Decisions

A decision taken on a contract variation for The Wish Centre.

Paula Hawley-Evans, Consultant in Public Health, on behalf of Dr Sakthi Karunanithi, Director of Public Health, took the decision as set out in the report.

As part of the transformation work in adult social care to create the conditions to enable people to live well in their communities for longer, this funding is targeted at working with VCFSE and Community provision within the local area with a focus on reducing unnecessary demand at the front door to adult social care.

 

The proposal will deliver services that support the following overarching key project outcomes:

1. To reduce contacts to Adult Social Care via investment into community assets that prevent and reduce need and demand that enable efficiencies that could be reinvested to support sustainability in the sector.

2. Build immediate VCFSE capacity to address areas of high demand for ASC.

3. Develop closer working relationships in order to have better connections between the County, District and the VCFSE provision.

4. Develop a collaborative and shared approach to early intervention and prevention, with the benefit of the residents, and targeted populations, being our primary focus. 5. To support residents in Lancashire to increase their independence, social inclusion, connection to their communities and have improved well-being.

Victoria Tomlinson, Senior Commissioning Manager, on behalf of the Clare Mattinson, Director of Strategic & Integrated Commissioning took a decision to work collaboratively with the District Council named to support community development and reduce inappropriate referrals into adult social care.

 

John Davies, Head of Highways Network Management,  on behalf of Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport took a decision to approve the bollard installation as part of the improved Zebra Crossing scheme.

 

County Councillor Julia Berry considered and rejected a Local Member Grant to The Camera Work CIC towards the cost of Crowdfund Lancashire symposium project from.

The reason for the rejection is the date of the project passed before we received a decision from County Councillor Julia Berry and we can't award a grant retrospectively.

 

John Davies, Head of Service Highways Network Management, on behalf of the Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport took the decision as set out in the report.

Approval is sought for the County Council to expend monies secured under Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, from the Higher Standen Farm development, towards the Castle Street Clitheroe works.

 

When consulted by Ribble Valley Borough Council for on a planning application for the development of a 50.1HA Mixed Use at Standen Estate, the County Council responded requesting that the developer should be required to contribute monies annually for a period of 20 years to promote sustainable travel uptake from the development.

 

Lancashire County Council and Ribble Valley Borough Council have collaborated on a scheme to enhance sustainable travel provision and reduce private car use in Clitheroe, which aligns with the funding held associated with this development.

 

Authority to take this decision has been delegated under the Scheme of Delegation to Heads of Service.

 

It is recommended that £26,836.13 of Travel Plan funds held by the County Council from the Higher Standen Farm development are allocated to the Castle St Clitheroe scheme.

John Davies, on behalf of Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport took a decision to approve the recommendation in the report.

A number of drainage defect schemes have underspent whilst others have overspent as year end costs have rolled over between 2018/19 and 2024/25. This exercise is to balance the individual budgets within the scope of the overall programme to allow the projects to be financially closed.

Ridwan Musa, Head of Service, on behalf of the Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport took a decision to balance the budgets within programme as indicated in the report.

As part of S278 works the highway alignment at the junction of A584 Lytham Road and Church Road Warton was modified. Due to unforeseen circumstances additional works were required and as a result of this additional money is required from the developer to complete payments to the contractor.

Ridwan Musa, Head of Highway Operations and Design, on behalf of Matt Townsend the Director of Highways and Transport took a decision to bring an additional amount of £173,179 into the Capital Programme to cover the additional costs incurred by the contractor on the S278 works on Lytham Road Warton. This will allow the county council to complete payments to the contractor. 

A report on the procurement of a Catering Management System.

Mark Wynn, Interim Chief Executive Officer took a decision set out in the report.

Award of funding - national Household Support Fund 6 (1 October 2024 – 31 March 2025).

Dr Sakthi Karunanithi, Director of Public Health, Wellbeing & Communities has made the following decision to aware funding:

 

HSF6	Value
Food Support for Children Eligible for Free School Meals (Early Years, Primary, Secondary, Post 16): Christmas Uplift @ £5 per voucher	£257,500
Food Support for Children Eligible for Free School Meals (Early Years, Primary, Secondary, Post 16): Easter 2025 (2 weeks)	£772,500
Fuel Advice and Support Continue support to Citizens Advice / Energy Saving Trust fuel advice / vouchers	£10,000
Warm Spaces – community Supplement current grant funding scheme	£68,000
Warm Spaces – libraries Supplement current scheme	£44,000
Warm Spaces - rural areas (facilities improvement)	£50,000
Warm & Safe Spaces - Family Hubs / Family Centres / Targeted Youth Support	£56,000
Welfare Rights - Pensioner Welfare Benefit Uptake support	£100,000
Pensioner Information & Advice Support	£25,000

 

This report presents an application from a local organisation requesting £400 towards installing a defibrillator outside the bowling club building to ensure it is accessible to all members of the public from the Local Member Grants Scheme.

County Councillor Kim Snape considered and approved a Local Member Grant of £400 to St Joseph's Bowling Club Anderton towards the cost of the installation of a defibrillator.

 

County Councillor Erica Lewis considered and rejected a Local Member Grant to Release Mates  towards the cost of electronics, safeguarding training, a prison leaver guide and leaflets/banners.

The reason for the rejection is the project date passed before we received a decision from County Councillor Erica Lewis and a grant cannot be awarded retrospectively.

County Councillor Lizzi Collinge considered and rejected a Local Member Grant to Release Mates  towards the cost of electronics, safeguarding training, a prison leaver guide and leaflets/banners.

The reason for the rejection is the project date passed before we received a decision from County Councillor Lizzi Collinge and a grant cannot be awarded retrospectively.

County Councillor Yousuf Motala considered and approved a Local Member Grant of £400 to Broadgate and District Residents Action Group (BRAG) towards the cost of producing a bi-monthly magazine for residents.

County Councillor John Shedwick considered and approved a Local Member Grant of £500.00 to Thornton Cleveleys Operatic Society towards the cost of a new boiler.

 

County Councillor John Shedwick declared a non-pecuniary interest in this application as he is the Honorary President of Thornton Cleveleys Operatic Society.

This report presents an application from a local organisation requesting £250 towards the cost of replacement match jacks from the Local Member Grants Scheme.

County Councillor Howard Hartley considered and approved a Local Member Grant of £250 to Barrowford Bowling Club towards the cost of replacement match jacks.

The purpose of the proposed restrictions are to support the improved amenity in Nelson Town Centre, with improved pedestrian and cycle access and linkage across Nelson.

 

All the proposals will work together to create a safer environment for pedestrians, cyclists, and vulnerable users. It is hoped this will give confidence to encourage more users to consider commuting via non-motorised means and this will improve health and air quality for the residents of Nelson.

 

Consultations

 

Formal consultation was carried out between 1 November-2024 and 29 November-2024 which included advertising in the local press and notices being displayed on site. Divisional county councillors were consulted along with the council's usual consultees and the consultation documents posted on the council's website.

 

Following formal consultation No Objections were received.

Peter Bell, Regulation and Enforcement Manager, on behalf of Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport took a decision to approve the proposals as set out in the report.

The purpose of the proposed restrictions are to support the improved amenity in Nelson Town Centre, with improved pedestrian and cycle access and linkage across Nelson.

