Agenda, decisions and minutes

Apologies for absence were received from Councillor Krupa Sheth (Cabinet Member for Public Realm & Enforcement) along with Minesh Patel (Corporate Director Finance & Resources) with Rav Jassar (Deputy Director Finance) attending as his representative.

Apologies for absence were received from Councillor Krupa Sheth (Cabinet Member for Public Realm & Enforcement) along with Minesh Patel (Corporate Director Finance & Resources) with Ravinder Jassar (Deputy Director Finance) attending as his representative.

No other apologies for absence were received at the meeting.

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 during the meeting.

No declarations of interest were made during the meeting.

To approve the minutes of the previous meeting held on Monday 10 February 2025 as a correct record.

(Agenda republished to include the attached minutes on 7 March 2025)

Cabinet RESOLVED that the minutes of the previous meeting held on Monday 10 February 2025 be approved as a correct record of the meeting.

Cabinet RESOLVED that the minutes of the previous meeting held on Monday 10 February 2025 be approved as a correct record of the meeting.

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

None identified.

None identified.

To consider any petitions for which notice has been received, in accordance with Standing Order 66.

Members are asked to note that the following petition is due to be presented at the meeting:

(a)        Action to clean up and address anti-social behaviour in the service road located to the rear of Kingsbury Road (between Valley Drive & Fryent Way).

Cabinet NOTED the comments made by Mr John Bunn (as a local resident and representative of the Valley Drive Residents Association) in support of a petition containing 249 signatures seeking Council support for action to clean up and address issues of anti-social behaviour in the service road between Valley Drive and Fryent Way, to the rear of Kingsbury Road.

In thanking the Leader of the Council for the opportunity to present the petition, Mr Bunn acknowledged the efforts being made by the Council, highlighting that residents did not underestimate the current challenges faced by the Council.  Whilst recognising the need to balance priorities, he advised that the petitioners were keen to ensure that the less publicised, smaller, more hidden and complex issues that impacted on and blighted the daily lives of residents did not get missed, particular those impacting on harder to reach communities.  As one such example, Mr Bunn advised that the petition was seeking to highlight a number of concerns relating to the neglect of the service roads to the rear of Kingsbury Road, which he pointed out had been the subject of persistent complaints by residents and businesses.  Although acknowledging the complexity relating to ownership and management responsibility for the land, the lack of clarity was felt to have created frustration and uncertainty amongst residents and directly contributed to the deteriorating environment in the areas affected.

As a result, the petitioners had raised specific concerns in relation to a number of issues.  These included waste and fly tipping in the road which was felt to be unhealthy and hazardous to the nearby shops and buildings, increasing the risk of unwanted pests and vermin.  In addition, the uncontrolled management of the waste containers and where they were placed had also been highlighted given concerns relating to access for emergency vehicles and in relation to fire escape routes for residents living in flats above the retail premises.  This lack of clarity had also led to waste not being collected with clear signage required to ensure emergency escape routes were not obstructed and where parking and waste containers were permitted and should be located.  In addition, he highlighted a lack of knowledge and also compliance relating to the deposit and storage of household waste.

Other concerns raised included the overflow from building downpipes, which were leaking dirty water from height and stagnating in pools on the roadway or in potholes creating an unhealthy and hazardous environment.  This was compounded by the irregular cleaning by private landlords and the Council, of the road surfaces and drainage channels they were responsible for maintaining, causing the build-up of dirt, blockage of drainage channels and obscuring of road markings, including yellow lines making enforcement difficult.  In addition, concerns were highlighted relating to the lack of signage on the service road to indicate who was responsible for managing which area, along with the lack of clear boundary markers and adequate street lighting creating health and safety risks  ...  view the full decision text for item 5.

5.1     Action to clean up and tackle anti-social behaviour in the service road to the rear of Kingsbury Road

Councillor Muhammed Butt (as Leader of the Council) welcomed Mr John Bunn (as a local resident and representative of the Valley Drive Residents Association) to the meeting, who had been invited to speak in support of a petition containing 249 signatures seeking Council support for action to clean up and address issues of anti-social behaviour in the service road between Valley Drive and Fryent Way, to the rear of Kingsbury Road.  In thanking the Leader of the Council for the opportunity to present the petition, Mr Bunn acknowledged the efforts being made by the Council to address local issues, highlighting that residents did not underestimate the current challenges faced.  Whilst recognising the need to balance the larger scale priorities, he advised that the petitioners were keen to ensure that the less publicised, smaller, more hidden and complex issues that impacted on and blighted the daily lives of residents did not get missed, particular those impacting on harder to reach communities.  As one such example, Mr Bunn advised the petition was seeking to highlight a number of concerns relating to the neglect of the service roads to the rear of Kingsbury Road, which he pointed out had been the subject of persistent complaints by residents and businesses.  Although acknowledging the complexity relating to ownership and management responsibility for the land, the lack of clarity was felt to have created frustration and uncertainty amongst residents and directly contributed to the deteriorating environment in the areas affected.

