 of the report.

(6)     To delegate authority to the Strategic Director Community Wellbeing to take all necessary steps to commence the process for the making, confirmation and implementation of a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) for Watling Gardens or Windmill Court separately, including securing the appointment of suitable external advisors for each of the Sites and preparing all necessary CPO documentation under delegated authority.  The key steps to make a CPO are set out in section 6 of the report and prior to doing this there will be a need to consider and have due regard to the impact of the Council’s Public Sector Equality Duty

(7)     To agree that the use of CPO powers is exercised after balancing the rights of individual property owners with the requirement to obtain vacant possession of properties at Watling Gardens and Windmill Court.

(8)     To authorise serving of the initial demolition notices to suspend the secure tenants’ right to buy at Watling Gardens and Windmill Court and to serve the final demotion  ...  view the full decision text for item 9.

Councillor Southwood (Lead Member for Housing & Welfare Reform) introduced the report providing an update on the proposed housing development projects at Watling Gardens and Windmill Court which members were advised formed part of the Council’s affordable housing programme.

Cabinet noted that the report contained a number of legal recommendations which were required in order to facilitate the development process in relation to potential Compulsory Purchase Orders (CPOs) and appropriation of Council owned land.  Whilst the recommendations would enable CPOs to be pursued, should it be necessary, an assurance was provided that the primary objective remained to negotiate a positive offer with affected leaseholders and CPOs only being considered as a last resort.

In considering the report, Cabinet were also advised of concerns raised with the Lead Member by residents of Windmill Court around specific planning and other issues relating to land rights on which a detailed response would be provided as part of the ongoing consultation and engagement process. It was also noted that any final decision would also subject to the necessary planning permission being obtained.

Having noted the report and objectives in relation to the proposed development schemes, Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)     To authorise the Strategic Director Community Wellbeing to seek the approval of the Secretary of State to redevelop the sites under Ground 10A of Schedule 2 of the Housing Act 1985 to obtain vacant possession of properties at Watling Gardens and Windmill Court separately in order to redevelop and or demolish each of the sites.

(2)     To delegate authority for the Strategic Director Community Wellbeing to make an application to seek the Secretary of State’s consent under section 19 of the Housing Act 1985 to appropriate any part of Watling Gardens, Windmill Court or Kilburn Square including any part consisting of a house or part of a house so that parts of these sites were no longer held for the purposes of Part ll of the Housing Act 1985.

(3)     To delegate authority to the Strategic Director Community Wellbeing in consultation with the Lead Member for Housing & Welfare Reform to consider the impact of the Public Sector Equality implications and to ensure compliance with such duty and thereafter to consult with those affected by the appropriation of Watling Gardens and Windmill Court and to consider the responses of the consultation and thereafter and where appropriate to appropriate each of the sites separately for planning purposes in order to facilitate the redevelopment of the site for which planning permission was being sought.

(4)     To note the offers made to secure tenants and leaseholders within Appendix 1 and 2 of the report which aimed to maximise choice and secure a better match with individual circumstances, by offering shared ownership and shared equity options and reversion to tenancy for vulnerable leaseholders.

(5)     To authorise the purchase of leasehold interests required for the schemes by private treaty and delegate authority to Strategic Director Regeneration & Environment, in consultation with the Lead Member for Regeneration, Property and Planning to agree the terms  ...  view the full minutes text for item 9.

This report presents a new Rechargeable Repairs Policy for consideration and approval.

Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)      To note the content of the report including the results of the resident consultation exercise and the Equality Impact Assessment

(2)      To approve the Housing Rechargeable Repairs Policy for implementation.

Councillor Southwood (Lead Member for Housing & Welfare Reform) introduced the report which set out a new Rechargeable Repairs Policy for review and adoption.

Cabinet noted that the Council currently had no policy in place which enabled former and current tenants and leaseholders to be recharged for responsive repair, void or maintenance costs which resulted directly from their intentional damage and actions or negligence.  Members were assured that the primary objective of the policy was to discourage wilful neglect and or abuse of council property, with the policy designed to act as a preventative rather than punitive measure to assist in changing behaviours and hold to account the small minority of individuals not taking responsibility for the upkeep of their property.

In considering the policy. Members noted the safeguards established for vulnerable residents with diagnosed or suspected mental health or other support issues along with the appeals process which had been included as part of the Council’s responsibilities as a good social landlord.