 

All the proposals will work together to create a safer environment for pedestrians, cyclists, and vulnerable users. It is hoped this will give confidence to encourage more users to consider commuting via non-motorised means and this will improve health and air quality for the residents of Nelson.

 

Consultations

 

Formal consultation was carried out between 1 November-2024 and 29 November-2024 which included advertising in the local press and notices being displayed on site. Divisional county councillors were consulted along with the council's usual consultees and the consultation documents posted on the council's website. Following the formal consultation, No objections were received.

Peter Bell, Regulation and Enforcement Manager, on behalf of Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport took a decision to approve the proposals as set out in the report.

County Councillor Ash Sutcliffe considered and rejected a Local Member Grant to Pendle Riding for the Disabled Association Incorporating Carriage Driving towards the cost of 8 new adjustable regularity riding hats.

The reason for the rejection is the date of the project passed before we received a decision from County Councillor Ash Sutcliffe and we can't award a grant retrospectively.

 

Following investigations and formal public consultation, it is proposed to make a Speed Limit Order to reduce speed restrictions on various roads within Chorley, Fylde, Ribble Valley, South Ribble and West Lancashire. The order further formalises the current signed Speed Limits as well as correcting inconsistencies in Chorley, Hyndburn and West Lancashire. In addition the Order revokes current 30mph Orders that are no longer required, reverting the road back to 30mph by virtue of street lighting.

 

Consultations

 

Formal consultation was carried out between 05 November 2024 and 06 December 2024 which included advertising in the local press and notices being displayed on site. Divisional county councillors were consulted along with the council's usual consultees and the consultation documents posted on the council's website.

 

Following formal consultation No Objections were received.

Peter Bell, Regulation and Enforcement Manager, on behalf of Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport took a decision to approve the proposals as set out in the report.

A decision on the provision of Waste Automotive Batteries, Collection, Transportation and Processing Services.

Steve Scott, Head of Waste Management, on behalf of the Jonathan Edwards, Director of Environment and Planning took a decision to approve the conclusion of a framework agreement for the Provision of Waste Automotive Batteries, Collection, Transportation and Processing Services following completion of a below threshold open tender procedure.

The purpose of the proposed New Road Humps is to improve the safety of motorised and non-motorised users, helping to control the speed of approaching traffic at this busy crossroads location and to give drivers sufficient time to assess the layout helping towards safer navigation of the area.

 

The proposals form part of a s278 Agreement under the Highways Act 1980 as part of a new housing development off Gorsey Lane which will increase traffic and pedestrian movements along New Street, Gorsey Lane, High Street and Smithy Lane.

 

Consultations

 

Formal consultation was carried out between 5 December-2023 and 2 January-2024 which included advertising in the local press and notices being displayed on site. Divisional county councillors were consulted along with the council's usual consultees and the consultation documents posted on the council's website and received objections.

 

Modification Consultation was carried out between 12 November-2024 and 3 December-2024 and received no objections. All previous objections have been withdrawn.

Peter Bell, Regulation and Enforcement Manager, on behalf of Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport took a decision to approve the proposals as set out in the report.

The purpose of the proposed restrictions are to support the improved amenity in Nelson Town Centre, with improved pedestrian and cycle access and linkage across Nelson.

 

All the proposals will work together to create a safer environment for pedestrians, cyclists, and vulnerable users. It is hoped this will give confidence to encourage more users to consider commuting via non-motorised means and this will improve health and air quality for the residents of Nelson.

 

Consultations

 

Formal consultation was carried out between 1 November-2024 and 29 November-2024 which included notices being displayed on site. Divisional county councillors were consulted along with the council's usual consultees. The main points raised in the responses along with Officer comments are outlined in Appendix C. These have been sent to Democratic Services and have been deemed as non-significant.

Peter Bell, Regulation and Enforcement Manager, on behalf of Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport took a decision to approve the proposals as set out in the report.

County Councillor John Fillis considered and rejected a Local Member Grant to Crawford Village Scout Group towards the cost of new equipment.

The reason for the rejection is the date of the project passed before we received a decision from County Councillor John Fillis and we can't award a grant retrospectively.

 

The committee noted the following actions that remained outstanding from the previous meeting and asked that officers follow up to obtain a response:

 

• The briefing noted that was due to be circulated to the committee in relation to the co-production model.
• The request to share specific data with the committee in relation to the gender distribution among social workers.
• The number of social workers who were proficient in British Sign Language.

 

Resolved: That the minutes of the meeting held on 6 November 2024 be confirmed as an accurate record and signed by the Chair, and the outstanding actions from the previous meeting be followed up to obtain a response.

The Chair welcomed County Councillor Cosima Towneley, Cabinet Member for Children and Families, Hannah Blower, Child and Youth Justice Senior Manager, and Niomi Whitworth, Team Manager – Child and Youth Justice Service, to the meeting.

 

The report outlined the structure and activities of the Lancashire Child and Youth Justice Service (CYJS) and highlighted its multi-disciplinary approach and partnership with various agencies. Key points included within the report included the service’s focus on prevention and diversion for children at risk of entering the criminal justice system, the impact of the Ministry of Justice’s Turnaround funding, and the development of a Harmful Sexualised Behaviour hub to address specific behavioural issues. A presentation was also provided, a copy of which is attached to the minutes.

 

Comments and queries raised from the committee were as follows:

 

• Concerns were raised about children in deprived areas lacking basic needs such as food and safety, and it was noted that while the targeted youth team worked with those children when needed, it was done so in partnerships with other organisations, including the police and family hubs, who would take the lead on addressing those basic needs issues.

 

• It was noted that while the age of criminal responsibility in England was 10, the Lancashire Child and Youth Justice Service provided support to children as young as 8 who had committed offences or were at risk of doing so. By starting at age 8, the service was able to carry out preventative work early and provide a safeguarding response.

 

• The committee queried the few partnership practices projects listed in the report and requested further information about the projects in different areas. It was noted that the partnership practices projects listed in the report were just a few examples and it was suggested that if there were particular projects of partnership practices that members would like more information on, they were encouraged to contact the officers.

 

• The role of sports in preventing youth crime was discussed and it was highlighted that community football trusts had been commissioned to engage children through sports and mentoring, and there was an interest in expanding similar initiatives into other sports, such as cricket.

 

• Concerns were raised about disused buildings, particularly in Preston, attracting young people and leading to incidents like fires. It was noted that securing these buildings was the responsibility of the owners, with police involvement when necessary, and that the multidisciplinary team of the Lancashire Child and Youth Justice Service would intervene once problems were identified.

 

• The committee requested if more Key Performance Indicators could be provided and it was noted that there were a number of Key Performance Indicators that had been set by the Youth Justice Board and included metrics such as access to mental health support, education continuity, and re-offending rates, and were all captured in the youth justice plan. The location of the Key Performance Indicators in the youth justice plan would be provided to the committee.

 

• The committee questioned the location and scope of services addressing harmful sexualised behaviour, and it was clarified that these services were available across Lancashire and were supported by a small team aiming to build confidence and experience in various settings.

