Decisions

Sarah Robinson, Head of Service, Property took the decision as set out in the report.

Sarah Robinson, Head of Service, Property took the decision as set out in the report.

Sarah Robinson, Head of Service, Property took the decision as set out in the report.

Procurement of Directory of Services solution to consolidate and streamline the management of service information across various departments and external partners, ensuring that residents, practitioners, and partner agencies have access to accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive service information.

Sakthi Karunanithi, Director of Public Health, Wellbeing and Communities took a decision to proceed with the initiation of procurement of Directory of Services solution.

A decision following a quick quote tendering exercise amongst eight consultancies for advising the constituent authorities on the transport functions for the Combined County Authority, WSP was successful as the highest scoring bidder.

Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport took a decision to award a contract to WSP UK Limited for the provision of Lancashire Combined County Authority Transport Structure Support following a multiple quote process. The contract commencement date is 13 February 2025, with an initial term with an option for extension.

Adjustment of budgets to clear unprocessed costs on 24/25 ABC, 24/25 Urban, 24/25 Rural & 24/25 Drainage.

Ridwan Musa, Head of Service, on behalf of the Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport took a decision to approve transfer of budgets.

 A decision to approve an increase to the number of Lots and Apprenticeship Standards included in the tender for the Provision of Apprenticeship Levy Training and Assessment Providers

A request to approve the commencement of the procurement exercise for the Provision of Apprenticeship Levy Training and Assessment Providers was approved by Cabinet on Thursday 6^th February 2025.

The procurement report stated that the tender will be divided into 16 Lots and will cover 36 apprenticeship standards.

After further evaluation of work force plans, it was considered that additional Lots and standards would be required, increasing the number of Lots to 21 and 44 apprenticeship standards. It was confirmed there would be no change to the estimated annual contract value.

Included in the report is the authorisation for the Director of People to take any decision to amend Lots and Apprenticeship Standards as necessary.

Lucy Thompson, Director of People, took a decision to increase the number of Lots from 16 to 21 and the Apprenticeship Standards from 36 to 44.

Peter Bell, Highway Regulation Manager, on behalf of Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport, took the decision to approve the introduction of bus stop clearways.

The Head of Service – Highway Operations and Design approved the award of a mini competition for Traffic Management Services for Nelson Town Deal – Section 5 on behalf of the Director of Highways and Transport in accordance with the Council's Scheme of Delegation.

The mini competition has been published to all service providers appointed to the Traffic Management Framework.

6 no. responses were received to the mini competition and have been evaluated in line with the terms of the Framework. The Highways Service Operations Manager for the scheme has also approved the evaluation of the returns.

Ridwan Musa – Head of Service Highway Operations and Design, on behalf of Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport, took the decision as set out in the report.

A decision on the scheme that was brought forward to 22/23 to be delivered under road closure for retaining wall works but was never put forward for funding as a 23/24 scheme hence doesn't have an approved budget. Transfer of various underspends on ABC programmes to fund.

Ridwan Musa, Head of Service, on behalf of the Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport took a decision to approve transfer of budgets as set out in Appendix 'A'.

Members were provided with an overview of matters presented and considered by the Councillor Support Steering Group at its meetings held on 10 October and 28 November 2024.

Resolved: That the report of the Councillor Support Steering Group be received.

The Cabinet meeting of the 9^th May 2024 approved the County Council's 2024/25 Transport Programme, funded by the Department for Transport's Integrated Transport Grant totalling £6.592m, which included a £0.4m allocation for Accrington Railway Station.

A draft Development Services Agreement has been produced by Network Rail in respect of continuing design development of the Accrington Railway Station Access for All scheme. The scheme will ultimately create better connections between platforms and the main station building and will increase accessibility to a wider range of destinations for a wider range of rail passengers.

The preferred method of delivery for this stage of the project is for Network Rail to undertake design development and associated project management activities via a direct award, given the interaction and close proximity of the project to the operational railway.

This follows the approach taken by the county council on the Burnley Manchester Road and Cottam Parkway railway station projects where direct contract awards were made to Network Rail for design development activities.

It is proposed that this stage of the project be delivered by Network Rail under a standard Direct Services Agreement and under Network Rail's Project Acceleration in a Controlled Environment (PACE) process. It was originally envisaged that Network Rail undertake design activities to the end of ES4 (single option development stage) but they have been unable to resource this within financial year 2024/25.

Network Rail's internal staff and framework contractors will be used to deliver the project's design package. Network Rail's frameworks have been competitively tendered to comply with procurement legislation and assessed on value for money with mandatory ‘gateway’ standards pertaining to safety and engineering.

The completion of this stage of design activities totalling c.£50k (PACE Phase 1, Engineering Stage 3 Option Selection) will be used to inform bids for future funding to enable scheme delivery and will: 

-  Conclude the Option Selection phase of design

-  Complete site surveys including mining risk assessment, signal sighting, structural, drainage and topographical surveys 

-  Produce an ES3 stage validation procurement strategy and requirements document 

-  Provide an indicative estimated cost and programme for the next ES4 – 5 single option and detailed design stages

Funding for the project has been set up within the County Council's financial system within PPMS ID 15348.

The Director of Highways and Transport, in consultation with the Head of Procurement, took the decision to;

(i)  Approve the progression of the Accrington Railway Station Access for All project design package with Network Rail to a value of circa £50,000.

(ii)  Approve a waiver of the county council's procurement rules as set out at paragraph 12 of the Procurement Rules, to allow a direct award of a contract (via a Development Services Agreement) to be made to Network Rail to enable Network Rail to deliver the next stage of design development.

County Councillor Cosima Towneley considered and approved a Local Member Grant of £395 to Cliviger Monday Club towards the cost of a coach trip and outing.

The Chair welcomed County Councillor Rupert Swarbrick, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, Ridwan Musa, Head of Highways Operations and Design and Kirstie Williams, Highways Group Manager – Countywide Maintenance to the meeting.

A report was provided on reactive maintenance performance regarding structural defects including potholes. It was noted that the key national standing was Local Authorities in England had experienced real time cuts in the construction industry, 45% of authorities had reported a cut or freeze in the budget and the additional amount needed to maintain networks was £1.22b, with an average shortfall was £7.2m per authority. Regarding Lancashire, it was noted that there was a 33% overall improvement of ABC road networks and an estimated shortfall per annum of £20-25m. It was further noted that 109,000 highways reports had been received since April 2024 and the top enquires remained the general road condition and potholes.

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

·  Regarding the unclassified road network at end of life, the committee raised concern that the backlog would not be addressed by March 2025 and queried if this would be addressed after Phase 2. It was highlighted that there was a significant backlog of work and a severe shortfall in funding and so it was unlikely officers would be able to address the backlog in the near future. A future timeline for this could be brought back to the committee at a later date. Further to this, the committee was informed that the cost to bring the whole network to a satisfactory condition was £160m. It was noted that funds could not be focussed on one type of road at a time, as the rest of the network would be neglected.

·  It was clarified to members that blacktop repairs referred to tarmac repair (edge of carriageways, potholes) in the footway and road whereas masonry repairs referred to block and stone paving and kerbing (grey materials).

·  Information on the number of defects between footways and carriageways was requested.

·  Regarding the extra highways funding announced by central government, members were informed that the funds would be received in the 2024/25 financial year and that it equalled approximately £12m. A report on how the funding would be allocated was due to be presented to Cabinet in March 2025.

·  It was explained that 5% of all works completed from both contractors and county council staff were inspected. Further to this, it was highlighted that there were processes in place to review the contracts and terminate them with contractors who did not complete works to the expected standards. The Cabinet Member agreed to provide further information on the standard of reinstatements by utility companies.

·  Members were informed that contractors were required to complete a pothole repair free of charge, should their original repair be unsatisfactory. However, it was highlighted that pothole repairs were not a permanent solution and did not compare to resurfacing a road.

·  It was highlighted that a review of the gully system in Lancashire would be undertaken over the next 2 years to establish a routine for their maintenance.

·  Regarding the disparity with the allocation of funding for each district, it was explained that a ratio was used to determine allocations based on network length and defect reports. It was also highlighted that funding could be diverted in year if sudden defects arose.

·  Members raised concern regarding the cost of repairing potholes being halved and queried if this indicated an issue with lower quality materials being used. The committee was informed that good quality materials were being used, but that repairs had gotten smaller over time meaning that maximising repairs up to 5m² was no longer happening and this was the reason for the saving.

·  In regard to the condition of the network, it was explained that the council's area teams were on patrol and attended every report made by the public and two inspector teams were active across the county. GAIST survey reports were also utilised to gauge the network's condition. It was noted that highways staff logged defect reports.

·  The committee raised concern that the benchmarking information provided had evidenced that Lancashire's performance was not improving and further queried how the county council could learn from those well performing authorities. It was highlighted that there were several factors affecting performance including Lancashire's diverse topography, and differences in funding and resources. However, it was felt that with the resources available, the council was in a good position.

·  The committee was informed that approximately 50% of reported faults resulted in repairs and whilst officers welcomed the public identifying defects, the challenges around this was that mass reporting of the same fault used a substantial amount of manager time to ensure all reporters were linked and received the same updates.

·  On general condition reports, the committee queried which avenue of reporting these were most often received through. Members were informed that these inquiries often came from people writing to the county council and were not always focussed on a defect but rather queries about whether work such as resurfacing would be undertaken.

·  The committee raised concern in regard to the recruitment and retention within Highways Operations, particularly management posts. It was suggested that the Cabinet Member gives consideration to reviewing the recruitment and retention offer to determine if it needs to change or improve.

Members put on record their appreciation for the operations staff who were responding to recent storm events (Storm Éowyn) in the county.

Resolved: That the Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport gives consideration to reviewing the recruitment and retention offer for Highways Operations to determine if it needs to change or improve.

The Chair welcomed County Councillor Rupert Swarbrick, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, Ridwan Musa, Head of Highways Operations and Design, Sarah Scott, Highways Operational Support and Liaison Manager and Ned Dave, Senior ICT Architect to the meeting.

A report was provided on changes implemented to the Love Clean Streets app since December 2023. It was highlighted to the committee that the most reported category remained potholes with a similar number of reports as the previous year (around 14,000). It was noted that the Customer Access call centre had received 40,000 calls between January and December 2024 and 12,900 of these were subsequently logged with the Highways Asset Management System. Furthermore, it was noted that a plan was in place to address faults within the app.

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

·  The committee raised concern that the 'description' box when reporting a fault was mandatory, and that users couldn't progress their report to the council without completing it. It was felt certain defects did not require a description to be included when using the app and it was suggested that the mandatory requirement be turned off on a trial basis. It was confirmed that this field currently was mandatory however this could be removed.

·  It was felt the mapping for gullies and grids was incomplete following recent attempts to report defects with such assets.

·  In regard to inputting fault reports into the app, it was queried if duplicate reports were given individual references. It was clarified to the committee that when a report was received, if it met the initial criteria for review, back office staff completed an assessment so an officer could determine the response time. It was highlighted to members that this did not mean a higher reported fault would be repaired quicker. Every report had to go through the triage system.

·  The committee expressed their support for the rebranding of the Love Clean Streets App, specifically for the app to be more Lancashire focussed.

·  One member reported that people had been instructed by the Customer Access Centre to use the app. It was explained to the committee that whilst the most efficient way to report a fault was via the app, the Customer Access call centre was staffed, and reports could be submitted over the phone. It was acknowledged that the call centre automated message encouraged people to use the app. However, members were advised that if someone preferred to make a call rather than use the app to stay on the call until they reach a person.

·  The committee queried if when submitting a report in an area with no phone signal, whether the report would send once the phone received a signal. It was explained to the committee that the supplier of the Love Clean Streets App could provide this information and that officers would look to explore this issue with the supplier to determine if this needed further development.

·  On working with parish councils to report defects via the app, one member reported that a number of grit bins did not appear on the map. It was highlighted that if grit bins did not appear on the app, it was more than likely because they did not belong to the county council.

