Agenda for Economic Development & Culture Committee on Thursday, 13th November, 2014, 4.00pm
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Agenda, decisions and minutes
PDF 224 KBVenue: Council Chamber, Hove Town Hall
Contact: Penny Jennings Democratic Services Officer
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Procedural Business (a) Declaration of Substitutes: Where Councillors are unable to attend a meeting, a substitute Member from the same Political Group may attend, speak and vote in their place for that meeting.
(b) Declarations of Interest:
(a) Disclosable pecuniary interests not registered on the register of interests; (b) Any other interests required to be registered under the local code; (c) Any other general interest as a result of which a decision on the matter might reasonably be regarded as affecting you or a partner more than a majority of other people or businesses in the ward/s affected by the decision.
In each case, you need to declare (i) the item on the agenda the interest relates to; (ii) the nature of the interest; and (iii) whether it is a disclosable pecuniary interest or some other interest.
If unsure, Members should seek advice from the committee lawyer or administrator preferably before the meeting.
(c) Exclusion of Press and Public: To consider whether, in view of the nature of the business to be transacted, or the nature of the proceedings, the press and public should be excluded from the meeting when any of the following items are under consideration.
NOTE: Any item appearing in Part Two of the Agenda states in its heading the category under which the information disclosed in the report is exempt from disclosure and therefore not available to the public.
A list and description of the exempt categories is available for public inspection at Brighton and Hove Town Halls. Minutes: 31a Declaration of Substitutes
31.1 There were none.
31b Declarations of Interest
3.2 There were none.
31c Exclusion of the Press and Public
31.3 In accordance with Section 100A of the Local Government Act (“The Act”), the Economic Development and Culture Committee considered whether the public should be excluded from the meeting during consideration of any item of business on the grounds that it is likely in view of the business to be transacted or the nature of the proceedings, that if members of the public were present during it, there would be disclosure to them of confidential information as defined in Section 100A(3) of the Act.
31.4 RESOLVED – That the press and public not be excluded from the meeting during consideration of any item on the agenda. |
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To consider the minutes of the meeting held on 18 September 2014 (copy attached). Minutes: 32.1 RESOLVED – That the Chair be authorised to sign the minutes of the meeting held on 19 September 2014 as a correct record.
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Chair's Communications Minutes: 33.1 The Chair explained that although he would be referring to a few highlights as part of his communications a full text in respect of recent and upcoming events would be recorded in the substantive minutes of the meeting.
Royal Pavilion Music Room
33.2 The Chair stated that The Royal Pavilion’s Music Room now featured a stunning new installation called ‘Peepers’ by artist Maisie Broadhead as part of the Pavilion Contemporary programme. The installation would run until 1 March 2015. He was also pleased to note that the Ice Rink had re-opened recently, this had now become established as a popular seasonal venue with the Pavilion as a stunning backdrop.
Tourism & Venues
Partnerships
33.3 There were currently 444 partners which is an increase of 24 from the figure reported at the previous meeting. The Partnership was one of Visitbrighton’s cornerstones as it showed a collaborative approach to public and private sector working and affords Visitbrighton a strong mandate within the City.
On-line Marketing
33.4 In the first 6 months of the year visits to www.visitbrighton.comwebsite had exceeded 1 million unique users – growth of 1.2% on the equivalent period in 2013. The www.visitbrighton.com would feature prominently on the landing page of a new ‘Wireless City’ initiative between Brighton & Hove Council & BT, due to go live in November 2014, this would offer blanket free wifi coverage across many key visitor areas of the city.
33.5 Final sign off was being obtained to re-design www.visitbrighton.com so that it was adjusted to fit mobile devices and integrate channel managers into the site, potentially increasing income from accommodation sales, www.christmasinbrighton.co.uk was to be launched shortly to promote the fantastic winter offering in Brighton & Hove and to encourage visitors to book a break in the city.
Offline Marketing
33.6 In the first 6 months of the year the city had hosted over 75 press trips – 35% of which had been for UK journalists and 65% for overseas journalists As a result, 140 features and articles had appeared in the UK media, including The Telegraph, The Daily Express, The Sunday Times and The Metro. 70 articles and features have been generated in overseas media, including L’Express, Elle Decoration, Times of India and The Sydney Morning Herald The advertising value equivalent of this coverage exceeded £3.m. Currently the team were actively engaged in promoting the Rugby World Cup to both domestic and overseas visitors and journalists.
