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Agenda and minutes

Agenda and minutes

Venue: Main Auditorium, Portsmouth Guildhall

Contact: Stewart Agland  Email: stewart.agland@portsmouthcc.gov.uk

Media

Items
No. Item

43.

Declaration of Members' Interests

Minutes:

Councillor Jeanette Smith declared a personal, non-prejudicial interest in minute 57 as she was a paid official of Unison, a union which represented care workers.

 

Councillor Cal Corkery declared a personal, non-prejudicial interest in minute 57 as he was a paid official of Unison, a union which represented care workers.

44.

To approve as a correct record the Minutes of the Annual Council meeting held on 18 May 2021 and the abandoned Council meeting held on 19 July 2021 pdf icon PDF 106 KB

Additional documents:

Minutes:

It was

 

Proposed by Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson

Seconded by Councillor Simon Bosher

 

That the minutes of the Annual Council meeting held on 18 May 2021 and the abandoned Council meeting held on 19 July 2021 be confirmed as correct records.

 

These were agreed by assent.

45.

To receive such communications as the Lord Mayor may desire to lay before the Council, including apologies for absence

Minutes:

Apologies for absence were received on behalf of Councillor Kimberly Barrett and Councillor Luke Stubbs.

 

Apologies for lateness had been received from Councillor Ryan Brent and Councillor Ben Dowling.

 

With great sadness, the Lord Mayor paid tribute to the recent passing of three former Councillors and expressed his sincere condolences on behalf of the Council.

 

Hon Alderman Fred Warner, who passed away on Friday 20th August 2021. Hon Alderman Warner was Lord Mayor in 1985 and was conferred the title of Honorary Alderman on 14 May 2002.  Hon Alderman Warner was a member for the then Farlington Ward from May 1976 to June 1983 and then as a member for the Drayton and Farlington Ward from June 1983 to May 2002.

 

Barry Maine, former Lord Mayor and Honorary Alderman, passed away on 18th September 2021.  Barry Maine was a Portsmouth City Councillor for Drayton and Farlington Ward from 1988-2004 and Lord Mayor in 2000/1.  He was conferred the title of Honorary Alderman on 22 June 2004 and this was presented at the Council meeting of 26 October 2004.

 

Michael Andrewes, who represented the Baffins ward from May 2002 until May 2008 and then the St Jude Ward from May 2011 to May 2015.

 

The Lord Mayor expressed his sincere condolences on behalf of the Council in respect of the extremely sad and very tragic death of former Cllr Steve Wemyss's daughter.  

 

Finally, the Lord Mayor congratulated Councillor Simon Bosher on becoming Conservative Group Leader, with Councillor Ryan Brent continuing as Group Deputy Leader.

46.

Deputations from the Public under Standing Order No 24

Deputations by members of the public may be made on any item where a decision is going to be taken (those previously submitted for the abandoned July Council meeting will automatically be carried forward to this meeting). The request should be made in writing to the contact officer (stewart.agland@portsmouthcc.gov.uk) by 12 noon of the working day before the meeting (so Tuesday 12 October for this meeting), and must include the purpose of the deputation (for example, for or against the recommendations). Email requests are accepted

Minutes:

The City Solicitor advised that seven verbal deputation requests had been made for this meeting. 

 

In addition, two written deputations had been submitted and circulated.  The first was a dual deputation from Rachel Hudson, Portsmouth Friends of the Earth and was in respect of minute 55 ' Pesticide Use and minute 63 'Biodiversity enhancement in urban Portsmouth'. 

 

The second was from Mathilde Chanvin and in respect of minute 63 'Biodiversity enhancement in urban Portsmouth'.

 

The City Solicitor advised that Andrea Carey, who had submitted verbal deputation requests in respect of minute 55 ' Pesticide Use - Portsmouth City Council' and minute 63 'Biodiversity enhancement in urban Portsmouth' was unable to attend the meeting and as such would be unable to make her deputations.

 

The City Solicitor invited those who had submitted oral deputation requests to deliver their deputations in turn.

 

Two were in respect of minute 56 'Time to pause and rethink the Tipner West Project' from Celia Clark and Selma Heimedinger;

 

One was in respect of minute 60 Bodmin Green' from Nick Horton;

 

One was in respect of minute 61 'House Building Target' from Selma Heimedinger; and

 

One was in respect of minute 63 'Biodiversity enhancement in urban Portsmouth' from Godfrey Gleadle.

 

The Lord Mayor thanked everyone for their deputations.

47.

Questions from the Public under Standing Order 25 (see attached) (1 carried forward) pdf icon PDF 121 KB

Minutes:

The first public question had been received from Ken Bailey.

 

"The people of Portsmouth have been patiently waiting for the last 7 years for the formal recognition of a public right of way around Town Quay at the Camber in Old Portsmouth. This issue today still remains unresolved.

 

Considering the following:

 

·        Between 2011 and 2021 PCC did not have a Definitive Map of the public rights of way in the city that it is required to hold by law.

 

·        As the Surveying Authority PCC investigated and assessed an application in 2016 for an existing public right of way at the Camber, Old Portsmouth to be added to the Definitive Map – which resulted in PCC losing a subsequent appeal on this matter.

 

·        PCC did not comply with national guidance in respect of consultations prior to publishing a Definitive Map Modification Order for this Camber right of way in February 2019, despite having taken a year to action this Secretary of State’s directive.

 

·        It took 6 months for PCC to acknowledge the submission of a large number of formal representations and objections by the public to the Definitive Map Modification Order which were received over two years ago.

 

·        The Cabinet Member for Traffic and Transportation has not acknowledged or replied to questions raised in May 2018 regarding how PCC might identify and learn lessons in how to improve its Public Rights of Way administration performance.

 

Do you, as the responsible councillors, agree that this situation is unacceptable and will you:

 

·        Provide the date by which submission of the DMMO to the Secretary of State for confirmation will urgently occur?

 

·        Subsequently ensure the failings in timely resolution of this case are formally investigated so that lessons are learned?"

 

The Leader, Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson, provided his verbal response to this question and the supplementary question that followed.

 

Council was advised that Les Cummings, who had submitted the second public question, was unable to attend the meeting.  Mr Cummings had accepted that under Standing Order 25 his question could not be put and would instead be considered at a future meeting.

 

The third public question had been received from Alan Burgess.

 

"In 2019 Portsmouth City Council took the step of declaring a climate emergency and setting a target of zero carbon emissions in Portsmouth by 2030. It is true that PCC authored the Climate Emergency Strategy, with a forward by the leader of the council and the cabinet member responsible for the environment and climate change, in which they say: "We will provide a further report in mid-2020, following a critical appraisal by Local Partnerships early in the year, which will include a costed action plan supported through the 2020/21 budget." "When will the promised costed action plan be delivered? When will the Carbon Trust be commissioned to produce a carbon audit and emissions reduction plan?"

 

Councillor Dave Ashmore provided his verbal response to this question and the supplementary question that followed.

48.

Appointments

Minutes:

RESOLVED that the following changes to Conservative group seats be AGREED:

 

Planning Committee

 

Councillor Daniel Wemyss and Councillor Linda Symes added as Standing Deputies.

 

Scrutiny Management Panel

 

Councillor Benedict Swann added as a Standing Deputy.

 

Governance, & Audit & Standards Committee

 

Councillor John Smith to replace Councillor Simon Bosher as a committee member.

 

Councillor Daniel Wemyss appointed as Vice Chair.

 

Councillor Luke Stubbs to replace Councillor John Smith as Standing Deputy.

 

Employment Committee

 

Councillor Simon Bosher to replace Councillor Matthew Atkins as a committee member and Vice-Chair.

 

Councillor Scott Payter-Harris added as a Standing Deputy.

 

TECS Scrutiny Panel

 

Councillor Matthew Atkins to replace Councillor Simon Bosher.

 

Councillor Simon Bosher added as a Standing Deputy.

 

EDCL Scrutiny Panel

 

Add Councillor Linda Symes added as a Standing Deputy.

 

Health Overview & Scrutiny Panel

 

Councillor Luke Stubbs added as a Standing Deputy.

49.

Urgent Business - To receive and consider any urgent and important business from Members of the Cabinet in accordance with Standing Order No 26 pdf icon PDF 141 KB

Additional documents:

Minutes:

Due to the likelihood of the disclosure of exempt information during debate the Lord Mayor agreed to vary the order of the agenda so that the following item would be considered as the last item of business:

 

Recommendation from Cabinet from its meeting held on 5 October 2021

 

Minute 83 - Regeneration of the City Centre (part thereof) compulsory purchase order resolution report.

50.

Local Transport Plan 4 Adoption pdf icon PDF 29 KB

To receive and consider the attached report and recommendations from Cabinet held on 22 June 2021. Please note that the full Cabinet report is included within the Supplementary Matters document.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

Minute 47 - Local Transport Plan 4 Adoption

 

This item was opposed to allow for debate.

 

It was

 

Proposed by Councillor Lynne Stagg

Seconded by Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson

 

That the recommendations contained in minute 47 of the Cabinet meeting held on 22 June 2021 be approved.

 

Following debate, this was put to the vote and CARRIED.

 

RESOLVED that Full Council

 

(a)  Approves the draft Portsmouth transport strategy and Portsmouth transport implementation plan for adoption as the Portsmouth Local Transport Plan 4 (LTP4) 2021-2038; and

 

(b)  Delegates authority to the Director of Regeneration in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Traffic and Transportation and the Section 151 Officer to agree any minor amendments to the strategy and implementation plan that may be required to take account of future funding and policy announcements.

51.