 

• Concerns were raised about the differences in outcomes between children who engaged with the programmes and those who did not, and it was suggested that a dip sample analysis would provide insights into the effectiveness of the programmes for those less likely to engage, and the dip sample was expected to be available early next year, and preliminary findings indicated significant unmet needs, particularly in health and poverty.

 

• The importance of early prevention and stopping re-offending to reduce the need for more prisons was emphasised by the committee and it was highlighted that there was a need for more data to demonstrate the impact of early intervention programmes to secure more funding to target early prevention.

 

• It was noted that the turnaround funding, amounting to approximately £1 million over three years, would be lost by March 2025. It was also noted that this funding had supported around 300 children, equating to about £3,000 per child.

 

• The Serious Violence Toolkit, which was developed with the Youth Endowment Fund, summarised the best available research evidence about different approaches to preventing serious youth violence. The toolkit aimed to provide practitioners with tangible resources to support children.

 

• The importance of family involvement was highlighted, particularly for children from disjointed families. The success of family hubs in providing early support to prevent children from entering the youth justice system was noted and the partnership between the child wellbeing service and family hubs was praised for its effectiveness. It was also acknowledged that while some families were difficult to engage, efforts were continuously made to support them, and when direct engagement was not possible, alternative community services were considered to provide the necessary support.

 

• It was asked if divisional county councillors were routinely involved in initiatives withing their division and it was noted that although involving councillors could be beneficial as they might be able to help, some of the work could be sensitive and would remain confidential.

 

• It was noted that the team were very specific to each child's needs, which vary based on their circumstances and location, and special meetings would be arranged with specific partners to address particular groups and issues. It was also noted that the team displayed sensitivities around the communities and would work alongside experts in inclusion to ensure they were responsive to the needs of different cultural groups.

 

• A question was raised about involving children more in providing input for the initiatives, as the group was very adult led, and it was noted that efforts were being made to meet children in their own environments to gather their input, as they were often reluctant to attend formal meetings.

 

• The committee asked if the reoffending rate data from before and after Turnaround programme could be circulated to the committee.

 

The Chair thanked the Cabinet Members and officers for the report and for answering the committees' questions.

 

Resolved: That the committee:

 

1. Be provided with further data on Key Performance Indicators and outcome metrics;
2. Be provided with reoffending rate data from before and after Turnaround programme; and
3. Supported the ongoing work and Officers be invited to return to a future meeting with an evaluation of progress made against next steps.

This item was discussed as part of Item 5 - Further Developing Care Leavers Offer and Support.

 

Resolved: That the committee received a report.

It was agreed that Item 5 - Further Developing Care Leavers Offer and Support, and Item 6 - Increasing Care Leavers Offer who are in EET, as on the agenda, be taken jointly, as the items were interlinked.

 

The Chair welcomed Jennifer Robertshaw, Interim Head of Service – Looked After Children and Leaving Care, and Donna Duckworth, Social Worker – Leaving Care, to the meeting. County Councillor Cosima Towneley, Cabinet Member for Childrens and Families also supported the presentation of this item.

 

The report provided information on the offer of leaving care support for Lancashire's care experienced young people and detailed the current offer, recent service developments, and the council's aspirations for how to develop the service further. A presentation was also provided on this report, a copy of which is attached to the minutes.

 

The report from Item 6 - Increasing Care Leavers Offer who are in EET, provided information on the educational outcomes of Lancashire's care experienced young people and set out the position in relation to how services were improving the offer of support to those young people who were not in education, training and employment (NEET). Although, a presentation was prepared, it was not presented at the meeting, but is attached to the minutes for members to view.

 

Comments and queries raised from the committee were as follows:

 

• A question was raised about the availability of data on the living circumstances of care leavers aged 21 and older who had requested to step down from support. It was noted that, although these young people could choose to re-engage with the service at any time, there was no mechanism for the service to maintain contact with those who had left.

 

• Concerns were raised about care leavers in rural areas facing difficulties with transport to access support hubs. It was noted that, while provisions for transport costs related to employment and education were available, similar support was also provided for accessing care leaver hubs. Social workers would often transport the young people themselves to ensure they could attend events at the hubs.

 

• Further concerns were raised about the rising number of unaccompanied asylum-seeking children and the lack of equitable provision for them. It was suggested that a deep dive be conducted to gather detailed information on their number, gender, age range, living arrangements, and education provision. It was proposed to start with a Bite Size Briefing, which could be escalated to a deep dive if necessary.

 

• A question was raised about arrangements with neighbouring authorities for vulnerable children who may want to stay in areas outside Lancashire and it was noted that while the preference was for young people to stay within Lancashire due to existing support structures, there were provisions to support those who wanted to live outside the county.

 

• It was noted that many children might enter care for short periods and were often returned to their families once issues were resolved. The focus was on providing temporary support and ensuring children knew where to seek help if needed in the future.

 

• The Proud Awards were discussed, and it was highlighted that there were about ten categories and nominations for the awards could be made by peers, social workers, or the young people themselves, and the awards aimed to celebrate the care leavers achievements, whether big or small.

 

• It was proposed that more information on supported living for unaccompanied young children, including educational pathways and their distribution across the county be provided to the committee.

 

• Concerns were raised about care leavers attending university and their accommodation during holidays and it was noted that support was provided to ensure they had accommodation outside of term time and solutions were tailored to individual circumstances, including returning to foster homes or staying with extended family.

 

• It was also noted that while the county council dealt with children in public care, there were also children in private care who might face similar issues and the importance of addressing barriers to tertiary education for all children was emphasised.

 

• The committee asked the youth council representatives in attendance to share their future aspirations.

 

The Chair thanked the Cabinet Members and officers for the report and for answering the committees' questions.

 

Resolved: That the Committee:

 

i.  Be provided with further data on the living circumstances of those aged 21 and over who have requested to step down support;

ii.  Be provided with more information about supported living for unaccompanied asylum-seeking young children;

iii.  Support the ongoing work and invite Officers to return to a future meeting of the Committee with an update and evaluation of progress made against the reported next steps.

The Chair welcomed County Councillor Shaun Turner, Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change, Marcus Hudson, Head of Planning and Transport, Jonathan Haine, Head of Development Management and Planning Policy and John Neville, Area Environment Manager, Environment Agency to the meeting.

 

A report and two presentations were provided on the county council's activities under its statutory development management responsibilities in relation to minerals and waste operations. It covered the adopted Joint Lancashire Minerals and Waste Local Plan, control of odour and other environmental impacts related to the design, engineering and operation of landfill sites in the county, and monitoring of compliance and enforcement of planning controls for minerals and waste management sites. A copy of the presentations are set out in the minutes.

 

In response to questions from the committee, the following information was clarified:

 

·  It was explained to the committee that the key costs for disposing of material was landfill tax, at approximately £40 per tonne for the disposal of inert materials and £150-200 a tonne for non-inert materials. It was further confirmed that the cost per tonne would rise in April 2025.

 

·  The committee was informed that fines issued by the Environment Agency for a breach by an operator were higher than those issued by the county council as these were often due to a pollution issue and environmental damage. It was further explained that the Environment Agency's scale of fines were set by central government and depending on the severity of a breach, action could be taken through the courts.