Conference Sales
33.7 The Chair explained that in the first 6 months of the year 32 events had been confirmed with the CVB which will bring £41m of economic benefit to the City. Notable wins included: British Council Conference – December 2014 – 600 delegates, British Medical Laser Association – April 2015 – 200 delegates, Search & Rescue Conference – May 2015 – 300 delegates and Society for Experimental Biology – July 2016 – 850 delegates, Girl Guides – June 2017 – 2000 delegates.
Visitor Services
33.8 Last year Brighton & Hove had been selected by VisitEngland as one of four destinations to be included in their Access for All Campaign, this year the city was the only destination that VisitEngland were taking forward for Phase 2 of the campaign. The campaign, used EU funding drawn down by VisitEngland with the aim of improving accessibility in local businesses so that disabled visitors could plan their trip in full confidence of finding accommodation that will suit their needs, and things to do and see that they can access easily.
Libraries
Expansion of community services in our libraries:
Arts and Culture in Libraries:
33.9 Twenty Three young people and 5 artists had been engaged to produce original work for the “Evolving in Conversation” project over the summer on the theme of how individuals make society change. Over 3000 people between the ages of 2 and 73 had attended Jubilee Library for the Showcase Day on October 18, with 140 attending workshops and over 200 people attending talks. Customers had been asked to write down three words that best described their thoughts on the day. The three words that came up most often were Interesting, Intriguing and Inspiring. This positivity had also been reflected in the more in-depth evaluation forms where 100% of people said they would recommend the day to a friend.
Financial Inclusion
33.10 Building on the existing financial inclusions services Brighton & Hove Libraries in partnership with MACS (Money Advice & Community Support) would be extending the availability of the money advice service to two more libraries in the Hangleton and Woodingdean areas, in addition to the sessions already held at Jubilee and Hove libraries.
Jobseekers
33.11 In January 2015, working in partnership with BHCC Supported Employment, the Library service would be setting up job seekers clubs in libraries across the city. This initiative would start with a four week course at Hove Library and work would be undertaken with other libraries and volunteers to set up relevant IT skills sessions throughout the year to assist those seeking work. The sessions would include such skills as creating a CV, setting up an email account, job searching, applying for jobs, form filling, using social media to job search.
Support for Dementia
33.12 On Friday 10 October - World Mental Health Day, Jubilee Library had hosted an event to raise awareness of the effects of dementia on individuals and carers. Local author,Jo Gatford, who had won the 2013 Luke Bitmead Bursary for new writers, read from her novel White Lies, described as ’an unflinching depiction of dementia, old age and family relationships’, answered questions and signed copies of her book.
Health Walks
33.13 The Library Service had linked up with Healthwalks to deliver a series of Healthwalks which would begin and end at libraries across the city. After their walk, participants would have the opportunity to come into the library for a cup of tea and to browse the library’s collection of Mood-boosting and walking books, promoting both physical and mental wellbeing. The first library Healthwalk would take place on Saturday 15 November from Jubilee Library. Please see http://www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/content/leisure-and-libraries/sports-and-activity/healthwalks-programme for more library Healthwalks.
Sports and Leisure
St Luke’s Community Swimming Pool
33.14 The Chair stated that he was pleased to announce the re-opening of St Luke’s Swimming Pool. Following storm damage to the roof and subsequent closure of the pool, the Council had decided to seize the opportunity to re-glaze the entire roof and remove the suspended ceiling that was above the pool, thereby blocking the view of the wonderful ceiling.
33.15 Now this stunning Grade II Listed Victorian building’s architecture, vaulted ceiling (and the sky) could be admired whilst doing laps of the pool. St Luke’s Pool had been built at the turn of the last century and was one of Brighton & Hove’s little gems. The pool was well used by local residents, schools and community groups and provides a great opportunity to help people be more active, more often.
City Sports and Physical Activity Awards
33.16 The 2014 City Sports and Physical Activity Awards event had taken place at the Royal Pavilion on 22 October. It celebrated those who contributed to sport and physical activity in the City, whether as a sports provider, administrator, coach, volunteer or athlete. The Awards also raise the profile of sport and physical activity in the City which contributes greatly to improving the health and well-being of residents, brought communities together and benefitted the local economy. The nominations for the nine awards were received from the public - the winners and those high commended were recognised for their special achievements in developing and sustaining sport.