Portsmouth International Port Harbour Revision Order pdf icon PDF 29 KB

To receive and consider the attached report and recommendations from Cabinet held on 22 June 2021. Please note that the full Cabinet report is included within the Supplementary Matters document.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

Minute 48 - Portsmouth International Port Harbour Revision Order.

 

The recommendations contained in minute 48 of the Cabinet meeting held on 22 June 2021 were approved unopposed.

 

RESOLVED that Full Council

 

(a)           Approves an application being made to the Marine Management Organisation ("MMO") for a Harbour Revision Order ("HRO") for a full consolidation and modernisation of legislative powers; and

 

(b)           Delegates authority to the Port Director in consultation with the Port's Portfolio Holder and the Harbour Master to determine the wording of the HRO based on legal advice and undertake all procedures for the submission of the HRO to the MMO.

52.

Modern Slavery Transparency Statement pdf icon PDF 28 KB

To receive and consider the attached report and recommendations to note for information only from Cabinet held on 22 June 2021. Please note that the full Cabinet report is included within the Supplementary Matters document.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

Minute 49 - Modern Slavery Transparency Framework.

 

The recommendations contained in minute 49 of the Cabinet meeting held on 22 June 2021 were approved unopposed.

 

RESOLVED that Full Council notes for information only the Cabinet decisions to approve -

 

(a)  The Modern Slavery Transparency Statement for publication on the council's website (see appendix 1 of the report); and

 

(b)  The programme of work set out in item 5 of the report.

53.

Review of Political Proportionality on Committees and Panels pdf icon PDF 174 KB

To consider the attached report of the Chief Executive.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

The Lord Mayor advised that the report from the Chief Executive had been previously circulated.

 

In response to the recommendations in the report it was

 

Proposed by Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson

Seconded by Councillor Simon Bosher

 

"To adopt the overall political balance and allocation of seats as set out in the Chief Executive's report and agree the following changes on the basis -

 

That the Conservative Group gain two seats from Councillor Symes as a previously non-aligned member and those two seats be on the Scrutiny Management Panel, both previously held by Councillor Symes who will continue holding those seats as a Conservative Group Member."

 

This was put to the vote and CARRIED.

 

RESOLVED that Council adopt the overall political balance and allocation of seats as set out in the Chief Executive's report and agree the following changes on the basis -

 

That the Conservative Group gain two seats from Councillor Symes as a previously non-aligned member and those two seats be on the Scrutiny Management Panel and the Housing and Social Care Scrutiny Panel,   both previously held by Councillor Symes who will continue holding those seats as a Conservative Group Member.

54.

Notices of Motion

Minutes:

The Lord Mayor advised that there were twelve notices of motion before council today.

55.

Pesticide Use - Portsmouth City Council pdf icon PDF 361 KB

Proposed by Councillor Jeanette Smith

Seconded by Councillor Claire Udy

 

At last count, 38 different toxic pesticides were being used in UK towns and cities. They are sprayed in parks, playgrounds and other green spaces, road verges, pavements and around shopping centres, hospitals and schools. Almost all of the pesticides used are weed killers designed to do nothing more than keep places looking ‘neat and tidy’.

 

These chemicals are linked to an array of health problems including cancer, asthma, birth defects and reproductive issues. Vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant mothers and the elderly are particularly at risk.

 

Wildlife such as bees, birds and hedgehogs are increasingly seeking refuge in our towns and cities. However, the overuse of pesticides in urban areas is contaminating the natural resources that they depend upon. Our pets can also be susceptible to pesticide poisoning.

 

But urban pesticide use is unnecessary. There are many viable and cost-effective non-chemical alternatives available and more than 60 towns and cities across the UK have already taken action to end or significantly reduce their pesticide use.

 

This council calls on the administration to immediately ban the use of all forms of pesticides used on all areas of land under the authorities' control and change to non-chemical alternatives including planting urban wildflower meadows.

Minutes:

It was

 

Proposed by Councillor Jeanette Smith

 

Seconded by Councillor Claire Udy

 

That notice of motion (a) as set out on the agenda be adopted.

 

As an amendment it was

 

Proposed by Councillor Darren Sanders

Seconded by Councillor Dave Ashmore

 

a.    In Par 4, line 3, insert "including Portsmouth" after UK

 

b.    Insert new paragraph 5, thus.

 

Council welcomes the work that has occurred since 2018 to cut their use. This includes:

 

·       Stopping the use of the MMC pro chemical to treat areas of moss

·       Stopping the use of the Dicophar chemical to treat weedy grassed areas

·       Trialling the use of soda crystals in 2018 and Foamstream in 2019

·       Designing out the need to use any chemicals at all through:

o   Reducing over planting

o   Ensuring repairs are done well first time, so not allowing weeds to grow

o   Using bulk mulch as a natural suppressant while plants are growing

o   Using Westermann weed ripper machines and long-handled scrapers and as an alternative to pesticides

o   Using battery-operated equipment including hedge cutters, strimmers and blowers

o   Backing new wildflower meadows across the city, for instance at Tamworth Park and Lake Road

 

c.     Insert new paragraph 6, thus:

 

Council notes the work that has already been done to remove pesticides in total. It also notes the issues working with the alternative machinery required to do this pose, in particular the increased risk of manual handling injuries such as Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome. Council recognises the importance of keeping its workers safe.

 

d.    Insert new Par 7, thus:

 

Council notes that many of the pesticide 'bans' have been done over a period of time. For instance:

 

·       Green-run Brighton and Hove taking three years;

·       Labour-run Bristol and Cambridge taking two years;

·       Trafford - when the Conservatives were the biggest party - and Lib Dem Colchester taking a year.

 

e.    Para 5 (to be new para 8) Delete all and including from the word "immediately" and replace with: "go further and support the banning of all forms of pesticides used on all areas of land under the authorities' control in principle "

 

f.      Insert new Par 9, thus:

 

Council asks Cabinet to report at the earliest opportunity on the practical implications of doing that, in particular:

 

·       The cost of achieving this and from where the money can be found

·       How we can maintain worker safety, especially through compliance with the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005

·       The concerns those who would implement this scheme have raised around how to treat objects such as gravestones and Japanese Knotweed

 

Following debate the mover of the original motion did not wish to subsume the amendment into the motion.

 

Upon being put to a vote, the amendment in the name of Councillor Darren Sanders was CARRIED.

 

Upon being put to a vote the substantive notice of motion incorporating the amendment in the name of Councillor Darren Sanders was CARRIED.

 

RESOLVED that

 

At last count, 38 different toxic pesticides were being used in UK towns and cities. They are sprayed in parks, playgrounds and other green spaces, road verges, pavements and around shopping centres, hospitals and schools. Almost all of the pesticides used are weed killers designed to do nothing more than keep places looking ‘neat and tidy’.

 

These chemicals are linked to an array of health problems including cancer, asthma, birth defects and reproductive issues. Vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant mothers and the elderly are particularly at risk.

 

Wildlife such as bees, birds and hedgehogs are increasingly seeking refuge in our towns and cities. However, the overuse of pesticides in urban areas is contaminating the natural resources that they depend upon. Our pets can also be susceptible to pesticide poisoning.

 

But urban pesticide use is unnecessary. There are many viable and cost-effective non-chemical alternatives available and more than 60 towns and cities across the UK  including Portsmouth have already taken action to end or significantly reduce their pesticide use.

 

Council welcomes the work that has occurred since 2018 to cut their use. This includes:

 

·       Stopping the use of the MMC pro chemical to treat areas of moss

·       Stopping the use of the Dicophar chemical to treat weedy grassed areas

·       Trialling the use of soda crystals in 2018 and Foamstream in 2019

·       Designing out the need to use any chemicals at all through:

o   Reducing over planting

o   Ensuring repairs are done well first time, so not allowing weeds to grow

o   Using bulk mulch as a natural suppressant while plants are growing

o   Using Westermann weed ripper machines and long-handled scrapers and as an alternative to pesticides

o   Using battery-operated equipment including hedge cutters, strimmers and blowers

o   Backing new wildflower meadows across the city, for instance at Tamworth Park and Lake Road

 

Council notes the work that has already been done to remove pesticides in total. It also notes the issues working with the alternative machinery required to do this pose, in particular the increased risk of manual handling injuries such as Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome. Council recognises the importance of keeping its workers safe.

 

Council notes that many of the pesticide 'bans' have been done over a period of time, such as:

 

·       Green-run Brighton and Hove taking three years;

·       Labour-run Bristol and Cambridge taking two years;

·       Trafford - when the Conservatives were the biggest party - and Lib Dem Colchester taking a year.

 

This council calls on the administration to go further and support the banning of all forms of pesticides used on all areas of land under the authorities' control in principle.

 

Council asks Cabinet to report at the earliest opportunity on the practical implications of doing that, in particular:

 

·       The cost of achieving this and from where the money can be found

·       How we can maintain worker safety, especially through compliance with the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005

·       The concerns those who would implement this scheme have raised around gravestones and Japanese Knotweed.

56.

Time to pause and rethink the Tipner West project pdf icon PDF 7 KB

Proposed by Councillor Cal Corkery

Seconded by Councillor Judith Smyth

 

Increasing numbers of local people are raising concerns about the Liberal Democrat administration's plans for Tipner. The council has already spent over £10m of taxpayer cash drawing up plans which would see the creation of a 'super-peninsula' through large scale land reclamation at Tipner West.

 

We share the concerns of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust (HIWWT) and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) who are opposing the destruction of the intertidal mudflats that are legally protected as sites of scientific and environmental importance. Over 23,000 people have signed their petition calling for the proposals not to go ahead but the council doesn't seem to be listening.