·  In regard to anonymous reporting, it was explained that this feature had been requested by members and residents from feedback received who simply wanted to carry out their civic duty and report issues rather than having to setup an account and register their details. It was highlighted that whilst this intended development would streamline the process of reporting for the public, if the fault was progressed, no updates or feedback would be provided to the reporter. It was acknowledged that this would need to be made clear to anonymous reporters using the app.

·  Members were informed that the digital services' improvement timescales for the Love Clean Streets App included the message reporting errors being resolved in the first three months of 2025, then moving to the app's rebrand in June 2025. Further information on the timescales for each of the developments listed in the report would be circulated to the committee in due course.

·  Regarding footway defect reporting, it was confirmed that figures on this would be circulated to the committee at a later date.

·  It was confirmed that the procurement phase for the Highways Asset Management System (HAMS) had ended and would move to implementation around 1April 2025. The current HAMS system would be retired in March 2026 when the contract expired. It was confirmed that integration with the app was listed as a mandatory requirement.

·  Members reiterated the need to resolve reports being closed before the work had been completed and for the update messages to provide more detail.

Resolved: That;

(i)  The Environment, Economic Growth and Transport Scrutiny Committee supports the potential rebrand of the Love Clean Streets App to be more Lancashire focussed.

(ii)  That the Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport gives consideration to:

a.  Removing the mandatory description in the Love Clean Streets App for a trial period.

b.  Reviewing out of signal reporting incidents.

c.  Updating the Asset maps on the App to reflect what is stored at the County Council with particular reference to grit bins and gullies.

Members were provided with a report on the tracking and delivery of savings agreed by Full Council in the current and previous financial years.

Members were informed that the savings delivery currently stood at 46%. It was reported that Adult Services was carrying around £21m overspend due to non delivery of planned savings agreed from several years ago. The subsequent pandemic and the ongoing impact meant that those savings had not been successfully delivered and would be replaced with savings that were determined to be achievable. Nevertheless, it was reported that there had been recent improvements seen and positive steps to meet savings.

It was highlighted that mitigations remained in place which included accelerating some savings identified from next year to this year. In addition, work had been undertaken with reviewing IT budgets. Furthermore, good service performance in children's services had been evident, with progress on reducing numbers of children in care.

Members were invited to ask questions and a summary of discussions is detailed below:

It was felt that with the savings challenges in Adult Services, a longer term plan was required.  In addition, a query was raised as to the next steps to help manage the ongoing overspend. It was reported that for the 2025/26 budget, £46m savings were withdrawn for a more realistic and achievable target, with a longer term plan incorporated. Members were assured that significant work had been undertaken to ensure rigour remained in place. A revised savings plan would be available by the end of March.

A query was raised as to how the future savings tracker would be presented. It was felt by some members that an improved savings tracker should be arranged by RAG rating, and include more detail on where there were short, medium, and longer term plans. However, it was acknowledged that there was already a considerable amount of information provided, but agreed there was a need to ensure clarity of information.

Resolved: That:

1. The current savings position be acknowledged.
2. The new savings tracker be presented to the next meeting of the Scrutiny Management Board.

Members were provided with a report on the 2024/25 work programmes for the Scrutiny Management Board and the four scrutiny committees. The report also provided information as part of the actions and assurances regarding future work programme items linked to the Board's Terms of Reference. A formal written response from the Cabinet Member for Resources, HR and Property (Deputy Leader) to the Board's recommendations on Mental Health in the Construction Industry was also included.

Members were updated on the development of the brief for the forthcoming report on 'Flood Risk Management - Environment Agency Flood Defence and Alleviation Schemes' to the Environment, Economic Growth and Transport Scrutiny Committee. It was suggested that the additional information on flooding emergency response and communications be set out in a separate report rather than as a combined report.

Members discussed the request from the Community, Cultural and Corporate Services Scrutiny Committee in the report. The recommendation was 'to support the engagement and encouragement of member involvement, and challenge through effective forward planning of scrutiny activity ensuring that:

1.  Work programme timetables were aligned to key milestones of programmes within the change portfolio.

2.  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.'

It was clarified that this related to any key milestones identified through the county council's Change Management Programme, ensuring that all committees were aware of any changes, particularly with technology and the use of AI.

Resolved: That:

1. The work programmes and changes outlined in the report be approved.
2. The formal written response from County Councillor Alan Vincent, Cabinet Member for Resources, HR and Property (Deputy Leader) to the Board's recommendations on Mental Health in the Construction Industry be noted.
3. Any outstanding recommendations from the 2024/25 work programmes be incorporated into the work of the scrutiny committees in 2025/26.

A copy of the 2024/25 Quarter 3 Financial Monitoring Report as presented to Cabinet at its meeting held on 6 February 2025 is set out at Annex 'A'.

The Chair welcomed CC Alan Vincent, Cabinet Member for Resources, HR and Property (Deputy Leader), Noel O'Neill, Interim Director of Finance and Commerce and Kate Lee, Head of Service Financial Management to the meeting.

The report presented provided an update on the county council's 2024/25 revenue budget and capital financial position, as at the end of Quarter 3.

It was reported that the forecast outturn position was an overspend of £12.737m which was a reduction of £4.338m from the position predicted at Quarter 2 following further mitigating actions. Actions were continuing throughout Quarter 4 to try to further improve the position.

The forecast outturn for capital delivery programme for 2024/25 was reported to be £200.697m which was an underspend of £2.542m (1.25%) on the planned programme.

Members were invited to ask questions and a summary of discussion detailed below:

With regard to workforce, it was confirmed that there remained challenges in sickness absence and recruitment. However, it was highlighted that some improvement had been seen in levels of sickness absence across the council. Vacancies remained across all services, particularly in the more public facing services, and to mitigate this, agency and consultancy use was ongoing which was reported to be more expensive.

A suggestion was made that workforce and sickness absence could be incorporated in each of the scrutiny committees work programmes. It was highlighted that workforce matters had been reported to a previous meeting of the Community, Cultural and Corporate Services Scrutiny Committee with a number of recommendations to be reported back to a future meeting. It was felt that this suggestion could be considered as part of an informal meeting of the Scrutiny Chairs and Deputy Chairs taking place in March.

On the subject of the care market, it was reported that further work was required on engagement. It was highlighted that there were ongoing challenges to in house Residential Care budget, primarily due to running costs such as buildings maintenance and oncosts. Further to this, members were advised that there was a surplus of places and ongoing recruitment challenges, resulting in increased reliance on agency workers across the care home sector. A request was made for a list of contracts and care home providers delivering services on the county council's behalf.

Resolved: That:

1. The 2024/25 Quarter 3 Financial Monitoring Report be noted with no further comments to Cabinet.
2. Further discussions on the reporting of workforce and sickness absence to individual scrutiny committees be held at the next meeting of the Scrutiny Chairs and Deputy Chairs in March to identify a way forward.

A copy of the 2025/26 Budget Report which will be considered by Cabinet at its meeting on 6 February 2025 is set out at Annex 'A'.

Members were provided with a report on the 2025/26 Budget Report to be considered by Cabinet on 6 February 2025.

It was reported that the 2025/26 revenue budget requirement was £1,244.217m, with funding levels to support this being £1,234.989m. This has resulted in a financial gap of £9.228m in 2025/26, to be funded by the transitional reserve. It was highlighted however that there were £100m in savings required to be achieved in the next two years (including the previously agreed and forecasted savings). The new savings identified have been included in Table 5 of the report.

As previously reported, a more realistic savings target has been identified for Adult Services. But a key requirement was to deliver all savings identified across the council.

Members were invited to ask questions and a summary of discussions detailed below:

Members considered a suggestion for all political groups to come together to discuss the savings required as part of a possible new scrutiny committee, and to consider a potential structure to form part of the decision making process.

Members raised concerns that the focus should be on when the savings could be realised, as any significant changes would potentially only see future rather than immediate savings. Members were assured that management effort was primarily focussed on achieving savings.

It was highlighted to members that savings were not 'cuts' to services, more an opportunity to review current processes to identify 'efficiencies' to better support service provision. The new Council Plan sought to address this. However, alongside the plan, there remained a need to monitor budgets to ensure that those services continued to support families.

Members felt that the report was difficult to read in part, due to the need for considerable cross referencing. It was agreed that finance colleagues would seek to review the report in light of the feedback provided.

Resolved: That the information provided on the 2025/26 Budget Report be noted.

A decision for the commencement of a mini-competition procurement exercise from the Reactive and Planned Improvement Works Framework (Lot 6) for the Boiler Replacement at Ormskirk Neighbourhood.

Sarah Robinson, Head of Service Property, on behalf of Noel O'Neill, Director of Finance and Commerce, took the decision which has been delegated to her in accordance with the Council's Directorate Schemes of Delegation for the approval of the commencement of a mini-competition procurement process to publish a mini competition from Reactive and Planned Improvement Works (Lot 6) at Ormskirk Neighbourhood Centre – Boiler Replacement.

County Councillor Tim Ashton considered and rejected a Local Member Grant to Friends of the Lancashire County Ensembles (FLCE)  towards the cost of venue hire and part-payment towards a band.

The reason for the rejection is County Councillor Tim Ashton has other priorities for his remaining funding.

Sarah Robinson, Head of Service, Property on behalf of Noel O'Neill, Interim Director of Finance and Commerce, took the decision as set out in the report.

Sarah Robinson, Head of Service, Property on behalf of Noel O'Neill, Interim Director of Finance and Commerce, took the decision as set out in the report.

Sarah Robinson, Head of Service, Property on behalf of Noel O'Neill, Interim Director of Finance and Commerce, took the decision as set out in the report.

Sarah Robinson, Head of Service, Property on behalf of Noel O'Neill, Interim Director of Finance and Commerce, took the decision as set out in the report.

Sarah Robinson, Head of Service, Property on behalf of Noel O'Neill, Interim Director of Finance and Commerce, took the decision as set out in the report.

County Councillor Andrew Gardiner considered and rejected a Local Member Grant to Lancaster District Community & Voluntary Solutions (LDCVS) towards the cost of towards supporting the costs of the Lancaster District CVS Volunteer Achievement Awards 2025.

The reason for the rejection is County Councillor Andrew Gardiner is reserving his remaining funding for an organisation operating in his division solely.

County Councillor Phillippa Williamson considered and rejected a Local Member Grant to Lancaster District Community & Voluntary Solutions (LDCVS) towards supporting the costs of the Lancaster District CVS Volunteer Achievement Awards 2025.

The reason for the rejection is County Councillor Phillippa Williamson is reserving her remaining funding for a project in her division.

A decision to approve the works to Operational Premises programme.

Lucie Greenwood, Property Asset Principal, on behalf of Noel O'Neill, Interim Director of Finance and Commerce took the decision as set out in the report.

County Councillor Jennifer Mein considered and approved a Local Member Grant of £800 to Sahara in Preston towards the cost of materials and activities for BME women.

A decision on the future provision of a Copilot licences.

Peter Lloyd, Director of Digital took a decision to approve the modification to the contract as set out in this report.

County Councillor Andrew Gardiner considered and approved a Local Member Grant of £404.95to Friends of Heysham Library towards the cost of sensory toys.

County Councillor Scott Smith considered and approved a Local Member Grant of £100 to Whitworth Leisure Centre CIC towards the cost of specialist swimming equipment.

A decision to approve minor adaptations work at The Sunshine Centre building.

Sarah Robinson, Head of Property Service, on behalf of the Noel O'Neill, Director of Finance and Commerce took the decision as set out in the report.

A decision to undertake a quotation process (RFQ) to appoint a specialist contractor for the provision of metal work fabrication/installation and rust treatment to Moor Lane Canal Bridge, Lancaster.

Ridwan Musa, Head of Service Highway Operations and Design, on behalf of Matt Townsend, Director of Highway and Transport, took the decision which has been delegated to him in accordance with 9.52 (50) of the Council's Scheme of Delegation to Officers, to approve the commencement of an RFQ to appoint a contractor for the work at Moor Lane Canal Bridge, Lancaster for the provision of metal work fabrication/installation and rust treatment.

A decision to undertake a quotation process (RFQ) to appoint a specialist contractor for joint repairs to Lune West Bridge, Lancaster.