The winners were:
Young Sports Personality of the Year – supported by Brighton Youth Sports Partnership · Joel Thompson Sports School of the Year - supported by Freedom Leisure · Goldstone Primary School Sports/PE Teacher of the Year · Stephen Feeney Participation Award – supported by Mytime Active · “Sound Tennis Sussex” · Organised by City Synergy, East Sussex Association for the Blind, and Sussex LTA TAKEPART Club of the Year · Brighton Table Tennis Club Sport & Physical Activity Champion of the Year · Ben Sherratt Volunteer of the Year · Reg Hook Coach of the Year · Jon Biggs SeeThat Team of the Year · Sussex Under 12’s Girl’s Tennis Team
33.17 RESOLVED – That the contents of the Chair’s Communications be noted and received. |
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Call Over (a) Items (x – x) will be read out at the meeting and Members invited to reserve the items for consideration.
(b) Those items not reserved will be taken as having been received and the reports’ recommendations agreed. Minutes: 34.1 The following items were not called for discussion and were therefore taken as having been received and the reports’ recommendations agreed.
Item 41 – Draft Statement of Community Involvement; and
Item 42 – Accessible Housing and Lifetime Homes Planning Advice No.te |
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To consider the following matters raised by members of the public:
(a) Petitions: to receive any petitions presented to the full council or at the meeting itself – Report of the Head of .Law (copy attached); (b) Written Questions: to receive any questions submitted by the due date of 12 noon on the (insert date); (c) Deputations: to receive any deputations submitted by the due date of 12 noon on the (insert date). Minutes: 35a Petitions
35.1 Four petitions had been received as set out below and in the report provided by the Head of Law:
(i) Enforcement of Article 4 Direction
35.2 The following petition had been referred from the meeting of Council held on 23 October 2014:
“We call on Brighton and Hove Council to fully implement and enforce the Article 4, Direction, and complete the licensing of HMOs.
There is a high concentration of Houses in Multiple Occupation in our area. This has caused a significant deterioration of the quality of life for long term residents. We now experience more noise, rubbish on the street, lack of concern for the upkeep of properties and for the local environment. Community cohesion is seriously adversely affected. The Council does not have sufficient staff, or interest in dealing with these issues. Action was promised but is not evident. Please support our petition to the Council to remedy this.”
(45 signatures)
The Chair responded as follows:
35.3 “I can assure you that the Planning Investigations and Enforcement Team is aware of the petition and can confirm and provide assurance that a number of properties concerned have live investigations open and in process. There is an assurance that these investigations will not be closed without either enforcement action being completed or other valid planning reason why enforcement action is not appropriate or possible (for example further action is not possible if the property was in use as an HMO prior to the Article 4 direction coming into effect). Any residents or Councillors who have bought such matters to our attention will be kept informed as the matters formally progress. The investigations team is undertaking background work to ensure that further such cases can be investigated and processed for formal action quickly and efficiently in the future.
35.4 The Planning Investigations Team provides an assurance that a substantial number of the investigations will be significantly progressed by the end of December 2014 and an update to ED & C will be provided. (It is not possible to state that formal notices will be served on all cases but where the circumstances are correct and it is desirable and necessary formal action will.
35.5 There is an assurance that these investigations will not be closed without either enforcement action being completed or other valid planning reason why enforcement action is not appropriate or possible (for example further action is not possible if the property was in use as an HMO prior to the Article 4 direction coming into effect).Any residents or Councillors who have brought such matters to our attention will be kept informed as the matters formally progress. The investigations team is undertaking background work to ensure that further such cases can be investigated and processed for formal action quickly and efficiently in the future. The Planning Investigations Team provides an assurance that a substantial number of investigations will be significantly progressed by the end of December 2014 and an update will be provided to the E D & C Committee. (It is not possible to state that formal notices will be served on all cases but where the circumstances are correct and it is desirable and necessary formal action will be taken).
36.6 RESOLVED – That the contents of the petition be received and noted.
(ii) Community Value of Pubs
35.7 The following petition had been referred from the meeting of Council held on 23 October 2014.
35.8 “We the undersigned “We the undersigned petition Brighton & Hove Council to - develop planning policies to better protect local public houses based on the principles of the pub protection policies developed by Lewisham Council and Cambridge City Council; - under the Sustainable Communities Act, submit a proposal to Government to "protect community pubs in England by ensuring that planning permission and community consultation are required before community pubs are allowed to be converted to betting shops, supermarkets and pay-day loan stores or other uses, or are allowed to be demolished." - help facilitate community groups to nominate pubs as Assets of Community Value; - write to the Secretary of State at the Department of Business Innovation & Skills supporting plans to introduce a Statutory Code to ensure tied publicans are treated fairly."