As a result, the petitioners were seeking to highlight specific concerns in relation to a number of issues.  These included waste and fly tipping in the service roads which were felt to be unhealthy and hazardous to nearby shops and residential buildings.  In addition, the uncontrolled management of the waste containers and where they were placed had also been highlighted given concerns relating to access for emergency vehicles and in relation to fire escape routes for residents living in flats above the retail premises.  This lack of clarity had also led to waste not being collected with clear signage required to ensure emergency escape routes were not obstructed and where parking and waste containers were permitted and should be located.  In addition, he highlighted a lack of knowledge and also compliance relating to the deposit and storage of household waste.

Other concerns raised included the overflow from building downpipes, which were leaking dirty water from height and stagnating in pools on the roadway or in potholes creating an unhealthy and hazardous environment.  This was compounded by the irregular cleaning, by private landlords and the Council, of the road surfaces and drainage channels they were responsible for maintaining, causing the build-up of dirt, blockage of drainage channels and obscuring of road markings, including yellow lines making enforcement difficult.  In addition, concerns were highlighted relating to the lack of signage in the service roads to indicate who was responsible  ...  view the full minutes text for item 5.

To consider any reports referred by either the Community & Wellbeing or Resources & Public Realm Scrutiny Committees.

There were no items referred from either the Community Wellbeing or Resources & Public Realm Scrutiny Committees.

There were no items referred from either the Community Wellbeing or Resources & Public Realm Scrutiny Committees.

This report provides Cabinet with a final draft of the i4B Holdings Ltd (i4B) 2025/26 Business Plan and revised Service Level Agreement with the Council.

Cabinet is asked to approve the Business Plan and Service Level Agreement on behalf of the Council as Shareholder of i4B Holdings.

Cabinet noted the introductory comments made by Andrew Hudson (as Chair of the i4B and First Wave Housing (FWH) Ltd Boards) in presenting the i4B and FWH Business Plans and strategic priorities for both companies.

In focussing on key areas of activity moving forward he highlighted the work being undertaken to improve voids performance (including minor voids) as well as to monitor and improve results relating to tenant satisfaction measures to achieve sustainable levels of performance including implementation of a supporting Improvement Plan to deliver changes designed to enhance tenant experience.

In terms of strategic challenges, he advised members that they key focus remained in seeking to maximise the Boards contribution to the Council’s wider priorities, with a specific focus in supporting the work being undertaken to tackle the demand for housing and increasing levels of homelessness.  In noting the success of the acquisitions programme during 2024-25 the Board had continued to identify workstreams over the coming year aiming to increase i4Bs level of stock although, given the more challenging nature of market conditions, members were advised this was likely to involve a range of wider options and overall reduction in the level of acquisitions acheived.  Details were also provided in relation to the work being taken to address asset management and energy efficiency as well as wider support to tenants, including in being able to live more independently.

In recognising the challenges outlined alongside current performance and welcoming the approach adopted in relation to the strategic priorities identified by i4B, Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)      To approve the 2025-26 i4B Holdings Ltd Business Plan and financial model as Shareholder of the Company.

(2)      To approvethe 2025-26 Service Level Agreement between i4B Holdings Ltd and the Council.

Eligible for call-in: Yes

Deadline for submission of call-in: 6pm on Monday 17 March 25

Councillor Donnelly-Jackson (as Cabinet Member for Housing & Resident Services) introduced a report detailing the final draft of the i4B Holdings Ltd 2025-26 Business Plan and revised Service Level Agreement for consideration and approval on behalf the Council Shareholder.