Cabinet expressed their support for the policy, recognising it as a fair approach with clear expectations being placed on tenants and leaseholders as part of the Council’s role as a social landlord and contribution it would also make towards supporting the effective maintenance of the Council’s housing stock.

As a result Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)      To note the content of the report including the results of the resident consultation exercise and the Equality Impact Assessment

(2)      To approve the Housing Rechargeable Repairs Policy for implementation.

This report provides an update on recent changes to the planning system, implications and options open to the Council in relation to new permitted development (PD) rights.

Please note this report has been republished on 16/07/21 to include an addendum

Having noted the addendum to the report, Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)      To note the changes to the planning system and the options for Article 4 Directions available.

(2)      To approve the making of Article 4 Directions removing the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 (as amended) permitted development rights for:

A)        Class MA commercial, business and service uses to dwelling houses and Class ZA demolition of buildings and construction of new dwellings in their place for all Strategic Industrial Locations and Locally Significant Industrial Sites designations within the draft Brent Local Plan as set out in Appendix 2 of the report;

B)        Class MA commercial, business and service uses to dwellinghouses and Class ZA demolition of buildings and construction of new dwellinghouses in their place for all draft Local Plan site allocations as set out in Appendix 3.

C)       (as amended within the addendum) Class M certain uses to dwelling houses and Class MA commercial, business and service uses to dwelling houses at ground floor level for all designated town centres and Class MA for use class E(g)(i) offices on non-ground floors as identified in the draft Brent Local Plan as set out in Appendix 4 of the report.

D)       Class MA for office, research and development and light industrial (Use Class E (g)) in the remainder of the borough outside areas covered by a), b) and c) recommended above as set out in Appendix 5 of the report.

(3)      To approve the delegation of consideration of representations received and the decision on whether to confirm the Article 4 directions to the Strategic Director of Regeneration and Environment in association with the Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Property and Planning.

Councillor Tatler (Lead Member for Regeneration, Property & Planning) introduced the report which provided an update on recent changes to the planning system along with the implications and options available to the Council, as a result, to restrict new permitted development rights.

In addition to the Cabinet report, members also noted the addendum which had been circulated in advance of the meeting outlining a number of further material changes in circumstances related to the original recommendations on the Article 4 Directions.  This had resulted in a revised recommendation 2.2(c) being presented for consideration.  Cabinet were advised that the most significant changes, as detailed within section 3 of the report, had related to the Use Classes Order (enabling activities to change to other uses within the same class) and to permitted development rights (allowing certain development without the express consent of the planning authority).  Whilst not preventing development opportunities, Cabinet noted how the proposals would continue to protect against the loss of employment floor space, prevent inappropriate incursion of residential within designated industrial locations, protect the vitality and viability of town centres (including frontages and loss of retail units) and prevent the undermining of industrial or commercial use site specific allocations.

Having noted the addendum to the report, Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)      To note the changes to the planning system and the options for Article 4 Directions available.

(2)      To approve the making of Article 4 Directions removing the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 (as amended) permitted development rights for:

A)        Class MA commercial, business and service uses to dwelling houses and Class ZA demolition of buildings and construction of new dwellings in their place for all Strategic Industrial Locations and Locally Significant Industrial Sites designations within the draft Brent Local Plan as set out in Appendix 2 of the report;

B)        Class MA commercial, business and service uses to dwellinghouses and Class ZA demolition of buildings and construction of new dwellinghouses in their place for all draft Local Plan site allocations as set out in Appendix 3.

C)       (as amended within the addendum) Class M certain uses to dwelling houses and Class MA commercial, business and service uses to dwelling houses at ground floor level for all designated town centres and Class MA for use class E(g)(i) offices on non-ground floors as identified in the draft Brent Local Plan as set out in Appendix 4 of the report.

D)       Class MA for office, research and development and light industrial (Use Class E (g)) in the remainder of the borough outside areas covered by a), b) and c) recommended above as set out in Appendix 5 of the report.

(3)      To approve the delegation of consideration of representations received and the decision on whether to confirm the Article 4 directions to the Strategic Director of Regeneration and Environment in association with the Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Property and Planning.

This report provides Cabinet with a summary of the proposal to amend the special school designation of Phoenix Arch School from a designation of Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) to ASD only, and the proposal to increase the Published Admission Number (PAN) within the school from 55 to a maximum of 68.

Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)      To approve the proposal to amend the designation of Phoenix Arch Special School from a designation of Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) to ASD only.

(2)     To approve the proposal to increase the Published Admission Number (PAN) within the school from 55 to a maximum of 68, subject to the school gaining planning permission for an expansion of the existing school building.

Councillor Stephens (Lead Member for Education, Skills and Employment) introduced a report outlining a proposal to amend the special school designation of Phoenix Arch School from a designation of Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) to ASD school only and to increase the Published Admission Number (PAN) within the school from 55 to a maximum of 68.

Cabinet noted the increasing demand for Special Education Need provision for children with ASD within the borough, identified within the School Place Planning Strategy 2019-2023, which the proposal had been designed to assist in addressing along with the outcome of the informal and formal consultation process on the proposals, as detailed within section 4 of the report.

Cabinet were supportive of the proposals outlined having noted the benefit they would have in terms of increasing in-borough provision for children currently being educated out of borough with an Education, Health and Care Plan at primary level and also given that the last cohort of SEMH pupils had left the school in 2016 with subsequent development of the site to provide specialist provision for children with ASD.

Cabinet therefore RESOLVED:

(1)      To approve the proposal to amend the designation of Phoenix Arch Special School from a designation of Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) to ASD only.

(2)     To approve the proposal to increase the Published Admission Number (PAN) within the school from 55 to a maximum of 68, subject to the school gaining planning permission for an expansion of the existing school building.

This report seeks Cabinet approval to the allocation of Neighbourhood CIL (NCIL) funds for  community projects over 100K from round two of the 2020/21 NCIL programme.

Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)      To approve the NCIL allocation of:

·                £194,988 for Jason Roberts Foundation - Connect Brent Project: to undertake much needed upgrading works at The Pavilion, the community centre where the charity was based. The project would make the centre an all-weather facility that could be used by residents and community groups all year-round, by erecting a steel canopy over the multi-games area and 5-a-side pitch.

·                £100,000 for Brent Music Service in partnership with local Harlesden schools and community groups – Brent Music Service Harlesden Music Centre Project: Providing local, easily accessible venues to address the barriers preventing CYP participation in out-of-school music activity. Weekly centres would be available for children in Harlesden schools and would become progressively more visible in the community as the project progressed.

·                £124,700 for Queen's Park Area Residents' Association (QPARA) in partnership with Brent Council – Keslake Pocket Park Improvements Project: The project would remodel Keslake Pocket Park to make it safer and design out anti-social behaviour, crime, loitering and littering by providing a layout and street components that created a well-lit, safe, and open space. There would be increased visibility both into and across the space and the new design would provide a pleasing visual amenity, as well as a small square area for the local community.

·                £100,000 for Alperton residents in partnership with Brent Council - Creating an Open Space for the Whole Community Project: The proposal by the residents was to enhance the quality of Alperton Sports Ground and address concerns raised by residents around the lack of outdoor and play facilities, anti-social behaviour, security and safety concerns as a result of development.

(2)     To note and endorse the NCIL applications less than £100,000 approved by the Panel as summarised in section 8.3 of the report.

(3)     To note that following approval of these projects, the final stage would involve the Grants Manager undertaking further scrutiny in order to ensure a deliverable measurable outcome analysis was completed in conjunction with the delivery agency. This would form part of a signed legally binding funding agreement that was regularly monitored. If the outcomes are not in line with Brent Council priorities and not agreed, the funding offer may be withdrawn.

Councillor Tatler (Lead Member for Regeneration, Property & Planning) introduced the report seeking approval for the allocation of Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) for community projects over £100k from Round Two of the 2020/21 NCIL programme.

Cabinet noted that applications submitted under the most recent bidding round had been focused around the theme of “Recovery”, with bids aimed at tackling poverty, inequality and the climate emergency.  In total 70 applications had been received with four of the schemes shortlisted involving bids above £100,000 that required approval by Cabinet. In concluding her introduction, Councillor Tatler thanked the team involved in administering the NCIL scheme, which it was noted had allocated over £14million in funding to date to a total of 229 community infrastructure projects.

In supporting the bids identified, Cabinet noted their alignment with the wider priorities of the Council and as a key driver of positive change within the context of the Borough Plan.  Specific support was expressed for the bids submitted in relation to Brent Music Service and also for those in support of Looked After Children and care leavers, improved air quality, parks and open spaces and from the Queens Park Area Residents Association and Jason Roberts Foundation.  Members further commended the diverse nature and range of organisations receiving support through the NCIL programme and work undertaken within local communities to promote the benefits and potential use of NCIL in supporting wider community projects.