Justification
For many people community
public houses are important amenities that support positive
interactions between people from different backgrounds and enhance
community cohesion;- the New National Planning Policy Framework
makes specific reference to the need to safeguard public houses;-
high residential property values in Brighton & Hove are
endangering the future of valued public houses and that effective
local planning rules allow public houses to be demolished or
converted into betting shops, pay-day loan stores, supermarket
metro stores and other uses without planning permission; This petition is submitted on behalf of the Brighton & South Downs branch of CAMRA. CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale is an independent, voluntary organisation campaigning for real ale, community pubs and consumer rights. In the present day, CAMRA has 161,672 members and has been described as the most successful consumer campaign in Europe. The Brighton & South Downs branch has 1,759 members. (45 signatures)
35.9 The Chair responded in the following terms:
“Thank you for your petition that asks the city council to consider measures to protect local public houses. In terms of planning policy, I can confirm that we will be considering a policy to protect community facilities, including pubs, through Part 2 of the City Plan. Work will start on that document early next year. The City Council is responsible for maintaining a Register of Assets of Community Value and will be making local community groups, neighbourhood forums and pressure groups (like CAMRA) aware of the Register and its purpose. I can confirm I am happy to write to the Secretary of State (for the Department of Business Innovation and Skills), as requested, to support plans to protect publicans of tied pubs. If the opposition spokes are willing to support the letter being sent to the Secretary of State on behalf of the Economic Development and Culture Committee.” The two Opposition spokesperson’s confirmed that they were happy for the Chair to write as suggested.
35.10 RESOLVED – That the contents of the petition be received and noted.
(iii) 50m Pool 4 Hove
35.11 The following petition had been referred from the meeting of Council held on 23 October 2014, where it had been presented and spoken to by the MP for Hove, Mike Weatherley.
35.12 “We the undersigned back calls from Mike Weatherley MP, Shiverers Swimming Club and the King Alfred with a new more flexible 50m pool that includes leisure and diving facilities for the benefit of Brighton and Hove residents.”
(1,154 signatures) (plus a further on-line petition containing 543 signatures)
35.13 The Chair responded in the following terms:
“Thank you for your petition. The Council agreed at the Policy and Resources Committee in July 2013 the mix of facilities for a new sports centre to replace the existing King Alfred. A 50m swimming pool and provision for diving was not ruled out should a developer come up with a viable proposal to incorporate into this scheme.
However, the council’s cross party Project Board for the redevelopment is keen to provide swimming facilities that cater for a range of users including leisure water for families and young people, a teaching pool for the important provision of swimming lessons , as well as a main pool for recreational and competitive swimmers.”
35.14 RESOLVED – That the contents of the petition be noted and received.
(iv) Concorde Lift
35.15 The following petition had been referred from the meeting of Council held on 23 October 2014. Mr and Mrs Mairesse were invited to speak to their petition.
“I live opposite the Concorde lift and through the years I have come to notice what an important service it provides for those in wheelchairs and for families using buggies and for the elderly and small children who are not able to manage the steps. It would be wonderful to have it working all throughout the year during weekends even if at reduced hours. Winter is also a beautiful time for sea front strolls and to go down for a snack in the local cafés.”
(24 signatures at going to print on line plus 1,200 on separate printed petition)
35.16 The Chair responded in the following terms:
“Thank you for your petition, we do recognise the benefit that the Madeira Lift provides to assist with access to Madeira Drive.
Unfortunately, due to the Madeira Lift being an historic structure which is located in the middle of another property, the operational arrangements for the lift are not straight-forward. The lift is operated by the tenant of Concorde II as part of the Lease agreement for that property and can only operate when Concorde II is open with a dedicatedmember of staff present. This lease agreement specifies the operating hours of the lift and any change would require the agreement of the tenant and compensation for the additional responsibility.
The tenant has been contacted and advised that he is not in a position to take on the additional responsibilityon a regular or consistent basis, therefore unfortunately it will not be possible to extend the opening times.”