 

·  Regarding the Joint Lancashire Minerals and Waste Local Plan, it was queried by the committee if the outdated plan currently available to the public was hindering the county council's effectiveness in processing new planning applications and in addressing enforcement issues. The committee was informed that while some policies set out in the plan were time-constraint, there were policies that were still appropriate and applicable. Members were assured that the new plan was being worked on.

 

·  The committee suggested that the hotline number for the Environment Agency be widely publicised within the county council and made available to members on the 'C First' website (members' portal).

 

·  It was also suggested that the full list of mineral extraction sites and landfill facilities be shared with the committee.

 

·  Members were informed that a 'List of Wastes' set out in European legislation gave a code for each type of waste and this also set out which types of waste could go in a landfill based on risk. It was also explained that there were hazardous landfill sites, whose criteria differed on the type of waste they could accept and the controls surrounding the site.

 

·  It was confirmed that tyres were often recycled, for example into materials for children's playgrounds. It was confirmed that there were agencies and individuals who would collect tyres to be properly recycled or disposed of.

 

·  On the working relationship between the county council and United Utilities, it was suggested that further information could be brought to the committee at a later date.

 

·  The committee was informed that the county council had a legal team specifically for planning matters, as well as an enforcement policy in place. It was noted that formal enforcement was the tool of last resort, and that officers would look to remedy unacceptable harm that might have occurred. In the majority of cases for the county council this was done through negotiation. Further to this, it was suggested by members that investigation take place to determine if more resources for legal teams could benefit planning applications and enforcement actions with the county council.

 

·  Regarding the enforcement policy, officers highlighted to the committee that the county council always acted in a reasonable and proportionate way, ensuring that all other measures and actions had been exhausted before escalating a matter through to direct action.

 

·  In regard to legacy sites, it was queried whether further planning conditions could be imposed at a later date if the local environment or legislation had changed. Further to this, members queried how the authority monitored the completion of conditions imposed on legacy sites over a long period of time. Officers confirmed that once planning permission had been granted there was a time period for work, restoration and after care (usually 5 years) in place, after this period of time the site entered a new chapter of planning permission. It was further explained that if any change to the local area occurred, the current planning conditions could be altered to reflect this. 

 

·  Officers confirmed that during the restoration period, a site was monitored to ensure than any conditions had been met prior to moving into an after care period. If the planning condition was not adhered to, a notice would be served through the courts.

 

·  Members raised concern regarding the transparency of enforcement action to the public, further to this concern was raised between the awareness of different statutory powers of the county council and borough councils' responsibilities to enforcement action. It was suggested that a collective review of functions, responsibilities and arrangements within the multi-agency approach to enforcement be undertaken.

 

Resolved: That

 

(i)  The full list of mineral extraction sites and landfill facilities be shared with the Environment, Economic Growth and Transport Scrutiny Committee.

 

(ii)  The Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change gives consideration to:

a.  Implementing public facing information and updates on enforcement action across the county.

b.  Reviewing whether the legal resource for enforcement activities within planning is sufficient or could be enhanced.

c.  Establishing if the county council's website needs updating to include a link to the 'report an environmental incident' webpage on the gov.uk website and to consider adding the Environment Agency hotline number to the Members' portal ('C-First') and Members' key contacts.

d.  Carrying out a collective review of the processes, functions, responsibilities and arrangements in the current system of the multi-agency approach to enforcement.

(iii)A briefing note on the working relationships between United Utilities and the County Council be shared with the committee.

 

 

County Councillor Jean Parr considered and approved a Local Member Grant of £166.67 to Exergonic Coaching CIC (Lancaster City FC Military Veterans) towards the cost of sustaining the local Military Veterans Football team.

 

John Davies, Head of Highways Network Management, on behalf of Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport took a decision to approve the recommendation in the report.

 

County Councillor Lorraine Beavers considered and rejected a Local Member Grant to LPM Dance towards the cost of specialist dance/movement classes for people with disabilities and a Christmas sharing event.

The reason for the rejection is the project end date passed before we received a decision from County Councillor Beavers and we cannot award a grant retrospectively.

 

A full hardware refresh (where required) of all the equipment in the Chamber and associated committee rooms is planned for 2027 and as such a full procurement will take place to cover the supply and install of the new kit, including ongoing support and maintenance as well as the webcasting service.

 

This waiver is to re-contract with Auditel for the period up until the new contract commences.

Peter Lloyd, Director of Digital, took a decision to prepare a procurement waiver and re-contract with Auditel for the period up until the new contract commences.

A report on the waiver under the Procurement Regulations in relation to the Broadband for the Rural North.

Peter Lloyd, Director of Digital took a decision to award a procurement waiver, as set out in the report.

As part of the normal process of service delivery, the approved highways capital programme now requires amendments to meet emerging priorities and allow the effective delivery the Programme.

 

Head of Service is asked to approve the reallocation of funds within the above programme. Details of the proposed reallocation is shown in appendix A.

 

The reallocations are between projects in the same programme and there is no change to the total approved budget. They consist of several transfers of funds in response to developments in programme delivery.

 

Background

 

The annual bridges programme consists of projects at varying stages of scheme development. Changes in cost during project delivery, require the budget allocations to be reviewed to ensure the programme is delivered within available resources and completed project budgets reconciled.

 

It is proposed to reallocate funds within the programme to allow completed projects to be closed out, release funds from projects that are not required or cannot progress and allow projects in construction to complete.

Ridwan Musa, Head of Service Highways Operations and Design, on behalf of the Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport took a decision to implement the changes to the Bridges Maintenance capital programme.

An Above Threshold, Open Procurement Procedure has been conducted by the Authority to appoint an external auditor and tax advisor for Lancashire County Developments Ltd (LCDL).

Khadija Saeed, Head of Corporate Finance, on behalf Noel O'Neil, Director of Finance and Commerce took a decision to award a contract for the Provision of External Auditor and Tax Advisory Services for Lancashire County Developments.

A decision on additional funding for PPMS ID 13340.

Noel O'Neill, Director of Finance and Commerce took a decision to approve the additional funding as set out in the report.

Sale of surplus land and documentation of right of access to LCC tree planting and countryside site.

Andrew Connolly Estates Manager on behalf of Simon Lawrence, Director of Growth and Regeneration took a decision to approve the sale of land at Hole House Wood, Clayton le Woods.

Part I compensation claims relating to highways schemes.

Gary Pearse, Head of Estates, on behalf Simon Lawrence, Director of Growth and Regeneration took a decision to agree compensation claims, as set out in the report.

Lancashire County Council currently has a contract in place for the Collection, Transportation and Acceptance of Waste Engine Oil, which was awarded to Oil Salvage Limited in 2023 following an open tender procurement.

 

The initial term for the contract commenced on 1 April 2023 and runs to 31 March 2025. There is the option to extend the contract for a further period, or periods, up to a maximum of 24-months in addition to the initial term.

 

Lancashire County Council is looking to exercise the full 24 month extension on the contract to secure the Collection, Transportation and Acceptance of Waste Engine Oil to meet expected waste oil collections during this time.

 

The extension will run from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2027, following which no further extension is applicable.

Steve Scott, Head of Waste Management, on behalf of the Jonathan Edwards, Director of Environment and Planning took a decision to approve extension of the contract for the Collection, Transportation and Acceptance of Waste Engine Oil with Oil Salvage Limited from 01 April 2025 to 31 March 2027 as permitted in the current terms and conditions of the contract, of which the initial period is due to expire 31 March 2025. The extension is compliant with procurement regulations.