Ridwan Musa, Head of Service Highway Operations and Design, on behalf of Matt Townsend, took the decision which has been delegated to him in accordance with 9.52 (50) of the Council's Scheme of Delegation to Officers, to approve the commencement of an RFQ to appoint a contractor for the work at Lune West Bridge, Lancaster for the removal and replacement of joints to the structure.

A decision on the supply of paving for the Nelson Town Deal.

Ridwan Musa, Head of Service Highway Operations and Design, on behalf of Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport, took the decision which has been delegated to him in accordance with 9.52 (51) of the Council's Scheme of Delegation to Officers, to approve the award, as set out in the report.

Ridwan Musa, Head of Service Highway Operations and Design on behalf of Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport, took the decision which has been delegated to him in accordance with 9.52 (50) of the Council's Scheme of Delegation to Officers, to approve the decision to issue a mini-competition for the supply of concrete to Farington South Ribble Cricket Ground, as set out in the report.

A decision on transfer of Funds for Nelson Bus/Rail Interchange Accessibility Improvements.

Andrew Varley, Head of Service, Public and Integrated Transport, on behalf of Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport took the decision as set out in the report.

Jonathan Edwards, Director of Environment and Planning took a decision to approve the award of contracts for the provision of Non-Recyclable Household Waste Acceptance and Recovery Services following a procurement exercise, as set out in the report.

County Councillor Kim Snape considered and approved a Local Member Grant of £300 to Adlington Community Food Club towards the cost of alleviating food poverty, food wastage and social isolation.

A decision to approve 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 the decision as set out in the report.

Resolved: That the press and members of the public be excluded from the meeting during 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 Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972.

Paul Fairclough, Head of Procurement and Contract Management presented a report on the recommendations following an external review of the council's procurement service by KPMG.

Members thanked the Procurement Service for their work and highlighted that value for money and safety in the council's contract management processes was a key concern for residents.

It was clarified that, in the event that a service provided by a contractor was not delivered to a high enough standard, such as highway repairs, it was the council's intention to hold them to account through robust contract management processes and/or by excluding suppliers from future projects if they had failed to deliver a previous contract.

It was requested that more information about the target completion dates for each of the recommendations made by KPMG be provided after the meeting, and that a summary of this piece of work be shared with all members via the next C-First newsletter. Procurement and contract management processes would also be included in the member induction programme after the May 2025 election.

Resolved: That the report be noted.

Heloise MacAndrew, Director of Law and Governance presented the updated Corporate Risk and Opportunity Register.

It was noted that the next quarter's actions identified in relation to Corporate Opportunity 1: Sub Regional Place Leadership and Governance should have had a target date of March 2025.

Members commented that the newly added risks were timely and reflected the challenges facing the council.

It was noted that a briefing note on lessons learned from the public interest report on Woking Borough Council had recently been shared with the Chair. Reports such as this helped the council to identify learning from other authorities. The officer Compliance and Assurance Board considered these reports when they were published. It was agreed an annual report to summarise the key risks and learning identified should be included on the committee's work plan, with any significant findings relating to the county council's arrangements reported sooner. In the meantime, the briefing note on Woking Borough Council's report and a list of other best value / public interest reports would be shared after the meeting.

In response to a query about risks relating to Local Pensions Partnership Administration (LPPA), members were advised that these risks were reported through the directorates' reporting processes like all other risks and, if necessary, would be escalated to the corporate register.

Resolved: That

i.  The updated Corporate Risk and Opportunity Register be approved; and

ii.  An annual report of learning from best value / public interest reports be added to the Audit, Risk and Governance Committee's work plan.

Josh Mynott, Head of Democratic Services presented an annual summary of all complaints received in 2024 against county councillors under the Code of Member Conduct.

In response to questions from members, it was highlighted that:

·  Although there had been an increase in the number of complaints received, there had not been a worsening of members' conduct and the standard of conduct by Lancashire County Councillors remained high. During election years, there was increased attention placed on members which could result in more complaints. The new Code of Member Conduct Complaints Procedure also meant more complaints were formally recorded compared with previous years.

·  The council did not currently collect feedback from complainants about whether they felt the Monitoring Officer's response and course of action in relation to their complaint was satisfactory. How to collect this information in future would be considered further.

·  Currently, the law did not allow the Conduct Committee to take or uphold any action in relation to a member who was found to have breached the Code of Member Conduct, other than requiring an apology or for the subject member to undertake training.

Resolved: That the Annual Report of Complaints be noted.

Sarah Ironmonger, Partner at Grant Thornton UK presented the Interim Auditor's Annual Report 2023/24.

It was highlighted that the report was interim up until it was signed, although the auditors were not expecting to make any changes.

It was noted that management's responses to the auditors' recommendations IR2 and IR7 should both have referred to Ofsted, not the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Both would be corrected.

In response to questions from members, it was clarified that:

·  The management actions with a target date of January 2025 indicated that action was already being taken to respond to the auditors' advice. It did not indicate whether the action or issue had been resolved fully.

·  The council's Overview and Scrutiny function was important and recommendation IR5 related to the auditors' view that scrutiny was enhanced when it was undertaken by different political parties. It was recommended that the membership and strength of the scrutiny committees should be kept under review, especially as the council's political make-up might change during an election year.

·  Regarding IR4, consultation was something the council was required to undertake. The auditors recognised that encouraging residents to respond to consultations could be difficult. Some authorities found that the electorate only became more engaged as the authority's financial difficulties increased. The council would look at best practice in response to the auditors' recommendation.

Resolved: That the Interim Auditor's Annual Report 2023/24 be noted.

Khadija Saeed, Head of Corporate Finance and Exchequer Services presented the council's statement of accounts for 2023/24 and management letters of representation.

The committee was asked to re-approve the statement of accounts which had been amended following the external audit, which was now substantially complete.

In response to questions, members were informed that:

·  Section 278 monies received by the council were not listed explicitly in the accounts. If they were unspent, they were included in the council's balance sheet under 'capital grants unapplied' and, if they were spent, they were included in the Comprehensive Income and Expenditure Statement (CIES). More information about section 278 monies received by area would be shared with members after the meeting.

·  Member oversight of management's actions, for example through Cabinet and the Scrutiny Management Board's budget scrutiny process, ensured decisions about the council's finances were robustly challenged.

·  Payments in advance, which were made either due to circumstance or to take advantage of a discount, were reported in the statement as not relevant to the year of the accounts.

Members commended officers for the 2023/24 revenue outturn position and thanked Grant Thornton for their work to complete their audit in a timely manner.

Resolved: That

i.  The council's statement of accounts 2023/24, as set out, be approved;

ii.  The interim Chief Executive (Chief Financial Officer) be authorised to approve any immaterial further changes to the statement of accounts for 2023/24; and

iii.  The management letters of representation, as set out, be approved and signed by the interim Chief Executive (Chief Financial Officer) and the Chair of the Audit, Risk and Governance Committee, prior to them being made available to the external auditor.

Khadija Saeed, Head of Corporate Finance and Exchequer Services presented a review of the council's borrowing and investment activity undertaken from April to November 2024.

In response to questions, members were informed that:

·  There was a significant amount of borrowing due to mature in March 2025 and therefore the council's borrowing levels would reduce until the financial year-end, in line with the council's intention to reduce borrowing as much as possible until rates had stabilised.

·  In relation to the council's external treasury management advisors, the council followed its Procurement Rules to procure this service which helped to ensure value for money from the current three-year contract with Arlingclose. Arlingclose provided advice and oversight and were not involved in business as usual or transactional decisions.

·  The annual training session on treasury management, delivered by Arlinglose and with support from the council's treasury management team, would be arranged for after the election.

Resolved: That the review of treasury management activity, for the period April to November 2024, be noted.

Resolved: That the minutes of the Audit, Risk and Governance Committee meeting held on 14 October 2024 be confirmed as an accurate record.

Resolved: That the press and members of the public be excluded from the meeting during 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 Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972.

It was considered that in all the circumstances, the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighed the public interest in disclosing the information.

Andy Dalecki, Head of Internal Audit presented a report of the findings of an internal audit review of the council's governance arrangements against the Local Government Association's Improvement and Assurance Framework.

Resolved: That the report be noted.

Andy Dalecki, Head of Internal Audit presented an update on the Internal Audit Service's work and outcomes for 2024/25, for the period up to 7 January 2025.

It was highlighted that, although there were a higher number of audits receiving limited assurance in this report, there were no concerning patterns.

In response to concern that new housing developments and school planning issues affected access to primary and secondary places across Lancashire, members were informed that, when section 106 contributions were requested from a developer, the council received the money directly. More information about resolving disputes in relation to section 106 contributions would be provided after the meeting.

In relation to the audit of anti-money laundering controls, more information about the process to receive section 278 and section 38 contributions from developers would be provided after the meeting.

Regarding the high-risk outstanding management actions from audits completed in 2021/22, alternative implementation dates were being agreed with the services. More information would be provided in the next report to the committee.

Resolved: That the Internal Audit Progress Report be noted.

Noel O'Neill, Director of Finance and Commerce and Khadija Saeed, Head of Corporate Finance and Exchequer Services presented the updated Treasury Management Strategy for 2025/26.

It was highlighted that the strategy was in a different, more succinct format compared with previous years and it included a number of regulatory statements which provided assurance to government that the council's treasury management activity was compliant. There were no significant changes in approach proposed, although some flexibility would be required in order to respond to changing interest rates and manage any associated risks.

Resolved: That the Treasury Management Strategy 2025/26, as set out, be recommended to Full Council for approval.

Heloise MacAndrew, Director of Law and Governance presented a report of the findings of a review of the council's compliance with the Code of Practice on Good Governance for Local Authority Statement Officers.

Members highlighted their interest in receiving updates on important pieces of governance work such as this.

Resolved: That

i.  The report be noted; and

ii.  The suggested areas for future development against the Code of Practice's standards, as set out, be approved.

Sarah Ironmonger, Parter at Grant Thornton UK presented the Lancashire County Council Audit Findings Report 2023/24.

It was highlighted that the auditors were expecting to meet the statutory deadline and to issue an unqualified opinion.

In response to queries about the valuation of the Pension Fund's net liability/asset, it was clarified that a new standard from the National Audit Office sought to achieve consistency across local government in relation to secondary contributions. This had required an adjustment to the council's statement of accounts. Other authorities had also been required to adjust their approaches, which would vary according to their circumstances.

Resolved: That the Lancashire County Council Audit Findings Report 2023/24 be noted.

Stuart Basnett, Senior Audit Manager at Grant Thornton UK presented the Lancashire County Pension Fund Audit Findings Report 2023/24.

It was highlighted that the audit had gone smoothly and the auditors expected to issue an unqualified opinion.

In response to questions, members were informed that:

·  Oracle Fusion had not caused any disruption to this year's audit and it had made transaction level data more accessible. 2 deficiencies relating to Fusion had been identified, compared with 9 identified during the previous year, so good progress had been made. The adequacy of management's responses to those weaknesses would be assessed during the next year's audit.

·  The auditors were satisfied with management's responses to their recommendations. Generally, actions and issues were discussed with management and could be resolved during the audit. In the event that this did not happen, any issues would be highlighted to the committee.

·  Regarding the number of the Pension Fund's level 3 investments, Local Pensions Partnership Investments (LPPI) managed those investments and were audited by Grant Thornton's commercial team. That team would receive financial statements and control reports about those funds and assess the fund managers' expertise. LPPI's investments were in line with the investment strategy agreed by the council's Pension Fund Committee, which also monitored the Pension Fund's performance and risks. The auditors would not comment on the appropriateness of the Fund's investments, but may query any significant differences between the strategy and the level of investments.

·  Regarding the backlog of cases to update scheme members' information and the delays experienced by Local Pensions Partnership Administration (LPPA), there had been an improvement but as the auditors' backstop deadline was brought forward in future this would need to be kept under review. Small issues such as this could cause problems if they were not resolved promptly. LPPA presented a regular report to the Pension Fund Committee on their performance in relation to the member processing targets.

Resolved: That the Lancashire County Pension Fund Audit Findings Report 2023/24 be noted.