In presenting the report, Councillor Donnelly-Jackson advised that the Business Plan had been designed to set out i4Bs key priorities and strategy for the 2025-26 financial year in support of its key objectives and the Council’s wider commitment towards tackling the housing crisis, reducing homelessness and ensuing that all residents in Brent had access to safe, secure and affordable housing.  Highlighting the significant nature of challenges faced in relation to the affordability and availability of accommodation within the private rented sector, ability of the Local Housing Allowance to keep pace with rental levels and associated level of demand and cost in providing Temporary Accommodation (currently being provided for over 3,000 families in Brent) the creation and operation of i4B Holdings Ltd was identified as a fundamental element of Brent’s overall Housing Strategy.  As a wholly owned subsidiary, members were advised of the advantage provided through i4B in enabling the Council to directly intervene in the housing market by securing stable, high quality rented accommodation at below market rates with the company, since its establishment in 2016, having acquired 469 private rented sector homes providing stable and secure accommodation and diverting families away from the need to rely on the offer of more expensive and unsuitable temporary accommodation.

In recognising the positive and tangible achievements delivered by i4B over the last year members were advised of the four key objectives outlined within the Business Plan for the year ahead, which had been identified as:

·             The provision of a consistently good housing service – recognising the need to improve tenant satisfaction, with i4B committed to the delivery of better engagement, monitoring and provision of financial support for tenants to ensure they could afford and sustain their tenancies.

·             The delivery of safe and sustainable homes – with i4B working towards improving the energy ratings of all of their properties by 2030 in order to enhance energy efficiency and reduce household bills.

·             Running a viable business – with i4B continuing to operate on a strong financial footing and a focus over the coming year in achieving a further reduction in void times, improving rent collection and obtaining best value from service level agreements.

·             Increasing the supply of affordable housing – recognising the growing level of housing need in Brent with i4B continuing to work with the council to identify and appraise new acquisitions and ensure that the funding invested achieved maximum impact in easing housing pressures.

In recognising the extent of the current housing emergency and what was felt to be the failure of the previous Government to address the issues identified, the approach outlined within Brent’s Housing Strategy supported through the i4B Business Plan was therefore commended as a means of delivering real solutions that would ensure residents continued to have access to decent, affordable  ...  view the full minutes text for item 7.

This report provides Cabinet with a final draft of the First Wave Housing Ltd (FWH) 2025/26 Business Plan and revised Service Level Agreement with the Council.

Cabinet is asked to approve the Business Plan and Service Level Agreement on behalf of the Council as Guarantor of First Wave Housing

Having noted the introductory comments made by Andrew Hudson (as Chair of the i4B and First Wave Housing (FWH) Ltd Boards) under the previous item, Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)      To approve the 2025-26 First Wave Housing Ltd Business Plan and financial model as Guarantor of the Company.

(2)      To approvethe 2025-26 Service Level Agreement between First Wave Housing Ltd and the Council.

Eligible for call-in: Yes

Deadline for submission of call-in: 6pm on Monday 17 March 25

Councillor Donnelly Jackson (once again as Cabinet Member for Housing & Resident Services) then moved on to introduce the report, providing Cabinet with the final draft of the First Wave Housing Ltd (FWH) 2025-26 Business Plan along with details of the revised Service Level Agreement with the Council for consideration and approval on behalf of the Guarantor.

In presenting the report, Cabinet once again noted and welcomed the work being undertaken through the company to support the Council’s strategic objectives in relation to the supply of safe, secure and sustainable affordable housing and in seeking to tackle the housing crisis through the investment in new housing which formed a key element of the Business Plan.  Highlighting FWH Ltd as one of the mechanisms supporting the delivery of genuinely affordable, well built and secure homes across the borough, members were advised that the company Business Plan had been developed to reinforce the Council’s commitment towards expanding the supply of affordable homes, exploring the opportunities to utilise new funding models for the building and acquisition of new homes and in seeking to maximise the opportunity to bring more homes into use (including potential lease arrangements).  As part of this approach, the Plan was felt to clearly align with the Council’s wider aim to deliver 1,000 new council homes as part of Brent’s ambitious social housing programme as well explore all options to generate investment in new homes to address the urgent levels of demand identified.