Cabinet recorded their thanks to the Lead Member and NCIL team for their efforts in promoting and administrating the programme.  Councillor M.Butt felt this also highlighted the wider benefits of the regeneration and renewal work being undertaken across the borough along with the efforts being made to provide the best outcomes for everyone living in the borough.

As a result of the support expressed, Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)      To approve the NCIL allocation of:

·                £194,988 for Jason Roberts Foundation - Connect Brent Project: to undertake much needed upgrading works at The Pavilion, the community centre where the charity was based. The project would make the centre an all-weather facility that could be used by residents and community groups all year-round, by erecting a steel canopy over the multi-games area and 5-a-side pitch.

·                £100,000 for Brent Music Service in partnership with local Harlesden schools and community groups – Brent Music Service Harlesden Music Centre Project: Providing local, easily accessible venues to address the barriers preventing CYP participation in out-of-school music activity. Weekly centres would be available for children in Harlesden schools and would become progressively more visible in the community as the project progressed.

·                £124,700 for Queen's Park Area Residents' Association (QPARA) in partnership with Brent Council – Keslake Pocket Park Improvements Project: The project would remodel Keslake Pocket Park to make it safer and design out anti-social behaviour, crime, loitering and littering by providing a layout and street components that created a well-lit, safe, and open space. There would be increased visibility both into and across the space and the new design would provide a  ...  view the full minutes text for item 13.

This report sets out the outturn for income and expenditure versus the revenue budget for 2020/21 and other key financial data.

Cabinet REOLVED to note the overall financial outturn position for 2020/21.

Councillor McLennan (Deputy Leader and Lead Member for Resources) introduced the report which detailed the outturn for income and expenditure against the Council’s revenue budget for 2020/21 and other key financial data.  Cabinet were informed that whilst the outturn in relation to the General Fund and Housing Revenue Account (HRA) was in line with the forecast position and reflected a breakeven position for the year there remained a deficit (£5.6m) in relation to Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG).  As required by the Department for Education, the Council had developed a management plan which contained a number of options and strategies as part of a DSG recovery plan which it was noted would continue to be monitored on a termly basis.

Cabinet noted the challenging budgetary impact created as a result of the additional costs and loss of income due to the Covid-19 pandemic, which had been detailed within the report, along with the mitigating action taken to offset the pressures identified.

In summing up Councillor M.Butt thanked the Deputy Leader and finance team for their efforts during such a challenging year and it was RESOLVED that Cabinet note the overall financial outturn position for 2020/21.

This report sets out the current forecast of income and expenditure versus the revenue budget for 2021/22 and other key financial data.

Cabinet RESOLVED to note the overall financial position and the actions being taken to manage the issues arising as detailed within the report.

Councillor McLennan (Deputy Leader and Lead Member for Resources) introduced the report, which detailed the current forecast of income and expenditure against the revenue budget for 2021/22 and other key financial data.

Cabinet noted the current pressures being forecast for the year, which totalled £3.7m.  Of these £3.5m related to the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) and the remaining £0.2m to the Housing Revenue Account (HRA).  In addition a number of risks and uncertainties had been identified across each service and budget area as a result of uncertainty about the future course of the Covid-19 pandemic along with the governments and general economic response.  Whilst the 2021/22 budget had been set to accommodate assumptions relating to the impact of these additional risks and pressures and the forecast position currently matched the assumptions made, it was noted that these would need to be kept under review and if necessary reassessed later in the year.

As highlighted during consideration of the previous item, Members noted the options being considered in order to manage and mitigate the position in relation to the DSG deficit along with the need identified for a longer term rather than one year local government financial settlement from Central Government.

Having noted the ongoing challenges identified and Council’s response in order to continue delivering against the aims and priorities identified it was RESOLVED that Cabinet note the overall financial position and the actions being taken to manage the issues arising as outlined at the meeting and detailed within the report.

This report sets out the overall financial position facing the Council and highlights the significant risks, issues and uncertainties with regards to the Council’s Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS). It also sets out the proposed budget setting strategy for 2022/23.

Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)     To note the contents of the report and the potential financial impact on the Council’s Medium Term Financial Strategy.

