This week, the Cardiff Council held several meetings, each addressing significant issues and initiatives. Here’s a detailed summary of the key discussions and decisions:

1. Community & Adult Services Scrutiny Committee - The meeting on Monday did not have a video broadcast available.

2. Children and Young People Scrutiny Committee - The meeting on Monday was particularly impactful, focusing on the provision for children and young people with additional learning needs (ALN).

• Appointment of Chair and Committee Members: The committee confirmed the appointment of its new chair and welcomed new members. This marks a fresh start for the committee, which will continue to scrutinize services for children and young people in Cardiff.

• Terms of Reference: The committee reviewed its terms of reference to ensure that its scrutiny remains within the defined scope. This is a standard procedure to maintain focus and effectiveness.

• Provision for Children and Young People with ALN: The committee undertook a pre-decision scrutiny of the provision for children and young people with ALN. This is a critical issue given the rising demand for ALN places across the city. The proposals include creating new Specialist Resource Bases (SRBs) in several schools, such as Baden-Powell, Fairwater Primary, Herbert-Thompson, Lakeside, Springwood, Plasmalwa, Coiglas, Greenway, and 7 Primary School.

  These proposals will give us additional formal places with new SRBs across the city, some of which will be replacing existing wellbeing classes. — Councillor Sarah Mary

  The committee discussed the need for these additional places and the challenges faced, such as the increase in mid-phase referrals and the need for secure fencing at Fairwater Primary School. The discussion highlighted the council's commitment to providing high-quality education and support for all children, regardless of their learning needs.

  We do know that there will always be a cohort that may be better suited in the independent sector rather than necessarily the local authority provision. — Richard Porter, Program Director for the School Organisation Program

  The committee also addressed concerns about the capacity of schools to meet the diverse needs of students, the impact of budget constraints, and the importance of early intervention and support within schools.

1. Economy & Culture Scrutiny Committee - The meeting on Tuesday did not have a video broadcast available.

2. Cabinet - The meeting on Thursday covered several key topics, including the corporate parenting advisory committee annual report, the provision for children and young people with ALN, and the budget monitoring out-turn position for 2023-24.

• Corporate Parenting Advisory Committee Annual Report: The report highlighted the council's efforts to support children looked after, including the success of the virtual school and the celebration of achievements through events like the Bright Sparks Awards.

  It's great again to see the celebration of our children looked after, the young person who published their own book, and there was a book signing ceremony. — Councillor Lister

• Provision for Children and Young People with ALN: The cabinet approved the proposals for additional ALN places, following the scrutiny committee's review. This decision reflects the council's commitment to addressing the needs of children with additional learning needs.

  These proposals will give us an additional 100 formal places with new SRBs across the city. — Councillor Sarah Mary

• Budget Monitoring Out-turn Position for 2023-24: The cabinet reviewed the final budget position for the previous financial year, noting the challenges faced by certain service areas, particularly children's services. The report emphasized the importance of transparent and thorough financial reporting.

  Overall a balanced position which is good but you can see those specific service area pressures. — Councillor Chris Weaver

This week’s meetings highlighted the council's ongoing efforts to support children and young people, manage financial challenges, and celebrate the achievements of children looked after. The decisions made reflect a commitment to providing high-quality education and support, ensuring financial transparency, and fostering a supportive community for all residents.

This week, the Cardiff Council held two meetings, each addressing significant issues and initiatives. Here’s a detailed summary of the key discussions and decisions:

1. Public Protection Sub Committee - The meeting on Wednesday did not have a video broadcast available.

2. Planning Committee - The meeting on Thursday was particularly impactful, focusing on local development and community spaces:

• Coach House Cathedral Court Application: The committee deferred the decision on the Coach House Cathedral Court application due to late representations concerning bats. This precautionary measure underscores the council's commitment to environmental considerations. The deferral allows for further investigations to ensure that the presence of bats is appropriately addressed before any development proceeds.