As part of the operational performance and priorities identified within the Business Plan, members welcome the focus on voids and in seeking to reduce turnaround times enabling homes to be occupied more quickly.  In recognising the need to ensure all options were explored and utilised to support the delivery of more affordable and secure housing across Brent, the Business Plan was commended as a means of ensuring FWH remained financially viable as a vehicle to attract new investment and secure funding for future developments as part of the Council’s ongoing commitment to provide the necessary access to decent and affordable housing

Having noted the introductory comments made by Andrew Hudson (as Chair of the i4B and First Wave Housing (FWH) Ltd Boards) under the previous item including the focus of FWH Ltd (working with the Council) in seeking to maximise opportunities identified through its status as a Registered Provider in contributing towards the supply of affordable housing across the borough, Cabinet RESOLVED having also noted the current performance and strategic priorities outlined in relation to FWH, along with the exempt information contained within the appendices of the report:

(1)    To approve the 2025-26 First Wave Housing Ltd Business Plan and financial model as Guarantor of the Company.

(2)    To approvethe 2025-26 Service Level Agreement between First Wave Housing Ltd and the Council.

This report details a number of changes affecting both Council Tax and Business Rates, including the discretionary rate relief schemes relating to Retail, Hospitality and Leisure, Small Business, Private Schools and Film Studios alongside clarifying the Council’s approach to possible exemptions to the premiums charged for empty property and second homes (periodically occupied property) from 1 April 2025.

Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)        To approve the Council’s National Non-Domestic Rates (NNDR) Discretionary Scheme in relation to 2025/26 Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Relief as set out in Appendix 1 of the report and pursuant to the Council’s powers under section 47 of the Local Government Finance Act 1988 as amended.

(2)        To delegate authority to the Corporate Director, Partnerships, Housing and Residents Services (Corporate Director Housing and Residents Services from 1 April 2025) in consultation with the Corporate Director, Finance and Resources to implement the discretionary schemes as set out in Appendix 1 & 2 of the report.

(3)        To approve the revised local discretionary rate relief policy, that is brought into line with the removal of 80% relief from private schools, excepting SEND schools as set out in Appendix 3 of the report.

(4)        To approve the scheme for Film Studio Relief in accordance with the published government guidance as set out in Appendix 4 of the report

(5)        To note that from 1 April 2025 for Council Tax:

a.           That the council maintains an additional 100% charge for those domestic properties empty for longer than 1 year.

b.           That the council maintains the council tax premium of 200% in respect of domestic properties that have been empty for longer than 5 years.

c.           That the council maintains the council tax premium of 300% in respect of domestic properties that have been empty for longer than 10 years.

d.           A premium of 100% to domestic properties determined to be applicable Second Homes (periodically occupied) as agreed by Cabinet on 6 February 2024.

e.           Exemptions to these charges will be operated in accordance with government guidance.

Eligible for call-in: Yes

Deadline for submission of call-in: 6pm on Monday 17 March 2025

Councillor Donnelly-Jackson (as Cabinet Member for Housing & Resident Services) introduced a report from the Corporate Director Partnerships, Housing & Resident Services seeking approval to a number of changes affecting both Council Tax and Business Rates, including the discretionary rate relief schemes for Retail, Hospitality and Leisure, Small Business, Private Schools and Film Studios alongside clarification of the Council’s approach towards possible exemptions to the premiums charged for empty properties and second homes (periodically occupied property) from 1 April 2025.

In presenting the report, Cabinet were advised of the importance of the proposed changes in terms of not only supporting local communities and investing in public services but also in terms of the efforts being made to address inequality across the borough.  This included proposals to maintain and expand Council Tax premiums on empty and second homes, designed to incentivise and maximise use of all available properties to address pressure on the supply of affordable housing and support efforts to tackle demand in relation to housing need.  As part of this approach. Members were advised the proposals included a 100% Council Tax premium on properties left empty for more than one year, 200% premium on those empty for five years and 300% premium on properties empty for over ten years along with a 100% premium on second homes, which had also been designed to discourage property speculation pricing local families out of the local market and ensure properties were available for use as and when needed whilst also generating additional revenue for reinvestment into local services.

In addition, Cabinet noted the proposals also included key relief (funded by central government) to support local small businesses and priority sectors.  Members were advised that these proposals included the offer of a 40% discount on business rates under the Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Relief Scheme which, whilst it was recognised involved a reduction from the previous level, had been designed to continue recognising the need to support local traders and high streets supplemented by the Small Business Relief Scheme aimed at ensuring small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) also continued to receive necessary support.  As part of the wider package of relief measures the proposals also included a Film Studio Relief scheme providing a 40% discount for eligible studios, designed to support the borough’s creative industries and assist in attracting further investment.  Taken together the package of measures outlined were identified as essential in support of a strong local economy, maintaining jobs, and ensuring businesses could continue to grow and invest in the borough.