Payments for claims made as a result of the use of compulsory acquisition of land and other claims.

Gary Pearse, Head of Estates, on behalf of the Simon Lawrence, Director of Growth and Regeneration took a decision to approve claims.

County Councillor Alan Vincent moved a report setting out proposals for the approval of formal appointments to the Lancashire Combined County Authority and its committees.

 

Resolved: - That, subject to approval by Parliament of the Lancashire Combined County Authority Regulations 2024:

 

(i)  The appointment of County Councillors Phillippa Williamson and Alan Vincent as the county council's representatives on the Lancashire Combined County Authority until the Full Council AGM in 2025, as set out in the report, now presented, be approved.

(ii)  The Director of Law and Governance, in consultation with the relevant political groups, be authorised to approve the county council's representatives on the Lancashire Combined County Authority Scrutiny and Audit Committees.

Notice of Motion 1

 

It was moved by County Councillor David O'Toole and seconded by County Councillor John Shedwick that:

 

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service is rated outstanding and was awarded the Fire Service of the Year Award in 2023. They have transformed the way they fight fires using aerial intelligence by leading nationally on the use of drones, and since expanded the use of drones in underwater searches. They also lead on canine innovation with the introduction of dogs and handlers in search and rescue operations both at home and worldwide emergencies.

 

In May 2018 this Council supported a Notice of Motion to keep the Fire Authority separate from the control of the then Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Clive Grunshaw, and over the last three years this Council was safe in the knowledge that this was supported by the recent PCC, Andrew Snowden.

 

This Council resolves:

 

(i)  To ask the Interim Chief Executive to write to the current PCC for confirmation that he supports the continuing independence of the Fire and Rescue Authority from the Police.

(ii)  To ask the Interim Chief Executive to write to the Minister for Crime, Policing and Fire and all Lancashire MPs to seek their support for our outstanding Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, and their commitment to the service remaining independent from the Police.

 

The following Amendment was proposed by County Councillor Nikki Hennessy and seconded by County Councillor Sean Serridge:

 

To delete the following:

 

"In May 2018 this Council supported a Notice of Motion to keep the Fire Authority separate from the control of the then Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Clive Grunshaw, and over the last three years this Council was safe in the knowledge that this was supported by the recent PCC, Andrew Snowden".

 

And to amend the start of resolution (i) to read:

 

"To ask the Chair of the Lancashire Fire Authority and the Interim Chief Executive to write to the current PCC……"

 

Following a period of debate and on being put to the vote, the Amendment was LOST.

 

There being no further Amendments, the substantive Motion was put to the vote and in accordance with Standing Order B46(6), a recorded vote was taken. The names of the county councillors who voted for or against the Motion and those who abstained are set out below:

 

For (73)

 

Aldridge	Cullens	Hurn	Rear	Whittaker
Ali	Cunliffe	Iqbal	Rigby, S	Whittam
Arif	De Molfetta	Kay	Riggott	Williamson
Ashton	Dowding	Khan, H	Salter	Woollam
Bailey	Edwards	Khan, N	Schofield	Yates
Berry	Fillis	Lewis	Serridge
Britcliffe	Gardiner	Malik	Shedwick
Brown	Gibson	Maxwell-Scott	Singleton
Buckley	Gooch	Mein	Smith
Burrows	Goulthorp	Mirfin	Snape
Cheetham	Green	Morris	Sutcliffe
Clarke	Hartley	O'Toole	Swarbrick
Clempson	Haythornthwaite	Oakes	Tomlinson
Clifford	Hennessy	Parr	Towneley
Collinge	Hind	Pattison	Turner
Couperthwaite	Hindle	Pope	Vincent
Cox	Holgate	Purcell	Westley

 

Against (0)

 

Abstain (0)

The substantive Motion was CARRIED. It was therefore:

Resolved: - That:

 

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service is rated outstanding and was awarded the Fire Service of the Year Award in 2023. They have transformed the way they fight fires using aerial intelligence by leading nationally on the use of drones, and since expanded the use of drones in underwater searches. They also lead on canine innovation with the introduction of dogs and handlers in search and rescue operations both at home and worldwide emergencies.

 

In May 2018 this Council supported a Notice of Motion to keep the Fire Authority separate from the control of the then Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Clive Grunshaw, and over the last three years this Council was safe in the knowledge that this was supported by the recent PCC, Andrew Snowden.

 

This Council resolves:

 

(i)  To ask the Interim Chief Executive to write to the current PCC for confirmation that he supports the continuing independence of the Fire and Rescue Authority from the Police.

(ii)  To ask the Interim Chief Executive to write to the Minister for Crime, Policing and Fire and all Lancashire MPs to seek their support for our outstanding Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, and their commitment to the service remaining independent from the Police.

 

Notice of Motion 2

 

It was moved by County Councillor Sue Whittam and seconded by County Councillor Charles Edwards that:

 

Lancashire’s Family Hubs are vital in supporting children, young people and families to succeed in life. Early education in oral hygiene is a core offer at our Family Hubs and good dental hygiene contributes to long-term health, overall wellbeing and plays an important role in childhood development such as early speech and socialisation. The effects of poor dental health continue to contribute to poor health with age and future problems are already signalled through the levels of tooth decay clearly exhibited as infants and young people throughout our communities. In Lancashire, the average number of teeth (1.16) affected by decay per child is significantly worse than the England average (0.80), whilst 27.4% of Lancashire 5-year-olds display obvious, visible dental decay as opposed to the average of 23.7%.

 

This Council resolves to ask the Interim Chief Executive to:

 

(i)  Write to the Minister for Children, Families and Wellbeing to seek assurance that Lancashire will receive tangible support and secure funding for the ongoing pioneering work of our self-funded Family Hubs.

(ii)  Write to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care and the Chief Executive of NHS England to request immediate discussions to extend the scope of the National Contract to increase availability of dental care for Lancashire residents through the inclusion of academic institutions with dental training programmes within our footprint.

(iii)  Write to Chief Executive of NHS England to ask for continued commitment and funding to the 'Smile4life' programme as part of the NHS Dental Recovery Plan.

 

On being put to the vote the Motion was CARRIED.

 

It was therefore:

 

Resolved: - That:

 

Lancashire’s Family Hubs are vital in supporting children, young people and families to succeed in life. Early education in oral hygiene is a core offer at our Family Hubs and good dental hygiene contributes to long-term health, overall wellbeing and plays an important role in childhood development such as early speech and socialisation. The effects of poor dental health continue to contribute to poor health with age and future problems are already signalled through the levels of tooth decay clearly exhibited as infants and young people throughout our communities. In Lancashire, the average number of teeth (1.16) affected by decay per child is significantly worse than the England average (0.80), whilst 27.4% of Lancashire 5-year-olds display obvious, visible dental decay as opposed to the average of 23.7%.

 

This Council resolves to ask the Interim Chief Executive to:

 

(i)  Write to the Minister for Children, Families and Wellbeing to seek assurance that Lancashire will receive tangible support and secure funding for the ongoing pioneering work of our self-funded Family Hubs.