  We had some late representations with regard to bats... we have to take a precautionary approach so what we are going to do is we are going to defer while investigations take place. — Planning Committee Chair

• Clandalf Fields Bowling Pavilion Proposal: The committee approved the conversion of the existing bowling green within Clandalf Fields to provide six paddle courts and refurbish the pavilion to include a café, changing facilities, and associated spaces. This decision followed a detailed discussion that included objections from the Cardiff Civic Society, which raised concerns about the impact on the historic park and local wildlife.

  The proposal is considered to be an appropriate form of development which would enhance existing sporting facilities within the park and which would have a positive impact with no detrimental effect. — Planning Officer

  The committee's decision reflects a balance between preserving the park's historical and environmental value and enhancing its recreational facilities. The approved plan includes measures to mitigate potential negative impacts, such as low-level lighting to minimize disruption to nocturnal species and additional landscaping to blend the new structures with the existing environment.

• Medina Mosque and Community Centre: The committee also approved the construction of a new mosque and community centre on Lucas Street, Cotez. The new facility will replace the temporary mosque and provide a range of community services, including a coffee shop, gymnasium, and meeting rooms. The design includes sustainable features such as PV panels, air source heat pumps, and rainwater harvesting.

  The proposal is a highly sustainable development with the developers wishing to ensure the proposal meets the government's commitment to net zero. — Planning Officer

  Concerns about traffic and parking were addressed with a travel plan condition to encourage modal shift and ensure the facility's impact on the local area is managed effectively. The council's decision supports the community's long-term project while ensuring that the development aligns with sustainability goals and local needs.

This week’s meetings highlighted the council's ongoing efforts to balance development with environmental and community considerations. The decisions made reflect a commitment to sustainable growth, community support, and strategic planning, ensuring that Cardiff continues to develop in a way that benefits all its residents.

This week, the Cardiff Council held several meetings, each addressing significant issues and initiatives. Here’s a detailed summary of the key discussions and decisions:

1. Pensions Committee - The meeting on Monday did not have a video broadcast available.

2. Prosiect Gwyrdd Joint Committee - The meeting on Tuesday also did not have a video broadcast available.

3. Licensing Sub Committee - The meeting on Wednesday did not have a video broadcast available.

4. Council - The annual meeting on Thursday was particularly noteworthy, with several key events and decisions:

• Tributes to Former Councillors: The meeting began with tributes to former Councillor Monika Walsh and former Councillor Just One Thing. Monika Walsh, originally from Liverpool, served Cardiff Council for over three decades and held multiple mayoral roles, including Lord Mayor in 2016. She raised over £100,000 for Cancer Research UK while being treated for cancer. Just One Thing, originally from Lahore, served as a social worker and magistrate before being elected for Riverside Ward in 1995 and 2008. He was instrumental in raising funds to open the Dasme Singh Sada Gurdwara on Tudor Street.

• Election of the Lord Mayor: Councillor Hugh Thomas proposed Councillor Jane Henshaw for the position of Lord Mayor for the 2024/25 municipal year. Jane Henshaw, born in Wrexham, has a background in education and acupuncture and has been a councillor for the Splot ward since 2017. She has held various roles, including Deputy Lord Mayor, and is committed to tackling inequality and poverty. The nomination was seconded by Councillor Rodney Berman, and Jane Henshaw was elected as the 119th Lord Mayor of Cardiff.

• Election of the Deputy Lord Mayor: Councillor John Lancaster proposed Councillor Helen Lloyd Jones for the position of Deputy Lord Mayor. Helen Lloyd Jones has a background in environmental issues and engineering and has been active in various community and environmental initiatives. The nomination was seconded by Councillor Andrea Gibson, and Helen Lloyd Jones was elected as the Deputy Lord Mayor for the 2024/25 municipal year.