As a final issue attention was drawn to the proposed removal, following government legislation, of the 80% mandatory rate relief from private schools.  Highlighting education as a right not a privilege, support was expressed at the approach outlined, in an effort to address the current inequity in the tax position and ensure a fair deal for all, with members assured that support would be retained for those schools specialising in Special Education Needs provision for those children with Education, Health and Care  ...  view the full minutes text for item 9.

This report details proposals for a revised Council Tax: Discretionary Reduction Policy – (Section 13A(1)(c) Local Government Finance Act 1992) to ensure that it is aligned to the revised Council Tax Support Scheme (CTS) in place from 1 April 2025 as approved by Council on 27 February 25.  The report also outlines the allocation and the distribution of the Household Support Fund (HSF) extension, that is expected to run from 1 April 2025 to 31 October 2025.

Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)        To approve the proposed discretionary reduction Policy pursuant to section 13A(1)(c) of the Local Government Act 1992 as set out in Appendix 1 to this report following the changes to the Council’s CTS from 1 April 2025.

(2)        To note that the Council expects an allocation for the Household Support Fund (HSF) for the period 1 April 2025 to 31 October 2025, although this has yet to be formally confirmed.

(3)        To approve the proposed approach whereby the Corporate Director, Partnerships, Housing and Residents Services (Corporate Director Housing and Residents Services from 1 April 2025) in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Housing & Resident Support agrees the detailed eligibility criteria for the allocation of the Household Support Fund and undertakes any subsequent modification as necessary, as well as engaging third party organisations and establishing the criteria for the allocation of Household Support Fund funding by those organisations, once funding is confirmed and in accordance with government guidance.

Eligible for call-in: Yes

Deadline for submission of call-in: 6pm on Monday 17 March 2025

Councillor Donnelly-Jackson (as Cabinet Member for Housing & Resident Services) then moved on to introduce a report from the Corporate Director Partnerships, Housing & Resident Services detailing proposals for a revised Council Tax Discretionary Reduction Policy (Section 13A (1)(c) Local Government Finance Act 1972) to ensure alignment with the revised Council Tax Support Scheme due to come into effect on 1 April 2025.  The report also outlined the allocation and distribution of the Household Support Fund (HSF) extension which was expected to run from 1 April 2025 to 31 October 2025.

In presenting the report, Cabinet were advised of the targeted approach reflected within the Council Tax Discretionary Reduction Policy andHousehold Support & Resident Support Fund designed to provide what was recognised as a vital safety net for those struggling financially as a result of the cost-of-living crisis and ensure no one was left behind.  In highlighting the Policy’s alignment with the revised Council Tax Support Scheme, members were advised this would ensure those residents facing financial difficulties would retain access to discretionary support when they needed it most with the Council exercising its powers to provide relief for those who met specific hardship criteria including sudden job loss, domestic violence, or unforeseen financial crises as well as reinforcing the commitment to young people leaving care, guaranteeing that care leavers between 18 and 24 were supported as they transitioned to independent living.

In addition. Members noted that the policy would also incorporate extension of the Household Support Fund recognised as another a crucial mechanism to provide direct assistance for essential costs, including food, energy, and water bills.  Whilst recognising the challenging nature of the decisions which had needed to be made in relation to the support available through the Council Tax Support Scheme framework, it was felt the changes outlined in the report would continue to ensure those households currently experiencing financial hardship would continue to receive the necessary support, backed up by the £1.5m allocation to the Hardship Fund.  Recognising the pressures being faced by the Council it was felt the support outlined within the report reflected the efforts being made to ensure Brent remained a place where no one was left behind.

In welcoming the efforts being made to support local residents in need, including those transitioning from care, Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)        To approve the proposed discretionary reduction Policy pursuant to section 13A(1)(c) of the Local Government Act 1992 as set out in Appendix 1 to the report following the changes to the Council’s CTS from 1 April 2025.

(2)        To note that the Council expected an allocation for the Household Support Fund (HSF) for the period 1 April 2025 to 31 October 2025, although that had yet to be formally confirmed.

(3)        To approve the proposed approach whereby the Corporate Director, Partnerships, Housing and Residents Services (Corporate Director Housing and Residents Services from 1 April 2025) in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Housing & Resident Support agrees the detailed eligibility criteria for the allocation of the Household Support  ...  view the full minutes text for item 10.