County Councillor Kim Snape considered and approved a Local Member Grant of £300 to Adlington Luncheon Club towards the cost of a coach trip.

County Councillor Jayne Rear considered and approved a Local Member Grant of £500 to Eagle Bowling Club towards the cost of sports equipment.

County Councillor Jeff Couperthwaite considered and rejected a Local Member Grant to Eagle Bowling Club towards the cost of sports equipment.

The reason for the rejection is Councillor Couperthwaite has pledged his remaining funding to other organisations within his division.

County Councillor David Howarth considered and rejected a Local Member Grant to Eagle Bowling Club towards the cost of sports equipment.

The reason for the rejection is Councillor Howarth is reserving funding for organisations operating within his division.

County Councillor Barrie Yates considered and approved a Local Member Grant of £200 to Eagle Bowling Club towards the cost of sports equipment.

County Councillor Jackie Oakes considered and approved a Local Member Grant of £277.35 to Bacup Park Bowling Club towards the cost of equipment specifically geared towards young or disabled people and the renovation of the Clubhouse.

The Chair welcomed County Councillor Jayne Rear, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, and Aby Hardy, Head of Service – Education Improvement, to the meeting.

The report provided the committee with the annual report of the education strategy, including the progress made towards the strategies priorities. A presentation was also provided, a copy of which was included in the agenda.

Comments and queries raised from the committee were as follows:

·  The county council ranked 77th out of 138 Local Authorities this year on the Early Years Foundation Stage Profile, which assessed children's development at the end of the academic year in which they turn five, which was an improvement since the previous year's rankings.

·  The breakdown of Key Stage 2 results was used to determine which schools required support over the next academic year, with the monitoring intervention team providing assistance to those schools. The committee requested if the information could be shared with councillors, to see the schools in their areas. It was noted that the schools would need to agree in order for this information to be shared.

·  It was also clarified that the reason for the combined scores being lower than the individual subject scores of Key Stage 2, as outlined in the presentation, was due to some children excelling in one subject but not in others resulting in higher individual subject scores. The combined score indicated only the number of children who met the expected standard across all three subjects, which high schools used to predict Progress 8 scores.

·  Although the local authority was no longer responsible for school improvement, the authority continued to provide advisory services and training, which schools could choose to opt into. It was also noted that though the authority lacked direct authority over academies, it maintained good relationships with them and endeavoured to be as involved as possible. It was also highlighted that the authority was responsible for safeguarding and had a duty to ensure compliance in that area.

·  Following concerns raised about the authority's performance compared to national figures, it was noted that though the authority faced challenges, including high levels of deprivation and a transient population but despite these challenges, there had been a steady improvement since the return from COVID-19. The authority also aimed to exceed national standards and was working on improving both the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities and education outcomes to achieve better results.

·  Identifying the needs of pupils requiring Special Educational Needs and Disabilities support early and providing appropriate support was a priority for the authority, and efforts were ongoing to ensure all children needing support were identified and included on the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities register. It was also noted that the variation in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities definitions across local authorities was making direct comparisons with other authorities challenging.

·  Concerns were also raised about the attainment gap for disadvantaged children, which had widened since COVID-19. The challenges faced by disadvantaged children, including mental health concerns and health inequalities, were highlighted as contributing factors for widening the attainment gap.

·  Trauma-based training for schools remained optional, but it was noted that schools that invested in trauma-informed practices experienced a decrease in exclusions. There was also a "day six provision" in place to provide suitable education within six days for those permanently excluded pupils to move onto another school. This included options like pupil referral units, alternative provisions, therapeutic support, one-to-one tuition, or online packages. It was also noted that the trauma-informed practice training being provided involved children's champions who would ensure that the pupil's voice was heard to understand the reasons behind their behaviour.

·  Out of the 627 schools in Lancashire, only 200 had completed the trauma-informed practice training and it was noted that the trauma-informed training could not be made mandatory, and the authority could only use its influence to encourage schools to adopt it.

·  The high percentage (approximately 25%) of parents citing mental health as the reason for home education was a concern for the committee and it was noted that removing children from school rolls would lead to a loss of access to significant health support services, such as school nurses and Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services referrals. It was also noted that families considering home education would be contacted to ensure they understood the implications behind home schooling and to explore if it was the best option for their child.

·  The new Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill going through Parliament would bring in a register for children that would give the child a unique identifier number to improve data sharing and safeguarding between different organisations. The new bill would also prevent children on child protection plans or in special schools from being removed from rolls without proper consultation.

·  It was highlighted to the committee that The Red Rose Maths and Phonics programs, which were educational programs and created in-house by the authority, were recognised both nationally and internationally.

·  It was also suggested that a benchmarking activity take place to share best practices with other local authorities.

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

Resolved: That

  i.  Figures be provided to the committee of children who were having to travel for SEND school places;

  ii.  Figures be provided to the committee of children who travel in to and out of Lancashire for school places;

  iii.  Further information relating to the Key Stage 4 curriculum review; and

  iv.  Further information relating to benchmarking exercises and best practice sharing between Lancashire County Council and other local authorities be provided to the committee.

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

In terms of specific updates, the following were noted:

• The Youth Violence in Lancashire Bitesize Briefing was being postponed and would take place at a future date.
• The Youth Justice Board Annual Report and the Annual Quality Assurance Checks Annual Report were no longer included on the Work Programme because they were financial year/municipal year reports and therefore, it would not be possible for them to be written before the end of the 2024-25 year. However, they would be presented for information to the committee at the Annual Portfolio Holder Update and Work Programming session in June 2025.
• The outcome of the recent Joint Area SEND Inspection had not yet been published and therefore, the SEND Deep Dive Day which was scheduled to take place in February 2025 would now take place at a future date, to ensure that officers had enough time to prepare the relevant reports, following the publication of the inspection outcome.

Resolved: That

1. The work programme for 2024/25, as attached at Appendix 'A' of the report, be noted;
2. The formal written responses from Cabinet Members to the outstanding recommendations of the Committee at Appendices 'B' and 'C' of the report, be noted;
3. The information included in the reports for the 10 March 2025 meeting of the Committee be confirmed; and
4. The information provided as part of the actions and assurances to the Committee at Appendix 'D' of the report, be noted.

Resolved: That the minutes of the meeting held on 18 December 2024 be confirmed as an accurate record and signed by the Chair

County Councillor Shaun Turner considered and approved a Local Member Grant of £120 to St. John's Hospice Lancaster towards the cost of 2 Virtual Reality (VR) Headsets, for use on our In-Patient Unit.

Following investigations and formal public consultation, it is proposed to revoke a Traffic Regulation Order for a disable parking bay on Skipton Road, Colne, that has not been in situ for a number of years and is no longer required.

The purpose of this proposal is to formally revoke the disabled parking bay outside 205 Skipton Road, Colne.

A Traffic Regulation Order was provided when the bay was applied for, pre 2009, but the bay has not been marked on site for a number of years and is no longer required.

There will be no changes on site, therefore drivers will not be subject to any changes as a result of this proposal.

Formal consultation was carried out between 22 November 2024 and 20 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.

Notices were not placed at the location of the existing restriction where no material change to the restriction as currently indicated on site are proposed.

Following the formal consultation, objections were received however, these have been subsequently withdrawn.

Peter Bell, Highway Regulation Manager, on behalf of Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport, took the decision to approve the revocation of the disabled parking bay outside 205 Skipton Road, Colne.

Public realm improvements are being made to Cleveleys, which is the most important section of the existing high street area. As part of the scheme, the footways are being widened and the carriageway on Princess Road is being narrowed to allow a public events space and market.

Princess Road, Cleveleys

The purpose of this proposal is to support the improved amenities of Thornton-Cleveleys including specifically the creation of an events space on Princess Road, Cleveleys.

Rough Lea Road, Cleveleys

The purpose of this proposal is to facilitate the free movement of traffic on Rough Lea Road once the proposed 2-way traffic is introduced. The existing Bus/Coach limited is being relocated to one of the car parks.

Consultations

Formal consultation was carried out between 4 December-2024 and 1 Januaery-2025 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, Objections were received however, these have been formally withdrawn.

Peter Bell, Highway Regulation Manager, took the decision to approve the public realm improvements.

Approval is sought for the County Council to enter into a Deed of Variation under Section 106 and 106a of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. This Deed is made under section 106A of the Act and is supplemental to the Original Agreement and shall be read in conjunction with the Original Agreement.

There is an obligation in the Original Agreement for the developer to pay a sum of up to £500,000 as a Bus Service Provision contribution and £6,000 as a Travel Plan Support contribution.

When consulted by Lancaster City Council on a variation to conditions application for the for the Lune Industrial Estate, New Quay Road, Lancaster, Lancashire, the County Council Highway Services responded requesting that all previous commitments are satisfied and delivered, in accordance with the Original Agreement.

Authority to take this decision has been delegated to the Head of Service Highways Network Management.

John Davies, Head of Highway Network Management, on behalf of Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport took a decision to authorise the Director of Law and Governance to enter into a Deed Of Variation Under Section 106 and 106A for Planning Application 23/00389/VCN.

County Councillor Shaun Turner considered and rejected a Local Member Grant to St. John's Hospice Lancaster towards the cost of the purchase of essential items for the in-patient unit.

The reason for the rejection is County Councillor Shaun Turner is reserving his remaining funding to support as many projects as possible with his funding.

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.

John Davies, Head of Highways Network Management, on behalf of Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport took a decision that £7,719.21 of Travel Plan funds held by the County Council from the Higher Standen Farm development are allocated to the Castle St Clitheroe scheme.

County Councillor Phillippa Williamson, in consultation with County Councillor Stephen Clarke as the elected member of a neighbouring division, and County Councillor Matthew Tomlinson, Leader of the Labour group considered and approved a Local Member Grant for the reduced amount of £350 to LPM Dance towards the cost of specialist dance and movement classes for people living with disabilities.

The reason for the reduction is County Councillor Phillippa Williamson wished to reserve funding to support additional organisations in Fleetwood East's division.

County Councillor Shaun Turner considered and rejected a Local Member Grant to LPM Dance towards the cost of purchase of essential items for the in-patient unit.

The reason for the rejection is County Councillor Shaun Turner wishes to reserve funding to support more local projects and organisations.

The Williams-Shapps Plan for Rail emphasises the importance of strengthening collaboration to improve outcomes for rail passengers. To support the national agenda as well as delivering on local and regional objectives, Lancashire County Council, along with neighbouring North West Local Transport Authorities, have been discussing closer partnership working to improve rail services in the region and wish to establish a North West Regional Business Unit for Rail, under the existing Rail North Partnership framework.

On 6th July 2023 Cabinet considered and gave approval for Lancashire County Council to become a Member of the North West Regional Business Unit for Rail.

The North West Regional Business Unit will provide advice to the Rail North Partnership and Transport for the North on rail matters within the North West including train services, fares and ticketing, infrastructure, stations, rolling stock, customer experience and sustainability. 

There are also no changes to rights, responsibilities or accountabilities of existing rail industry partners, and any rights Local Transport Authorities have under the existing Franchise Management Agreement between Local Transport Authorities, Transport for the North and Rail North Partnership.

A Collaboration Agreement document has now been developed which sets out objectives, roles and responsibilities, decision making and gives details on how advice will be given and how the North West Regional Business Unit will be governed. This terms of the agreement now need to be formalised and signed off by each member Local Transport Authority.

Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport, in consultation with the Director of Law and Governance, Director of Finance and the Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport took a decision to finalise the terms of the North West Regional Business Unit collaboration agreement.

County Councillor Phillippa Williamson considered and rejected a Local Member Grant to Friends of The Storey Gardens towards the cost of resurfacing the paths in The Storey Gardens to improve accessibility for wheelchair users and other individuals with mobility issues.

The reason for the rejection is County Councillor Williamson is reserving her remaining funding for small projects operating within her division.

Lancashire County Council is the Waste Disposal Authority for the administrative county of Lancashire. The county council operates and manages fifteen Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs).

Waste mattresses can be deposited at several HWRCs by members of the public. The waste mattresses deposited are domestic mattresses of single or double and larger sizes. Mattress recycling providers can disassemble the mattresses and recycle the components such as foam padding, metal springs and coconut fibres in different ways, reducing the requirement to dispose of the waste mattresses in landfill.