(ii)  Write to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care and the Chief Executive of NHS England to request immediate discussions to extend the scope of the National Contract to increase availability of dental care for Lancashire residents through the inclusion of academic institutions with dental training programmes within our footprint.

(iii)  Write to Chief Executive of NHS England to ask for continued commitment and funding to the 'Smile4life' programme as part of the NHS Dental Recovery Plan.

 

Notice of Motion 3

 

It was moved by County Councillor Mark Clifford and seconded by County Councillor Steve Holgate that:

 

Following the Labour Party's great success in the July 2024 general election, the new Labour Government has announced Britain will become a clean energy superpower by 2030. The devolution deal for Lancashire will also mean the Combined County Authority receiving £20 million in capital funding to support local priorities, including innovation led growth and net zero ambitions across Lancashire.

 

Therefore, this Council resolves to:

 

(i)  Continue to support and promote local community net zero heat and energy partnerships via the Northwest Community Energy Fund on behalf of the Northwest Net Zero Hub and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ).

(ii)  Prioritise net zero by investing and accelerating our own clean energy production on Council owned land and assets including solar and onshore wind turbines with extra energy production being used to supply local businesses and homes. Example - Central Lancashire Development, etc.

(iii)Urge the Lancashire Combined County Authority to use its new devolution powers in adult education to upskill our workforce ready for the Net zero green job revolution.

 

The following Amendment was proposed by County Councillor Shaun Turner and seconded by County Councillor Ash Sutcliffe:

 

Following the Labour Party's victory in the July 2024 general election, the new Labour Government has announced Britain will become a clean energy superpower by 2030.

 

This Council notes:

 

(i)  The historic Lancashire Devolution transfers new powers and funding to the Lancashire Combined County Authority to support businesses and residents across Lancashire, alongside £20 million of capital funding to invest in local priorities including innovation led growth and net zero ambitions across Lancashire.

(ii)  The Prime Minister's recently announced new mission to put the country on track for at least 95% clean power by 2030, a watering down of his manifesto promise prior to the general election.

 

Therefore, this Council resolves to:

 

(i)  Continue to support and promote local community net zero heat and energy partnerships via the Northwest Community Energy Fund on behalf of the Northwest Net Zero Hub and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.

(ii)  Prioritise net zero and continue to implement the findings of the County Council's own 2023 Low Carbon Feasibility Study on Council owned land and assets including solar and onshore wind technologies.

(iii)Request the Interim Chief Executive to write to:

 

·  the Combined County Authority, once formally constituted, to urge it to use its new devolution powers in adult education to continue to prioritise upskilling our workforce ready for the Net Zero green job revolution.

·  the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero to seek a further £1.8m allocation for Northwest Net Zero Hub, matching the allocation awarded by the previous Conservative Government.

Following a brief adjournment and period of debate and on being put to the vote, the Amendment was CARRIED. The Amendment therefore became the substantive Motion.

 

There being no further Amendments, the substantive Motion as amended was put to the vote and in accordance with Standing Order B46(6), a recorded vote was taken. The names of the county councillors who voted for or against the Motion and those who abstained are set out below:

 

For (47)

 

Ashton	Cullens	Hind	Rigby, S	Turner
Bailey	Cunliffe	Hurn	Riggott	Vincent
Britcliffe	Dowding	Kay	Salter	Westley
Buckley	Edwards	Maxwell-Scott	Schofield	Whittam
Burrows	Gardiner	Mirfin	Shedwick	Williamson
Cheetham	Gooch	Morris	Singleton	Woollam
Clarke	Goulthorp	O'Toole	Smith	Yates
Clempson	Green	Pope	Sutcliffe
Couperthwaite	Hartley	Purcell	Swarbrick
Cox	Haythornthwaite	Rear	Towneley

 

Against (23)

 

Aldridge	De Molfetta	Iqbal	Mein	Snape
Ali	Fillis	Khan, H	Oakes	Tomlinson
Berry	Gibson	Khan, N	Parr	Whittaker
Brown	Hindle	Lewis	Pattison
Clifford	Holgate	Malik	Serridge

 

Abstain (1)

 

Beavers

 

The substantive Motion was therefore CARRIED and it was:

 

Resolved: - That:

 

Following the Labour Party's victory in the July 2024 general election, the new Labour Government has announced Britain will become a clean energy superpower by 2030.

This Council notes:

(i)  The historic Lancashire Devolution transfers new powers and funding to the Lancashire Combined County Authority to support businesses and residents across Lancashire, alongside £20 million of capital funding to invest in local priorities including innovation led growth and net zero ambitions across Lancashire.

(ii)  The Prime Minister's recently announced new mission to put the country on track for at least 95% clean power by 2030, a watering down of his manifesto promise prior to the general election.

 Therefore, this Council resolves to:

(i)  Continue to support and promote local community net zero heat and energy partnerships via the Northwest Community Energy Fund on behalf of the Northwest Net Zero Hub and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.

(ii)  Prioritise net zero and continue to implement the findings of the County Council's own 2023 Low Carbon Feasibility Study on Council owned land and assets including solar and onshore wind technologies.

(iii)Request the Interim Chief Executive to write to:

 

·  the Combined County Authority, once formally constituted, to urge it to use its new devolution powers in adult education to continue to prioritise upskilling our workforce ready for the Net Zero green job revolution.

·  the Secretary of State for Energy, Security and Net Zero to seek a further £1.8m allocation for Northwest Net Zero Hub, matching the allocation awarded by the previous Conservative Government.

 

Notice of Motion 4

 

It was moved by County Councillor Ash Sutcliffe and seconded by County Councillor Scott Smith that:

 

Council recognises that the maintenance and repair of infrastructure placed in/under the Highway by the statutory undertakers is necessary to ensure the continuous provision of vital services to Lancashire residents. Council further recognises the hard work of highways officers in holding statutory undertakers to account and applying strict conditions to permits issued by them. However, Council considers that the current level of inconvenience caused to residents by streetworks is far too great, and that an increase in the level of the fixed penalties and charges that Lancashire County Council is able to levy would incentivise statutory undertaker contractors to complete work in a more timely manner and with less disruption for residents. Council therefore resolves to:

 

(i)  Request that the Interim Chief Executive writes to the Secretary of State for Transport, requesting that the level of fixed penalties and section 74 charges that may be levied upon statutory undertaker contractors carrying out work in the highway be increased.

(ii)  Request that the Interim Chief Executive's letter makes clear to the Secretary of State that any increase in section 74 charges and fixed penalties must not be passed on to customers through higher utility bills.

 

The following friendly Amendment was proposed by County Councillor John Fillis in accordance with Standing Order B43:

 

To add Resolution (iii) as follows:

 

"That any funds raised due to increases in section 74 charges and fixed penalties should be used specifically to fix potholes".

 

Following a brief adjournment, the friendly Amendment was accepted by County Councillor Sutcliffe and became the substantive Motion as follows:

 

Council recognises that the maintenance and repair of infrastructure placed in/under the Highway by the statutory undertakers is necessary to ensure the continuous provision of vital services to Lancashire residents. Council further recognises the hard work of highways officers in holding statutory undertakers to account and applying strict conditions to permits issued by them. However, Council considers that the current level of inconvenience caused to residents by streetworks is far too great, and that an increase in the level of the fixed penalties and charges that Lancashire County Council is able to levy would incentivise statutory undertaker contractors to complete work in a more timely manner and with less disruption for residents. Council therefore resolves to:

 

(i)  Request that the Interim Chief Executive writes to the Secretary of State for Transport, requesting that the level of fixed penalties and section 74 charges that may be levied upon statutory undertaker contractors carrying out work in the highway be increased.