The purpose of this report is to update on progress in developing and embedding the performance reporting and monitoring arrangements set out in the Brent Performance Management Framework. This includes the Corporate Balanced Scorecard, a series of Directorate-level Balanced Scorecards, the refresh of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to incorporate new, measurable KPIs that effectively reflect Brent’s story with defined targets, and initiating the service plan process for 2025-26.

Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)    To note the Borough Plan 2024-25 performance reporting for Q3 as set out in section 3 and Appendix A of 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.

Eligible for call-in: Yes

Deadline for submission of call-in: 6pm on Monday 17 March 25

Councillor Rubin (Cabinet Member for Climate Action & Community Power) introduced a report from the Corporate Director of Partnerships, Housing & Resident Services, which provided Cabinet with an overview of corporate performance in Quarter 3 2024-25.

In presenting the report, Cabinet noted that the performance monitoring update provided a detailed assessment against the full suite of Key Performance Indicators developed to monitor delivery of the desired outcomes and corporate priorities within the new Borough Plan 2023-2027 focussed around the delivery of prosperity, sustainability, and thriving communities across Brent.  In terms of a brief overview members attention was drawn to the 49 Borough Plan key indicators included with the performance scorecard of which 25 had been identified as green (on or above target), 2 as amber (just off target) and 9 as red (off target) with 13 included as contextual information.

In recognising the efforts outlined within the report to focus on performance in the delivery of key services and priorities, specific reference was made to the positive performance achieved over the latest monitoring period in relation to the processing of Education Care & Health Plans (ECHP) and new birth visits by the health visiting service commissioned through Public Health.  Highlighting the open and transparent nature of the report and opportunity provided to ensure work continued to be undertaken jointly by Cabinet Members with their relevant Corporate Directors in seeking to manage delivery of the highest standards of service, whilst also seeking to mitigate against the financial challenges and strategic risks identified as part of the overall approach towards supporting local residents and in support of the priorities within the Borough Plan, Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)    To note the Borough Plan 2024-25 performance reporting for Q3 as set out in section 3 and Appendix A of 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.

This report sets out the refreshed youth strategy and includes an update on the themes and outcomes of the previous strategy (2021-2023) along with an outline of the priorities and aims within the new strategy.

Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)        To note the contents of the report relating to the achievements of the previous youth strategy and the details and plans for the refreshed youth strategy.

(2)        To approve the refreshed Brent Youth Strategy 2025-2028.

Eligible for call-in: Yes

Deadline for submission of call-in: 6pm on Monday 17 March 2025

Councillor Gwen Grahl (as Cabinet Member for Children, Young People & Schools) presented a report from the Corporate Director Children and Young People which outlined the refreshed Youth Strategy and included an update on the theme and outcomes of the previous Strategy (2021 – 2023) along with details of the priorities and aims within the newly refreshed Strategy.

In presenting the refreshed Brent Youth Strategy for 2025 – 2028, the opportunity was taken to remind members of the commitment it had been designed to reflect in ensuring that every young person in Brent was able to thrive and flourish.  Members were advised of the way in which the Strategy had been specifically shaped and designed to include the voices of young people with all those who had contributed their time, creativity and vision to co-design the Strategy thanked for their engagement.  In noting the strong foundations laid within the previous Youth Strategy, specifically focussed around the challenges faced by young people in the local area highlighted by the Independent Brent Poverty Commission, the refreshed Strategy had sought to build on those achievements working in partnership with young people and a range of partners across Brent, including the voluntary and community sectors, in seeking to continue building and fostering close relationships to ensure the effective delivery of the strategy.

Whilst recognising the specific challenges faced by young people, including issues relating to mental health, financial pressures compounded by cuts in youth services under austerity, members were advised the priorities identified within the refreshed Strategy had been designed to reflect the issues identified as most important by young people structured around the following key themes – being heard and taking part; reaching goals and enjoying yourself; feeling good and staying safe with members commending young people for the resilience shown in addressing the challenges identified.

Alongside the development of Brent’s refreshed Youth Strategy, members were advised that the Government had also launched a consultation designed to provide young people across the country with the opportunity to have their say on decisions that affected their lives in what, it was highlighted, would be one of the most ambitious listening exercises in a generation.  In looking forward to continuing the work with key stakeholders, including the government, voluntary and community sector and young people, all those involved in developing the Strategy and supporting the provision of youth service provision across the borough were once again thanked for their dedication and efforts in seeking to turn the strategy into action.