At three HWRCs at Burnley, Farington and Preston, the county council delivers the waste mattresses directly to a provider facility for recycling.

At four HWRCs at Burscough, Chorley, Clitheroe and Skelmersdale the waste mattresses are collected and transported back to the provider facility by the provider for recycling. It is anticipated that the number of HWRCs requiring mattress collections is likely to increase during the next four years.

Due to this increasing demand for waste mattress recycling, formally procured contracts are required to comply with Public Contracts Regulations 2015.

Two separate procurement exercises are to be undertaken concurrently to secure single supplier framework agreements for:

·  the acceptance and recycling of waste mattresses that are delivered into the provider by the county council and/or it's transport contractor from the HWRCs, estimated value £380,000 over a four year term.

·  the collection, transportation, acceptance and recycling of waste mattresses that are collected by the provider from the HWRCs, estimated value £440,000 over a four year term.

The framework agreements will be for an initial period of two years, with the option to extend for any number of defined periods up to a further two years, to commence on or around 01 April 2025.

Steve Scott, Head of Service Waste Management, on behalf of Jonathan Edwards, Director of Environment and Planning took a decision to approve commencement of two procurements to establish:

·  a single supplier framework agreement for the provision of acceptance and recycling of waste mattresses; and

·  a single supplier framework agreement for the collection, transportation, acceptance and recycling of waste mattresses.

The framework agreements will commence on or around 1 April 2025 and have an initial term of two years, with the option to extend for any number of defined periods up to a further two years. The procedure to be utilised for both procurement exercises will be an Above Threshold Open tender process, in compliance with PCR15.

A decision to approve the award of the contract to Specialist Computer Centres (SCC) PLC.

Peter Lloyd, Director of Digital, took the decision as set out in the report.

This report seeks approval of the statutory Home to School Transport Policy for Lancashire families for the academic year 2026/2027.

Lancashire County Council reviews its Home to School Transport Policy on an annual basis. This policy is compliant with the most recent guidance issued by the Department for Education in January 2024.

This is deemed to be a Key Decision and the requirements of the council's cabinet procedure rules (Standing Order C18, Consideration of Key Decisions) have been complied with.

The Cabinet approved the recommendation(s) as set out in the report.

A decision on the transfer of 24/25 drainage underspends into 24/25 drainage unallocated.

Ridwan Musa, Head of Service, Highways Operation and Design, on behalf of the Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport took the decision to approve transfer of underspends as per Appendix 'A'.

This report sets out the consultation results for both the Young Person's Travel Scheme and the Discretionary pre-09.30am £1 Concessionary Travel Fare for Disabled Pass Holders. This report makes recommendations on the next steps in terms of both schemes.

This is deemed to be a Key Decision and the requirements of the council's Cabinet procedure rules (Standing Order C18, Consideration of Key Decisions) have been complied with.

The Cabinet approved the recommendation(s) as set out in the report.

County Councillor Terry Aldridge considered and rejected a Local Member Grant to Learning Stars towards the cost of educational trips.

The reason for the rejection is County Councillor Aldridge has allocated his remaining Local Member Grants budget to another organisation.

County Councillor Nikki Hennessy considered and approved a Local Mmeber Grant for the reduced amount of £250 to Learning Stars towards the cost of educational trips.

The reason for the reduction is County Councillor Hennessy is reserving funding for additional organisations.

To determine the admission arrangements for community and voluntary controlled primary and secondary schools and sixth forms schools for the school year 2026/2027.

In order to comply with the Department for Education School Admissions Code, the Local Authority must determine the schools' admission arrangements before 28 February 2025.

This is deemed to be a Key Decision and the requirements of the council's cabinet procedure rules (Standing Order C18, Consideration of Key Decisions) have been complied with.

The Cabinet approved the recommendation(s) as set out in the report.

This report includes proposals to increase special educational places in special schools and the provision of Special Educational Needs units in mainstream schools.

The report includes the results of the formal consultations to increase the number of special educational places in Lancashire by expanding the following special schools:

·  Acorns Primary School, Preston

·  Bleasdale School, Carnforth

·  Brookfield School, Poulton-le-Fylde

·  Hope High School, Skelmersdale

·  Moorbrook School, Preston

·  The Loyne Specialist School, Lancaster

and proposes the development or expansion of Special Educational Needs Units and Special Educational Resource Provision at the following mainstream schools:

·  Chaucer Community Primary School, Fleetwood

·  Delph Side Community Primary School, Skelmersdale

·  Grosvenor Park Primary School, Morecambe

·  Morecambe Bay Community Primary School, Morecambe

·  Northbrook Primary Academy, Leyland

·  Thornton Primary School, Thornton-Cleveleys

·  Wellfield Academy, Leyland

·  Brockholes Wood Primary, Preston

·  Carnforth Primary

·  Brunshaw Primary, Burnley

This is deemed to be a Key Decision and the requirements of the council's cabinet procedure rules (Standing Order C18, Consideration of Key Decisions) have been complied with.

The Cabinet approved the recommendation(s) as set out in the report.

This report provides an update to Cabinet on the county council's 2024/25 revenue and capital financial position, as at the end of Quarter 3.

The forecast outturn position is an overspend of £12.737m which is a reduction of £4.338m from the position predicted at Quarter 2 following further mitigating actions. Actions are continuing throughout Quarter 4 to try to further improve the position.

The forecast outturn for capital delivery programme for 2024/25 is £200.697m which is an underspend of £2.542m (1.25%) on the planned programme.

The Cabinet approved the recommendation(s) as set out in the report.

This report provides an overview of performance for the key performance indicators established to monitor the delivery of the council's priorities as laid out in the corporate strategy. This report covers quarter 3 of 2024/25.

The Cabinet approved the recommendation(s) as set out in the report.

Local Nature Recovery Strategies were introduced in the Environment Act 2021 to drive nature's recovery and provide wider environmental improvements. Lancashire County Council has been appointed by The Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs as the responsible authority for the preparation of the Lancashire Local Nature Recovery Strategy and this report presents the Lancashire Local Nature Recovery Strategy consultation draft for approval by Cabinet. Approval of the strategy by Cabinet is sought in advance of sending the consultation draft to Supporting Authorities in order for them to follow their own governance arrangements for agreement to the strategy proceeding to public consultation.

The Cabinet approved the recommendation(s) as set out in the report.

In line with the county council's procurement rules, this report sets out a recommendation to approve the commencement of the following procurement exercises:

i) Provision of Apprenticeship Levy Training and Assessment Providers

ii) IT Reseller Agreement for IT Software, Support and Associated Services

At the conclusion of the procurement process, any award of contract will be made under Section 9.52 (51) of the county council's Scheme of Delegation to Officers.

This is deemed to be a Key Decision and the requirements of the council's Cabinet procedure rules (Standing Order C18, Consideration of Key Decisions) have been complied with.

The Cabinet approved the recommendation(s) as set out in the report.

The Headteacher and governors at Burnley Rosewood Primary School have approached the local authority in relation to the future of the nursery provision at the school. The school has asked the local authority to start the formal statutory process to consult on the proposal to cease the maintained nursery provision by permanently reducing the age range from 3–11 year olds (Nursery 2 to Year 6) to 4–11 year olds (Reception to Year 6), with effect from 1 August 2025.

Under the Department for Education's statutory guidance, 'Making 'Prescribed Alterations' to Maintained Schools' published in January 2023, the local authority must be the proposer for this type of significant change and carry out a statutory process, which includes publication, representation, decision, rights of appeal and implementation. In line with this, the authority is now required to decide whether to publish a Statutory Notice on the proposal to consult on the future of the maintained nursery provision at Burnley Rosewood Primary School.

The Cabinet approved the recommendation(s) as set out in the report.

The Headteacher and governors at Clayton Brook Primary School have approached the local authority in relation to the future of the nursery provision at the school. The school has asked the local authority to start the formal statutory process, to consult on the proposal to cease the maintained nursery provision by permanently reducing the age range from 3–11-year-olds (Nursery to Year 6) to 4–11 year olds (Reception to Year 6), with effect from 1 August 2025.

Under the Department for Education's statutory guidance, 'Making Prescribed Alterations to Maintained Schools' published in January 2023, the local authority must be the proposer for this type of significant change and carry out a statutory process, which includes publication, representation, decision, rights of appeal and implementation. In line with this, the authority is now required to decide whether to publish a Statutory Notice on the proposal to consult on the future of the maintained nursery provision at Clayton Brook Primary School.

The Cabinet approved the recommendation(s) as set out in the report.

This report sets out the proposed budget for the county council for 2025/26 and the medium-term financial position for the following year.

Cabinet is asked to recommend the 2025/26 budget to Full Council at its meeting on 26 February 2025.

The Cabinet approved the recommendation(s) as set out in the report, with the following amendment:

Recommendation (ix) be amended to read:

  ix.  Following receipt of further information relating to the tax base, collection fund and the final settlement the Budget Report to Full Council will be updated accordingly.

This report concerns the determination of the statutory scheme and the mandatory timetable for co-ordinating admissions for Lancashire's primary and secondary schools and academies for 2026/2027. 

This is deemed to be a Key Decision and the requirements of the council's cabinet procedure rules (Standing Order C18, Consideration of Key Decisions) have been complied with.

The Cabinet approved the recommendation(s) as set out in the report.

County Councillor Jayne Rear considered and approved a Local Member Grant for the reduced amount of £500 to Leyland Festival Limited towards the cost of a children's activity area and the Festival's Parade.

The reason for the reduction is County Councillor Jayne Rear is reserving funding for additional organisations across her division.

County Councillor Terry Hurn considered and rejected a Local Member Grant to Official Accrington Stanley Supporters Trust towards the cost of mural for the football club.

The reason for the rejection is the project date specified by the organisation passed before we received a decision from County Councillor Hurn and we can't award a grant retrospectively.

Ridwan Musa, Head of Service, on behalf of the Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport took a decision to approve transfer of budgets.

Ridwan Musa, Head of Service, Highways Operation and Design, on behalf of the Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport took a decision to approve transfer of underspends as per Appendix A.

A decision to approve the award of a contract contract for the provision of Meter Administration Services for Unmetered Electricity Supplies, as set out in the report.

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.

A decision on the approval to issue a mini competition from the Traffic Management Framework for the provision of services for the South Ribble Cricket Ground, Farington scheme.

Ridwan Musa, Head of Service, Highway Operations and Design took the decision as set out in the report.

A decision on the transfer of budgets to clear unprocessed costs:

Move £2575.91 from PPMS 15601 to 15338.

Ridwan Musa, Head of Service, on behalf of the Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport took a decision to approve transfer of budgets to clear unprocessed costs.

A decision on the transfer of budgets from PPMS 15449 to:

£3,241.80 to PPMS 15190
£15,048.79 to PPMS 15646
£8,190.80 to PPMS 15654
£1,932.61 to PPMS 15656
£7,669.02 to PPMS 15657
£9,214.91 to PPMS 15659

Ridwan Musa, Head of Service, Highways Operation and Design, on behalf of the Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport took a decision to approve adjustment of budgets as requested.

A decision to approve the commncement of a mini competition process for Traffic Management Services for the provision of Nelson Town Deal – Area 5.

Ridwan Musa, Head of Service, Highway Operations and Design, on behalf of Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport, took the decision as set out in the report.

A decision on the undertaking of a quotation process for the provision of labour for the laying of paving at Area 5 of the Nelson Town Deal.

Ridwan Musa, Head of Service Highway Operations and Design took the decision as set out in the report.

Sarah Robinson, Head of Service, Property took the decision as set out in the report.

Sarah Robinson, Head of Service, Property took the decision as set out in the report.

Sarah Robinson, Head of Service, Property took the decision as set out in the report.

County Councillor Phillippa Williamson, in consultation with County Councillor Stephen Clarke as the elected member of a neighbouring division, and County Councillor Matthew Tomlinson, Leader of the Labour group, considered and approved a Local Member Grant for the reduced amount of £575 to Fleetwood Civic Society towards the cost producing 'Celebrate Fleetwood Day'.