(ii)  Request that the Interim Chief Executive's letter makes clear to the Secretary of State that any increase in section 74 charges and fixed penalties must not be passed on to customers through higher utility bills.

(iii)  That any funds raised due to increases in section 74 charges and fixed penalties should be used specifically to fix potholes.

 

The following Amendment was proposed by County Councillor Scott Smith and seconded by County Councillor Rupert Swarbrick:

 

To amend resolution (iii) to read as follows:

 

"That any funds raised due to increases in section 74 charges and fixed penalties should be used specifically to improve our highways and fix potholes"

 

Following a period of debate and on being put to the vote, the Amendment was CARRIED.

 

There being no further Amendments, the substantive Motion was put to the vote and was CARRIED.

 

It was therefore:

 

Resolved: - That:

 

Council recognises that the maintenance and repair of infrastructure placed in/under the Highway by the statutory undertakers is necessary to ensure the continuous provision of vital services to Lancashire residents. Council further recognises the hard work of highways officers in holding statutory undertakers to account and applying strict conditions to permits issued by them. However, Council considers that the current level of inconvenience caused to residents by streetworks is far too great, and that an increase in the level of the fixed penalties and charges that Lancashire County Council is able to levy would incentivise statutory undertaker contractors to complete work in a more timely manner and with less disruption for residents. Council therefore resolves to:

 

(i)  Request that the Interim Chief Executive writes to the Secretary of State for Transport, requesting that the level of fixed penalties and section 74 charges that may be levied upon statutory undertaker contractors carrying out work in the highway be increased.

(ii)  Request that the Interim Chief Executive's letter makes clear to the Secretary of State that any increase in section 74 charges and fixed penalties must not be passed on to customers through higher utility bills.

(iii)  That any funds raised due to increases in section 74 charges and fixed penalties should be used specifically to improve our highways and fix potholes.

 

 

 

 

 

Resolved: - That the Minutes of the meeting held on 17 October 2024 be confirmed and signed by the Chairman.

County Councillor Phillippa Williamson moved a report setting out the recommendation of the Cabinet from its meeting held on 5 December 2024 in respect of the Lancashire County Council Plan 2025-30: Building a Better Lancashire.

 

Resolved: - That the Lancashire County Council Plan 2025-30: Building a Better Lancashire, as set out at Annex 1 of the report, now presented, be approved.

County Councillor David Westley moved the report of the Overview and Scrutiny Committees from their meetings as follows:

 

-  Scrutiny Management Board (13 November 2024)

-  Children, Families and Skills (6 November 2024)

-  Community, Cultural and Corporate Services (31 October 2024)

-  Environment, Economic Growth and Transport (24 October 2024)

-  Health and Adult Services (30 October 2024)

 

Resolved: - That the report of the Overview and Scrutiny Committees, now presented, be noted.

County Councillor Phillippa Williamson moved the report of the Cabinet from its meeting on 14 November 2024.

 

Resolved: - That the report of the Cabinet, now presented, be noted.

County Councillor Phillippa Williamson moved the report of the Employment Committee from its meeting on 14 November 2024.

 

Resolved: - That the report of the Employment Committee, now presented, be noted.

County Councillor Michael Green moved the report of the Lancashire Health and Wellbeing Board from its meeting on 12 November 2024.

 

Resolved: - That the report of the Lancashire Health and Wellbeing Board, now presented, be noted.

County Councillor Alan Schofield moved a report setting out the recommendation of the Audit, Risk and Governance Committee from its meeting held on 14 October 2024 regarding the appointment of an independent co-opted member.

 

Resolved: - That the appointment of Mr Stephen Dunstan to the role of independent co-opted member on the Audit, Risk and Governance Committee for an initial two-year term from 12 December 2024, as set out in the report, now presented, be approved.

County Councillor Alan Schofield moved the report of the Audit, Risk and Governance Committee from its meeting on 14 October 2024.

 

Resolved: - That the report of the Audit, Risk and Governance Committee, now presented, be noted.

County Councillor Alan Vincent moved a report setting out the recommendation of the Independent Remuneration Panel in relation to the council's Members' Allowance Scheme for 2024/25 following the Panel's meeting on 29 November 2024.

 

Resolved: - That:

 

(i)  The recommendations of the Independent Remuneration Panel, as set out in the report, now presented, relating to the county council's Members' Allowance Scheme, be noted.

(ii)  The revised Members' Allowance Scheme for 2024/25, as set out at Appendix 'A' of the report, now presented, be approved.

Request to approve contract award following a further competition via Eastern Shires Purchasing Organisation (ESPO) Managed Services for Temporary Agency Resources framework (MSTAR4).

Lucy Thompson, Director of People took the decision as set out in the report.

County Councillor Michael Green considered and approved a Local Member Grant of £100 to Chorley Women's Centre towards the cost of improving access to the centre building.

 

County Councillor Ged Mirfin considered and approved a Local Member Grant of £322.34 to Read and Simonstone Village Hall towards the cost of equipment for the village hall.

This decision is to extend the Window Furnishings contract, which provides for the supply and fitting of window furnishings, inclusive of various types and sizes of window blinds.

Noel O'Neill, Director of Finance and Commerce took a decision to extend the contract, as set out in the report.

County Councillor Michael Green considered and rejected a Local Member Grant to Friends of Balderstone School towards the cost of groundwork for a new playground.

The reason for the rejection is County Councillor Michael Green is reserving funding for projects that he believes benefit his division more directly.

 

County Councillor David Howarth considered and rejected a Local Member Grant to Friends of Balderstone School towards the cost of groundwork for a new playground.

The reason for the rejection is County Councillor David Howarth would like to reserve funding to support organisations that benefit his division.

County Councillor Barrie Yates considered and approved a Local Member Grant for the reduced amount of £100 to Friends of Balderstone School towards the cost of groundwork for a new playground.

 

The reason for reduction County Councillor Barrie Yates is reserving funding to support organisation that operate in his division.

County Councillor Usman Arif considered and rejected a Local Member Grant to S.I.S – Strength In Struggles towards the cost of venue hire, workshops, refreshments, therapeutic sessions and stationary/workbooks.

The reason for the rejection is the date of the project passed before we received a decision from County Councillor Usman Arif and we can't award a grant retrospectively.

County Councillor Lian Pate considered and rejected a Local Member Grant to S.I.S – Strength In Struggles towards the cost of venue hire, workshops, refreshments, therapeutic sessions and stationary/workbooks.

The reason for the rejection is the date of the project passed before we received a decision from County Councillor Lian Pate and we can't award a grant retrospectively.

 

County Councillor Munsif Dad BEM JP considered and approved a Local Member Grant for the reduced amount of £100 to S.I.S – Strength In Struggles towards the cost of equipment for the village hall.

A decision to extend the contract for the provision of Occupational Health Services.