In recognising the challenges identified by many young people across the borough Cabinet welcomed the clear approach and commitment outlined within the refreshed strategy to ensure Brent remained a safe, inclusive, collaborative and nurturing place for young people to flourish into adulthood.  In support of the efforts being made to build on the achievements under the previous Strategy it was therefore RESOLVED:

(1)        To note the contents of the report relating to the achievements of the previous youth strategy and the details and plans for  ...  view the full minutes text for item 12.

This report sets out recommendations for Brent’s 2024-26 Carriageway Maintenance programme through prioritised programmes of major road resurfacing and preventative maintenance, which includes injection patching; along with recommendations for Brent’s 2024-26 highway structures and drainage maintenance programmes.  The report also details the budgets for asset condition surveys and analysis, improvements to highway structures & drainage, improvements to the public realm and renewal of road markings.

Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)        To approve the 2024-26 Planned Carriageway Maintenance Programme as set out in Appendix B of the report.

(2)        To approve the allocations to budgets allocated for asset condition surveys and analysis, improvements to highway structures & drainage, improvements to the public realm and renewal of road markings for 2024-26.

(3)        That the works programme for the £759,000 DfT allocation be approved by the Corporate Director Neighbourhoods & Regeneration in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Public Realm & Enforcement, once the incentive criteria are known and a programme has been drawn up.

Eligible for call-in: Yes

Deadline for submission of call-in: 6pm on Monday 17 March 2025

As a result of Councillor Krupa Sheth (Cabinet Member for Public Realm and Enforcement) having submitted her apologies for absence Councillor Muhammed Butt (as Leader of the Council) introduced a report from the Corporate Director Neighbourhoods & Regeneration setting out recommendations for Brent Council’s 2024-2026 Carriageway Maintenance programme through a prioritised programme of major road resurfacing and preventative maintenance, including injection patching along with recommendations for the 2024-2026 Highway Structures and Drainage Maintenance Programmes.

In presenting the report, Councillor Muhammed Butt highlighted the valuable nature of the Highway Infrastructure as one of the Council’s key physical assets along with the asset management approach towards prioritisation of schemes, which included the use of condition surveys and other relevant data to produce the annual road and footway maintenance programmes that had been designed to provide optimum condition improvements utilising the funding available.  Taking account of the approach outlined and programme of works delivered during 2023-24 members noted that the report also included details on the budgets for asset condition surveys and analysis, improvements to highway structures and drainage, improvements to public realm, and renewal of road markings along with the additional funding provided within the Governments Autum budget for local highway maintenance focussed around addressing repairs and potholes, of which Brent’s allocation had totalled £759k.

In considering the report Cabinet noted the focus on the highway infrastructure as a key issue and concern affecting local residents and, whilst recognising the need to maximise use of available resources based around the clear process for identification of priorities within the annual maintenance plans, were also keen to recognise the positive impact from the significant investment identified in terms of specific local schemes aimed at revitalising the boroughs infrastructure and keeping Brent safe and on the move.

In supporting the approach outlined and thanking all those involved for their efforts in developing the programme and recommendations outlined in the report, Cabinet RESOLVED

(1)        To approve the 2024-26 Planned Carriageway Maintenance Programme as set out in Appendix B of the report.

(2)        To approve the allocations to budgets allocated for asset condition surveys and analysis, improvements to highway structures & drainage, improvements to the public realm and renewal of road markings for 2024-26.

(3)        That the works programme for the £759,000 DfT allocation be approved by the Corporate Director Neighbourhoods & Regeneration in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Public Realm & Enforcement, once the incentive criteria were known and a programme had been drawn up.

This report concerns the procurement of a Day Opportunities Framework Agreement for the provision of community-based activities for people over 18 and who are eligible for Adult Social Care support. This includes people with a Learning Disability and/or Autism, Mental Health needs, Physical Disabilities and Older People including those with dementia and seeks approval to invite tenders in respect of the above Day Opportunities Framework as required by Contract Standing Orders 88 and 89.

Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)        To approve inviting tenders for the establishment of a Day Opportunities Light Touch Framework Agreement between the Council and one or more providers for the future award of contracts (“Call-offs”) for the provision of community based activities for eligible adults (the “Framework Agreement”) on the basis of the pre - tender considerations set out in paragraph 3.3 of the report.

(2)        To approve officers evaluating the tenders referred to in (1) above on the basis of the evaluation criteria set out in paragraph 3.3.1 section (vi) of the report.