The reason for the reduction is County Councillor Phillippa Williamson wished to reserve funding to support additional organisations in Fleetwood East's division.

County Councillor Tim Ashton considered and approved a Local Member Grant for the reduced amount of £500 to Lowther Gardens (Lytham) Trust towards the cost of lighting bars for the venue.

The reason for the reduction is County Councillor Tim Ashton is reserving funding to support additional organisations in his division.

County Councillor Phillippa Williamson, in consultation with County Councillor Stephen Clarke as the elected member of a neighbouring division, and County Councillor Matthew Tomlinson, Leader of the Labour group, considered and approved a Local Member Grant for the reduced amount of £500 to Friends of Memorial Demonstration Garden towards the cost of equipment for the community garden.

The reason for the reduction is County Councillor Phillippa Williamson wished to reserve funding to support additional organisations in Fleetwood East's division.

A decision to conduct an award of contract via the Nepro 3 Framework to Bloom Procurement Services (using Impower Consulting Ltd) to provide consultancy services to the council for additional support to the embedding of the Wellbeing and Early Intervention (WES) functions and initial customer contacts at CAS (Strength Based Approach – At the Front Door).

Laurence Ainsworth, Director of Strategy and Innovation took a decision to approve a direct award to Bloom Procurement Services, via the NEPRO 3 Professional Services Solutions Framework (using Impower Consulting Ltd) to provide additional support to the embedding of the Wellbeing and Early Intervention (WES) functions and initial customer contacts at CAS.

The value of the direct award will be circa £128,000 and will be delivered over a 3 month period.

Exempt information as defined in Paragraph 3 of Part 1 of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972. It was considered that in all the circumstances of the case the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighed the public interest in disclosing the information.

Mr Rule, Chief Executive of the Local Pensions Partnership Ltd, and Ms George, Independent Investment Adviser to the Fund, updated the Committee on various matters, including the macro-economic factors that influence the investment market and the performance of the Fund over Q3 (July-September 2024).

Resolved: That the update on investment performance, as set out in the report presented and given at the meeting, is noted

Resolved: That the 2025/26 programme of meetings for the Committee (approved by Full Council on 17 October 2024) as set out below is noted, with all meetings to be held in Committee Room 'A' - The Tudor Room at County Hall, Preston, starting at 10.30am.

20 June 2025

19 September 2025

12 December 2025

20 March 2026

Resolved: That the press and public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of the following items of business on the grounds that there would be a disclosure of exempt information as defined in paragraph 3 of Part 1 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act, 1972. It is considered that in all the circumstances the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information.

The Committee considered a report on responsible investment activity which included a dashboard style update covering Q2 (July to September 2024). The Chair of the RI Task and Finish Group also gave an update on the review the Responsible Investment Policy which was due to be completed in the new year with an updated Policy being presented to the meeting in March 2025.

Resolved:

1.  That the update on Responsible investment activity undertaken by the Fund and Local Pensions Partnership Investments Ltd, as set out in the report and dashboard (Appendix A) is noted.

2.  That the update on the work to date by the Task and Finish Group given at the meeting is noted and that a report on the draft revised LCPF Responsible Investment Policy be presented to the next meeting.

The Committee considered a report on the timetable for the planned valuation of the Lancashire County Pension Fund at 31 March 2025 and the setting of new employer contribution rates. The report included an update on the change to the employer covenant for colleges and how it might affect their treatment in the valuation. 

Resolved: That the timetable for the 2025 valuation of the Lancashire County Pension Fund and associated training expectations for Committee members, as set out in the report presented, are noted.

Mr C Rule, Chief Executive of the Local Pensions Partnership Ltd (LPPL), presented the Annual Report and Accounts of the Company for the year ending 31 March 2024 and answered questions from Committee members on the contents. In response to a query regarding reconciling figures in the covering report and the actual accounts Mr Rule clarified that some figures in the covering report were based on management accounts (from June 2024) rather that the statutory accounts in Appendix 'A'. The £7m non-cash profit resulted from deferred tax being refunded through the statutory accounts as a consequence of accounting for LPP’s staff pension assets and liabilities. The correct figures for operating profit for LPPI was £1.7m (not 1.5m as stated in the covering report) and £58,000 loss for LPPA (as stated in the covering report).

Resolved: That the 2023/24 Local Pensions Partnership Ltd Annual Report and Accounts, as set out at Appendix 'A' to the report presented, and the clarification regarding profit for LPPL and its subsidiaries, as reported at the meeting, are noted. 

The Head of Fund presented a report on internal/external training which had taken place since the last meeting and included reference to the online training modules completed by Committee members up to 15 November 2024.

Resolved: That the report is noted.

The Head of Fund presented a report on the income/expenditure of the Fund for the six-month period to 30 September 2024 and forecast for the year ending 31 March 2025. In response to questions from Committee members he confirmed that further context would be included in future reporting regarding the positive/negative impacts on movement from the 6^th monthly budget position.

Resolved: That the financial results of the Lancashire County Pension Fund for the 6 months to 30 September 2024, together with the budget and forecast variances set out in the report presented, are noted.

The Chair reminded the Committee that the final copy of the LCPF Annual Report 2023/24 had been made available via the online library prior to its publication (see item 7). Regarding item 14 the Head of Fund confirmed that any outstanding actions from previous audits of the Fund had now been actioned.

Resolved: That the Minutes of the meeting held on 13 September 2024 are confirmed as an accurate record and signed by the Chair.

Mr M Neville, Senior Democratic Services Officer, presented a report on the updated Terms of Reference for the Committee (approved by Full Council on 17^th October 2024) and noted that some minor amendments would be made in relation to the Appendix - 'Matters reserved under the Local Pensions Partnership Ltd Shareholder Agreement'. The Head of Fund also referenced the proposal to authorise the Director of Finance and Commerce to take decisions regarding the approval of payments under the County of Lancashire Act 1984.

Resolved:

1.  That the Terms of Reference, as approved by Full Council on 17 October 2024, and set out at Appendix 'A' to the report presented, are noted and that an amended copy be circulated to all Committee members in due course for future reference.

2.  That the Director of Finance and Commerce be authorised to approve payments under the County of Lancashire Act 1984 in accordance with the Scheme of Delegation to Heads of Service.

Resolved: That the press and public be excluded from the meeting during 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 1 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act, 1972, as indicated against the heading of each item. It is considered that in all the circumstances the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information.

Mr S Greene, the Head of Fund, presented a report on the items considered by the Pension Fund Committee on 6 December 2024 under Part I of the agenda and updated the Board in relation to the discussion around budget monitoring. Ms Parker acknowledged that information regarding variances in the budget was useful and noted that reports on responsible investment continued to be informative. 

Resolved: That the Part I reports considered by the Pension Fund Committee on 6 December 2024 are noted.

Resolved: That the 2025/26 programme of meetings is approved as set out below, with all meetings to be held at County Hall, Preston, starting at 2.00pm.

22 July 2025

21 October 2025

27 January 2026

14 April 2026

Mr Neville, Senior Democratic Services Officer, presented a report on two pension related training events which had taken place since the last meeting together with an update on the online training modules completed by Board members.

Board members commented on their experience of the online training and the Chair confirmed that this would be an element of her discussions with individual Board members as part of the annual review of the operation of the Pension Board. Mr Ellard also gave feedback on his experience at the PLSA Conference and referenced sessions on the Pensions Dashboard, encouraging young people to think about their pensions, and the new government's plans for the future.

Resolved: That the participation of individual Board members in the training events referred to in the report (together with feedback given at the meeting) is noted and reflected in the Training Record for the Pension Board.

Ms Hunt, Technical & Administration Pension Lead, from the Pensions Team, presented a report on appeals received under the Internal Dispute Resolution Procedure during the period 1 January 2024 to 31 December 2024 and answered questions from Board members.

During the discussion it was suggested that employers be reminded of their responsibilities when responding to appeals, and that individuals be provided with information regarding the appeals process and kept informed of any delays. The Head of Fund confirmed that the review of the Pensions Administration Strategy Statement would take account of the points raised.

Resolved: That the Head of Fund monitor the rise in the number of appeal cases and review the situation into 2025 to identify if the rise in appeals is a one-off occurrence or longer-term issue that requires action, and report back to the Board.

Ms Hunt, Technical & Administration Pension Lead, from the Pensions Team, presented a report on five pension related regulatory issues and informed the Board that the functionality required for Local Pensions Partnership Administration Ltd (LPPA) to revisit past calculations in connection with the McCloud remedy, had been further delayed until after March 2025.

The Board also discussed the new Funding Strategy Statement guidance for administering authorities (such as the County Council) and the need to consider how best to manage any surplus in view of the governments stated plans for future economic growth.

Resolved: That the updates on regulatory matters, as set out in the report presented and discussed at the meeting, are noted.

Mr Neville, Senior Democratic Services Officer, presented a report on the revised Terms of Reference for the Pension Board which had been considered and approved by Full Council on the 17 October 2024.

Resolved:  That the revised Terms of Reference for the Pension Board, as set out at Appendix 'A' to the report presented, are noted.

The Chair made a declaration of non-pecuniary interest as an Executive Director for another pension pooling company and a deferred member of the Local Government Pension Scheme.

The Chair informed the Board that since the last meeting Mr A Egerton had resigned from his position as a scheme member representative. On behalf of the Board and Officers, she thanked Mr Egerton for his support and contributions to the work of the Pension Board.

The Head of Fund then updated the Board on action taken since the last meeting which included Board members being provided a copy of the Lancashire County Pension Fund response to the government call for evidence as part of the Pensions Investment Review. Regarding item 15 in the Minutes the Head of Fund clarified that the final version of the streamlined Risk Register would be shared with the Pension Board when complete, and templates on specific risks when they are updated or if requested by Board members, rather than via the online library.

Resolved:  That the updates given at the meeting are noted and the Minutes of the meeting held on 15 October 2024 confirmed as an accurate record and signed by the Chair.

The Chair welcomed everyone to the meeting and noted that apologies had been received from Ms G Hart, Scheme Member representative.

County Councillor Samara Barnes considered and approved a Local Member Grant of £150 to Blackburn Blind Sports towards the cost of sports equipment.

County Councillor Terry Hurn considered and rejected a Local Member Grant to Blackburn Blind Sports towards the cost of sports equipment.

The reason for the rejection is the project date specified by the organisation passed before we received a decision from County Councillor Terry Hurn and we cannot award a grant retrospectively.

County Councillor Usman Arif considered and rejected a Local Member Grant to Blackburn Blind Sports towards the cost of sports equipment.

The reason for the rejection is the project date specified by the organisation passed before we received a decision from County Councillor Usman Arif and we cannot award a grant retrospectively.

County Council Azhar Ali OBE considered and rejected a Local Member Grant to Blackburn Blind Sports towards the cost of sports equipment.

The reason for the rejection is County Councillor Ali has already allocated his remaining budget to other organisations.

County Councillor Matthew Brown considered and approved a Local Member Grant of £150 to Blackburn Blind Sports towards the cost of sports equipment.

County Councillor Nweeda Khan considered and rejected a Local Member Grant to Blackburn Blind Sports towards the cost of sports equipment.

The reason for the rejection is the project date specified by the organisation passed before we received a decision from County Councillor Nweeda Khan and we cannot award a grant retrospectively.

Sarah Robinson, Head of Service, Property, took the decision as set out in the report.

County Councillor Terry Hurn considered and approved a Local Member Grant of £475 to Accrington & District Unit of the Sea Cadet Corps towards the cost of an oven.

County Councillor Rob Bailey considered and approved a Local Member Grant of £250 to Parbold Village Show towards the cost of entertainment at the Parbold Village Show.

County Councillor Anne Cheetham OBE JP considered and approved a Local Member Grant for the reduced amount of £150 to Spectrum of Light Rossendale CIC towards the cost of technical equipment and workshops.

County Councillor Jackie Oakes considered and approved a Local Member Grant for the reduced amout of £250 to Spectrum of Light Rossendale CIC towards the cost of technical equipment and workshops.

The reason for the reduction is Councillor Oakes is reserving funding for additional organisations.