(2)     To agree the budget setting process for 2022/23, including the approach to consultation and scrutiny, as set out in section five of the report.

(3)     To note and agree the proposed 2020/21 capital budget carry forwards and capital virements, as set out in section six of the report.

(4)     To note the financial position with regards to the Housing Revenue Account, as set out in section seven of the report.

(5)     To note the financial position with regards to Schools and the Dedicated Schools Grant, as set out in section eight of the report.

Councillor McLennan (Deputy Leader and Lead Member for Resources) introduced the report which set out the overall financial position facing the Council along with the significant risks, issues and uncertainties identified in relation to the Council’s Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS).  The report also set out the proposed budget setting and consultation strategy for 2022/23.

Cabinet noted that the risks and uncertainties identified included those not only related to Covid-19 but also those which had existed prior to the pandemic along with new and emerging risks.  Issues identified included the lack of funding certainty over the medium term given the impact of the Governments current spending and fair funding review and when this was likely to be finalised, the position in relation to the review and future administration of Business Rates and management of ongoing growth and demand led pressures.

Despite the difficulties and ongoing financial challenges identified in relation to managing the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and within which the Council was operating beforehand, Cabinet also noted how the MTFS aimed to provide a framework for delivery of the Council’s broader ambitions and longer term priorities.  These included those identified within the Borough Plan, the recovery programme from Covid-19 and other future steps to ensure the Council continued to operate in a financially sustainable and resilient way.

Having noted the overall summary and conclusions identified within section 9 of the report and direction of travel moving forward in order to mitigate the challenges and risks identified Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)     To note the contents of the report and the potential financial impact on the Council’s Medium Term Financial Strategy.

(2)     To agree the budget setting process for 2022/23, including the approach to consultation and scrutiny, as set out in section 5 of the report.

(3)     To note and agree the proposed 2020/21 capital budget carry forwards and capital virements, as set out in section 6 of the report.

(4)     To note the financial position with regards to the Housing Revenue Account, as set out in section 7 of the report.

(5)     To note the financial position with regards to Schools and the Dedicated Schools Grant, as set out in section 8 of the report.

This report provides Cabinet with a corporate overview of performance information linked to the Borough Plan priorities for the fourth quarter of 2020/21.

Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)      To note the performance information contained in the report.

(2)     To note the current and future strategic risks associated with the information provided and agree the remedial actions on strategic risks identified as appropriate alongside the challenge on progress being provided with responsible officers as necessary.

Councillor McLennan (Deputy Leader and Lead Member for Resources) introduced the report proving a corporate overview of performance information linked to the Borough Plan priorities for the fourth quarter 2020/21 (January – March 2021).

In presenting the report, Councillor McLennan highlighted the ongoing impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on all services across the organisation as the Council had continued to focus on the response and subsequent recovery programme and effect this had had on a number performance indicators across priority areas.  As a result Cabinet noted the introduction of a new purple KPI rating during the quarter which had been used to rate KPIs that were outside of target as a direct result of performance directly attributable to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Of the 45 Year 2 Delivery Plan indicators, Cabinet were advised that six KPIs were off target and rated red with a further two measures rated as purple.  One KPI was rated amber and 24 on or above target with the other indicators being for contextual use only.  Of the 51 wider Borough Plan indicators, six had been rated as red and a further 16 purple.  Three had been rated as amber with 20 on or above target with the other indicators being for contextual use.  Cabinet noted the focus of Lead Members, working jointly with their relevant Strategic Directors, in seeking to mitigate and address performance in these areas as the Council moved forward towards recovery from the pandemic.

Having recognised the ongoing challenges in responding and seeking to recover from the Covid-19 pandemic, Councillor M.Butt felt it was also important to highlight the Council’s continued efforts to manage and mitigate against the strategic risks identified as part of the overall wider approach towards supporting local residents.

Having considered the update provided, it was RESOLVED that Cabinet:

(1)        Note the performance information contained in the report.

(2)        Note the challenge process along with current and future strategic risks associated with the information provided and approve remedial actions being undertaken on the strategic risks identified, as appropriate.

No items have been identified in advance of the meeting that will require the exclusion of the press or public.

There were no items that required the exclusion of the press or public.

There were no items that required the exclusion of the press or public.

Notice of items to be raised under this heading must be given in writing to the Head of Executive and Member Services or his representative before the meeting in accordance with Standing Order 60.

None.

None.