35.17 RESOLVED – That the contents of the petition be received and noted.
35b Written Questions
35.18 There were none.
35c Deputations
35.19 There were none. |
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Member Involvement To consider the following matters raised by councillors:
(a) Petitions: to receive any petitions submitted to the full Council or at the meeting itself; (b) Written Questions: to consider any written questions; (c) Letters: to consider any letters; (d) Notices of Motion: to consider any Notices of Motion referred from Council or submitted directly to the Committee. Minutes: 36a Petitions
36.1 There were none.
36b Written Questions
36.2 There were none.
36c Letters
36.3 There were none.
36d Notices of Motion
36.4 There were none. |
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Report of the Assistant Chief Executive (copy attached) Minutes: 37.1 The Committee considered a report of the Assistant Chief Executive explaining that Landlords consent had been granted to Pride CIC on 14th November 2013 for three years. Based on learning from this year’s Pride event (including a new format trialled to improve safety for the Pride Village Party in the St James’ Street area). This report set out further proposals aimed at strengthening Pride, improving community safety and increasing its contributions to local communities and the city as a whole.
37.2 it was explained that Landlord’s consent was being sought to stage Pride Festival activities in Preston Park and the Pride Village Party over the first weekend in August including delivery of the Pride Parade from Madeira Drive to Preston Park. This agreement would be for five successive years starting in 2015.
37.3 The Deputy Head of Law, Bob Bruce referred to the communication which had been e mailed to all Members of the Committee from the Head of Legal of a company which owned one of the public houses in the PVP area which raised various legal and other issues in relation to the event. He confirmed that none of the matters referred to were considered such that they could not be resolved, and that the council would not be acting ultra vires. All of the recommendations if agreed remained subject to a number of conditions and further negotiation and would be referred back to the Committee in the event of any problems.
37.4 The Head of Policy and Communities, Richard Butcher Tuset explained that the LGBT community had staged an annual Pride event in the city for over twenty years. Its history was diverse and it had grown with each successive event and generated an estimated £13.5 million for the city’s economy. Landlord’s consent had been granted to Pride CIC on 14 November 2013 for three years. Based on experience gained from the 2014 event (including a new format trailed to improve safety for the Pride Village Party in the St James’ Street area), it was proposed that Landlord’s consent be given to stage Pride Festival activities in Preston Park and the Pride Village Party over the first weekend in August including delivery of the Pride Parade from Madeira Drive to Preston Park. The agreement would be for five successive years starting in 2015.
37.5 The Head of Policy and Communities explained that permission for a period of five years would assist the organisers with their on-going and long term planning for the series of events over each Pride weekend in concert with other partners and agencies. Each event would be subject to conditions and guidance as detailed in the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Purple Guide which set out the requirements that must be met and signed off by the responsible lead agency and, where applicable, the City Safety Advisory Group. In order to meet the requirements of the Outdoor Events Policy in relation to major events the event organisers would need to produce a comprehensive event plan. This would be subject to on-going and continuous review.
37.6 In answer to questions it was explained that notwithstanding the success of the event this year following a detailed feedback process further amendments would be made as a result of “lessons learned” including access for residents and businesses in the St James’ Street area and maintenance of public safety would remain paramount.
37.7 Councillor Brown commended the officer report which had detailed the arrangements made and the rationale for them and, also the hard work which had been undertaken by all parties to ensure that this year’s event had been safe and successful. Whilst recognising all of the hard work that had taken place Councillor Brown stated that she hoped that the event could become self-supporting in the longer term. It was confirmed that the organisers were actively working towards this.
37.8 Councillor Morgan whilst fully supporting the event had some concerns regarding the proposed use of Madeira Drive, with its easy access to the beach, as a decanting area as this could give rise to individuals using this area to continue to party and drink which would give rise to problems. Councillor Wealls considered that the terminology referring to the beach area for “decanting” was unfortunate, he considered that controlled means of dispersal were appropriate and commended all of the hard work that had been undertaken. Councillor Randall was in agreement.
37.9 Councillor Hawtree said that all involved with the event should be congratulated for their hard work in seeking to ensure that those attending all of the events remained safe. He considered that making the St James’ Street party glass free had contributed significantly to this.
39.10 Councillor Smith stated that he was glad that this report had been called for discussion as it had given members the opportunity to recognise the hard work carried out by all parties which had helped to ensure the success of this event which continued to improve year n year.