Sarah Robinson, Head of Service, Property, took the decision as set out in the report.

Sarah Robinson, Head of Service, Property, took the decision as set out in the report.

County Councillor Andrew Gardiner considered and rejected a Local Member Grant to The Warrior Down LERO CIC towards the cost of refreshments, sustenance and volunteer expenses.

The reason for the rejection is County Councillor Andrew Gardiner is reserving funding to support organisations that have approached him personally regarding their projects.

Sarah Robinson, Head of Service, Property, took the decision as set out in the report.

Sarah Robinson, Head of Service, Property, took the decision as set out in the report.

Sarah Robinson, Head of Service, Property, took the decision as set out in the report.

County Councillor Kim Snape considered and rejected a Local Member Grant to Astley Gems Morris Dancers towards the cost of dance costumes.

The reason for the rejection is Councillor Snape has pledged her remaining funding to other organisations.

Sarah Robinson, Head of Service, Property took the decision as set out in the report.

Sarah Robinson, Head of Service, Property took the decision as set out in the report.

Sarah Robinson, Head of Service, Property, took the decision as set out in the report.

County Councillor John Fillis considered and approved a Local Member Grant of £500 to Crawford Village Scout Group towards the cost of camping equipment.

Sarah Robinson, Head of Service, Property, took the decision as set out in the report.

This report presents an application from a local organisation requesting £1,010 towards the cost of replacing the failed septic tank from the Local Member Grants Scheme.

County Councillor Kim Snape considered and approved a Local Member Grant for the reduced amount of £400 to White Coppice Cricket Club towards the cost of replacing the failed septic tank.

The reason for the reduction is Councillor Snape is reserving funding for additional organisations.

Jane Hylton, Permanence Service, Lancashire County Council County provided the Board with an update from the National Leaving Care Benchmarking Form Managers Event that was held in December 2025.

The presentation attached to the minutes, provided further information on the:

·  National Care Leavers Benchmarking Forum and Young People's Benchmarking Forum

·  A Fair Offer for All

·  Department for Education Update

·  Young People Benchmarking Forum – A Fair Offer to All – Key Asks

Ø  Cost of living

Ø  Mental Health/Health

Ø  Communities of support

Ø  Safe and affordable homes

Ø  Support after 21 and 25

The Board were reminded of the Department for Education's seven Corporate Parenting principles that local authorities must have regard to when exercising their functions in relation to looked after children and young people, as follows:

(i)  To act in the best interests, and promote the physical and mental health and wellbeing, of those children and young people.

(ii)  To encourage those children and young people to express their views, wishes and feelings.

(iii)  To take into account the views, wishes and feelings of those children and young people.

(iv)  To help those children and young people gain access to, and make the best use of, services provided by the local authority and its relevant partners.

(v)  To promote high aspirations, and seek to secure the best outcomes, for those children and young people.

(vi)  For those children and young people to be safe, and for stability in their home lives, relationships and education or work.

(vii)  To prepare those children and young people for adulthood and independent living.

The Department for Education are looking at extending these to the wider public sector with an aim to create a culture change in recognition of unique responsibilities the state has towards Care Experience children and young people.

Following the presentation, the Board discussed various national and local asks on their tables.

In terms of health, Caroline Waldron, NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board informed the Board that from a health perspective they welcomed the Department for Education vision and what that is going to look like in the future for partners.  Health are aware of it, and it is included in the Integrated Care Board's Children in Care and Care Leaver Strategy 2024-2026 outlining how they intend to deliver against the statutory requirements and corporate parenting duties set out in the strategy.  It also includes the exploration of Health's offer for care experienced young people, including looking at access to prescriptions.  In terms of some of the offers that are in place from Health, this includes Enhanced Children in Care Nurses who engage and support in the Hubs.  In terms of what Corporate Parenting means from a health perspective, the Integrated Care Board received a presentation from Caroline Waldron and a young person from the Care Leavers Forum who talked about health as a corporate parent and what the Integrated Care Board should be considering as part of their day to day roles.  The Board noted that positive feedback had been received following the presentation.

Resolved:  That the Board noted the update from the National Leaving Care Benchmarking Forum.

Andreas Feldhaar, Permanence Service, Lancashire County Council provided an update on further developing the Care Leaver offer (Scrutiny Report, Local Offer and Care Leaver Covenant.

In terms of the report that was presented at Children, Families and Skills Scrutiny Committee on 18 December 2024, the following key highlights from that report, which detailed what had happened over the last two years and next steps were presented to members of the Corporate Parenting Board.  The Board also noted that the Education, Employment and Training report that was also presented at the same Scrutiny meeting, would be brought before this Board at its' meeting in March 2025.

The Board received the following highlights from the Scrutiny report:

Background information

The link to the current Care Leavers Local Offer is as follows:  https://www.lancashire.gov.uk/youthzone/care-leavers-local-offer/.

Improvements 2023 and 2024

·  Increased number of care leavers in Staying Put.

·  Expansion of Lancashire's House Project.

·  New commissioning and increased offer of core supported accommodation.

·  Joint Housing Protocol established with our 12 District Councils.

·  Integrated Care Board Children in Care and Care Leaver strategy.

·  Health Summaries for care leavers.

·  Lifelong Links service available to care leavers.

·  Improved participation offer for care leavers.

·  Leaving Care Social Worker support for unaccompanied asylum seeking children (UASC) 16 to 17 or care leavers who are pregnant young parents.

·  Joint protocol with Lancashire's prisons to support care leavers in prison.

·  Joint protocol with Lancashire's Department for Work and Pensions Job Centres Plus to support care leavers into employment.

·  Care Leavers Covenant.

·  Significant Event Notifications for senior leadership safeguarding oversight up to 25.

·  Setting Up Home Allowance (SUHA) increased.

The Board also noted that there was:

·  A strong Local Offer of support for Care Leavers.

·  Place based support established in Leaving Care Hubs (Lancaster, Burnley and Preston).

·  Our pathway to excellence plan.

Next Steps 2025

·  Implement the Leaving Well model.

·  Improve joint working with Transitions Service and Adult Social Care.

·  Launch a joint Transitional Safeguarding Protocol with our partners.

·  Work with District Councils to improve access to priority banding for care leavers and agree joint decision-making on intentionality.

·  Develop a Staying Close approach for young people in residential children's homes.

·  Explore financial assistance from the Integrated Care Board towards repeat prescriptions.

·  Improve access to emotional wellbeing and mental health services.

·  Review the impact of our new participation offer 'Get Involved'.

·  Improved accessibilities of web-based Local Offer.

·  Improved accessibility of Local Offer via a Care Leaver app.

·  Improved workforce learning and development plans to align to the improved service offer.

Following the presentation, it was commented that the two most important things for care leavers is having a home and being in employment and continued work with the District Councils to improve access to priority banding for care leavers was welcomed and that protocols were in place both for housing and employment and that these be reviewed regularly and in consultation with young people.

Resolved:  That the Board received and discussed further developments of the Care Leaver offer, including the report presented to Children, Families and Skills Scrutiny Committee in December 2024, the Local Offer and the Care Leaver Covenant.

Andreas Feldhaar, Permanence Service, Lancashire County Council reminded the Board that the PROUD 2025 Celebration Event for children in our care and care leavers would take place at the end of January 2025.  The event is led by young people.

There have been over 270 nominations and following the shortlisting process, 53 finalists have been invited to the event at Preston North End Football Club where the winners will be announced.  Awards will be presented by the High Sheriff of Lancashire along with County Councillors, the Director of Children's Social Care together with young people.  There will also be presentations and performances from young people on the night.

Resolved:  That the Board noted the update.

Laura Gardner, Quality Assurance, Inspection and Safeguarding, Lancashire County Council presented to the Board the Audit Activity, Quarter 3 (October 2024 – December 2024).

The Board noted the findings/outcomes from the report, which were highlighted, and further details presented as follows on:

·  Children in Our Care – Learning Spaces Quarter 3 2024

Ø  Learning spaces completed

Ø  Combined overall grades

Ø  Combined overall impact and outcomes

Ø  Combined overall grades and overall impact

·  Key Strengths for Children in Our Care

Ø  Assessment Quality

Ø  Plan Quality

Ø  Multi-Agency Working

Ø  Child's Voice and Understanding

·  Key Learning/Further Development for Children in Our Care

Ø  Assessments

Ø  Inclusion of Parents

Ø  Supervision and Management Oversight

Ø  Child's Voice and Direct Work

·  Leaving Care Learning Spaces Quarter 3 2024

Ø  Learning Spaces Completed

Ø  Combined Overall Grades

Ø  Combined Overall Impact and Outcomes

Ø  Combined Overall Grades and Overall Impact

·  Key Strengths for Leaving Care

Ø  Assessment Quality

Ø  Plan Quality

Ø  Outcomes

Ø  Supervision and Management Oversight

·  Key Learning/Further Development for Leaving Care

Ø  Assessments

Ø  Plans

Ø  Decision Making and Management Oversight

Ø  Outcomes

Following the presentation, the Board noted that Children's Services review recordings in terms of supervision every month and all team managers and the Head of Service has access to this.  The audit reviews provide a wider understanding about footprint in terms of management oversight and decision making when it comes to supervision and also wider decisions that might need to be made for children.  With regards to the audits, Social Workers have commented that they feel very supported by their managers.

In terms of celebrating success and boosting moral, this is something that the Service does around sharing outstanding work with Heads of Service, which then results in direct communication with that member of staff.  The Principal Social Worker also celebrates success following positive feedback from the workforce as well as the Corporate shout out page for all staff and local shout outs too.

As part of the learning spaces audit, part of the audit does seek feedback from the young person as well as families and carers and is sought for every audit, is shared, and developed internally.

Resolved:  That the Board discussed and commented on the audit findings.

Sarah Robinson, Head of Service, Property, took the decision as set out in the report.

A decision to extend the current CT scanning contract.

Paul Bond, Head of Governance, on behalf of Heloise McAndrew  Director of Law and Governance took a decision to extend the existing temporary digital autopsy agreement by up to £100,000.

A decision to approve a renewal of sports hall floor at Lathom High School.

Sarah Robinson, Head of Service, Property, took the decision as set out in the report.

Sarah Robinson, Head of Service, Property took the decision as set out in the report.

Sarah Robinson, Head of Service Property on behalf of Noel O'Neill, Director of Finance and Commerce, took a decision to enter into a Section 106 agreement to secure a primary education contribution of £439,758, adjusted by BCIS indexation, in connection with the housing development at Land at Whalley Road, Wilpshire. The S106 will be presented to the Planning Inspector at Public Inquiry (Planning Appeal Ref. APP/T2350/W/24/3352614).

A decision on the commitment of £44,108 of S106 developer contributions to the New School at Whittingham Hospital project from application 06/2019/0970 'Land South of Whittingham Road (Former Ridings Depot) (Phase 3)'. The contributions, secured against this project, will be used to progress the planning application and site investigations.

Sarah Robinson, Head of Service Property, on behalf of the Noel O'Neill, Director of Finance and Commerce took a decision to:

Approve the commitment of £44,108 of S106 developer contributions from application 06/2019/0970 'Land South of Whittingham Road (Former Ridings Depot) (Phase 3)' to the New School at Whittingham Hospital project

And:

Approve the transfer of the above contributions to the New School at Whittingham Hospital project's PPMS project code – 13190.

A decision to approve the award of a single supplier contract for the provision of the Council's Bus Real Time Passenger Information (RTPI) and Traffic Light Priority (TLP) system.

Matt Townsend, Director of Highways and Transport took the decision as set out in the report.

County Councillor Steve Rigby considered and approved a Local Member Grant of £1074.48 to St Annes Carnival Association towards the cost of road closures for the carnival parade.

County Councillor Scott Cunliffe considered and approved a Local Member Grant of £150 to Friends of Towneley Park – Acorns Group towards the cost of materials for children's activities and crafting sessions.

County Councillor Cosima Towneley considered and approved a Local Member Grant for the increased amount of £160 to Friends of Towneley Park – Acorns Group towards the cost of children's activities and crafting sessions.