• Thanks to the Outgoing Lord Mayor: Councillor Hugh Thomas and other council leaders expressed their gratitude to the outgoing Lord Mayor, Councillor Bablin Molik, for her service. Bablin Molik was the first woman of color and the first Muslim to serve as Lord Mayor of Cardiff. She attended around 270 official engagements and raised significant funds for her nominated charity, U-Can Productions, which supports children and young adults with sight loss.

• Administrative Appointments and Announcements:

  • Apologies for Absence: Apologies were received from Councillors Waheeda Abdul-Sathar, Owen Jones, Jacky Jones, and Heather Joyce.
  • Declaration of Interests: All members declared a personal interest in item 14 regarding members' remuneration and allowances.
  • Approval of Minutes: The minutes of the meeting held on March 28, 2024, were approved with amendments.
  • Cardiff Undertaking: Members reaffirmed their commitment to the principles set out in the Cardiff undertaking.
  • Charity for the Year: The new Lord Mayor, Jane Henshaw, announced Cardiff Food Bank as her nominated charity for the year.
  • Pre-Election Period: The pre-election period for the UK parliamentary election on July 4, 2024, will commence on June 3, 2024. Detailed pre-election guidance will be provided by the monitoring officer.
  • Leader's Announcements: Councillor Hugh Thomas highlighted the council's achievements over the past year and outlined the challenges and priorities for the year ahead, including addressing the housing emergency, improving educational outcomes, and making Cardiff a greener city.

• Conclusion: The meeting concluded with the confirmation of various appointments to committees and outside bodies, the approval of the program of meetings for the municipal year, and the agreement on members' remuneration and allowances. The meeting ended with an invitation to join the Lord Mayor in committee rooms 2 and 3.

1. Cabinet - The meeting on Thursday focused on several key topics, including the Welsh Language Standards annual report, the Education Investment Strategy, the Fields in Trust initiative, the ongoing housing emergency, and the future of City Hall. The meeting also discussed the draft Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Strategy and the cabinet's response to the Joint Scrutiny Committee inquiry on the replacement Local Development Plan (LDP).

• Welsh Language Standards Annual Report: The council discussed the Welsh Language Standards annual report, highlighting the work done to meet the standards and the broader implementation of the Bilingual Cardiff strategy. Significant achievements included translating 14 million words and securing over half a million pounds of external income. The council also saw a 32% increase in staff with Welsh language skills. The report emphasized promoting Welsh language education, particularly among black and ethnic minority communities.

• Education Investment Strategy: The Education Investment Strategy for 2024-2033 was presented, focusing on improving educational outcomes and balancing the distribution of local, inclusive, and accessible Welsh and English medium places. The strategy aims to address the condition of school buildings and the need for additional learning needs (ALN) places. The council plans to shift priorities towards ALN provision due to a falling birth rate and rising demand for ALN places.

• Fields in Trust Initiative: The council proposed protecting 11 additional green spaces under the Fields in Trust initiative, aiming to safeguard these areas for future generations. The proposal includes consulting on the parks before putting them into trust. The council acknowledged that while the initiative provides some protection, it does not override statutory rights, such as those held by Dŵr Cymru[1].

• Housing Emergency: The council provided an update on the housing emergency, highlighting progress in addressing homelessness and seeking approval for alternative property and land purchases. The report also recommended extending the use of specific hotel provisions for family homelessness accommodation for another 12 months. The council emphasized the need for a multifaceted approach to increase the supply of affordable homes and reduce reliance on hotel accommodations.

• City Hall Update: The council discussed the ongoing maintenance and future use of City Hall, including upgrading the electrical capacity and modernizing the heating system. The report also explored potential future uses of the building, such as leasing office space or event venues, to increase footfall and generate revenue for maintenance.

• Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Strategy: The draft Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Strategy for 2024-2028 was introduced, aiming to tackle inequality and ensure that the opportunities of living in Cardiff are accessible to everyone. The strategy will undergo a six-week consultation period, with targeted engagement to ensure broad participation.