 

Not only would the plans cause unacceptable damage to the local environment and wildlife, we are also concerned the kind of development being pursued is not what our city needs. Despite most of the Tipner West site being publicly owned land the current proposals include just 30% affordable housing meaning the majority of new properties on the site will be expensive luxury homes out of reach of many local people.

 

The council has already spent some £10.8 million on the Tipner regeneration proposals and expects to incur another £7.5 million getting it to the stage of applying for planning permission (figures correct as of report to Cabinet in October 2020).

 

Members of the Liberal Democrat Cabinet have themselves expressed concerns about being able to secure permission for their current proposals but are still prepared to gamble £18.3 million of public money on something that may well not go ahead.

 

Several important stakeholders including the HIWWT, the RSPB, The Portsmouth Society, heritage groups and others are against the current proposal and are asking for more extensive and effective consultation. This wider community engagement remit should include exploration of alternative proposals and options for developing the site. 

 

It’s time to pause and rethink the Tipner West project to ensure value for money is achieved, the environment is protected and the maximum possible levels of affordable housing are delivered.

 

Full Council therefore calls on the Cabinet to bring a report on the Tipner West project to a future Full Council meeting as a matter of urgency. This report should update councillors and members of the public on the current status of the project, including total spend to date. This report must also include consideration of viable alternative options for the site and set out a timeline for further decisions to be made in advance of the draft local plan being published and consulted on.

 

Additional documents:

Minutes:

It was

 

Proposed by Councillor Cal Corkery

Seconded by Councillor Judith Smyth

 

That notice of motion (b) as set out on the agenda be adopted.

 

As an amendment it was

 

Proposed by Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson

Seconded by Councillor Hugh Mason

 

To delete the penultimate paragraph, which reads "It’s time to pause and rethink the Tipner West project to ensure value for money is achieved, the environment is protected and the maximum possible levels of affordable housing are delivered."

 

Following debate the mover of the original motion did not wish to subsume this amendment into the motion.

 

Under Standing Order 48b eight members of the Council requested a recorded vote on the motion proposed by Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson.

 

Council voted on the motion proposed by Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson and seconded by Councillor Hugh Mason

 

The following members voted in favour

 

Councillor Dave Ashmore

Councillor George Madgwick

Councillor Chris Attwell

Councillor Hugh Mason

Councillor Stuart Brown

Councillor Darren Sanders

Councillor Ian Holder

Councillor Lynn Stagg

Councillor Suzy Horton

Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson

Councillor Lee Hunt

Councillor Rob Wood

Councillor Leo Madden

 

The following members voted against

 

Councillor Matthew Atkins

Councillor Kirsty Mellor

Councillor Simon Bosher

Councillor Terry Norton

Councillor Ryan Brent

Councillor Scott Payter-Harris

Councillor Tom Coles

Councillor Gemma New

Councillor Cal Corkery

Councillor Robert New

Councillor George Fielding

Councillor Jeanette Smith

Councillor Charlotte Gerada

Councillor John Smith

Councillor Lewis Gosling

Councillor Judith Smyth

Councillor Graham Heaney

Councillor Benedict Swann

Councillor Hannah Hockaday

Councillor Jo Hooper

Councillor Lee Mason

Councillor Linda Symes

Councillor Claire Udy

Councillor Daniel Wemyss

 

The following member abstained

 

Councillor Jason Fazackarley

 

The amendment proposed by Cllr Vernon-Jackson was therefore LOST. 

 

As an amendment it was

 

Proposed by Councillor Scott Payter-Harris

Seconded by Councillor Terry Norton

 

In the final paragraph, delete the words "a future." and replace with "the December"

 

Following debate, the proposer of the original motion agreed to subsume this amendment into the motion.

 

As an amendment it was

 

Proposed by Councillor Graham Heaney

Seconded by Councillor George Fielding

 

At the end of para 4 add:

 

"This includes £4.6m in consultancy fees of which £4.2m went to one firm of "property & planning experts" who continue to play an active role in promoting the scheme both within and outside of the council."

 

After para 6 add new para reading:

 

"While the draft Local Plan agreed by Cabinet does contain a number of alternative options for the Tipner West site, it seems to be framed in a way that prioritises the 'super-peninsula' land reclamation proposal being promoted by the Strategic Developments service. It is regrettable that Cabinet missed the opportunity within the draft Local Plan to make clear any objection to government housebuilding targets on the grounds of environmental and land supply constraints."

 

Delete part of final sentence reading:

 

"in advance of the draft local plan being published and consulted on"

 

Following debate, the proposer of the original motion agreed to subsume this amendment into the motion

 

Under Standing Order 48b eight members of the Council requested a recorded vote on the substantive motion as proposed by Cllr Cal Corkey and incorporating the subsumed amendments proposed by Cllr Scott Payter-Harris and Cllr Graham Heaney.

 

Council voted on the substantive motion.

 

The following members voted in favour

 

Councillor Matthew Atkins

Councillor Kirsty Mellor

Councillor Simon Bosher

Councillor Terry Norton

Councillor Ryan Brent

Councillor Scott Payter-Harris

Councillor Tom Coles

Councillor Gemma New

Councillor Cal Corkery

Councillor Robert New

Councillor George Fielding

Councillor Jeanette Smith

Councillor Charlotte Gerada

Councillor Lewis Gosling

Councillor George Heaney

Councillor Hannah Hockaday

Councillor Jo Hooper

Councillor George Madgwick

Councillor Lee Mason

Councillor John Smith

Councillor Judith Smyth

Councillor Benedict Swann

Councillor Linda Symes

Councillor Claire Udy

Councillor Daniel Wemyss

 

No Councillors voted against

 

The following members abstained

 

Councillor Dave Ashmore

Councillor Leo Madden

Councillor Chris Attwell

Councillor Hugh Mason

Councillor Stuart Brown

Councillor Darren Sanders

Councillor Jason Fazackarley

Councillor Lynn Stagg

Councillor Ian Holder

Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson

Councillor Suzy Horton

Councillor Rob Wood

Councillor Lee Hunt

 

 

The motion was therefore CARRIED.

 

RESOLVED that

Increasing numbers of local people are raising concerns about the Liberal Democrat administration's plans for Tipner. The council has already spent over £10m of taxpayer cash drawing up plans which would see the creation of a 'super-peninsula' through large scale land reclamation at Tipner West.

 

We share the concerns of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust (HIWWT) and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) who are opposing the destruction of the intertidal mudflats that are legally protected as sites of scientific and environmental importance. Over 23,000 people have signed their petition calling for the proposals not to go ahead but the council doesn't seem to be listening.

 

Not only would the plans cause unacceptable damage to the local environment and wildlife, we are also concerned the kind of development being pursued is not what our city needs. Despite most of the Tipner West site being publicly owned land the current proposals include just 30% affordable housing meaning the majority of new properties on the site will be expensive luxury homes out of reach of many local people.

 

The council has already spent some £10.8 million on the Tipner regeneration proposals and expects to incur another £7.5 million getting it to the stage of applying for planning permission (figures correct as of report to Cabinet in October 2020). This includes £4.6m in consultancy fees of which £4.2m went to one firm of "property & planning experts" who continue to play an active role in promoting the scheme both within and outside of the council.

 

Members of the Liberal Democrat Cabinet have themselves expressed concerns about being able to secure permission for their current proposals but are still prepared to gamble £18.3 million of public money on something that may well not go ahead.

 

Several important stakeholders including the HIWWT, the RSPB, The Portsmouth Society, heritage groups and others are against the current proposal and are asking for more extensive and effective consultation. This wider community engagement remit should include exploration of alternative proposals and options for developing the site. 

 

While the draft Local Plan agreed by Cabinet does contain a number of alternative options for the Tipner West site, it seems to be framed in a way that prioritises the 'super-peninsula' land reclamation proposal being promoted by the Strategic Developments service. It is regrettable that Cabinet missed the opportunity within the draft Local Plan to make clear any objection to government housebuilding targets on the grounds of environmental and land supply constraints.

 

It’s time to pause and rethink the Tipner West project to ensure value for money is achieved, the environment is protected and the maximum possible levels of affordable housing are delivered.

 

Full Council therefore calls on the Cabinet to bring a report on the Tipner West project to the December Full Council meeting as a matter of urgency. This report should update councillors and members of the public on the current status of the project, including total spend to date. This report must also include consideration of viable alternative options for the site and set out a timeline for further decisions to be made.

 

Cllr Ryan Brent joined the meeting at 16:25.

 

The Lord Mayor adjourned the meeting for a short break at 17:03.

 

The Lord Mayor reconvened the meeting at 17:24.

57.

Parking for domiciliary care workers when working in Portsmouth

Proposed by Councillor Simon Bosher

Seconded by Councillor Lewis Gosling

 

Finding a parking space has long been challenging in many areas of Portsmouth. Lockdown and the rise of homeworking is making this situation worse as fewer people are away at work during the day.

 

Domiciliary care workers have a crucial role in keeping people safe and well. As well as being a good thing in itself, this also helps reduce unnecessary hospital admissions. Yet despite the importance of this role, it is not well paid, with take home pay levels typically being around the National Living Wage.

 

A large proportion of care is being procured and/or funded by the council and it therefore has a powerful incentive to support the workforce. Yet parking fines are a routine hazard faced by carers.

 

Many carers struggle to find parking spaces, particularly in residents’ zones. They often have to return to the same zone within the no-return period and often cannot find spaces. Violations result in fines and this soon becomes expensive.

 

Many local authorities have created carers’ parking permits. Brighton, Southampton, Devon and many London boroughs all run schemes to assist carers with parking when at work.

 

Council believes such a scheme should be created in Portsmouth. It calls on the Cabinet Member for Traffic and Transportation to take action and to create a scheme, bringing forward a decision report to the next Traffic and Transportation decision meeting. Council also  asks that all members are kept updated on the implementation on any actions agreed.

Minutes:

As previously advised by the Lord Mayor this item had been withdrawn from the agenda by the proposer of the motion, Councillor Simon Bosher.

58.

Supporting a ban on conversion therapy

Proposed by Councillor Stuart Brown

Seconded by Councillor Claire Udy

 

This Council opposes the harm caused to our LGBT+ community in the past through the denial of rights and equal treatment and further recognises that discrimination does still occur today.  

 

This Council recognises and opposes the ongoing harm the practise of so-called conversion therapy causes to LGBT+ people.  

 

This Council calls on the Government to follow through on the promises made, not just in this year's Queen's Speech, but for the past three years, to ban the practise of so-called conversion therapy.

 

This Council calls on the Relevant Government Department & Minister to introduce an effective ban on conversion therapy within England, supported by a programme of work to help tackle these practices in all their forms.

 

Furthermore this Council asks Cabinet to highlight and promote the continued support, counselling and advocacy our local groups provide to members of the LGBT+ Community here in Portsmouth, recognising the excellent work done by local people and such as Portsmouth Pride, The 4U Youth Group, and our LGBTQ+ Champions, and extends it's thanks and support to them. 

Minutes:

It was

 

Proposed by Councillor Stuart Brown

Seconded by Councillor Claire Udy

 

That notice of motion (d) as set out on the agenda be adopted.

 

Following the debate, under Standing Order 48b eight members of the Council requested a recorded vote on the motion.

 

Council voted on the motion.

 

The following members voted in favour

 

Councillor Dave Ashmore

Councillor Chris Attwell

Councillor George Madgwick

Councillor Hugh Mason

Councillor Simon Bosher

Councillor Lee Mason

Councillor Ryan Brent

Councillor Kirsty Mellor

Councillor Stuart Brown

Councillor Terry Norton

Councillor Tom Coles

Councillor Scott Payter-Harris

Councillor Cal Corkery

Councillor Gemma New

Councillor Jason Fazackarley

Councillor George Fielding

Councillor Charlotte Gerada

Councillor Lewis Gosling

Councillor Graham Heaney

Councillor Hannah Hockaday

Councillor Ian Holder

Councillor Jo Hooper

Councillor Suzy Horton

Councillor Lee Hunt

Councillor Leo Madden

Councillor Robert New

Councillor Darren Sanders

Councillor Jeanette Smith

Councillor John Smith

Councillor Judith Smyth

Councillor Lynne Stagg

Councillor Benedict Swann

Councillor Linda Symes

Councillor Claire Udy

Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson

Councillor Daniel Wemyss

Councillor Rob Wood

 

The following members voted against

 

Councillor Matthew Atkins

 

No members abstained from voting

 

The motion was therefore CARRIED.

 

RESOLVED that this Council calls on the Government to follow through on the promises made, not just in this year's Queen's Speech, but for the past three years, to ban the practise of so-called conversion therapy.

 

This Council calls on the Relevant Government Department & Minister to introduce an effective ban on conversion therapy within England, supported by a programme of work to help tackle these practices in all their forms.

 Furthermore this Council asks Cabinet to highlight and promote the continued support, counselling and advocacy our local groups provide to members of the LGBT+ Community here in Portsmouth, recognising the excellent work done by local people and such as Portsmouth Pride, The 4U Youth Group, and our LGBTQ+ Champions, and extends it's thanks and support to them. 

59.

Tackling cyber-bullying pdf icon PDF 403 KB

Proposed by Councillor Hannah Hockaday

Seconded by Councillor Daniel Wemyss

 

The council notes and commends the progress made in increasing the awareness of cyberbullying, the negative and detrimental mental health implications that can occur as a result, as well as the embedding within the school curriculum and within the community.

 

The council supports the further accountability demanded upon social media companies by the government online safety bill and commends the Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioners new programme designed to help secondary pupils stay safe online.

 

However, more legislative measures must be encouraged and brought forward in order to deter cyberbullying and protect against instances such as hate crime and the negative impact on mental health. The wide-scale ability to share non-factual information on social media about individuals, young people and local businesses is abhorrent. Social media firms should be further held to account.

 

Therefore, the council requests that the Chief Executive and all leaders of political groups write to the Secretary of State and Ministers for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport as well as the Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioner to further lobby and investigate increased legislative measures to mitigate the possible decline in any individual’s mental health (including businesses) and quality of life due to cyberbullying and misinformation.

 

The council also calls on the administration for a local campaign to promote positivity online in Portsmouth; which in turn will promote businesses, our young people and sustain positive messages within our city and the wider community.

 

Council also places on record its thanks to city MP’s Stephen Morgan and The Rt Hon Penny Mordaunt for their work in Parliament around tackling cyber-bullying.

Minutes:

It was

 

Proposed by Councillor Hannah Hockaday

Seconded by Councillor Daniel Wemyss

 

That notice of motion (e) as set out on the agenda be adopted.

 

As an amendment it was

 

Proposed by Councillor Suzy Horton

Seconded by Councillor Dave Ashmore

After the fourth  paragraph ending "…and quality of life due to cyberbullying and misinformation."

Add:

Locally, the council commends:

 

·       The creative "Trolls" campaign developed though the Portsmouth Childrens Safeguarding Partnership which helps children and young people to understand cyber bullying for what it is and to respond appropriately, seeking support from adults in their lives. This award-winning campaign was the brainchild of a PCC officer; it started several years ago and this Summer saw the latest trolls products (including books and videos), being rolled out across the whole of Hampshire with support from HCC, SCC and the Isle of Wight.

·       The investment in the Training of Cyber Ambassadors in all secondary schools in the city. This is a scheme develop by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner and follows a peer-led approach by skilling-up a small number of students on key online safety issues. These informed students then pass on their learning and offer helpful support to their peers promoting good digital citizenship and civility.

·       The Extensive information for children and parents on the Portsmouth Safeguarding Children Partnership website about how to stay safe on-line and how to report cyberbullying

·       The Portsmouth Education Partnership toolkit on reducing bullying including cyber bullying originally produced in 2018

·       Planned workshop in Autumn for schools and colleges on peer sexual abuse in schools and colleges following the report which Ofsted published last month

·       Anti-Bullying Conferences 2018 and 2019

·       Support for parents regarding bullying of SEND children via the Local Offer website

·       Embedding Restorative Practice as ‘the way we work in Portsmouth’ with more and more schools being trained and embracing this way of behaving and being.

 

Amend the fifth paragraph to read:

 

"Council calls on the administration to continue this positive work and to support schools and other partners in promoting positivity and courtesy online…"

 

Add a final paragraph as below:

 

"The council considers that despite the progress made in recognising cyber-bullying, that such examples as the racist cyber-bullying of the England football players following the Euro 2021 Final, indicates that there needs to be a collective commitment to extend and expand local commitment whilst calling for national legislative powers."

 

Following debate, the proposer of the original motion, Cllr Hannah Hockaday agreed to subsume the amendment put by Cllr Suzy Horton into the motion.

 

Following a vote, the substantive motion incorporating the amendment was declared CARRIED.

 

RESOLVED that the council notes and commends the progress made in increasing the awareness of cyberbullying, the negative and detrimental mental health implications that can occur as a result, as well as the embedding within the school curriculum and within the community.

 

The council supports the further accountability demanded upon social media companies by the government online safety bill and commends the Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioners new programme designed to help secondary pupils stay safe online.

 

However, more legislative measures must be encouraged and brought forward in order to deter cyberbullying and protect against instances such as hate crime and the negative impact on mental health. The wide-scale ability to share non-factual information on social media about individuals, young people and local businesses is abhorrent. Social media firms should be further held to account.

 

Therefore, the council requests that the Chief Executive and all leaders of political groups write to the Secretary of State and Ministers for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport as well as the Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioner to further lobby and investigate increased legislative measures to mitigate the possible decline in any individual’s mental health (including businesses) and quality of life due to cyberbullying and misinformation.

 

Locally, the council commends:

 

·       The creative "Trolls" campaign developed though the Portsmouth Childrens Safeguarding Partnership which helps children and young people to understand cyber bullying for what it is and to respond appropriately, seeking support from adults in their lives. This award-winning campaign was the brainchild of a PCC officer; it started several years ago and this Summer saw the latest trolls products (including books and videos), being rolled out across the whole of Hampshire with support from HCC, SCC and the Isle of Wight.

·       The investment in the Training of Cyber Ambassadors in all secondary schools in the city. This is a scheme develop by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner and follows a peer-led approach by skilling-up a small number of students on key online safety issues. These informed students then pass on their learning and offer helpful support to their peers promoting good digital citizenship and civility.

·       The Extensive information for children and parents on the Portsmouth Safeguarding Children Partnership website about how to stay safe on-line and how to report cyberbullying

·       The Portsmouth Education Partnership toolkit on reducing bullying including cyber bullying originally produced in 2018

·       Planned workshop in Autumn for schools and colleges on peer sexual abuse in schools and colleges following the report which Ofsted published last month

·       Anti-Bullying Conferences 2018 and 2019

·       Support for parents regarding bullying of SEND children via the Local Offer website

·       Embedding Restorative Practice as ‘the way we work in Portsmouth’ with more and more schools being trained and embracing this way of behaving and being.

 

Council calls on the administration to continue this positive work and to support schools and other partners in promoting positivity and courtesy online in Portsmouth. Council also places on record its thanks to city MP’s Stephen Morgan and The Rt Hon Penny Mordaunt for their work in Parliament around tackling cyber-bullying.

 

The council considers that despite the progress made in recognising cyber-bullying, that such examples as the racist cyber-bullying of the England football players following the Euro 2021 Final, indicates that there needs to be a collective commitment to extend and expand local commitment whilst calling for national legislative powers.

60.

Bodmin Green

Proposed by Councillor Jo Hooper

Seconded by Councillor Gemma New

 

The proposed Bodmin Green echelon parking scheme in Paulsgrove, will provide an essential resource to local residents and the Victory Primary School. The project was originally conceived in the years 2011 and 2012, and is well remembered by former Councillors and residents alike, who now welcome the implementation of this much needed, and previously anticipated facility.

 

Unfortunately the programme stalled in the past, but the Council have now been approached by residents, former cross party Councillors and the Victory Primary School to address the issue of the lost facility

 

The Council should be reassured that a considerable amount of work has already been committed to the design of the scheme, which will benefit both residents and the school, where the pick up and drop off of pupils can be problematic on the busy thoroughfare that is Allaway Avenue.

 

Multiple meetings have now taken place on site and within the civic offices, and the scheme has been fully designed and costed. Officers have confirmed that the funding is available.

 

Housing Officers have also been fully engaged on this project, as the Council department in ownership of the land. It is envisaged that they will manage the car park with multi use echelon parking in mind, ensuring that both residents and the school have fair and equitable usage to best suit their needs. Matters will also be subject to resident consultation in order to ensure harmonious usage is provided and maintained, which takes the bespoke needs of multiple users into account.

 

Thank you to the multiple officers involved across regeneration and housing for all of their hard work and vision in regard to this project. It must also be stipulated that the engineer's design is a thoughtful undertaking that both respects the green credentials of the site, allowing the vast majority of leisure space to remain, whilst etching the echelon parking to the northern and western boundaries of Bodmin Green. Thank you as well to the staff from the housing department for responding to engineers' requests for meetings to discuss this crucial provision.

 

Along with Penny Mordaunt MP's compelling, sensible and ultimately 'green' aspirations to reopen the halt station in Paulsgrove, this project provides a pragmatic response to trying to manage parking in the ward of the City that is the most geographically remote, as well as assisting a local school. The need is obvious and essential.

 

This Council requests that the Cabinet Member for Traffic and Transportation bring forward a report outlining the timescale for approval and implementation of the scheme.

Minutes:

It was

 

Proposed by Councillor Jo Hooper

Seconded by Councillor Gemma New

 

That notice of motion (f) as set out on the agenda be adopted.

 

Following debate, this was put to the vote and CARRIED.

 

RESOLVED that the proposed Bodmin Green echelon parking scheme in Paulsgrove, will provide an essential resource to local residents and the Victory Primary School. The project was originally conceived in the years 2011 and 2012, and is well remembered by former Councillors and residents alike, who now welcome the implementation of this much needed, and previously anticipated facility.

 

Unfortunately the programme stalled in the past, but the Council have now been approached by residents, former cross party Councillors and the Victory Primary School to address the issue of the lost facility

 

The Council should be reassured that a considerable amount of work has already been committed to the design of the scheme, which will benefit both residents and the school, where the pick up and drop off of pupils can be problematic on the busy thoroughfare that is Allaway Avenue.

 

Multiple meetings have now taken place on site and within the civic offices, and the scheme has been fully designed and costed. Officers have confirmed that the funding is available.

 

Housing Officers have also been fully engaged on this project, as the Council department in ownership of the land. It is envisaged that they will manage the car park with multi use echelon parking in mind, ensuring that both residents and the school have fair and equitable usage to best suit their needs. Matters will also be subject to resident consultation in order to ensure harmonious usage is provided and maintained, which takes the bespoke needs of multiple users into account.

 

Thank you to the multiple officers involved across regeneration and housing for all of their hard work and vision in regard to this project. It must also be stipulated that the engineer's design is a thoughtful undertaking that both respects the green credentials of the site, allowing the vast majority of leisure space to remain, whilst etching the echelon parking to the northern and western boundaries of Bodmin Green. Thank you as well to the staff from the housing department for responding to engineers' requests for meetings to discuss this crucial provision.

 

Along with Penny Mordaunt MP's compelling, sensible and ultimately 'green' aspirations to reopen the halt station in Paulsgrove, this project provides a pragmatic response to trying to manage parking in the ward of the City that is the most geographically remote, as well as assisting a local school. The need is obvious and essential.

 

This Council requests that the Cabinet Member for Traffic and Transportation bring forward a report outlining the timescale for approval and implementation of the scheme.

61.

House Building Target pdf icon PDF 8 KB

Proposed by Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson

Seconded by Councillor Hugh Mason

 

The City Council recognises that the Government have imposed a house building target of 17,000 new houses to be built in the city over the next 20 years.

 

The City Council rejects this for the following reasons:

 

1.            The decision on housing need in Portsmouth should be made by local people in Portsmouth and not imposed by Government since local people understand the opportunities, constraints and complexities of the City environment. Both Conservative and Labour led Governments have imposed house building targets and both were wrong.

 

2.            The target of 17,000 is too many. Portsmouth is an island with virtually no unprotected land to expand into. Our roads, hospital, schools, GPs and other services just can't cope with this amount of additional housing.

 

3.            There is a need for more affordable housing, but the Government will not allow the City Council to make developers build the housing that is needed by local people. In fact Government rules in many cases allow developers to avoid building any affordable housing whilst holding on to large profit margins.

 

4.            The Government target of over 17,000 additional homes cannot be achieved within the City of Portsmouth even if it proves possible to meet the stringent ecological and environmental regulations and develop the Tipner-Horsea Island area. It would be wholly wrong for the Government to require the Council to cause environmental harm by over-riding environmental protection legislation

 

The City Council therefore asked the Leader of the Council to write to the Government opposing plans for 17,000 new houses being imposed on Portsmouth, reiterates that the decision on the amount and sort of housing should be a local decision and asking for a lower target so environmentally sensitive areas are not forced into development by the Government.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

It was

 

Proposed by Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson

Seconded by Councillor Hugh Mason

 

That notice of motion (g) as set out on the agenda be adopted,

 

As an amendment it was

 

Proposed by Councillor Judith Smyth

Seconded by Councillor Cal Corkery

 

To add the additional paragraph to the end of the motion:

 

"We note the recent SOS correspondence, shared with us by the Leader of the council, in which the government has stated that any local authority which disagrees with the housing targets suggested by the standard formula, for example due to land supply or environmental constraints, should use their local plan development process to evidence this and propose an alternative local target. Council regrets the missed opportunity to put a reduced target and the reason for it in the Draft Local plan currently out for consultation and confirms that everything that can be done to ensure that the next version of the Local plan contains a fully justified reduced housing target."

 


As an amendment it was

 

Proposed by Councillor Matthew Atkins

Seconded by Councillor Ryan Brent

 

Para 1 - replace everything after "…house building target" with "on the City of Portsmouth but that the target is subject to yearly recalculation due to the fact that the Administration has failed to deliver an up to date Local Plan for several years.

 

Para 2 - replace everything after "The City Council" with "notes the following in objection to Central Government Housing Targets:"

 

Para 3 (point 1) - delete everything after "…City environment."

 

Para 4 (point 2), first sentence - add "projected yearly target of 855 or" between "The" and "17,000". Add "over 20 years" after "17,000",

 

Para 5 (point 3), first sentence - delete everything after "…affordable housing"

 

Para 5 (point 3) - add a second sentence to read " The current housing delivery by the Administration of 183 units of non-student accommodation in 2018/19, 80 units of housing in 2019/20 and 260 in 2020/21 falls well short of the needs of the city for affordable housing."

 

Para 5 (point 3), third sentence - delete everything after "…..affordable housing" and replace with " but this situation is made worse in Portsmouth by the Administration failure to identify a 5 year housing land supply as this has led to a presumption in favour of sustainable development being imposed on the city.

 

Delete Para 6 (point 4), which begins " The Government target of over 17,000"

 

Para 7, first sentence - add "to oppose central government housing targets, and" between " …write to the Government" and "…reiterates that.."  Delete everything after "…local decision"

 

As an amendment it was

 

Proposed by Councillor Darren Sanders

Seconded by Councillor Lynn Stagg

 

In the first sentence delete the words "The City Council recognises that" 

Add "over" before "17,000"

Replace "20 years" with "16 years"

 

In point 1, add after the word "wrong" the words "and neither achieved their national housing targets."

 

In point 2, in the first sentence, add the word "current" between the words "The target"

 

Delete third sentence starting with "Our roads," and replace with "With additional need to plan for employment land as well as our roads, hospital, schools, GPs and other services, this places significant pressure on current communities and the ability of the City to create high quality places that people want to live in."

 

Delete all of point 3 and replace with new point 3

 

"The Government target of over 17,000 additional homes cannot be met without significant impact on the protected habitats that surround Portsmouth. It would be wholly wrong for the Government to unaccountably require the Council to cause environmental harm by over-riding environmental protection legislation."

 

Delete all of point 4 and replace with new point 4

 

"Under the Habitats Regulations the City Council is able to seek the opinion of the Secretary of State as to whether the need to meet this imposed housing target as part of a potential redevelopment of the Tipner-Horsea Island area is an 'imperative reason of overriding public interest' justifying the scale of development required and the impacts on the ecology of the Solent Waters. Given that it is a Government imposed housing target, whether the need to meet this target is a reason of 'overriding public interest' is a matter the Government should be clear on."

 

In the final paragraph

 

Delete the words after "write to the Government" to and including the word "lower" and replace with

 

"to establish whether the Secretary of State for Housing Communities and Local Government is of the opinion that the housing target and the necessary associated development in the Tipner-Horsea Island area are of such overriding public interest as to justify the scale of development required and the impacts on the ecology of the Solent Waters.  If the Government does not consider there to be justification then the Council demands a significantly lower housing target so that environmentally sensitive areas are not forced into development by the Government"

 

Following debate, the mover of the original motion, Councillor Vernon-Jackson, agreed to subsume the amendment proposed by Councillor Darren Sanders into the substantive motion.

 

The mover of the original motion, Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson, did not wish to subsume the amendments proposed by Councillor Judith Smyth or Councillor Matthew Atkins into the motion.

 

Upon being put to a vote, the amendment in the name of Councillor Judith Smyth was CARRIED.

 

Upon being put to a vote, the amendment in the name of Councillor Matthew Atkins was CARRIED.

 

Council voted on the substantive motion which incorporated the amendments proposed by Councillor Judith Smyth, Councillor Matthew Atkins and Councillor Darren Sanders.

 

RESOLVED that

 

The Government have imposed a house building target on the City of Portsmouth but that the target is subject to yearly recalculation due to the fact that the Administration has failed to deliver an up to date Local Plan for several years.

 

The City Council notes the following in objection to Central Government Housing Targets:

 

1.    The decision on housing need in Portsmouth should be made by local people in Portsmouth and not imposed by Government since local people understand the opportunities, constraints and complexities of the City environment. Both Conservative and Labour led Governments have imposed house building targets and neither achieved their national housing targets on the City of Portsmouth but that the target is subject to yearly recalculation due to the fact that the Administration has failed to deliver an up to date Local Plan for several years.

 

2.    The current projected yearly target of 855 or 17,000 over 20 years is too many. Portsmouth is an island with virtually no unprotected land to expand into. With additional need to plan for employment land as well as our roads, hospital, schools, GPs and other services, this places significant pressure on current communities and the ability of the City to create high quality places that people want to live in.

 

3.    The Government target of over 17,000 additional homes cannot be met without significant impact on the protected habitats that surround Portsmouth. It would be wholly wrong for the Government to unaccountably require the Council to cause environmental harm by over-riding environmental protection legislation. The current housing delivery by the Administration of 183 units of non-student accommodation in 2018/19, 80 units of housing in 2019/20 and 260 in 2020/21 falls well short of the needs of the city for affordable housing.  Government rules in many cases allow developers to avoid building any affordable housing but this situation is made worse in Portsmouth by the Administration's failure to identify a 5 year housing land supply as this has led to a presumption in favour of sustainable development being imposed on the city.

 

4.    Under the Habitats Regulations the City Council is able to seek the opinion of the Secretary of State as to whether the need to meet this imposed housing target as part of a potential redevelopment of the Tipner-Horsea Island area is an 'imperative reason of overriding public interest' justifying the scale of development required and the impacts on the ecology of the Solent Waters. Given that it is a Government imposed housing target, whether the need to meet this target is a reason of 'overriding public interest' is a matter the Government should be clear on.

 

The City Council therefore asks the Leader of the Council to write to the Government to oppose central government housing targets, reiterate that the decision on the amount and sort of housing should be a local decision and to establish whether the Secretary of State for Housing Communities and Local Government is of the opinion that the housing target and the necessary associated development in the Tipner-Horsea Island area are of such overriding public interest as to justify the scale of development required and the impacts on the ecology of the Solent Waters.  If the Government does not consider there to be justification then the Council demands a significantly lower housing target so that environmentally sensitive areas are not forced into development by the Government.

 

We note the recent SOS correspondence, shared with us by the Leader of the council, in which the government has stated that any local authority which disagrees with the housing targets suggested by the standard formula, for example due to land supply or environmental constraints, should use their local plan development process to evidence this and propose an alternative local target. Council regrets the missed opportunity to put a reduced target and the reason for it in the Draft Local plan currently out for consultation and confirms that everything that can be done to ensure that the next version of the Local plan contains a fully justified reduced housing target.

62.

Permanent Closure of Eastney Swimming Pool pdf icon PDF 6 KB

Proposed by Councillor John Smith

Seconded by Councillor Matthew Atkins

 

The Council regrets the closure of Eastney Swimming Pool.

Minutes:

It was

 

Proposed by Councillor John Smith

Seconded by Councillor Matthew Atkins

 

That notice of motion (h) as set out on the agenda be adopted.

 

As an amendment it was

 

Proposed by Councillor Judith Smyth

Seconded by Councillor Graham Heaney

 

Add new paragraph

 

"The Cabinet be asked to consult on any plan to provide affordable public swimming pools in the south of the city and consider immediate provision of vital swimming lessons for young children through the coming years. Membership of the university pool and access to the pool at charter academy should be taken into account including proposals to make these genuinely affordable to families. "

 

Following debate, the proposer of the original motion agreed to subsume the amendment proposed by Cllr Smyth into the motion.

 

Following the vote the substantive motion incorporating the amendment was declared CARRIED.

 

RESOLVED that the Council regrets the closure of Eastney Swimming Pool.

 

The Cabinet be asked to consult on any plan to provide affordable public swimming pools in the south of the city and consider immediate provision of vital swimming lessons for young children through the coming years. Membership of the university pool and access to the pool at charter academy should be taken into account including proposals to make these genuinely affordable to families.

63.

Biodiversity enhancement in urban Portsmouth pdf icon PDF 193 KB

Proposed by Councillor George Fielding

Seconded by Councillor Charlotte Gerada

 

Council notes:

 

Nature is declining globally at rates unprecedented in human history. The dramatic decrease in biodiversity across the world is both caused by, and is also contributing to, the acceleration of the climate crisis.

 

At present, Portsmouth City Council mows grass verges, de-weeds pavements and sends ‘Dirty Plot Notices’ to residents who re-wild sections of their allotments. This is despite environmental charities recommending that a proportion of allotments should be re-wilded to support biodiversity and local ecosystems.

 

Whilst we are aware of the policies being developed as part of the new Local Plan, we want to accelerate implementation of a better approach to biodiversity now rather than waiting for 18 months or more to do so.  When it comes to green issues, the Labour Party want more to be done and action to be quicker.

 

Council believes:

 

As part of the Council’s strategy to address the climate crisis, measures to enhance biodiversity should be central. Small actions taken by residents and the Council can increase the cumulative, positive impacts of re-wilding.

 

Local Authorities in the UK, and abroad, have taken a variety of measures to enhance biodiversity, such as re-wilding the tops of bus shelters or on council buildings, extensively planting wildflowers and greening built-up city areas. These are examples but the scope is virtually unlimited to make a significant impact to local biodiversity and by corollary have a direct effect upon our local environs and climate change. 

 

This Council should use its considerable influence and leadership to inform residents about the importance of enhancing biodiversity, by re-wilding for example. Additionally the Council is asked to take such steps as are necessary to make usage of householders' areas greener and more impactful thereby supporting biodiversity- eg strategies for removal of green waste, composting, hedging etc. 

 

Council resolves:

 

To request that the Cabinet reviews and updates all relevant policies and practices on urban biodiversity that might harm or undermine local ecosystems, such as reviewing grass cutting across the city and allowing some re-wilding on allotment plots to improve habitats for insects, including bees. In general, approaches should aim to positively contribute to re-wilding and support other approaches to re "greening" Portsmouth.

 

To request that the Leader of the Council provides bi-monthly updates to Members on the progress of this initiative.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

It was

 

Proposed by Councillor George Fielding

Seconded by Councillor Charlotte Gerada

 

That notice of motion (i) as set out on the agenda be adopted.

 

As an amendment it was

 

Proposed by Councillor Simon Bosher

Seconded by Councillor Scott Payter-Harris

 

Under Council notes, in the third bullet point, delete the words ", the Labour Party want more to be done and action to be quicker." And replace with "this Council believes that more can be done to improve our City"

 

Delete both bullet points under "Council resolves:" and replace with

 

·       To request that Scrutiny Management Panel and the Transport, Environment and Community Safety Scrutiny Committee reviews all relevant policies and practices on urban biodiversity that might harm or undermine local ecosystems, such as grass cutting across the city, re-wilding on allotment plots to improve habitats for insects, including bees. In general, approaches should aim to positively contribute to re-wilding and support other approaches to re "greening" Portsmouth.

·       That Scrutiny seek views from residents, interested community groups and ward councillors.

·       That Scrutiny report back with recommendations to Cabinet for consideration.

 

Following debate, the proposer of the original motion agreed to subsume this amendment into the motion.

 

As an amendment it was

 

Proposed by Councillor Darren Sanders

Seconded by Councillor Dave Ashmore

 

1.    Delete second paragraph

2.    In par 3, line 4, replace "the Labour Party" with "people of all parties and none"

3.    Replace Par 6 with the following:

 

·       Since May 2018, the Council has done much, much more than just inform people about biodiversity. It has acted, for instance on the city's housing estates alone:

 

Area

Plants, shrubs & native hedging

No. of Trees

No. of Daffodil Bulbs

Somerstown

2,000

170

22,390

Paulsgrove

2,000

16

47,000

Landport & Portsea

2,800

167

128,850

Buckland

23,500

330

118,900

Total

30,300

684

317,140

 

In addition, the following wildflower and meadow areas are sown each year, starting between 2018 and 2021:

 

  • Baffins ward:Copnor Bridge, the junction of St Mary's Road and Milton Road at Kingston Prison, Tamworth Park    
  • Central Southsea ward: Devonshire Avenue
  • Charles Dickens ward: Lake Road, Queens Street
  • Copnor ward: College Park, Althorpe Drive, Copnor Road
  • Cosham ward: Portsmouth Road          
  • Drayton and Farlington ward: Zetland Field, Eastern Road roundabout
  • Eastney and Craneswater ward: Canoe Lake
  • Milton ward: Bransbury Park, Bransbury Gardens, St James' Green, Milton Park
  • Nelson ward: Mills Road
  • Paulsgrove ward:Hempsted Green          
  • St Jude ward: Clarendon Gardens, Western Parade, Southsea Castle Moat, Rock Gardens, Ladies Mile
  • St Thomas ward: Pembroke Triangle

 

The following areas are being trialled for 're-wilding:' being left to allow development of natural grassland / wildflowers, rather than being subject to a regular mowing regime

 

  • Copnor ward: East Bastion (seaward side),
  • Cosham ward: Langstone Gardens
  • Fratton ward: Kingston Rec play area
  • Hilsea ward: Alexandra Park sports field
  • Milton ward: behind Glasgow Road, Kingsley Road
  • Nelson ward:Stamshaw Park
  • St Jude ward: Duisburg Way, Pyramids (seaward side), Clarence Parade car park
  • St Thomas ward: Long Curtain banks (north and south facing), Pembroke Gardens, Pier Road (near Clarence sports ground)

 

Wildflowers are also being explored for South East Hampshire Rapid Transit schemes and, though the PFI, the M275 Mile End junction, the Spur Road roundabout and Oakhurst Gardens.

 

In addition, Council has turned about two hectares of Portsdown Hill - south of Kintyre Road, in the area around Cliffdale Gardens, the main viewpoint car park area and areas near Fort Widley - into a managed countryside site.

 

There are also a range of sites where different regimes have been pursued since May 2018. These include:

  • Western Fort Cumberland
  • Milton Common
  • Foxes Forest at Hilsea Lines
  • Farlington Triangle, home to one of the few natural populations of water voles in Hampshire.
  • Sites affected by the sea defence project: Anchorage Park, Langstone Harbour, Milton Common and Tipner

 

However, more must be done. That is why the administration has asked the Council to pursue more projects, for instance:

 

·       Wild flower turf at Atherstone Walk

·       A large meadow area and - with help from the Portsmouth District Bee Keeping association - a bee hive for Gloucester Terrace

·       Wild flower meadows at Kingston Road

·       A new meadow at Princes Place

·       Living walls at Grafton Street and Estella Road

·       Make the successful return of Landport Community Garden the first step towards encouraging council residents to 'grow their own'

 

Council welcomes and supports these initiatives. Council also recognises that it must not do this alone. Therefore it congratulates Cabinet's approval of a community greening fund to help local community groups do just that.

 

Council congratulates Bramble Infant School in winning the first tranche of this money. Its plans for a range of activities, including growing its own food, making its lessons more nature-oriented and encouraging children and parents to look after the trees and wildlife areas they will create, are excellent.

 

Council also welcomes the excellent relationship councillors have with Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust and how it has helped councillors on various projects, including:

·       Councillor Horton and former Councillor Pitt on Fawcett Road and Frances Annie Place

·       Cllrs Sanders and Stagg backing Tamworth Road residents joining the 'Wilder Portsmouth' initiative, helping local people create wildflower meadows at Tamworth Park and exploring another one on Edenbridge Road.

Council notes the Cabinet approving a greening strategy in March 2020, which committed to planting 30,000 trees by 2030. It also notes the extensive work already done, including:

·       50,000 at Horsea Island

·       Working with the Tree Council to expand the MP for Portsmouth South's 'Vote 100, Plant 100' to cover the north of our city too

·       Securing Tree Council funding for:

o   200 mixed native whips on Baffins Field

o   200 mixed native whips at Great Salterns

o   New trees on London Road, the Hilsea Sea Defence area and John Wesley Gardens

·       Backing the Charles Dickens Community Orchard project, with planting in, among other places, Portsea, Buckland and - to mark D-Day - Port Solent.

·       The extensive work done by the Parks department to plant hundreds of trees over the last three years.

4.    Below Council resolves:

a.    Delete and replace Paragraph 7, sentence 1, to read:

The words "To request that the Cabinet reviews and updates" with " Council welcomes the work done so far on improving the city's biodiversity and urges it to go further by asking the Cabinet to review and update"

Council welcomes the work done so far on improving the city's biodiversity and urges it to go further by asking the Cabinet to review and update all relevant policies and practices on urban biodiversity that might harm or undermine local ecosystems.

b.    Delete all the words after " ecosystems" and insert as a new second and third sentence:

"In particular, there should be a full consultation with all plot holders before any changes, if any, are brought forwards. An initial consultation with all Chairs of allotment committees has seen them express real concern about increasing the amount of wilding allowed on allotments."

c.     Reinsert the current final sentence of Par 1 should form a new paragraph 2 (adding "That, " at the start to read " That, in general, approaches should aim positively to contribute to re-wilding and support other approaches to re"greening" Portsmouth."

The mover of the original motion did not wish to subsume this amendment into the motion.

 

Upon being put to a vote, the amendment in the name of Councillor Darren Sanders was declared LOST.

 

Upon being put to the vote the substantive notice of motion incorporating the amendment proposed by Councillor Simon Bosher was declared CARRIED.

 

RESOLVED that

 

Council notes:

 

? Nature is declining globally at rates unprecedented in human history. The dramatic decrease in biodiversity across the world is both caused by, and is also contributing to, the acceleration of the climate crisis.

 

? At present, Portsmouth City Council mows grass verges, de-weeds pavements and sends ‘Dirty Plot Notices’ to residents who re-wild sections of their allotments. This is despite environmental charities recommending that a proportion of allotments should be re-wilded to support biodiversity and local ecosystems.

 

? Whilst we are aware of the policies being developed as part of the new Local Plan, we want to accelerate implementation of a better approach to biodiversity now rather than waiting for 18 months or more to do so. When it comes to green issues, this Council believes that more can be done to improve our City.

 

Council believes:

 

? As part of the Council’s strategy to address the climate crisis, measures to enhance biodiversity should be central. Small actions taken by residents and the Council can increase the cumulative, positive impacts of re-wilding.

 

? Local Authorities in the UK, and abroad, have taken a variety of measures to enhance biodiversity, such as re-wilding the tops of bus shelters or on council buildings, extensively planting wildflowers and greening built-up city areas. These are examples but the scope is virtually unlimited to make a significant impact to local biodiversity and by corollary have a direct effect upon our local environs and climate change.

 

? This Council should use its considerable influence and leadership to inform residents about the importance of enhancing biodiversity, by re-wilding for example. Additionally the Council is asked to take such steps as are necessary to make usage of householders' areas greener and more impactful thereby supporting biodiversity- eg strategies for removal of green waste, composting, hedging etc.

 

Council resolves:

 

·       To request that Scrutiny Management Panel and the Transport, Environment and Community Safety Scrutiny Committee reviews all relevant policies and practices on urban biodiversity that might harm or undermine local ecosystems, such as grass cutting across the city, re-wilding on allotment plots to improve habitats for insects, including bees. In general, approaches should aim to positively contribute to re-wilding and support other approaches to re "greening" Portsmouth.

 

·       That Scrutiny seek views from residents, interested community groups and ward councillors.

 

·       That Scrutiny report back with recommendations to Cabinet for consideration.

64.

Universal Credit

Proposed by Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson

Seconded by Councillor Suzy Horton

 

The City Council recognises the work the Government put in place to support families during the pandemic with the furlough scheme and the £20 uplift in Universal Credit.

 

The Council also recognises the work the City Council did to step in where Government funding ceased so that families with children receiving free school meals did get support in school holidays and half terms.

 

The Council wishes to place on record thanks to the City's Tackling Poverty Co-ordinator, the many local groups or organisations like the Hive and all the volunteers who worked in food banks and pantries across the city who worked so hard to support local families, along with support from both of the city MPs.

 

The Council opposes the Government's choice to end the £20 uplift in Universal Credit payments to families on the lowest incomes. This seems bizarre when those families face rising bills due to the energy crisis and the same Government's decision to use National Insurance - not income or wealth taxes - for the NHS and social care and end furlough.

 

Therefore, the Council asks the Leader of the Council and all Group Leaders write jointly to the Prime Minister and our local MPs to ask for a change in Government policy so the poorest families are able to survive.

Minutes:

It was

 

Proposed by Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson

Seconded by Councillor Suzy Horton

 

That notice of motion (j) as set out on the agenda be adopted.

 

Following debate, this was put to the vote and CARRIED.

 

RESOLVED that the City Council recognises the work the Government put in place to support families during the pandemic with the furlough scheme and the £20 uplift in Universal Credit.

 

The Council also recognises the work the City Council did to step in where Government funding ceased so that families with children receiving free school meals did get support in school holidays and half terms.

 

The Council wishes to place on record thanks to the City's Tackling Poverty Co-ordinator, the many local groups or organisations like the Hive and all the volunteers who worked in food banks and pantries across the city who worked so hard to support local families, along with support from both of the city MPs.

 

The Council opposes the Government's choice to end the £20 uplift in Universal Credit payments to families on the lowest incomes. This seems bizarre when those families face rising bills due to the energy crisis and the same Government's decision to use National Insurance - not income or wealth taxes - for the NHS and social care and end furlough.

 

Therefore, the Council asks the Leader of the Council and all Group Leaders write jointly to the Prime Minister and our local MPs to ask for a change in Government policy so the poorest families are able to survive.

65.

Aquind decision - Potential for Judicial Review pdf icon PDF 106 KB

Proposed by Councillor Graham Heaney

Seconded by Councillor Judith Smyth

 

The Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy is due to make a decision on an application by Aquind for the development of an interconnector through Portsmouth by 21 October.

 

All parties on the City Council have opposed this application as have the two local members of Parliament and there has been a significant public campaign against the proposals.

 

A public petition by the Member of Parliament for Portsmouth South has been presented to the House of Commons with over 6,200 signatures. The City Council has presented a strong case to the Planning Inspector arguing for the rejection of this proposal.

 

While we hope the Secretary of State will reject this proposal he may not do so. In this case Council therefore urges the Cabinet to demonstrate the city’s community leadership in this vital campaign by:

 

-     instructing officers to undertake initial work now to lead the preparation for any judicial review

-     setting aside the remaining allocated budget for legal advice and support to assist with any judicial review

-     commit to pursuing further funding if necessary to support this action if it were to proceed with this.

Minutes:

It was

 

Proposed by Councillor Graham Heaney

Seconded by Councillor Judith Smyth

 

That notice of motion (k) as set out on the agenda be adopted.

 

As an amendment it was

 

Proposed by Councillor Robert New

Seconded by Councillor Simon Bosher

 

Third paragraph, delete everything between " A public petition by…"  to the final sentence starting " The City Council…" and replace with "both Members of Parliament for Portsmouth North and South respectively has been presented to the House of Commons and Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, who will shortly undertake the decision on the AQUIND interconnector scheme, with near to 10,000 signatures in total."

 

Following debate the mover of the original motion agreed to subsume the amendment into the motion.

 

Upon being put to the vote the substantive notice of motion incorporating the amendment proposed by Councillor Robert New was declared CARRIED.

 

 

RESOLVED thatThe Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy is due to make a decision on an application by Aquind for the development of an interconnector through Portsmouth by 21 October.

 

All parties on the City Council have opposed this application as have the two local members of Parliament and there has been a significant public campaign against the proposals.

 

A public petition by both Members of Parliament for Portsmouth North and South respectively has been presented to the House of Commons and Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, who will shortly undertake the decision on the AQUIND interconnector scheme, with near to 10,000 signatures in total. The City Council has presented a strong case to the Planning Inspector arguing for the rejection of this proposal.

 

While we hope the Secretary of State will reject this proposal he may not do so. In this case Council therefore urges the Cabinet to demonstrate the city’s community leadership in this vital campaign by:

 

-     instructing officers to undertake initial work now to lead the preparation for any judicial review

-     setting aside the remaining allocated budget for legal advice and support to assist with any judicial review

-     commit to pursuing further funding if necessary to support this action if it were to proceed with this.

66.

Protecting Funds for Children and Education in Portsmouth

Proposed by Councillor Terry Norton

Seconded by Councillor Benedict Swann

 

The Council regrets that the Administration failed to ring-fence a large underspend in the Children Education and Families portfolio budget.

Minutes:

The Lord Mayor advised that the proposer, Councillor Terry Norton, had withdrawn this motion.

67.

To determine proposed revisions to the programme of Full Council meetings for the Remainder of the current Municipal year to enable these meetings to be held in the Guildhall Auditorium, commencing 2pm (except for Annual Council which commences at 10am)

November Meeting - Reschedule from Tuesday 9 November to Thursday 18 November  2021

 

December Meeting - Reschedule from Tuesday 7 December to Monday 13 December 2021

 

January Reserve Council meetingcurrently scheduled for 18 January 2022 (no change) (usually cancelled if a meeting in December is held)

 

February Meeting - Reschedule from Tuesday 15 February to Tuesday 1 February 2022

 

March Meeting - Currently Scheduled for Tuesday 15 March 2022 (no change)

 

May Meeting - Annual Council Meeting currently scheduled for Tuesday 17 May 2022 (no change)

 

Note: The Lord Mayor has confirmed his availability on these dates and Group Leaders have been notified in advance of the proposed revised dates.

Minutes:

It was

 

Proposed by Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson

Seconded by Councillor George Fielding

 

That Full Council approves the following revisions to the programme of Full Council meetings for the remainder of the municipal year to allow these meetings to be held in the Guildhall Auditorium, commencing 2pm (except for the Annual Council which commences at 10am)

 

November Meeting - Reschedule from Tuesday 9 November to Thursday 18 November  2021

 

December Meeting - Reschedule from Tuesday 7 December to Monday 13 December 2021

  

February Meeting - Reschedule from Tuesday 15 February to Tuesday 1 February 2022

 

Following debate, this was put to the vote and declared LOST.

 

Consequently, the previously agreed programme of Full Council meeting dates for the remainder the municipal year commencing 2pm (except for the Annual Council which commences at 10am) remain unchanged.

68.

Questions from Members under Standing Order No 17 (those previously submitted for the abandoned July Council meeting have been carried forward to this meeting (1-10) - others subsequently received have also been included) pdf icon PDF 73 KB

Minutes:

Twelve questions from members had been received under Standing Order No 17.

 

Question 1 was from Councillor Cal Corkery

 

"Will the Cabinet Member for Housing consider the request from residents of The Courts blocks in Landport for the long term empty ESO office on their estate to be converted into a community space?"

 

This question was answered by the Cabinet member for Housing and Preventing Homelessness, Councillor Darren Sanders.

 

There were no supplementary questions.

 

Question 2 was from Councillor Jeanette Smith

 

When will an updated budget for Communities & Central Services be published within a decision making meeting as there has been no scrutiny on this for over 2 years?

 

This and supplementary questions were answered by the Cabinet Member for Communities & Central Services, Councillor Chris Attwell.

 

Question 3 was from Councillor John Smith

 

"How soon after 19th July does the leader envisage the council returning to normal business?"

 

This and supplementary questions were answered by the Leader, Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson.

 

Question 4 from Councillor Linda Symes was withdrawn.

 

Question 5 from Councillor Bosher was withdrawn.

 

Question 6 from Councillor Gemma New was withdrawn.

 

Question 7 was from Councillor Matt Atkins

 

What are your future plans for the enforcement of box junctions?

 

This and supplementary questions were answered by the Cabinet Member for Traffic & Transportation, Councillor Lynne Stagg.

 

Question 8 was from Councillor Ryan Brent

 

When can residents of Cosham, Drayton and Farlington and Paulsgrove expect that their bins will be collected regularly on the correct day again?

 

This and supplementary questions were answered by the Cabinet Member for Community Safety & Environment, Councillor Dave Ashmore.

 

Question 9 from Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson was withdrawn.

 

Question 10 was from Councillor Jeanette Smith

 

When will the PCC Annual Equality Duty Report be published for 2020/2021 and what scrutiny has been completed for the report dated 2019/2020?

 

This and supplementary questions were answered by the Cabinet Member for Communities & Central Services.

 

Question 11 was from Councillor Judith Smyth

 

We have noted from recent SoS correspondence shared with us by the Leader that the government has stated any local authority which disagrees with the housing targets suggested by the standard formula, for example due to land supply or environmental constraints, should use their local plan development process to evidence this and propose an alternative figure. Could you please tell us if this is an approach being taken by PCC and if so detail the proposed actions to make this happen?

 

This and supplementary questions were answered by the Cabinet Member for Planning Policy & City Development, Councillor Hugh Mason.

 

Question 12 was from Councillor Tom Coles

 

Can the Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Economic Development confirm what plans are in place for the Fox Box café at Kingston Rec following the handing over of the unit from Fratton Big Local?

 

This and supplementary questions were answered by the Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Economic Development, Councillor Ben Dowling.

69.

Exclusion of the Press and Public

Minutes:

Proposed by Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson

Seconded by Councillor Suzy Horton

 

It was

 

Resolved that under the provisions of Section 100A of the Local Government Act, 1972 as amended by the Local Government (Access to Information) Act, 1985, the press and public be excluded for the consideration of the following item (Urgent Item Under Standing Order 26 - item 7 - Regeneration of the City Centre (part thereof) compulsory purchase order resolution report) as it was likely that during the discussion there would be disclosure to them of information classified as exempt in Paragraph 3 of Part 1 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act, 1972.

70.

Urgent Item Under Standing Order 26 - Regeneration of the City Centre (part thereof) compulsory purchase order resolution report

Minutes:

Recommendation from Cabinet from its meeting held on 5 October 2021

 

Minute 83 - Regeneration of the City Centre (part thereof) compulsory purchase order resolution report.

 

This was opposed to allow for debate.

 

It was Proposed by Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson

Seconded by Councillor Horton

 

That the recommendation from the Cabinet meeting held on 5 October 2021 be accepted.

 

As an amendment it was

 

Proposed by Councillor Hugh Mason

Seconded by Councillor Chris Attwell

 

That the existing text of the recommendation following " in consultation with the Leader of the Council, " be replaced with:

 

"to borrow the sum required to fund the acquisition of the Delancey Assets in accordance with recommendation 2.5 and amend the Capital Programme and Authorised Borrowing limit accordingly.  Any borrowing (and therefore acquisition) to be the subject of a satisfactory financial appraisal approved by the S.151 Officer and must adhere to the Prudential Code which includes the requirement to be affordable, prudent and sustainable."

 

The proposer of the original motion agreed to subsume the amendment into it.

 

Following debate, upon being put to the vote, the substantive recommendation incorporating the amendment was CARRIED.

 

RESOLVED that

 

authority is delegated to the Director of Finance and Section 151 Officer in consultation with the Leader of the Council, to borrow the sum required to fund the acquisition of the Delancey Assets in accordance with recommendation 2.5 and amend the Capital Programme and Authorised Borrowing limit accordingly.  Any borrowing (and therefore acquisition) to be the subject of a satisfactory financial appraisal approved by the S.151 Officer and must adhere to the Prudential Code which includes the requirement to be affordable, prudent and sustainable.