Sakthi Karunanithi, Director of Public Health, Wellbeing and Communities took a decision to extend the contract for the provision of Occupational Health Services, as set out in the report.

County Councillor Rob Bailey considered and approved a Local Member Grant of £250 to Girlguiding Ormskirk & Skelmersdale Division towards the cost of membership fees for student volunteers.

The Committee considered a report setting out the updated work programme of the Company Member Cabinet Committee for 2024 / 25.  It was noted that in addition to the company updates a new company directors conflict of interest protocol was being developed with it anticipated that this would be submitted to the March 2025 Committee meeting for approval with it requested that appropriate training be provided for directors once the protocol is finalised.

 

Resolved:  that the updated work programme for 2024/25 be approved.

Resolved:  that under Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972, the press and public should be excluded from the meeting during the consideration of the following items of business on the grounds that there would be a likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in the appropriate paragraph of Part I of Scheduled 12A to the Local Government Act 1972.

None

Resolved: That the minutes of the meeting held on 31 October 2024 be confirmed as an accurate record and signed by the Chair.

The committee considered the work programme for the 2024/25 municipal year, and an update on actions and assurances.

 

Resolved: That

 

1. The work programme for 2024/25 at Appendix 'A' of the report be noted; and
2. The information included in the reports for the 12 February 2025 meeting of the Committee be confirmed.

The Chair welcomed Laurence Ainsworth, Director of Strategy and Innovation, and Joanne Byrne, Service Design Lead, to the meeting.

 

The report and PowerPoint presentation provided information on developing a Change Management Strategy. It was noted that a refreshed approach to managing major organisational change was being finalised, which would also align to the forthcoming Council Plan and Medium Term-Financial Strategy. A copy of the PowerPoint presentation is appended to these minutes.

 

Comments and queries raised from the committee were as follows:

 

· Further information was requested on what the future of local government looked like, the cultural changes needed and how it would be supported, and for this to be circulated to members of the committee.

 

· The recent staff conferences were well-received, and there was a growing acceptance of change among county council staff. Additionally, there was a continued focus on involving staff in the change process, with plans to introduce change clinics and toolkits.

 

· How the county council currently used Artificial Intelligence technologies, and how it compared with other local authorities was discussed. It was noted that the county council had developed a comprehensive digital strategy following significant engagement with services and users, with Artificial Intelligence being a key component of that strategy. Additionally, the Digital by Design programme had been initiated, which includes the application of Artificial Intelligence technology using an agile approach. It was suggested that a more detailed plan outlining the council's current position and its future direction be presented to the committee as part of a future update on the digital strategy.

 

· It was also noted that the county council participated in the Local Government Association's Transformation and Innovation Exchange network, which provided an opportunity for councils to share best practice in relation to major change. It was suggested that a briefing note be circulated to the committee on how the county council was using the network to carry out benchmarking with other local authorities.

 

· What a 'lean and agile' county council looked like was discussed and it was noted that there was a need for a one-council approach and greater interaction between different council services. The importance of equipping the workforce with transferable skills, including digital literacy and change management was also highlighted.

 

· The need for ongoing staff development and training to adapt to changing circumstances, and for better information exchange across departments to enhance effectiveness was also highlighted by the committee.

 

· The staff conferences were open to all staff, held in various locations around the county, and were broadcast live for wider accessibility. Feedback from the conferences was being reviewed to improve future sessions.

 

·  The committee emphasised the need of involving frontline staff in the change management process to ensure practical and effective solutions were being developed. It was also noted that the agile approach method being used included real-time feedback from staff at all levels.

 

· The committee requested that further information on the role and function of the Change and Digital Officer Board be provided at a future meeting. It was noted that change clinics were planned to be introduced in the new year, which would provide face-to-face sessions for staff to discuss and test new ideas and aimed to enhance staff engagement and gather practical feedback for ongoing projects. A request for more information on how the change clinics would work be provided to the committee at a future meeting.

 

· The role of elected members in reviewing the change strategy was discussed. It was noted that the committee had previously examined different elements of the strategy, and updates on these elements could be followed up at future meetings. It was therefore requested that the committee's work programme align with key milestones of future change programme going forward.

 

· It was noted that a variety of people across the organisation, such as Cabinet Members, directors, senior officers, and the change service team were key change architects, and there was an emphasis on the collective role of these individuals in driving change across the council.

 

· The importance of keeping members informed about the change programmes was highlighted by the committee. It was felt that members could be kept informed in various ways, including following up on work previously done by the committee or by arranging Bite Size Briefings on individual programmes.

 

The Chair thanked the officers for their attendance and answering the committee's questions.

 

Resolved: That

 

  i.  Briefing notes on the following be circulated to the Committee:

 

a.  Further information on what the future of local government looks like, the cultural changes needed and how this will be supported.

b.  Further information on a narrative that explains the change agenda and the future of the organisation.

c.  Further information on officer governance arrangements to support change.

d.  An overview of how wider change outside of the change portfolio will be supported (including the role of the Change Influencers Network and proposed 'Change Clinics').

e.  How elected members will be kept engaged as individual programmes progress.

 

ii.  The Committee consider the county council's approach to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital change at a future meeting as part of progress against the digital strategy. 

 

iii.  The Scrutiny Management Board be asked to support the engagement and encouragement of member involvement, and challenge through effective forward planning of scrutiny activity –

 

· Ensuring that work programme timetables were aligned to key milestones of programmes within the change portfolio.

 

· Ensuring that members and all organisation leaders be engaged, as work progresses, as to the major change portfolio as a whole in order to maintain sight of inter-dependencies and overall delivery.

The Authority is seeking a Service Provider to work with the Lancashire Skills and Employment Hub to deliver a comprehensive, bespoke, STEM enrichment programme focused on cyber, digital and technology careers and related The Authority is seeking a Service Provider to work with the Lancashire Skills and Employment Hub to deliver a comprehensive, bespoke, STEM enrichment programme focused on cyber, digital and technology careers and related skills.

Simon Lawrence, Director of Growth and Regeneration took a decision to approve to commence the RFQ Process, a separate decision in relation to the award will be recorded once the quotation process has been completed.

Approval is sought for the County Council to enter into a Section 106 agreement, under Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, in relation to Wyre Council planning application 23/00122/FULMAJ which is a full application to erect 42 dwellings at the land off Fleetwood Road North, Thornton Cleveleys.

 

A planning contribution of £43,276 (forty-three thousand two hundred and seventy-six pounds) is required for the following works:

 

a)£14,410 (fourteen thousand four hundred and ten pounds) towards the provision of improvements to the Bourne Way/Road and Fleetwood Road North signalised junction; and

 

b)£28,866 (twenty-eight thousand eight hundred and eighty-six pounds) towards the provision of safety improvements to Fleetwood Road North from its junction with Bourne Way/Road to its junction with Victoria Road East;

 

c)or any similar provision;

 

Authority to take this decision has been delegated under the Scheme of Delegation to Heads of Service.

 

It is recommended that the Director of Law and Governance is authorised to enter into a Section 106 agreement under Section 106 of the Town & Country Planning Act 1990 in connection with the proposed development.

John Davies, Head of Highways Network Management, on behalf of Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport took a decision to approve the recommendation in the report.