(3)        To delegate authority to the Corporate Director, Community Health and Wellbeing in consultation with the Lead Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Leisure to award the Framework Agreement for a term of up to eight years in line with requirements of the Procurement Act.

Eligible for call-in: Yes

Deadline for submission of call-in: 6pm on Monday 17 March 2025

Councillor Neil Nerva (as Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health & Leisure) presented a report from the Corporate Director Community Health & Wellbeing detailing the procurement of a Day Opportunities Framework Agreement for the provision of community based activities for people over 18 and who were eligible for Adult Social Care support, including those with a learning disability, autism, mental health needs, physical disabilities, older people and those living with dementia.

In presenting the report, members noted that the purpose of the agreement was to improve access to services aimed at supporting individuals to live as independently as possible, enhancing their wellbeing and quality of life with the focus on providing tailored opportunities for people to engage in meaningful community activities that aligned with the vision outlined in the Borough Plan.  In commending the range of services already provided through the existing day centres in Brent, including New Millennium Day Centre, members were advised that the proposals outlined had been designed to modernise and extend the range of day care opportunities whilst also establishing a consistent approach to commissioning, quality assurance and pricing for the provision of community -based day opportunities.  This would involve working closely with pre-approved providers to ensure the provision of high-quality support for those who needed it most in order to enhance choice and community participation, whilst also supporting the local economy and increasing access to employment, volunteering opportunities and promoting independence and choice in line with the Care Act.

In welcoming and supporting the approach outlined in seeking to address the need identified in relation to the continued provision of day care services members also commended the engagement undertaken with day service users, their carers as well as providers in seeking to shape the proposals.  As a result, Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)        To approve inviting tenders for the establishment of a Day Opportunities Light Touch Framework Agreement between the Council and one or more providers for the future award of contracts (“Call-offs”) for the provision of community based activities for eligible adults (the “Framework Agreement”) on the basis of the pre - tender considerations set out in paragraph 3.3 of the report.

(2)        To approve officers evaluating the tenders referred to in (1) above on the basis of the evaluation criteria set out in paragraph 3.3.1 section (vi) of the report.

(3)        To delegate authority to the Corporate Director, Community Health and Wellbeing in consultation with the Lead Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Leisure to award the Framework Agreement for a term of up to eight years in line with requirements of the Procurement Act.

The following items are not for publication as they relate to the category of exempt information set out below, as specified under Part 1, Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972:

Agenda Item 7:       i4B Business Plan 2024–25 Appendix 1(a) (Business Plan – Financial Appendix and Annexes 1- 3) & Appendix 1e(ii) (Business Plan – 2024-25 SLA Schedule 2: Costs)

These appendices has been classified as exempt under Paragraph 3 of Part 1 Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972, namely: “Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information)"

Agenda Item 8:       FWH Business Plan 2024-25 – Appendix 1(a) (Business Plan – Financial Appendix and Annex) & Appendix 1e(ii) (Business Plan – 2024-25 SLA Schedule 2: Costs)

These appendices has been classified as exempt under Paragraph 3 of Part 1 Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972, namely: “Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information)"

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 Deputy Director Democratic Services or their representative before the meeting in accordance with Standing Order 60.

There were no items of urgent business.

Prior to ending proceedings, Councillor Muhammed Butt (as Leader) referring to tributes paid earlier in the meeting took the opportunity to formally thank Peter Gadsdon (as Corporate Director Partnerships, Housing & Resident Services) and Debra Norman (as Corporate Director Law & Governance) for the support and guidance provided to Cabinet and all members more widely during their time at Brent.  In recognising this would both be their final Cabinet meeting prior retiring from Brent he, along with the rest of Cabinet, wished them all the best for the future and thanked them for the legacy left in terms of the services they had been responsible for delivering and managing during their time at the Council.

There were no items of urgent business.

Prior to ending proceedings, Councillor Muhammed Butt (as Leader) referring to tributes paid earlier in the meeting took the opportunity to formally thank Peter Gadsdon (as Corporate Director Partnerships, Housing & Resident Services) and Debra Norman (as Corporate Director Law & Governance) for the support and guidance provided to Cabinet and all members more widely during their time at Brent.  In recognising this would both be their final Cabinet meeting prior to retiring from Brent he, along with the rest of Cabinet, wished them all the best for the future and thanked them for the legacy left in terms of the impact on local communities across Brent and the services they had been responsible for delivering and managing during their time at the Council.