37.11 RESOLVED – (1) That the Committee grant Landlord’s consent for five successive years, commencing August 2015, to Brighton Pride Community Interest Company (BPCIC) to stage the Pride Parade through the city and a fenced and ticketed Pride Festival in Preston Park and Pride Village Party in the St James’ Street area, with all three elements subject to the conditions as set out in 3.28 and 3.29 - 3.33 of this report;
(2) That, subject to the standards and requirements referred to in paragraphs 3.29 to 3.33 being met and the appropriate documentation being produced, the Committee authorises the Assistant Chief Executive to implement the recommendations set out in 3.28.2, 3.28.4, 3.28.6, 3.28.9, 3.28.11, 3.28.13, 3.28.16 and 3.28.22 and to determine with BPCIC the final event formats, fees, charges and conditions as appropriate;
(3) That the Committee agrees that landlord’s consent may be withdrawn should BPCIC fail to comply with the conditions and recommendations as set out in the report;
(4) That the Committee agrees that, following past practice, a guarantee against damage to the park will be sought and evidence of adequate insurance cover will be required; and
(5) That the Committee delegates authority to the Assistant Chief Executive to agree any further necessary permissions associated with Pride events including finalising arrangements for the proposed community fund for Preston Park and the St James’ Street areas. |
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Outdoor Events in Parks and Open Spaces 2015 Report of the Assistant Chief Executive (copy attached) Decision: RESOLVED – (1)That the committee grants landlord’s consent for the events listed in appendix 1 to the report.
(2) That the committee authorise officers to enter into formal agreements with event organisers to determine conditions, fees and levels of support as appropriate; and
(3) That the committee authorises the Assistant Chief Executive, after consultation with the Chair of the committee and opposition spokespersons, to make any alterations to the events programme as necessary and to approve new applications in accordance with the Outdoor Events Policy. Minutes: 38.1 The Committee considered a report of the Assistant Chief Executive seeking approval from members for landlord’s consent for the proposed programme of events in parks and open spaces in 2015
38.2 The Head of Sport and Leisure, Ian Shurrock explained that although the report detailing proposed events in the city’s parks and open spaces usually came to the January Committee cycle the decision had been taken to bring it forward earlier this year in order to assist organisations in their forward planning.
38.3 The Head of Sport and Leisure went on to explain that many of the events set out in appendix 1 to the report had taken place before and retained their traditional place in the calendar of outdoor events. However, several new or amended event applications for 2015 had been received and a summary of these was set out in paragraph 3.4 of the report.
38.4 Councillor Brown welcomed the diversity of events and sought confirmation that arrangements were in place to ensure that the cost of re-instating any damage sustained to Hove Lawns as a result of the 10 mile Road Race would be met by the organisers. It was confirmed that this would be the case.
38.5 Councillor Brown referred to the ceramic poppies commemorating the First World War which had been displayed as an art installation at the Tower of London until recently. It was understood that following their removal from the Tower it had been proposed that they form part of a touring exhibition. If it was possible to bid for them to be displayed in the city she felt sure that this would be welcomed by residents and visitors and would enrich the city’s cultural offer. The Chair, Councillor Bowden was in agreement and confirmed that he was aware that this was being actively pursued.
38.6 RESOLVED – (1) That the committee grants landlord’s consent for the events listed in appendix 1 to the report;
(2) That the committee authorise officers to enter into formal agreements with event organisers to determine conditions, fees and levels of support as appropriate; and
(3) That the committee authorises the Assistant Chief Executive, after consultation with the Chair of the committee and opposition spokespersons, to make any alterations to the events programme as necessary and to approve new applications in accordance with the Outdoor Events Policy. |
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Outdoor Events - Madeira Drive Road Closures 2015 Report of the Assistant Chief Executive (copy attached) Additional documents: Decision: RESOLVED – (1) That the committee grants landlord’s consent for the 2015 programme of events on Madeira Drive and the associated road closures as listed in Appendix 1of the report.
That the committee authorises officers to enter into formal agreements with event organisers to determine conditions, fees and levels of support as appropriate.
That the committee authorises the Assistant Chief Executive, after consultation with the Chair of the committee and opposition spokespersons, to make any alterations to the events programme as necessary and to approve new applications in accordance with the Outdoor Events Policy. Minutes: 39.1 The Committee considered a report of the Assistant Chief Executive seeking approval from members for landlord’s consent of the proposed programme of events on Madeira Drive in 2015 and the associated road closures.
39.2 The Head of Sport and Leisure, Ian Shurrock explained that in common with the previous item on the agenda, relating to events being held in the city’s parks and open spaces, this report had been brought forward to Committee earlier in the cycle than usually to assist event organisers with forward planning for their events.