County Councillor Sobia Malik considered and approved a Local Member Grant of £150 to Friends of Towneley Park – Acorns Group towards the cost of children's activities and crafting sessions.

County Councillor Tim Ashton considered and approved a Local Member Grant for the reduced amount of £250 to Fresh Food 4 Working Families towards the cost of purchasing fresh food for families.

The reason for the reduction is County Councillor Tim Ashton is reserving funding to support additional organisations in his division.

County Councillor John R Singleton JP considered and approved a Local Member Grant for the reduced amount of £175 to Fresh Food 4 Working Families towards the cost of purchasing fresh food for families.

The reason for the reduction is County Councillor John R Singleton JP has allocated his remaining funding between organisations.

County Councillor Phillippa Williamson, in consultation with County Councillor Stephen Clarke as the elected member of a neighbouring division, and County Councillor Matthew Tomlinson, Leader of the Labour group, considered and approved a Local Member Grant for the reduced amount of £400 to Harmony & Health Singers towards the cost of new iPad and replacement song books.

The reason for the reduction is County Councillor Phillippa Williamson wished to reserve funding to support additional organisations in Fleetwood East's division.

County Councillor Andrea Kay considered and rejected a Local Member Grant to Harmony & Health Singers towards the cost of new iPad and replacement song books.

The reason for the rejection is County Councillor Andrea Kay wishes to reserve her funding for organisations that operate in her division and that she believes will benefit her division more directly.

A decision on the allocation of additional funding for the provision of the replacement of Boiler & construction of new plantroom.

Michael Peppin, Capital Programme Manager, on behalf of the Director of Finance and Commerce, Noel O'Neil took the decision as set out in the report.

County Councillor Phillippa Williamson considered and approved a Local Member Grant of £500 to Friends of Carnforth Library towards the cost of resources and materials.

County Councillor Phillippa Williamson declared a non-pecuniary interest as a member of Friends of Carnforth Library.

County Councillor John Singleton considered and approved a Local Member Grant for the reduced amount of £175 towards the cost of 2 projects for children and a drama production.

The reason for the reduction is County Councillor Singleton has allocated his remaining grant funding between two organisations.

A report was presented on an application for the construction of a 3m high wooden acoustic fence along the eastern side of the access road at Hapton Valley Transfer Station, Hapton Valley Estate, Accrington Road, Burnley.

The report included the views of LCC Development Control Highways and 2 representations objecting to the application, the details of which were provided in the Committee report. No comments were received from Burnley Council or Hapton Parish Council.

The Head of Development Control presented a revised Powerpoint presentation (copy attached) showing a site location plan and aerial view of the site and photographs of the access road and existing fence line.

Committee had undertaken a site visit to the Hapton Valley Estate in November 2023.

An extra condition to be attached to the planning permission was suggested by the officer that required the fencing to be retained and maintained during the period of the waste management operations on the site, to ensure there was no deterioration of the fence, over the period of the lifetime of the site.

The officer answered questions from Committee.

It was Proposed and Seconded that the wooden acoustic fence be up to 3 metres high, rather than stipulating it should be 3 metres high. After a discussion, the Amendment was Withdrawn.

It was therefore:

Resolved: That planning permission be granted subject to:

(i)  conditions controlling commencement, working programme, and construction working hours, as set out in the Committee report.

(ii)  The following additional condition:

4. The fencing shall be retained and maintained throughout the duration of waste management operations on the Hapton Valley site.

Reason : In the interests of local amenity and to conform with Policy NE5 of the Burnley Local Plan.

In relation to the Round O Quarry resolution on page 10, a discussion took place around the meaning of an independent drainage report. It was clarified that an independent report would be produced by a consultant commissioned by the applicant.

The amended Resolution was therefore:

'That the application be deferred, and that the applicant be requested to submit an independent drainage report.'

Resolved: That the minutes of the meeting held on 17 July 2024 be confirmed and signed by the Chair, subject to the amendment to the Round O Quarry Resolution as detailed above.

A report was presented on an application for the diversion of part of Footpath FP0819048 at Lower Park Farm, Lathom.

The length of existing path to be diverted was shown on the Committee plan attached to the agenda papers by a bold continuous line and marked A-B, and the proposed alternative route was shown by a bold broken line and marked A-C-D.

The update sheet contained the following additional information which had come to light following the site visit:

"The public footpath is obstructed as it passes by Lower Park House. A permissive alternative has been provided, starting 60m SE through to 120 m WSW of point A on the Order Plan. This has created a route slightly to the north of the legal line and had the effect of removing access to the footpath along the drive/parking area of Lower Park House, also enabling the residents to close the electric gates to their property. This alternative, although well maintained and accessible is not to the standard required for a diversion and is not part of the proposal set out in the Committee Report. In the event that Members decide not to make an Order or the Order does not take effect the landowner will be required to reinstate the legal line of the footpath.

It should also be noted that the section of the existing footpath to the SE of point B is in multiple ownership, however both title holders are referred to in the original letter of application and this was considered an application with approval of all parties."

The consultation with the statutory undertakers had been carried out and no objections or adverse comments on the proposal had been received.

The proposed diversion was considered expedient in the interests of the owners of the land for reasons of privacy and security. Lower Park Farm is a commercial property. Currently the public footpath ran along the access drive of, and immediately adjacent to, the dwelling of Lower Park Farm. The diversion would instead move the path onto a track to the NE of Lower Park Farm, broadly parallel to the W section of the current route, and will also exit onto Hall Lane. This would significantly increase the privacy and security of the commercial property, whilst providing a route that was safe, convenient and as direct for public use.

After a discussion it was:

Resolved:

(i)  That an Order be made under Section 119 of the Highways Act 1980 to divert part of Footpath FP0819048 from the route shown by a bold continuous line and marked A-B to the route shown by a bold broken line and marked A-C-D on the Committee Plan.

(ii)  That in the event of no objections being received, the Order be confirmed and in the event of objections being received and not withdrawn, the Order be sent to the Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and the Authority take a neutral stance with respect to its confirmation.

(iii)  That provision be included in the Order such that it is also made under Section 53A of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, to amend the Definitive Map and Statement of Public Rights of Way in consequence of the coming into operation of the diversion.

A report was presented on the proposed creation by agreement of a public footpath over land at the Kingfisher Tavern, Kirkham. The length of footpath to be created was shown on the Committee plan attached to the agenda papers between points A-B.

It was reported that, as part of a new housing development to the west of the A585 Kirkham with Wesham Bypass, FP0501002 had been diverted with a different point of access to the A585, 65 metres further to the south and nearer to the roundabout junction with Wilson Drive and St Georges Park. A pelican crossing control had been installed adjacent to the access path to the pedestrian entrance to the south-east corner of the housing development on the western side of the A585, and on the eastern side of the A585 adjacent to The Kingfisher Tavern. The eastern section of FP0501002 would connect to the A585 highway at a point where there was no adjacent footway and crossing control point.

Lancashire County Council were keen to secure rights across land at The Kingfisher Tavern, to create a public footpath that connected to the A585, close to the new pedestrian crossing. It was therefore proposed to enter into a public path creation agreement under Section 25 Highways Act 1980 for a new public footpath.

Committee were reminded that Section 25 of the Highways Act 1980 required the county council to consult any other local authority in whose area the proposal was situated before entering into the agreement. Accordingly, the necessary consultation had been carried out with Fylde Borough Council. Consultation with the Lancashire County Council Ecologist had also taken place, with appropriate advice passed to the project team.

Resolved:

(i)  That the dedication of a footpath over land at The Kingfisher Tavern as shown on the Committee plan between points A-B, on the main terms as set out in the Committee report, be accepted.

(ii)  That the Director of Environment and Planning be authorised to finalise and enter into a Public Path Creation Agreement under Section 25 of the Highways Act 1980 between J W Lees & Co, as the owner of The Kingfisher Tavern, and Lancashire County Council, with completion at a time, and to include wording in accordance with the main terms as set out in the report to dedicate a length of footpath marked by a bold dashed line on the Committee plan and annotated A-B.

A report was presented on an application for the diversion of parts of Footpath FP0302091 at Alston Cottage Farm, Longridge.

The lengths of existing footpath to be diverted were shown on the Committee plan attached to the agenda papers by a bold continuous line and marked A-B, E-C, B-C and D-C, and the proposed alternative routes were shown by a bold dashed line and marked B-F, E-F, B-G and D-G.

The consultation with the statutory undertakers had been carried out and no objections or adverse comments on the proposal had been received. The Lancashire County Council Ecology Officer had been consulted and had given some specific advice for the applicant to follow, should the Order be made and before construction.

The proposed diversion was considered expedient in the interests of the owners of the land for reasons of privacy and security. Alston Cottage Farm is a private residential property, Edmundson Farm is a working farm. Currently, the public footpath passed through the gardens of the Alston Cottage Farm and the grounds of Edmundson Farm, before continuing through the adjacent pastures.

Removing the path from the grounds of the residential property and diverting it to instead join the access drive to Edmundson Farm would significantly increase the privacy and security of the residence, whilst providing a route that was safe and convenient for public use. As there were also problems with the alignment of the footpath running along the eastern side of Edmundson Farm, the proposal also sought to remedy these by moving them off the margins of the farmyard into the pastures to the south and east.

The officer answered questions from Committee.

Resolved:

(i)  That an Order be made under Section 119 of the Highways Act 1980 to divert parts of Footpaths FP0302091, FP0302093 and FP0302094 from the route shown by a bold continuous line and marked A-B, B-C, E-C and D-C to the routes shown by a bold broken line and marked B-F, B-G, E-F and D-G on the Committee Plan.

(ii)  That in the event of no objections being received, the Order be confirmed and in the event of objections being received and not withdrawn, the Order be sent to the Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and the Authority take a neutral stance with respect to its confirmation.

(iii)  That provision be included in the Order such that it is also made under Section 53A of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, to amend the Definitive Map and Statement of Public Rights of Way in consequence of the coming into operation of the diversion.

A report was presented in relation to an investigation into the existence of public rights over Vicarage Fold, Wiswell. The route under investigation was shown on the Committee plan attached to the agenda papers (but not annotated) as a thick dashed line which ran from an open junction with Old Back Lane between Vicarage Farm and 2 Old Back Lane (point A) to an open junction with Pendleton Road between Vicarage House and 1 Pendleton Road (point B).

It was reported that a request which did not comply with Schedule 14 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 had been received for the recording of an 'unadopted highway' on the Definitive Map and Statement of Public Rights of Way or other appropriate document.

The request had been made because the route was not recorded as a publicly maintained highway by the county council on the List of Streets, and was not recorded as a route carrying a public right of access on the Definitive Map and Statement.

The person making the request (referred to as the 'applicant') had provided some evidence to support their assertion that the route was a public right of way, but had requested that it should be recorded as an 'unadopted highway'. However, the Definitive Map and Statement of Public Rights of Way records only specific categories of public rights – public footpath, bridleways, restricted byways and byways open to all traffic and this had been explained to the 'applicant'.

The investigation looked at whether public rights existed and, if so, what those public rights were and whether it was appropriate to record them on the Definitive Map. The purpose of the investigation was not to determine whether the route was publicly maintainable, although this would normally become apparent as part of the process.

Various maps, plans and other documents were examined to discover when the route came into being, and to try to determine what its status may be.

Committee were advised that, although the Ordnance Survey maps suggested the route had been capable of being used as a through route, there was no evidence that it was so used (rather than simply access to properties from both ends) and that this map evidence on its own was not considered sufficient to determine public rights. It was therefore suggested to Committee that, on balance, there was insufficient evidence to infer dedication and that no Order be made.

The officer answered questions from Committee.

After a discussion, it was Proposed and Seconded:

"That an Order be made for the addition of a restricted byway from an open junction with Old Back Lane between Vicarage Farm and 2 Old Back Lane (point A) to an open junction with Pendleton Road between Vicarage House and 1 Pendleton Road (point B), but that not being satisfied that the higher test for confirmation could be met, the matter be returned to Committee for a decision regarding confirmation, once the statutory period for objections and representations to the Order had passed."

Upon being put to the Vote, the Motion was Carried.

Resolved: