Decisions

RESOLVED:

THAT the minutes of the meeting held on 14 March 2024 be approved.

To agree some of the Full Council recommended changes, all of the recommended changes from the Policy and Scrutiny Committee for Neighbourhoods and Regeneration and all of the recommendations from the Corporate Scrutiny Committee* to the draft Island Planning Strategy as attached at Appendix 1; and then

To recommend to Full Council that the draft Island Planning Strategy be approved and published for the Regulation 19 period for public representation and then submitted to the Planning Inspectorate for examination; and

To recommend to Full Council to delegate any final editorial and presentational changes to the Island Planning Strategy prior to publication and submission, to the Director of Communities in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Planning, Coastal Protection and Flooding, so long as they do not materially alter the intention of the version agreed by Full Council.

To agree some of the Full Council recommended changes, all of the recommended changes from the Policy and Scrutiny Committee for Neighbourhoods and Regeneration and all of the recommendations from Corporate Scrutiny Committee to the draft Island Planning Strategy, with the changes as attached at Appendices 1, 2 and 3, but to replace all the text in column (e) (agreed change or reason why unsuitable) of Appendix 1 as it relates to paragraph matter i) paragraph 6.15, with the following:

“6.15: It is important to set out that any planning application submitted including those on allocated sites, should consider all relevant policies of the Development Plan, the NPPF and any relevant legislation. While the plan has sought to avoid a lot of cross-referencing within policies, it is acknowledged that many of the policies in the plan are interlinked and therefore no one policy should be considered in isolation. If, on the planning balance, the development proposal, including all allocated sites, is unacceptable it will be refused.”

and then

To recommend to Full Council that the draft Island Planning Strategy be approved and published for the Regulation 19 period for public representation and then submitted to the Planning Inspectorate for examination; and

To recommend to Full Council to delegate any final editorial and presentational changes to the Island Planning Strategy prior to publication and submission, to the Director of Communities in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Planning, Coastal Protection and Flooding, so long as they do not materially alter the intention of the version agreed by Full Council.

RESOLVED:

THAT the minutes of the meetings held on 8 February 2024 and 15 February 2024 be approved.

Cabinet approves the spend of up to a maximum amount of £2,547,480 on procuring a new smoking cessation and prevention service over a period of seven years.

Cabinet approves for the Leader of the Council, Chief Executive, and Director of Public Health to sign the Local Government Declaration on Tobacco Control.

Cabinet agrees and resolves to replace the current floating bridge. Cabinet agrees to accept the recommendations set out in the Cabinet report as an indicative process.

Utilising previous work carried out in respect of the floating bridge over recent years, Cabinet agree that this information should be used to inform the next stage to ensure the necessary work is carried out as quickly and efficiently as possible.

This will include working with the consultants “3S”, who have supported the recent review and who have extensive knowledge of the process and background. 3S will positively support the stated aim and project to replace the floating bridge going forward.

The scope of their work is to be agreed between Cabinet, officers and 3S.

The terms of the sale and approval to sell the freehold, and approval to enter into a grant agreement with the purchaser.

To sell the former Weston Academy site to the preferred bidder based on the offer attached at exempt Appendix 2, to pay the preferred bidder the BLRF grant available for this site, and to delegate approval of the final terms of the sale to the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing and Finance.

To approve in principle the disposal of the former Yarmouth CE Primary School site to bidder D based on the proposal attached at exempt Appendix 2, subject to Department for Education Section 77 consent being granted and heads of terms being agreed, and to delegate approval of the final terms of the sale to the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing and Finance.

To note the content of the report.

To endorse the ambition within the Annual Report which acknowledges the significant challenge we face in respect to rising levels of childhood overweight and obesity, the multi-faceted causes, the impacts and system wide collaboration required to halt the worsening trend.

That approval be given to return to the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS) direct reimbursement principles that operators should be no better or worse off as a result of the Scheme and that reimbursements shall be determined by the number of concessionary travel journeys undertaken on the relevant operator’s local bus services.

That approval be given to maintain the existing discretionary enhancements as detailed in this report for the next financial year 2024/2025.

And that delegated authority be given to the Strategic Director of Community Services, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Transport and Infrastructure, Highways PFI and Transport Strategy and the Section 151 Officer, to prepare and implement the Concessionary Fares Scheme reimbursement arrangements for the 2024/25 financial year.

That Cabinet approves the proposed calendar for term dates 2025/2026 ‘as outlined in Appendix 1 of the report.

To enter a minimum period of twelve months contract with Hampshire County Council for the provision of commissioned buy-back children’s services as approved by Cabinet at their meeting of 14 September 2023.

196.    It is recommended that the Cabinet endorse the following:

(a)      The recommendations to the Council set out below.

197.    It is recommended that the Council approve the following:

(a)            The revised Revenue Budget for the financial year 2023/24 and the Revenue Budget for the financial year 2024/25 as set out in the General Fund Summary (Appendix 1) which includes:

(i)              Additional spending in Adult Social Care of £6.3m and Children's Services of £5.0m

(ii)             A Covid Contingency of £5m

(iii)           No Revenue Contribution to Capital in 2023/24 or 2024/25

(b)            Any variation arising from the Local Government Finance Settlement 2024/25 or any further savings made in 2023/24 arising at the year-end (after allowing for specific carry forward requests) be transferred to the Revenue Reserve for Capital, Transformation Reserve, and General Reserves with the level of each transfer to be determined by the S.151 Officer.

(c)             That the level of Council Tax be increased by 2.99% for general purposes in accordance with the referendum threshold5or 2024/25 announced by Government (as calculated in Appendix 2)

(d)            That the level of Council Tax be increased by a further 2.0% beyond the referendum threshold (as calculated in Appendix 2) to take advantage of the flexibility offered by Government to implement a "Social Care Precept"; and that in accordance with the conditions of that flexibility, the full amount of the associated sum generated of £1,977,705 is passported direct to Adult Social Care.

(e)            That the amounts set out in Appendix 2 be now calculated by the Council for the financial year 2024/25 in accordance with Section 31 and Sections 34 to 36 of the Local Government Finance Act 1992.

(f)              The S.151 Officer be given delegated authority to implement any variation to the overall level of Council Tax arising from the final notification of the Hampshire Police & Crime Commissioner, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Authority and Parish and Town Council precepts, and amend the calculations set out in Appendix 2 accordingly.

(g)            The savings proposals for each Portfolio amounting, in total, to £2.75m for 2024/25 and continuing into future years as set out on the next page:

(h)            Directors be instructed to start planning how the Council will achieve the savings requirements of £3.0m for the 3 year period 2025/26 to 2027/28 and that this be incorporated into Service Business Plans.

(i)              The minimum level of Revenue Balances as at 31 March 2025, predicated on the approval of £2.75m savings in 2024/25be set at £8.0m to reflect the known and expected budget and financial risks to the Council

(j)              Members have regard for the "Statement of the Section 151 Officer in accordance with the Local Government Act 2003"

(k)             The Capital Programme 2023/24 to 2028/29 set out in Appendix 5 which includes all additions, deletions and amendments for slippage and re-phasing

(l)              The new Capital Investment Proposals ("New Starts") - 2024/25set out in Appendix 4 be reflected within the recommended Capital Programme 2023/24 to 2028/29 and be funded from the available Capital Resources.

^{5 Council Tax increases beyond the referendum threshold can only be implemented following a "Yes" vote in a local referendum.}

(m)          The allocation of Disabled Facilities Grants be made to the Better Care Fund, and reflected within the recommended Capital Programme 2023/24 to 2028/29

(n)            The S.151 Officer be given delegated authority to determine how each source of finance is used to fund the overall Capital Programme and to alter the overall mix of financing, as necessary, to maximise the flexibility of capital resources used and minimise the ongoing costs of borrowing to the Council.

(o)            That the S.151 Officer in consultation with the Leader of the Council be given delegated authority to release capital resources held back for any contingent items that might arise, and for any match funding requirements that may be required of the Council in order to secure additional external capital funding (e.g. bids for funding from Government or any other external source).

198.    It is recommended that the Council note the following in respect of the           Council's Budget: 

(a)    The Revenue Budget 2024/25 as set out in Appendix 1 has been prepared on the basis of a 4.99% increase in Council Tax, any reduction from the overall 4.99% Council Tax increase proposed will require additional savings of £988,900 for each 1% reduction in order for the Budget 2024/25 to be approved.

(b)    The Revenue Forecasts for 2025/26 onwards as set out in the section entitled "Revenue Forecasts 2025/26 to 2027/28" and Appendix 1

(c)    The estimated Savings Requirement of £3.0m for the three year period 2025/26 to 2027/28, for financial and service planning purposes, be phased as follows:

(d)    The Transformation Reserve held to fund the upfront costs associated with Spend to Save Schemes and Invest to Save Schemes holds a very modest uncommitted balance of £3.2m and will only be replenished from contributions from the Revenue Budget and an approval to the transfer of any further savings at year end.

(e)    Should the Council elect to reduce the level of savings below £2.75m in 2024/25 (and £1.0m p.a. thereafter), the Council's financial risk will increase and therefore the minimum level of General Reserves held will also need to increase in order to maintain the Council's financial resilience.

(f)      The Council Tax base for the financial year 2024/25 will be 54,407.3 [item T in the formula in Section 31 B(1) of the Local Government Finance Act 1992, as amended (the “Act”)].

(g)    The Council Tax element of the Collection Fund for 2023/24 is estimated to be in surplus by £1,483,500 which is shared between the Isle of Wight Council (85.3%) and the Police & Crime Commissioner (11.1%) and the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Authority (3.6%)

(h)    The Business Rate element of the Collection Fund for 2023/24 is estimated to be in deficit by £3,354,365 of which is shared between the Isle of Wight Council (49%), the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Authority (1%) and the Government (50%)

(i)      The Retained Business Rate income6 for 2024/25 based on the estimated Business Rate element of the Collection Fund deficit as at March 2024, the Non Domestic Rates poundage for 2024/25 and estimated rateable values for 2024/25 has been set at £43,763,020.

6 Includes Retained Business Rates of £17,546,907, "Top Up" of £12,834,713, S.31 Grants of £15,025,039 a Collection Fund deficit of £1,643,639

That Cabinet recommends to Full Council the following:

To adopt, commencing the billing period starting 1 April 2024, a council tax premium of 100 per cent for all long-term empty properties as defined by amendments to the Local Government Finance Act 1992 in force on that date:

To adopt, commencing the billing period starting 1 April 2025, a council tax premium of 100 per cent for all dwellings occupied periodically as defined by amendments to the Local Government Finance Act 1992 in force on that date (second homes); and

That the Draft Council Tax Policy for Second Homes, Long Term Empty Properties and determining discounts for certain dwellings be adopted and that the council's Section 151 Officer delegated authority to amend the council's policy of premiums in line with secondary legislation and/or statutory guidance, as and when published in conjunction with the Revenues and Benefits Managers.

To note that subject to meeting certain conditions, the Government is looking to integrate a number of existing LEP functions into UTLAs.

To note that to meet the conditions, and to maintain a focus on the Solent area, Isle of Wight Council (IWC) will need to work with Portsmouth City Council (PCC) and Southampton City Council (SCC) to take on these functions through the creation of a new joint UTLA Board.

To agree that subject to the 3 Solent UTLA area being recognised by the Government as an area for LEP integration, with appropriate due diligence, IWC should become a Member of Solent Partners, a company limited by guarantee, that is a successor body to the Solent LEP, to help drive economic growth in the sub-region.  This agreement to be conditional on PCC and SCC similarly agreeing to become Members of Solent Partners.

To agree that IWC should not appoint a Director to the Board of Solent Partners to ensure that there is no conflict of interest with the wider governance needed for the new LEP integration arrangements.  IWC, along with the other two UTLAs will seek appropriate requirements within the articles of Solent Partners to ensure representatives of all three ULTAs are entitled to observe board meetings.

To note the proposed draft governance structure attached as Appendix 1 that shows how IWC should work with partners to achieve our economic growth ambitions which will need to be outlined in an updated Solent 2050 Strategy.

To agree that subject of the agreement of all three partners, PCC are confirmed as the Accountable Body for Solent Partners. 

To agree that any existing LEP funding disaggregated to the three Solent UTLAs can be pooled (subject to agreement with PCC and SCC) for the benefit of economic growth of the Solent region.

To agree that IWC, as one of the three UTLAs, will work with partners to develop an agreement on how Solent Partners will deliver economic growth for the functional economic area.

That delegated authority be given to the Chief Executive, and the Director of Finance and s151 Officer, acting individually or collectively in consultation with the Leader to agree the final details of the transfer of LEP functions to the UTLAs including future governance arrangements.

To agree that IWC should seek to support the creation of a Solent Economic Partnership, inviting adjacent Districts and Boroughs, Hampshire County Council, and other key public sector stakeholders, to enable Local Authorities leaders and leaders within the business community to have a regular opportunity to discuss and support economic growth in the region.

The decision was deferred to the next meeting of Cabinet due to extra work being required on some of the proposed schemes.

That the decision on the proposed parking restrictions in Wellington Road, Newport which are subject to this report in relation to *The Isle of Wight Council (Various Streets, Newport) (Traffic Regulation) Order No 1 2023 is postponed, pending the outcome of the public inquiry.

That all other proposed parking restrictions which are subject to this report in relation to *The Isle of Wight Council (Various Streets, Newport) (Traffic Regulation) Order No 1 2023; *The Isle of Wight Council (Residents’ Parking Places) Order No 1 2023; * The Isle of Wight Council (Parking Places) Order No 4 2023 are approved as proposed.

That Cabinet noted the Performance Report for the Quarter ended 31 December 2023, and the priority report detail as set out in appendices 1-10.

That Cabinet approves the 2025/2026 admissions arrangements.

RESOLVED:

THAT the minutes of the meeting held on 9 November 2023 be approved.

That Cabinet recommends that Full Council adopts Options 1 and 4 within this

report, namely that:

Backdating provisions which mirror the current legislative backdating rules are adopted within the Discretionary Rate Relief Policy. Awards will be considered from the date the application is received.  In exceptional circumstances consideration may be given to awarding rate relief for a retrospective period where the ratepayer can demonstrate good cause for not submitting the application earlier, subject to the following constraints relating to discretionary awards:

i)                 If the application is received by 30 September, the award can be backdated to 1 April of the previous financial year.

ii)               If the application is received after 30 September, the award can only be backdated to 1 April of the current financial year.

iii)              that relief can be amended or ceased by the Council at any such time (determined on a daily basis) as the Council considers that the ratepayer no longer meets the criteria for receiving the relief.     

and

That any future changes required to the Discretionary Rate Relief Policy are passed for delegated decision to the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing and Finance and the s151 Officer, in conjunction with the Monitoring Officer, if appropriate.

That Cabinet adopts the Isle of Wight Independent Island Living Strategy attached at Appendix 1.

That the 2024/25 school funding formula and wider Dedicated Schools Grant budget allocations detailed in Appendix 1 and 2 to this report be approved.

To seek approval to accept grant funding to carry out enabling works prior to disposal of three council owned brownfield sites in line with a bid submitted to the Brownfield Land Release 2 (BLRF2) Fund and a grant of £426,639 received by the Council in September 2023.

To provide a summary of progress against Corporate Plan activities and measures for the period July 2023 to September 2023. To inform Cabinet of areas of particular success, issues requiring attention and remedial activity in place to deal with these. To provide a report on the financial position of the council for the same period

That Cabinet approves the Performance Report for the Quarter ended 30 September 2023, and the priority report detail as set out in appendices 1-10.

RESOLVED:

THAT the minutes of the meeting held on 12 October 2023 be approved.

That Cabinet approves the amalgamation of Godshill Primary School and Chillerton and Rookley Primary School through the closure of Chillerton and Rookley Primary School with effect from the 31 December 2023.

That Cabinet recommends to Full Council adoption of the proposed scheme and make no changes to the maximum level of support for working age cases, meaning it remains at 70 per cent, allowing for minor changes to applicable amounts; and

That Cabinet recommends to Full Council that it continues the current exceptional hardship policy.

The Eco Flex Statement of Intent needs to be updated in line with national changes to facilitate effective and efficient administration and enable continued satisfactory declarations under the Eco Flex scheme in accordance with Ofgem requirements. Grant of delegated decision making has already been granted to Councillor Ian Stephens by the Leader of the Cabinet, to approve Statements of Intent for ECO4 Flex by Executive Decision on 2 February 2023.

Approval is sought for the Director of Adult Social Care and Housing Needs (in consultation with the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Adult Services and Housing, Public Health and Homelessness) to be granted full executive powers to update any national changes to the ECO4 Flex Statement of Intent insomuch that any changes support the aim of the original Executive Decision on 3 March 2023

and

That the Director of Adult Social Care and Housing Needs have delegated authority to onward delegate any or such authority to a member of staff.

RESOLVED:

THAT the minutes of the meeting held on 14 September 2023 be approved.

That Cabinet notes the Housing Strategy 2020-2025 Action Plan Progress Report 2023 contained at Appendix 1 to this report.

To confirm the existing Executive Scheme of Officer Delegation set out in the Council’s Constitution.

RESOLVED:

THAT the minutes of the meeting held on 13 July 2023 be approved.

To confirm the arrangements for the termination of the Children's Services Partnership with Hampshire and consider potential options for future service delivery.

To agree to the termination of the current partnership agreement with effect from 31 January 2024 returning the overall leadership and management of all Children’s services functions, including education, in-house, with arrangements for ‘buy-back’ of specialist service support/provision where there is a cost-benefit for a minimum period of twelve months.

That Cabinet approves the Performance Report for the Quarter ended 30 June 2023, and the priority report detail as set out in appendices 1-12.

That Cabinet approves the Isle of Wight Enhanced Partnership Plan (EP Plan) and   Isle of Wight Enhanced Partnership Scheme (EP Scheme), as detailed within, and appended to this report, as the local response to “Bus Back Better”, the national bus strategy, building on the Isle of Wight Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) that was approved in October 2021.

Furthermore, that authority is given to formally ‘make’ the EP Plan and EP Scheme in line with Government guidance, to include establishing the governance structure for the Enhanced Partnership.

That the ‘Housing Affordability Supplementary Planning Document’ as at Appendix 1 to this report be formally adopted; and

That any final editorial and presentational changes to the supplementary planning document are delegated to the Strategic Manager for Planning in consultation with the Cabinet Members for Planning, Coastal Protection & Flooding and Adult Services & Housing, Public Health & Homelessness. These changes will not alter the meaning of the document and will be restricted to grammatical, presentational and typographical errors.

That Cabinet approves the draft EVCI Strategy.

That the cabinet note the 2022/2023 BCF End of Year submission and approve the BCF 2023-2025 BCF submission.

That the cabinet delegate authority to the Director for Adult Social Care and Housing Needs the authority on behalf of the Isle of Wight Council  in consultation with the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Adult Services and Housing, Public Health and Homelessness Needs to further develop and submit the BCF 2023 – 2025 templates in line with the national deadlines, and make amendments to the allocations and provision of services within the BCF during its 2 year period.

To approve an updated version of the strategy following minor amendments resulting from feedbck received.

That Cabinet adopt the Empty Property Strategy (Residential) as attached at Appendix 1 and delegate authority for minor amendments to the Director - Adult Social Care and Housing Needs in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Adult Services & Housing, Public Health and Homelessness.

RESOLVED:

THAT the minutes of the meeting held on 8 June 2023 be approved, subject to a minor amendment to the wording of the second-to-last paragraph in minute item 112, as detailed in the Minutes.

That Cabinet approves the publication of a Public Notice that achieves the amalgamation of Godshill Primary School and Chillerton and Rookley Primary School through the closure of Chillerton & Rookley Primary School with effect from the 31 December 2023.

That the proposed restrictions which are subject to this report in relation to The Isle of Wight Council (High Street, Newport) (Traffic Regulation) Order No 2 2023; The Isle of Wight Council (Disabled Drivers’ Street Parking Places) Order No 2 2023; The Isle of Wight Council (Designated Loading Bays) Order No 2 2023; The Isle of Wight Council (High Street, Newport) (Parking Places) Order No 2 2023be approved.

To agree the Acquisition Strategy as attached and delegate authority for minor amendments to the Chief Executive in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Adult Services & Housing, Public Health and Homelessness to conclude any final amendments.

and

To delegate to the Portfolio Holder, S151 and Director of Adult Social Care and Housing Needs the ability to progress schemes in line with the Strategy.

That the ‘Newport and Ryde Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan’ be adopted as a supplementary planning document; and

That any final editorial and presentational changes to the supplementary planning document are delegated to the Strategic Manager for Planning in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Planning, Coastal Protection & Flooding. These changes will not alter the meaning of the document and will be restricted to grammatical, presentational and typographical errors.

To provide a summary of progress against Corporate Plan activities and measures for the period January 2022 to March 2023. To inform Cabinet of areas of particular success, issues requiring attention and remedial activity in place to deal with these. To provide a report on the financial position of the council for the same period

That Cabinet approves the Performance Report for the Quarter ended 31 March 2023, and the priority report detail as set out in appendices 1-10.

That the Isle of Wight Cabinet approve:

(a) Spend in respect of Integrated Sexual and Reproductive Health Service an amount up to a maximum value of £8.5M over nine years.

(b) That Cabinet delegates authority to the Director of Public Health to award a contract for Integrated Sexual and Reproductive Health Service for a maximum of nine years, let on the basis of an initial period of seven years with the option to extend this period by two years.

That Cabinet approves proposal to maintain the pre-Covid levels of concessionary fares reimbursement for local bus operators for the financial year April 2023 to March 2024 in line with the Department for Transport (DfT) Supplementary Note for 2023-24 (see Appendix 1) Which will enable monthly concessionary payments to be made at a Pre Covid-19 reimbursement level, on the basis that local bus services are likewise maintained at an equivalent to Pre Covid levels. Which would be reviewed on a six-monthly basis in recognition of the ever-changing market environment.

Furthermore, that Cabinet approves the retention of remaining revenue funding currently budgeted for concessionary travel reimbursement, above the outlined levels of reimbursement, for the purpose of providing further support to local bus services on the Island and other transport related pressures. Any decisions on funding would be carried out in consultation with the Director of Finance Services/S151 Officer and the Cabinet Member for Transport and Infrastructure, Highways PFI and Transport Strategy

To agree the Isle of Wight Cultural Strategy 2023 subject to any further amendments agreed by the Cabinet Member for Economy, Regeneration, Culture and Leisure.

RESOLVED:

THAT the minutes of the meeting held on 11 May 2023 be approved.

That the Cabinet recommends to Full Council that the motion be referred to the Audit and Governance Committee.

That Cabinet approves the proposed Post 16 Transport Policy Statement 2023 as set out in Appendix 1, which incorporates all elements of the previous year’s (2022) policy.

That Cabinet approves all three LCWIPs in the respective areas of the Island outlined, and to work with key local, regional and national stakeholders to seek funding to deliver the proposed infrastructure improvements.

That council staff, in consultation with the relevant Cabinet Member(s) undertake the required public consultation with a view to the council adopting all three LCWIPs as Supplementary Planning Documents (SPDs) that can then be used as a material consideration in planning decision making.

RESOLVED:

THAT the minutes of the meeting held on 9 March 2023 be approved.

Option 4 - To not agree with the recommendation and to not progress either route as set out and for Cabinet to propose an alternative, as below;

The Leader will provide a verbal update to Full Council on 17 May 2023.

This verbal update will satisfy the Full Council motion agreed in January 2023 requiring the Cabinet to inform Full Council by the end of June 2023 of the Cabinet’s approach to taking the Draft IPS forward.

The Cabinet is not bringing forward the Draft IPS at this moment in time, as the proposed changed to national planning policy and transitional arrangements have not yet been confirmed and published by the government. As soon as practicable after the government have done this, and Cabinet has understood the implications on local plan-making, Cabinet will come back to Full Council setting out how it proposes to progress the draft local plan.

To adopt the Planning Enforcement Strategy, introduce the approach to delivering planning enforcement as set out in the strategy and continue to collaborate with parish, town and community councils about the most appropriate models of delivering additional enforcement capacity.

and

To delegate to the Cabinet Member for Planning and Enforcement and the Strategic Manager for Planning and Infrastructure Delivery the ability to agree to make minor presentational, consequential and typographical changes to the Planning Enforcement Strategy, as long as any changes do not materially change the content of the strategy agreed by Cabinet.

That Cabinet approves the following:

The approval of funding of up to £945,390 to be granted to provide food vouchers for up to 12,101 households, as detailed in paragraph 36 of the report.

A grant of £100,000 to be held by the connect4communities programme to be allocated to schools in the form of a discretionary grant that will enable them to provide financial support to families in need with food, generic uniform, warm clothing / bedding or wider essential, as detailed in paragraph 42 of the report.

A grant of £150,000 is made available to Citizens Advice for them to financially support over 500 households with fuel bills, provide a telephone signposting service to the connect4communities programme, offer an outreach support and advice service in Foodbank Café’s and Community Pantries and for the provision of energy efficient white goods where the need is identified.  Such grant will be provided on terms to be agreed by the Director of Children’s Services and in accordance with the grant criteria set out in paragraph 18 of the report.

Funding of £55,000 to be granted to the Footprint Trust to provide advice to households on reducing energy costs, and for the provision of energy efficient white goods across the Island, as well as items such as hot water tank insulation, draft excluders etc. in.  This grant is expected to benefit around 800 households.

Grants of £170,000 to be used to expand and support the network of community pantries across the Isle of Wight, offering a more sustainable approach to helping households, as detailed in paragraphs 55-58 of the report.  Such grants will be provided on terms to be agreed by the Director of Children’s Services.

A grant of £30,000 to be awarded to The Isle of Wight Foodbank for the purchase of food, energy efficient kitchen appliances and assisting with the set-up of a community garden to grow fresh vegetables, as detailed in paragraph 63 of the report.

It is recommended that Cabinet delegates approval to the Director of Children’s Services to approve community grant awards to organisations delivering services that meet the criteria of the grant (as set out in paragraph 18 of the report for targeted financial support for those in need until 31 March 2024 in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education and Lifelong Skills totalling £500,000.

Funding of up to £30,000 be ringfenced to commission Third Party Organisations to provide support and advice on budgeting, finances, maximising income as well as accessing other help, as detailed in paragraph 70 of the report.  Such grant will be provided on terms to be agreed by the Director of Children’s Services.

A grant of £45,000 to IW Carers who support c. 800 unpaid carers on the Island.  The grant is to be used to support 200 unpaid carers with clothing, travel, medical equipment, and kitchen appliances. Detail is set out in paragraph 72 of the report.

A grant of £50,000 to Age UK for the delivery of hygiene packs to 1,000 pensioners, particularly those struggling with the cost of incontinence products and in rural areas as detailed in paragraph 74 of the report.

It is recommended that Cabinet delegates approval to the Director of Children’s Services, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education and Lifelong Skills, to agree a fund of £20,000 to be used to assist exceptional and genuine emergency cases with housing costs in accordance with DWP grant conditions, as detailed in paragraphs 76 – 80 of the report.

That Cabinet delegates approval to the Director of Children’s Services, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education and Lifelong Skills to approve the reallocation of any Household Support Fund underspend to organisations delivering services that meet the criteria.  This will ensure that where spend does not meet the approvals set out in this report, the Isle of Wight Council can rapidly adapt the approach to ensure needs are met.

That the introduction of the Care Quality Commission’s new inspection framework be noted, and that Cabinet and senior staff fully appraise themselves and promote the direction of assurance, supporting Adult Social Care and Housing Needs to showcase the positive and reflective impact it has on residents.  Strategic and partner support is required to support the oversight and impact of assurance.

Cabinet notes the outcome of the Julia Holberry Associates’ report in that;

a)    The Dinosaur Isle Museum should remain in Sandown

b)    The council should seek a partner to support the management of the Collection (Academic or and/or Museum Partner)

c)     The council should explore the options for a Trust (with a commercial operation) to operate the Dinosaur Island Museum.

d)    That Cabinet provides delegated authority for the Director of Neighbourhoods, in consultation with the Cabinet member for Climate Change, Environment, Heritage, Human Resources and Legal and Democratic Service, to enter into further negotiations with the Natural History Museum regarding the management of the collection, and the Hampshire Cultural Trust regarding the management of Dinosaur Isle.

e)    That a further report to Cabinet will seek approval for the council to enter any such arrangements following the results of the MEND funding application in December 2023 and that Democratic Services note a further report for the Forward Plan.

Option 1:  That Cabinet approves a 25-year lease of the Parklands Centre to be awarded to the Alzheimer Café IW for the purpose of developing an IW Dementia Hub.  Where terms of the lease are to be agreed, delegated authority shall be given to the Director of Adult Social Care and Housing Needs

That Cabinet agrees to option one:

That the Cabinet approves the continuation of the Public Health Partnership until September 2025 when an updated agreement will be considered.

That Cabinet recommends to Full Council the approval of the continuation of the Isle of Wight Council’s discretionary scheme to disregard War Disablement and War Widow’s Pensions in full, from the calculation of income for Housing Benefit purposes (Option A),

And that Cabinet recommends that Full Council delegates future minor changes or reviews to this scheme to the Cabinet Member for Strategic Finance, Transformational Change and Corporate Resources in consultation with the Benefits Manager (Option C).

To note the Annual Report of the Director of Public Health 2022/23.

To endorse the ambition within the Annual Report to continue to provide and support organisations and services to enable, empower and facilitate residents, to be happy, healthy and active as they get older.

Cabinet approves the Isle of Wight Carers Strategy 2023 – 2028 enabling the strategy to progress to approval and adoption by the Isle of Wight Health and Care Partnership Board

That Cabinet agree that the existing partnership is replaced by a new Isle of Wight Health and Care Partnership (IHCP) and a new Isle of Wight Health and Care Executive Delivery Group (IEDG).

That Cabinet approve the suggested membership and responsibilities for both the IHCP and IEDG as perthe terms of reference (as amended) in Appendix 1.

That Cabinet agree that these new groups are established by April 2023, with the current partnership having its last meeting in March 2023.

RESOLVED:

THAT the minutes of the meeting held on 9 February 2023 be approved.

An update for members on the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill.

That the Cabinet recommends to Full Council that Full Council declares its intention to implement and approve the following council tax premiums, to be applied from 1 April 2024 or as soon thereafter as possible, subject to the legislation being in place:

i)                 A 100% premium for second homes;

ii)               A 100% premium for properties that have been empty and unfurnished for a period of between 1 and 5 years – that does change the current policy of charging a 100% premium where a property has ben empty and unfurnished for a period of between 2 and 5 years.

That, having been presented with the statutory sufficiency assessment, the Cabinet is satisfied that the local authority has met its statutory obligations in respect of the Early Years Childcare Sufficiency Assessment.

To approve the proposed restrictions that are subject to this report in relation to The Isle of Wight Council (Various Streets, Wroxall) (Traffic Regulation) Order No 1 2022with amendment.

Cabinet agrees to abandon part of the proposed restriction in both sides of the High Street, from the junction with Clarence Road to the entrance of the local inn’s car park. The rest of the proposed restriction in Plan 1 of Appendix 1 to be implemented.

Cabinet agrees to proceed with proposals as indicated at St John’s Road in close proximity to the junction with Worsley Drive (Plan 3 of Appendix 1).

Cabinet agrees to remove and no implement the proposed scheme at St John’s Road in the area directly opposite Cleveland Terrace (Plan 2 of Appendix 1).

The decision was deferred to a later date.

RESOLVED:

THAT the minutes of the meeting held on 12 January 2023 be approved.

To provide a summary of progress against Corporate Plan activities and measures for the period October to December 2022. To inform Cabinet of areas of particular success, issues requiring attention and remedial activity in place to deal with these. To provide a report on the financial position of the council for the same period

That Cabinet approves the Performance and Finance Report for the Quarter ended 31 December 2022, and the priority report detail as set out in appendices 1-10,together with the council’s financial position as set out in appendices 11-12.

1.    That the Cabinet endorse the following:

(a)   The recommendations to the Council set out below.

It is recommended that the Council approve the following:

(a)    The revised Revenue Budget for the financial year 2022/23 and the Revenue Budget for the financial year 2023/24 as set out in the General Fund Summary (Appendix 1) which includes:

(i)      Additional spending in Adult Social Care of £7.6m and Children's  Services of £4.3m

(ii)    No Revenue Contribution to Capital in 2022/23 or 2023/24

(iii)   The Covid Contingency estimated at £4.2m, to guard against continuing and legacy risks

(b)    Any variation arising from the Local Government Finance Settlement 2023/24 or any further savings made in 2022/23 arising at the year-end (after allowing for specific carry forward requests) be transferred to the Revenue Reserve for Capital, Covid Contingency, Transformation Reserve, and General Reserves with the level of each transfer to be determined by the S.151 Officer.

(c)    That the level of Council Tax be increased by 2.99% for general purposes in accordance with the referendum threshold^[1] for 2023/24 announced by Government (as calculated in Appendix 2)

(d)    That the level of Council Tax be increased by a further 2.0% beyond the referendum threshold (as calculated in Appendix 2) to take advantage of the flexibility offered by Government to implement a "Social Care Precept"; and that in accordance with the conditions of that flexibility, the full amount of the associated sum generated of £1,872,500 is passported direct to Adult Social Care

(e)    That the amounts set out in Appendix 2 be now calculated by the Council for the financial year 2023/24 in accordance with Section 31 and Sections 34 to 36 of the Local Government Finance Act 1992

(f)     The S.151 Officer be given delegated authority to implement any variation to the overall level of Council Tax arising from the final notification of the Hampshire Police & Crime Commissioner, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Authority and Parish and Town Council precepts, and amend the calculations set out in Appendix 2 accordingly

(g)    The savings proposals for each Portfolio amounting, in total, to £3.895m for 2023/24 and continuing into future years as set out on the next page:

(h)    Directors be instructed to start planning how the Council will achieve the savings requirements of £6.0m for the 3 year period 2024/25 to 2026/27 and that this be incorporated into Service Business Plans

(i)      The minimum level of Revenue Balances as at 31 March 2024, predicated on the approval of £3.895m savings in 2023/24 and the retention of the  Covid Contingency of £4.2m, be set at £8.0m to reflect the known and expected budget and financial risks to the Council

(j)      Members have regard for the "Statement of the Section 151 Officer in accordance with the Local Government Act 2003"

(k)    The Capital Programme 2022/23 to 2027/28 set out in Appendix 5 which includes all additions, deletions and amendments for slippage and re-phasing

(l)      The new Capital Investment Proposals ("New Starts") - 2023/24 set out in Appendix 4 be reflected within the recommended Capital Programme 2022/23 to 2027/28 and be funded from the available Capital Resources

(m)  The allocation of Disabled Facilities Grants be made to the Better Care Fund, and reflected within the recommended Capital Programme 2022/23 to 2027/28

(n)    The S.151 Officer be given delegated authority to determine how each source of finance is used to fund the overall Capital Programme and to alter the overall mix of financing, as necessary, to maximise the flexibility of capital resources used and minimise the ongoing costs of borrowing to the Council

(o)    That the S.151 Officer in consultation with the Leader of the Council be given delegated authority to release capital resources held back for any contingent items that might arise, and also for any match funding requirements that may be required of the Council in order to secure additional external capital funding (e.g. bids for funding from Government or any other external source).

2.     It is recommended that the Council note the following in respect of the Council's Budget: 

(a)    The Revenue Budget 2023/24 as set out in Appendix 1 has been prepared on the basis of a 4.99% increase in Council Tax, any reduction from the overall 4.99% Council Tax increase proposed will require additional savings of £936,300 for each 1% reduction in order for the Budget 2023/24 to be approved

(b)    The Revenue Forecasts for 2024/25 onwards as set out in the section entitled "Revenue Forecasts 2024/25 to 2026/27" and Appendix 1

(c)    The estimated Savings Requirement of £6.0m for the three year period 2024/25 to 2026/27, for financial and service planning purposes, be phased as follows:

(d)    The Transformation Reserve held to fund the upfront costs associated with Spend to Save Schemes and Invest to Save Schemes holds a very modest uncommitted balance of £3.2m and will only be replenished from contributions from the Revenue Budget and an approval to the transfer of any further savings at year end

(e)    Should the Council elect to reduce the level of savings below £3.895m in 2023/24 (and £2.0m p.a. thereafter), the Council's financial risk will increase and therefore the minimum level of General Reserves held will also need to increase in order to maintain the Council's financial resilience

(f)     The Council Tax base for the financial year 2023/24 will be 54,087.0 [item T in the formula in Section 31 B(1) of the Local Government Finance Act 1992, as amended (the “Act”)].

(g)    The Council Tax element of the Collection Fund for 2022/23 is estimated to be in deficit by £848,700* which is shared between the Isle of Wight Council (84.7%) and the Police & Crime Commissioner (11.6%) and the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Authority (3.7%)

(h)    The Business Rate element of the Collection Fund for 2022/23 is estimated to be in deficit by £334,500 of which is shared between the Isle of Wight Council (49%), the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Authority (1%) and the Government (50%)

(i)      The Retained Business Rate income^[2]for 2023/24 based on the estimated Business Rate element of the Collection Fund deficit as at March 2023, the Non Domestic Rates poundage for 2023/24 and estimated rateable values for 2023/24 has been set at £41,958,105.

*Includes a deficit of £578,900 which under regulation was allowed to be spread over 3 years and is shared on a different basis

^[1]Includes Retained Business Rates of £16,994,458, "Top Up" of £12,028,784, S.31 Grants of £13,098,779 a Collection Fund deficit of £163,916

That Cabinet approves the 2024/2025 school admissions arrangements.

That Cabinet recommends to Full Council to adopt the discretionary rate relief schemes as outlined in the Autumn statement 2022 and to ensure that the reliefs are applied to eligible accounts for the financial year 2023/24.

That delegated authority be granted to the Cabinet Member for Strategic Finance, Transformational Change and Corporate Resources to agree further legislative changes to the discretionary rates relief scheme.

That the Cabinet adopt the draft Council Tax Support Grant scheme as attached in Appendix 1 to provide additional support to eligible Local Council Tax Support claimants as at 1 April 2023.

That a discretionary scheme is developed which awards £25 to newly eligible LCTS claimants after 1 April 2023 and to delegate authority to the Cabinet Member for Strategic Finance, Transformational Change and Corporate Resources to agree further details of the discretionary scheme.

Cabinet approves the proposed restrictions that are subject to this report in relation to The Isle of Wight Council (Various Streets, Ventnor) (Traffic Regulation) Order No 1 2022; The Isle of Wight Council (Esplanade, Ventnor) (Parking Places) Order No 1 2022; The Isle of Wight Council (Designated Loading Bays) Order No 1 2022with amendment - to abandon the proposals in some locations, and to implement the rest of the restrictions.

To abandon proposals for Scheme 2 – St Catherine’s Street, Ventnor and not proceed with any TRO for this road.

That Scheme 1 – Albert Street, Ventnor, be deferred to a later date pending further detailed investigation and research on the proposal.

That Scheme 4 – Park Avenue, Ventnor, be deferred until a later date pending further detailed investigation and research on the proposal.

To agree the terms set out in the report for a new five (5) year agreement with Isle of Wight Festival Ltd. to stage the IW Festival for the period 2023-2027 inclusive and to instruct the Director of Regeneration in liaison with the Leader of the Isle of Wight Council to conclude the details of the agreement, including provision to terminate where necessary.

That Cabinet adopt Option (a) as detailed below in that the heat networks rates relief scheme be implemented from 1 April 2022 and 100% relief is granted to those properties identified by the Valuation Office as using low carbon networks on the Island.

Option 3: To approve the proposed restrictions that are subject to this report in relation to The Isle of Wight Council (Various Streets, Nettlestone & Seaview) (Traffic Regulation) Order No 1 2022with amendment - to abandon the proposals in some locations, and to implement the rest of the restrictions.

In agreeing this option, Cabinet agrees not to deliver the TRO scheme proposed in the Nettlestone area at Nettlestone Green, Nettlestone, at this time.

RESOLVED:

THAT the minutes of the meeting held on 10 November 2022 be approved.

That the 2023/24 school funding formula and wider Dedicated Schools Grant budget allocations detailed in Appendix 1 and 2 to this report be approved.

Option 3: To approve the proposed restrictions that are subject to this report in relation to The Isle of Wight Council (Various Streets, Ryde) (Traffic Regulation) Order No1 2022 and The Isle of Wight Council (Residents’ Parking Places) Order 1 2022 with amendment - to abandon the proposals in some locations, and to implement the rest of the restrictions.

In agreeing this option, Cabinet agrees not to deliver the TRO schemes as proposed in the Ryde area at Church Lane/Pitts Lane, Binstead and at Newnham Road, Binstead at this time.

That the Newport and Ryde Commercial Frontages Design Guide be adopted as a supplementary planning document.

That any final editorial and presentational changes to the draft supplementary planning document are delegated to the Director of Regeneration in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Planning and Enforcement. These changes will not alter the meaning of the document and will be restricted to grammatical and typographical errors.

That Cabinet approves the Performance and Finance Report for the Quarter ended 30 September 2022, and the priority report detail as set out in appendices 1-10,together with the council’s financial position as set out at appendices 11-12.

Record their preference to increase the maximum level of support for working age cases to 70 per cent (from the current maximum level of 65 per cent) subject to it being affordable to the Council and therefore considered alongside (and part of) the Council's overall Budget for 2023/24

Add a local welfare payment disregard to mirror housing benefit regulations

Disregard any increase in welfare benefit payments due to crisis or emergency provision.

To retain the Wightcare service in-house and develop two-year cost recovery model from April 2023 to achieve financial breakeven, reducing dependency on public funds and stabilising the service for the future under statutory charging guidance.  This recommendation is supported by an independent review of the service by the industry body, the TSA.

Option 1 - Approve the freehold sale of KMP, to a third party, as detailed in Confidential Appendices 1,2 and 3, subject to contract and achieving detailed planning consent.

Delegate the authority to approve final terms following this decision to both the Cabinet Member for Levelling Up, Regeneration, Business Development and Tourism and the Cabinet Member for Strategic Finance, Transformational Change and Corporate Resources in consultation with the Director of Regeneration and the council's Section 151 officer.

RESOLVED:

THAT the minutes of the meeting held on 13 October be approved.

That Cabinet notes the Housing Strategy 2020-2025 Action Plan Progress Report 2022 contained at Appendix 1 of this report.

That Cabinet approves the Isle of Wight Council Procurement Strategy contained at Appendix 1 of this report.

Cabinet approves the proposed restriction that is subject to this report in relation to The Isle of Wight Council (Various Streets, East Cowes) (Traffic Regulation) Order No1 2022 as proposed.

The implementation of the TRO being approved, be subject to Saunders Way being entirely opened to vehicular traffic.

That Cabinet notes the current contract value of the Substance Misuse Treatment Service as £7,381,915 (5-year value) and approves an additional £275,155 plus Rough Sleepers Initiative (RSI) £100,684 for 2022/23.

That Cabinet approves additional spend under the Substance Misuse treatment contract in line with Government funding for years 2023-2025 of up to £1million.

That Cabinet delegates authority to approve this additional spend to the Director of Public Health, in consultation with the Cabinet Member, and Director of Adult Social Care on an annual basis for 2023/24 and 2024/25, considering anticipated funding received from Office for Health Improvement & Disparities (OHID) and Rough Sleepers Initiative as outlined in this report.

RESOLVED:

THAT the minutes of the meeting held on 8 September 2022 be approved.

The Isle of Wight Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence Integrated Services contract provides specialist domestic abuse, sexual violence and perpetrator programme services to Island residents.

The Domestic Abuse portfolio transferred to Public Health on 1st April 22. We are seeking to reschedule the date of re-commissioning this contract following discussion between co-funders of the contract and exploration of the options available in order to:

-        carry out a comprehensive needs assessment to determine the provision needed going forward by different populations on the Island

-        develop the new specification based on the outcomes of the needs assessment

-        ensure the quality of services to people experiencing domestic abuse on the Island remain consistent and in place

-        take into account any legacy and learning from the impact of Covid

That Cabinet approves to spend up to £2,500,000 for the Isle of Wight Council’s contribution to the new contract. This is based on up to £350,000 per annum for a contract up to five years plus two single year extension options, commencing 1 October 2023.

That Cabinet approves the plans for the 2022/23 DLUHC domestic abuse allocation. It is recommended that decisions on future spend of DLUHC allocations in relation to domestic abuse responsibilities are delegated to the Director of Public Health in consultation with the Cabinet Member and Director of Adult Social Care on an annual basis.

To confirm the council consent for the Transfer of Ownership & Transfer of Major Shareholding of Amey (IoW) Waste PPP, the SPV and the Works and operating Sub-Contractor to a proposed new structure within the original Ferrovial parent company.

Cabinet agrees:

(a)            to provide provisional consent to the transfer of the ownership of the service provider and novation of the works and operating sub-contract to the entity know as Thalia Waste Management subject to the completion of suitable due diligence processes.

(i)              between now and the date of transfer, to agree terms of the legal documentation in Amey Waste Treatment and Ferrovial;

(ii)             the completion of financial due diligence prior to the date of transfer.

Cabinet approves that the decision to complete the consent legal documentation is delegated to the Director of Neighbourhoods in consultation with the Cabinet Member and section 151 officer and is subject to:

(b)            Satisfactory completion of legal documentation maintaining a no better, no worse position for the council

(c)             Satisfactory completion of financial due diligence

That Cabinet approves the Performance and Finance Report for the Quarter ended 30 June 2022, and the priority report detail as set out in appendices 1-10,together with the council’s financial position as set out at 11-14.

RESOLVED:

THAT the minutes of the meeting held on 14 July 2022 be approved.

Not to approve the restrictions that are subject to this report in relation to THE ISLE OF WIGHT COUNCIL (HORSEBRIDGE HILL, NEWPORT) (TRAFFIC REGULATION) ORDER NO 1 2021 and to abandon the proposal.

1.     To agree the current version of the draft Island Planning Strategy (see appendix 1) with the changes recommended by Corporate Scrutiny Committee; namely Recommendation 2a – Protecting the Environment unless development on greenfield is absolutely necessary, Recommendation 3 – Second/Holiday homes, Recommendation 4 – Environment and Commitment to Carbon Net Zero and recommendation 5 – Freeport status, and with the addition of the paragraphs numbered 7.40 to 7.45 as set out below to be added to Policy KPS2;HA44 Newport Harbour.

2.     To recommend to Full Council that the draft Island Planning Strategy (dependant on the choice of option 1, 2 or 3) is published for the Regulation 19 period for public representation and then submitted to the Planning Inspectorate for examination; and                            

3.     To recommend to Full Council to delegate any final editorial and presentational changes to the Island Planning Strategy prior to publication and submission, to the Director of Regeneration in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Planning and Enforcement, so long as they do not materially alter the intention of the version agreed by Full Council.

7.40 The Council is aware that allocated site KPS2 Newport Harbour may represent the first phase of a wider regeneration opportunity within Newport Town Centre. Working with other stakeholders, including various public sector landowners, the Council will undertake feasibility studies and technical evidence work to establish whether any opportunities can be unlocked to further enhance the county town and deliver on the Council’s regeneration aspirations.

7.41 The Council considers that a range of technical work is needed to fully understand the potential within public sector owned land, including dialogue with private landowners over the potential and future for their land. The Shaping Newport Place Plan Report and the recommendations within it will be a key piece of evidence to help inform any regeneration proposals, this includes a focus on improving public realm and making the town centre a more pleasant place to live and work.

7.42 Undertaking this work will help the Council understand whether there is the opportunity to bring forward a high quality, sustainable mixed-use regeneration scheme providing housing to meet local need, new and enhanced commercial floorspace and sustainable transport improvements whilst maintaining a strong civic presence in the town centre.

7.43 The outcome of this technical work will help to establish the possible yield (both dwellings andfloorspace), potential delivery timescale andidentify a mixof development that could be accommodated on multiple sites. It will also be necessary to consider the most appropriateplanning policy and delivery mechanism to help bring forward any proposals. Section 10 of theIPS includesreference tousing theoutcomes ofany feasibilitystudies andtechnical workto determine whichelements ofthe IPScould bereviewed toincorporate theseoutcomes.

7.44 Any such scheme would support existing and new local businesses within the town centre through increased footfall and help to achieve the aims of the Newport Heritage Action Zone (HAZ) to restore key buildings and traditional shopfronts, improve public spaces and bring unused parts of buildings back into use as homes, workplaces and community spaces, while protecting the distinctive heritage of the town. A more vibrant night-time economy could also result, benefitting not just the town centre but also potential commercial businesses within the KPS2 Newport Harbour area.

7.45 In advance of the completion of this work, a number of IPS policies including G2 (Priority Locations for Housing Development and Growth), H9 (New Housing on Previously Developed Land), E7 (Supporting and Improving our Town Centres), C7 (Delivering Locality Hubs), C8 (Facilitating a Blue Light Hub) and EV1 (Conserving and Enhancing our Historic Environment) all provide in principle support for any redevelopment proposals within the Newport Town Centre Regeneration Opportunity Area.’

Not to approve the restrictions that are subject to this report in relation to THE ISLE OF WIGHT COUNCIL (VARIOUS STREETS, FRESHWATER) (TRAFFIC REGULATION) ORDER NO 1 2022 and to abandon the proposal.

The Cabinet agrees to:

i)                 consider and support the continuation of Better Care Fund arrangements and plan for 2022/23.

ii)               delegate authority to Director of Ault Social Care and Housing Needs to agree a deed of variation to the current section 75 agreement incorporating the BCF plan for 2022/23 in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Housing Needs.

The Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education and Skills presented the report and recommendations which were duly seconded.

A vote was taken the result of which was as follows:

RESOLVED:

THAT the Youth Justice Plan 2022/23 be endorsed.

That cabinet approves planned changes to the High Street and St James’ Square to widen footways, improve the public realm and reallocate space from the carriageway and on-street parking to facilitate this.

In doing so, cabinet authorises the Cabinet Member for Levelling Up, Regeneration, Business Development and Tourism and the Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, Highways PFI and Transport in consultation with the Director of Regeneration and the Director of Neighbourhoods to use available resources to develop and deliver whichever aspects of the plans prove to be technically and financially viable within the timeframe of the HAZ scheme, and to seek additional resource  to develop and deliver the remaining viable elements in due course. 

Furthermore, cabinet authorises the Director of Regeneration and the Director of Neighbourhoods to prioritise and work towards measures to reduce the volume and size of vehicles moving through the High Street by developing alternative routes and arrangement around the town centre.

Cabinet resolves not to approve the restrictions that are subject to this report in relation to the Isle of Wight Council (Seaview Lane, Nettlestone) (Traffic Regulation) Order No 1 2021, and to abandon the proposal.

That Cabinet instructs the Director of Regeneration to arrange for the submission of the Isle of Wight Shared Prosperity Investment Plan in liaison with the Cabinet Member for Levelling Up, Regeneration, Business Development and Tourism.

THAT Cabinet grant a lease to Sandown Town Council for the provision of new public toilets at eastern gardens, Culver Parade (Avenue Road Slipway), Sandown (shown outlined on the attached plan at Appendix 1).  Final terms of the lease to be agreed by the Cabinet Member for Strategic Finance, Transformational Change and Corporate Resources in consultation with the Director for Regeneration.

RESOLVED:

THAT the minutes of the meeting held on 16 June be approved.

That Cabinet approves the proposed draft that is subject to this report in relation to the Isle of Wight Council Traffic Regulation Policy, with an amendment. The amendment to read as paragraph 7 on page 69 of the reports pack, (starting “the council recognises….” with additional wording at the end of the paragraph, to read “and by the provision of additional on-road parking spaces, that correspond to the number of lost spaces, in the immediate vicinity.”

RESOLVED

That the minutes of the meeting held on 12 May 2022 be approved.

That Cabinet instructs the Director of Regeneration to arrange for the submission of the “Island Green Link” project as the councils bid to the government’s Levelling Up Fund - Round 2

That Cabinet approves the proposal to maintain the pre-Covid levels of concessionary fares reimbursement for local bus operators for the financial year April 2022/to March 2023 in line with the DfT guidance to LTAs ‘Alternative Covid-19 Recovery Strategy’ (see appendix A). Which will enable monthly concessionary payments to be made at a Pre Covid-19 reimbursement level, on the basis that local bus services are likewise maintained at an equivalent to Pre Covid levels.

Cabinet approves the development of a business case to ringfence the remaining revenue funding currently budgeted for concessionary travel reimbursement, above the outlined levels of reimbursement, for the purpose of using the funding should it be necessary to provide further support to maintain levels bus services on the Island, again in line with the latest DfT guidance to LTAs.

That Cabinet approves the changes to parking places as set out in the Isle of Wight Council (Parking Places) Order 2022 at appendix 3, subject to a project assessment that takes into account the timeframes for the development scheme to be delivered under Social Prosperity Grant Fund at that site.

That Cabinet approves the policy for MEES penalties.

Cabinet approves the Isle of Wight Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy Action Plan 2022- 2024 as set out at Appendix 1.

To provide a summary of progress against Corporate Plan activities and measures for the period January to March 2022. To inform Cabinet of areas of particular success, issues requiring attention and remedial activity in place to deal with these. To provide a report on the financial position of the council for the same period

That Cabinet approves the Performance and Finance Report for the Quarter ended 31 March 2022, and the priority report detail as set out in appendices 1-9.

Cabinet approves the sale of the freehold interest in the Spa site to the preferred bidder as set out in the report. In doing so delegating the authority to approve final terms following this decision to both the Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Business Development and Tourism and the Cabinet Member for Strategic Finance, Corporate Resources and Transformational Change, in consultation with the Director of Regeneration and the council’s Section 151 officer.

To treat with the Wildheart Trust as a special purchaser of land adjoining the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, Culver Parade, Sandown.

That the proposed calendar for term dates 2023/2024 as in Appendix 3 be approved.

That Cabinet approves the proposed 2022 Post-16 Transport Policy Statement as set out in Appendix 1.

That Cabinet confirms the revised fee structure changes as per the 2022/23 budget and implement from 1July 2022 or earlier if possible and identify an alternative saving/funding source to cover the loss of 30k from the budgeted position.

That Cabinet undertakes a review of the bereavement services business model and to agree a formal business analysis and plan for the service going forwards.

Cabinet agrees to:

Option 1 - Confirm the revised fee structure changes as per the 2022/2023 budget and activate from 01 July 2022 or earlier if possible, and

Option 3 - Undertake a review of the current Wightcare business model and to revert with a formal all options analysis and recommended forward plan for the unit going forwards.

As elements of 3 above, Cabinet agrees that the business model will:

·       Provide a definitive position on the regulatory requirements for the council charging structure for Wightcare as per the relevant legislation as identified by Finance.

·       Define a model for apportionment of council administrative costs to be used in relation to business units and hence applied to the business model for Wightcare

·       Define a forward business model for Wightcare taking into account the above, best practices elsewhere, predicted inflation, utility, and other costs, expected market demand for both the basic and enhances options and with regular review periods.

·       Be presented to Cabinet no later than September 2022.

That the Hackney Carriage Table of Fares be agreed as amended in Appendix 3 to this report to come into effect from 1 June 2022.

That Cabinet approves the Isle of Wight Council Commercial Strategy contained at Appendix 1 to this report.

To note the Annual Report of the Director of Public Health 2021.

To approve the report recommendations made by the Director of Public Health as set out in the report.

That Cabinet approves the Isle of Wight Council digital strategy 2022 – 2027 and establishes a programme board led by the portfolio holder for digital transformation. That board will be responsible for the establishment of the associated strategy action plan in line with stated outcomes and provide the strategic oversight of business case developments and resulting project delivery.

Cabinet approves the award of grants to the organisations identified in Appendix 1 to this report to a total value of £63,344.80.

In the event that a provider is unable to fulfil the funded number of places or has to amend its offer in the light of Covid, it is recommended that the Cabinet Member delegates approval to the Director of Children’s Services to reallocate any underspent Easter HAF grant funding to ensure an Isle of Wight wide offer, within the grant allocation for Easter of £64,223.  Any such reallocations will be determined in consultation with the Cabinet Member.

Cabinet approves the system wide Isle of Wight Dementia Strategy, enabling the strategy to progress for approval by the Integrated Care Partnership.

Cabinet approves the signing of the Armed Forces covenant and that the Leader of the Council be given delegated authority to effect the signing.

That Cabinet approves the 2023/2024 admissions arrangements.

Option 2: The Cabinet approves the Performance and Finance Report for the Quarter ended 31 December 2021, and the priority report detail as set out in appendices 1-9, together with the council’s financial position as set out at appendices 10 and 11.

To defer the decision pending further research into the options.

1.           It is recommended that the Cabinet endorse the following:

(a)   The recommendations to the Council set out below.

2.          It is recommended that the Council approve the following:

(a)    The revised Revenue Budget for the financial year 2021/22 and the Revenue Budget for the financial year 2022/23 as set out in the General Fund Summary (Appendix 1) which includes:

(i)      A Revenue Contribution to Capital of £2.0m, to support the provision of housing affordable to Island residents

(ii)    The COVID Contingency estimated at £9.1m, to guard against continuing and legacy risks

(b)    Any variation arising from the Local Government Finance Settlement 2022/23 or any further savings made in 2021/22 arising at the year-end (after allowing for specific carry forward requests) be transferred to the Revenue Reserve for Capital, COVID Contingency, Transformation Reserve, and General Reserves with the level of each transfer to be determined by the S.151 Officer.

(c)    That the level of Council Tax be increased by 1.99% for general purposes in accordance with the referendum threshold^[1] for 2022/23 announced by Government (as calculated in Appendix 2)

(d)    That the level of Council Tax be increased by a further 1.0% beyond the referendum threshold (as calculated in Appendix 2) to take advantage of the flexibility offered by Government to implement a "Social Care Precept"; and that in accordance with the conditions of that flexibility, the full amount of the associated sum generated of £905,600 is passported direct to Adult Social Care

(e)    That the amounts set out in Appendix 2 be now calculated by the Council for the financial year 2022/23 in accordance with Section 31 and Sections 34 to 36 of the Local Government Finance Act 1992

(f)     The S.151 Officer be given delegated authority to implement any variation to the overall level of Council Tax arising from the final notification of the Hampshire Police & Crime Commissioner, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Authority and Parish and Town Council precepts, and amend the calculations set out in Appendix 2 accordingly

(g)    The savings proposals for each Portfolio amounting, in total, to £3.0m for 2022/23 and continuing into future years as set out on the next page:

*Excludes the additional funding passported through to Adult Social Care of £3.7m (which if included would result in an overall increase of 3.7%) and the additional funding for Children's Services, Education & Skills of £2.3m (which if included would result in an overall increase of 7.3%)

** Excludes £19.4m of PFI grant funding, on a Gross expenditure basis the savings amounts to 0.2%

(h)    Directors be instructed to start planning how the Council will achieve the savings requirements of £6.0m for the 3 year period 2023/24 to 2025/26 and that this be incorporated into Service Business Plans

(i)      The minimum level of Revenue Balances as at 31 March 2023, predicated on the approval of £3.0m savings in 2022/23 and the retention of the  COVID Contingency of £9.1m, be set at £7.0m to reflect the known and expected budget and financial risks to the Council

(j)      Members have regard for the "Statement of the Section 151 Officer in accordance with the Local Government Act 2003"

(k)    The Capital Programme 2021/22 to 2026/27 set out in Appendix 5 which includes all additions, deletions and amendments for slippage and re-phasing

(l)      The new Capital Investment Proposals ("New Starts") - 2022/23 set out in Appendix 4 be reflected within the recommended Capital Programme 2021/22 to 2026/27 and be funded from the available Capital Resources

(m)  The allocation of Disabled Facilities Grants be made to the Better Care Fund, and reflected within the recommended Capital Programme 2021/22 to 2026/27

(n)    The S.151 Officer be given delegated authority to determine how each source of finance is used to fund the overall Capital Programme and to alter the overall mix of financing, as necessary, to maximise the flexibility of capital resources used and minimise the ongoing costs of borrowing to the Council

(o)    That the S.151 Officer in consultation with the Leader of the Council be given delegated authority to release capital resources held back for any contingent items that might arise, and also for any match funding requirements that may be required of the Council in order to secure additional external capital funding (e.g. bids for funding from Government or the Solent Local Enterprise Partnership).

3.           It is recommended that the Council note the following in respect of the Council's Budget: 

(a)    The Revenue Budget 2022/23 as set out in Appendix 1 has been prepared on the basis of a 2.99% increase in Council Tax, any reduction from the overall 2.99% Council Tax increase proposed will require additional savings of £905,600 for each 1% reduction in order for the Budget 2022/23 to be approved

(b)    The Revenue Forecasts for 2023/24 onwards as set out in the section entitled "Revenue Forecasts 2023/24 to 2025/26" and Appendix 1

(c)    The estimated Savings Requirement of £6.0m for the three year period 2023/24 to 2025/26, for financial and service planning purposes, be phased as follows:

(d)    The Transformation Reserve held to fund the upfront costs associated with Spend to Save Schemes and Invest to Save Schemes holds a very modest uncommitted balance of £4.4m and will only be replenished from contributions from the Revenue Budget and an approval to the transfer of any further savings at year end

(e)    Should the Council elect to reduce the level of savings below £2.0m in 2023/24 (and £2.0m p.a. thereafter), the Council's financial risk will increase and therefore the minimum level of General Reserves held will also need to increase in order to maintain the Council's financial resilience

(f)     The Council Tax base for the financial year 2022/23 will be 53,879.9 [item T in the formula in Section 31 B(1) of the Local Government Finance Act 1992, as amended (the “Act”)].

(g)    The Council Tax element of the Collection Fund for 2021/22 is estimated to be in surplus by £582,900 which is shared between the Isle of Wight Council (85.7%) and the Police & Crime Commissioner (10.9%) and the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Authority (3.4%)

(h)    The Business Rate element of the Collection Fund for 2021/22 is estimated to be in deficit by £6,842,482

The Retained Business Rate income^[2]for 2022/23 based on the estimated Business Rate element of the Collection Fund deficit as at March 2022, the Non Domestic Rates poundage for 2022/23 and estimated rateable values for 2022/23 has been set at £31,140,075.

Cabinet approves and adopts the draft Street Trading Policy, attached as Appendix 1.

Cabinet approves the installation of electric vehicle charge points in council car parks under the ‘Central Southern Region’ framework; approve the first 9 locations for charge point installations under a ‘Lease’ arrangement; and give the Director of Regeneration / Director of Neighbourhoods, in agreement with the portfolio holder, authority to expand the network as demand grows.

Cabinet notes the recent IPCO inspection findings, at Appendix 1, and notes the council’s use of the powers available in the last 3 years and agrees the proposed amendments to the policy as attached at Appendix 2.

Option 2:

·       Agree that the templates for decisions to full council provides sufficient regard for the Biosphere within the development of Policies, Strategies and Decisions taken by the council.

·       Agree to adopt and build the document ‘Supporting the IW UNESCO Biosphere, into the workstream planning of the work of the council.

·       Create and support a Biosphere Steering Committee in accordance with the ‘Supporting the IW UNESCO Biosphere’ document. The Committee is to be administratively supported by the Council and is to work alongside the Mission Zero Hub currently under development.

1.     To note the Gateway 5 Review report and approve the implementation of the respective recommendations subject to resources

2.     To continue with the mediation process

3.     Alongside this to provide where resources allow:

·       A financial analysis of the costs of keeping Floating Bridge 6 over the potential 25-year lifetime of the vessel compared with the previous profit-making FB5 and a potential new, well-performing FB7.  This would include a detailed assessment of an alternative (new) vessel provision, with a forecast, before any further assessment of whether Floating Bridge 6 can sustainably continue to operate.

·       An economic impact assessment of Floating Bridge 6, reviewing impact on local businesses including shops and mobile businesses as well economic depressors such as traffic, reviewing past, current, and potential future damage

·       A clear set of performance requirements for the Floating Bridge service, based upon the previous Floating Bridge 5’s performance in its best (peak) years as minimum standards for what is necessary for a good service which successfully helps the economy and is financially viable, in terms of frequency of crossings, availability, accessibility, efficiency, affordability and determine if Floating Bridge 6 can meet those requirements.

4.     To provide a further report to Cabinet upon the completion of legal mediation process and provide progress on the delivery of the recommendations within the Gateway review. In addition to make recommendations for further considerations and actions in terms of the existing FB6 vessel when considered against the viability of alternatives, such as a replacement vessel.

To agree to the request from the Isle of Wight Athletics Club and to change the name to the Ray Scovell Athletics Centre in 2022.

Cabinet agrees to the publication of the draft Newport Harbour Masterplan Supplementary Planning Document for public consultation.

Cabinet approves the 2022/23 school funding formula and wider Dedicated Schools Grant budget allocations detailed in Appendix 1 and 2.

To approve and adopt the revised Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Policy, attached as Appendix 1.

Option 3: To commission, develop and build 20 x two bed relocatable modular homes, subject to the related capital bid being approved by Full Council in February 2022 and the required borrowing being approved by the S151 Officer on receipt of a detailed business case, and any other necessary consents.

Option 6: If the Capital bid is approved by Full Council, delegate commissioning decisions and day to day project management to the Director of Regeneration, in consultation with the Cabinet member, to ensure minimal time delays to procure and deliver the 20 units of accommodation as soon as possible.

Option 1: To approve the proposed restrictions that are subject to this report in relation to THE ISLE OF WIGHT COUNCIL (VARIOUS STREETS, EAST COWES) (TRAFFIC REGULATION) ORDER NO 1 2021 as proposed.

Option 2: To approve the proposed restrictions that are subject to this report in relation to THE ISLE OF WIGHT COUNCIL (VARIOUS STREETS, COWES) (TRAFFIC REGULATION) ORDER NO. 1 2021 with amendments – to abandon some of the restrictions, and to implement the rest of the restrictions as proposed.

The proposals to be abandoned being those in;

·       Ash Grove cul-de-sac

·       Newport Road near Bellevue Road

·       Newport Road near the junction with Stephenson Road

It was proposed by the Cabinet member and agreed to defer a decision on the report to a later date.

Option 2 - To maintain the current LCTS scheme at 65 per cent but allowing for any minor adjustments to annual allowable amounts which are used to offset the calculation.   

The closure of the 6th Form at Carisbrooke College. The provision has not been operational since 2016. All students since that date have attended the 6th Form provision at Medina College. This report is required to formalise the above situation.

Option A - To adopt the Isle of Wight Skills Plan (Appendix 1) and set up an Island Skills Board to oversee skills related activity, identify relevant resources and monitor outcomes of the action plan (Appendix 2).

To approve the lowering of the age range to three years old at Hunnyhill Primary School with effect from 1 January 2022.

The report seeks Cabinet approval for council support for an International Dark Skies Association (IDA) accredited Dark Skies Park status application in the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the south-west of the Island.

To approve Option 1 in principle, and the council supports an IDA-accredited Dark Skies Park status application as outlined in this report with the following commitments:

a)    Financial support from the council of £49,453 to replace existing street lights where necessary within a defined programme, subject to the approval of the capital programme by full council

b)    The preparation of a comprehensive lighting code to be applied within the Dark Skies Park, which would take the form of a Supplementary Planning Document.

c)     Ensure annual monitoring and reporting on the success in light pollution control as well as the maintenance of a sky brightness measurement program is carried out.

Option 2 – Increase annual subscription cost in 2022-23 by £2 per month.

Option 1 – To approve the Isle of Wight Safe Accommodation Strategy 2022-2025.

Option A.      To amend the Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP) policy to                     reflect the funding for 2021/22 provided by the DWP.

Option C.      Minor changes to the policy to be delegated to an officer in                     consultation with the cabinet member for our service area.