39.3 It was explained that Madeira Drive was a very important venue for events in the city. The long heritage of events on Madeira Drive was reflected by most of the events listed in Appendix 1 to the report having taken place at this location previously retaining their usual format. The events drew residents and visitors to Madeira Drive, which extended the Seafront offer both geographically (along from the main tourism area between the piers) and seasonally (by holding events throughout the year).
39.4 The Head of Sport and Leisure highlighted the success of the Tour of Britain from the current year’s programme and two new events for the 2015 programme – and two new events for the 2015 programme - Velocity (community cycling event) and the Rugby World Cup Fanzone which would both take place in September 2015.
39.5 Councillor Deane stated that it was pleasing to note that the new events for Madeira Drive in 2015 did not feature motorised vehicles However, Councillor Deane was still concerned at the number of vehicle rallies that are within the overall programme.
39.6 RESOLVED – (1) That the committee grants landlord’s consent for the 2015 programme of events on Madeira Drive and the associated road closures as listed in Appendix 1 of the report;
(2)That the committee authorises officers to enter into formal agreements with event organisers to determine conditions, fees and levels of support as appropriate; and
(3)That the committee authorises the Assistant Chief Executive, after consultation with the Chair of the committee and opposition spokespersons, to make any alterations to the events programme as necessary and to approve new applications in accordance with the Outdoor Events Policy. |
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Department for communities and Local Government - Technical Consultation on Planning Report of the Director of Environment, Development and Housing (copy attached) Additional documents: Decision: RESOLVED – (1) That the Committee approves and endorses the interim response to the Government’s consultation seeking to further streamline the planning system (Appendix 1) of the report.
That the Committee requests the Department for Communities and Local Government to consider giving short term holiday lets their own planning use class. Minutes: 40.1 The Committee considered a report of the Executive Director, Environment, Development and Housing seeking approval and endorsement of the interim response sent by officers on behalf of the council in response to the recent government consultation on proposals to further streamline the planning system.
40.2 It was explained that an interim response (set out in Appendix 1 to the report) had been submitted to the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) in order to meet the consultation deadline of 26 September 2014, but this was subject to the approval and endorsement of the response at this meeting.
40.3 The Head of City Planning and Development, Martin Randall explained that on the 31 July 2014 the Government had published a wide-ranging set of proposed changes to the planning system for a six week period of consultation covering: speeding up neighbourhood planning; changes to the use class order and expanding permitted development rights; improving the use of planning conditions and the planning application process; raising the screening thresholds for Environmental Impact Assessment; and further changes to the nationally significant infrastructure consents regime. Some of the proposals were intended to make permanent a number of temporary permitted development rights arrangements which had been introduced in May 2013 in order to stimulate development during the recession, whilst others had been announced during the March 2014 Budget, such as further clarification of the proposed ‘three tier’ development management system. The general direction of most of the proposals was one of deregulation and streamlining, but a small number of the provisions sought to provide local planning authorities with greater controls.
40.4 Councillor Morgan stated that whilst broadly supporting the approach that had been taken and fully understanding the current thrust of the National Policy Framework, he none the less had concerns in relation to the level of student housing especially in relation student housing, specifically where this was provided in what had previously been modestly sized scale family homes. This could result in cramped, over crowded poor quality accommodation for the students and could easily lead to noise nuisance issues and other due to the close proximity to neighbouring dwellings. Councillor Morgan stated that he also had concerns in respect of the potential loss of shop and office accommodation and the fact that premises offering pay day loans at high interest were included in the B1 use class.
40.5 Councillor Brown enquired why a report on this subject had not been put to the Committees’ September meeting. It was explained that the time scale for doing so had been too tight. Councillor Brown explained that she considered this was unfortunate, as although supportive of the response overall there were elements of it with which the Conservative Group representatives on the Committee could not agree, namely in relation to parking standards and also in relation to the use of Article 4 Directions. Whilst she considered that it could be appropriate to apply maximum figures for parking in the city centre she did not agree this was appropriate on the outskirts. Moreover in relation to Article 4 Directions, Councillor Brown stated that whilst obviously there was a need generally to protect major employment sites there were also vacant offices which had been empty for a long time and it could be beneficial to use these brown field sites for much needed housing before using the urban fringe. Councillor Brown went on to state that because she was unable to vote in support of the response in its totality that she would abstain from voting.
40.6 The Head of City Planning and Development stated that the response given had been intended to provide flexibility and to recognise that there were some differences between the city centre.
40.7 Councillor Hawtree stated that the response represented a cogent and firm response. He noted that it was disappointing that even when Planning Permission was granted due to market and other factors this did not always result in developments being built.
40.8 Councillor Randall supported the response as in his view it had sought to illustrate the need for mixed development, the Open Market development in London Road was a recent and splendid example of that.
40 9 A vote was taken and on a vote of 4 for with 6 abstentions the recommendations set out in the report and below were agreed.
40.10 RESOLVED – (1) That the Committee approves and endorses the interim response to the Government’s consultation seeking to further streamline the planning system (Appendix 1) of the report ; and
(2) That the Committee requests the Department for Communities and Local Government to consider giving short term holiday lets their own planning use class.
Note: Councillors Brown, Morgan Robins, Smith, C Theobald and Wealls abstained from voting. |
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Statement of Community Involvement Report of the Executive Director of Environment, Development and Housing (copy attached) Additional documents: Decision: RESOLVED – That the content of the report be noted and the Revised Draft Statement of Community Involvement for public consultation for a period of eight weeks from 20th November 2014 be approved.
Minutes: 41.1 RESOLVED – That the content of the report be noted and the Revised Draft Statement of Community Involvement for public consultation for a period of eight weeks from 20th November 2014 be approved. |
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Accessible Housing Planning Advice Note Report of the Executive Director of Environment, Development and Housing (copy attached) Decision: RESOLVED – (1) That the committee approve the draft PAN 03 for consultation for a period of a minimum of 6 weeks and (as a temporary measure); and
(2) That the committee adopt the interim PAN 03 as the interim guidance for applicants for development control purposes Minutes: 42.1 RESOLVED – (1) That the committee approve the draft PAN 03 for consultation for a period of a minimum of 6 weeks (as a temporary measure); and
(2) That the committee adopt the interim PAN 03 as the interim guidance for applicants for development control purposes. |
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Recreate Programme – Progress Update Report of the Executive Director of Environment Development and Housing (copy attached) Decision: RESOLVED - That the committee notes the progress made with the Recreate project and the outcomes achieved to date. Minutes: 43.1 The Committee considered a report of the Executive Director of Environment, Development and Housing which provided the Committee with an update on progress made on the Brighton & Hove City Council element of the Recreate project. This was accompanied by a Power Point presentation given by the Economic Development Manager, Cheryl Finella.
43.2 The report and presentation detailed the approach which had been adopted and how Recreate had brought together creative entrepreneurs from the Arts and Creative industries. New collaborations had been made and support provided for new business ideas, and had helped new creative businesses to look at ways they could showcase and test their business ideas. This support had played a part in the growth of the Creative and Digital Information Technology (CDIT) sector, which had in turn brought regeneration to the city.
43.3 Councillor Morgan recognised the value of this project but expressed some concerns that this sum of money, albeit grant funding, had been focused on one central area within the city, when there were a number of deprived areas elsewhere in the city, which would also have benefitted from similar injections of funding. Councillor Robins concurred in that view, citing areas of his own ward in Portslade.
43.4 Councillor Randall stated that although funding had focused on the refurbishment of New England House as a creative hub, its benefits were city wide in terms of the training and employment opportunities it had and would continue to create, especially bearing in mind the links that had been developed with City College and local secondary schools.
43.5 RESOLVED - That the committee notes the progress made with the Recreate project and the outcomes achieved to date. |
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Major Projects Update This standing item will provide an opportunity for relevant issues to be updated on (copy of schedule attached) Minutes: 44.1 The Committee considered the circulated schedule which provided an update on the current progress of major projects across the city.
44.2 Councillor C Theobald enquired regarding the time frame for provision of a permanent travellers site and it was confirmed that it was expected that work would begin on site in March 2015.
44.3 Councillor Smith enquired regarding the period for which use of the Compound at Black Rock had been granted. The Deputy Head of Law, Bob Bruce explained that he did not have that information to hand but would provide it to Councillor Smith following the meeting.
44.4 RESOLVED – That the contents of the schedule be noted and received. |
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Items Referred For Council To consider items to be submitted to the [Insert Date] 2012 Council meeting for information.
In accordance with Procedure Rule 24.3a, the Committee may determine that any item is to be included in its report to Council. In addition, any Group may specify one further item to be included by notifying the Chief Executive no later than 10am on the eighth working day before the Council meeting at which the report is to be made, or if the Committee meeting take place after this deadline, immediately at the conclusion of the Committee meeting
Minutes: 45.1 There were none. |