• Joint Scrutiny Committee Inquiry on Replacement LDP: The cabinet approved the response to the Joint Scrutiny Committee inquiry on the replacement LDP. The inquiry focused on planning obligations, managing transport impacts, and district and local centers. The majority of the recommendations were accepted or partially accepted, with reasons provided for those not accepted. The deposit LDP is scheduled for consultation in October 2024.

This week’s meetings covered a wide range of issues, from administrative appointments and tributes to former councillors to strategic discussions on housing, education, and equality. The council continues to address critical areas affecting Cardiff’s residents, with a focus on sustainable development, community support, and strategic planning.

[1]: Dŵr Cymru is the Welsh Water company responsible for water supply and wastewater services in Wales.

This week, the Cardiff Council held several meetings, each addressing significant issues and initiatives. Here’s a detailed summary of the key discussions and decisions:

1. Community & Adult Services Scrutiny Committee - The meeting on Monday focused on housing, homelessness, and adult services.

• Housing and Homelessness: Councillor Thorne highlighted the ongoing housing emergency declared in December 2023. Despite challenges, 77% of homelessness cases were prevented, and the number of rough sleepers decreased from 50 in November 2023 to 19 in March 2024. The Housing First scheme showed success, with 94% of clients maintaining their tenancies. The council aims to deliver 4,000 high-quality homes over ten years, with 1,127 homes completed so far. However, delays in non-emergency repairs remain an issue, and an end-to-end review of the service is planned for 2024.

• Advice Services: Councillor Bradbury noted that the money advice team assisted 14,500 customers, saving residents over £2.1 million. The welfare liaison team continued to support council tenants, and collaboration with Cardiff Foodbank provided 1,554 food bank vouchers. The demand for support remains high due to inflation and interest rates.

• Public Health Initiatives: Councillor Sanghani discussed the distribution of childhood immunization information and the recruitment of a new health improvement officer. The council is working with Public Health Wales to reduce health inequalities across the city.

• Committee Questions: Topics included overdue assessments in adult services, the capacity of the integrated discharge hub, and the performance of the repairs team. Concerns were raised about communication with tenants and the use of subcontractors. The council is working to improve the repairs service and address the backlog of repairs.

• Home Office Decisions: The impact of Home Office decisions on temporary accommodation was discussed, emphasizing the need for better data to manage the situation. The council is exploring innovative solutions to increase affordable housing and improve services for residents.

1. Economy & Culture Scrutiny Committee - The meeting on Tuesday focused on the Cardiff Music City Festival and the proposal to protect parks and open spaces.

• Cardiff Music City Festival: Updates were provided by Councillor Jen Burke, Ruth Kayford, John Day, and Kieran Jones. The festival aims to create a unique annual music event showcasing local and international talent, boosting the local economy and cultural profile. The festival will include a 15,000-seat arena and secure the future of St. David's Hall. The council is working with universities, cultural institutions, and grassroots music venues to nurture musical talent. The festival aims to be sustainable and inclusive, with funding sought from the Welsh Government and other sources.

• Fields in Trust: The proposal to protect 11 parks and open spaces through Fields in Trust was discussed. The council aims to protect these sites in perpetuity, ensuring they remain accessible public open spaces. The selection criteria included areas deficient in open space, lower socioeconomic areas, wards without a council-owned Fields in Trust site, and functional open spaces. The council will consult with stakeholders and the public before finalizing the list.

1. Policy Review and Performance Scrutiny Committee - The meeting on Wednesday covered the Workforce Strategy 2023-2027 and the City Hall update.

• Workforce Strategy: The committee discussed the progress made in the first year of the four-year strategy, emphasizing the importance of balancing business as usual with new initiatives. They highlighted the need for better communication with staff, especially those without regular access to digital tools, and stressed the importance of monitoring equality data. Challenges of hybrid working, particularly for new and inexperienced staff, were also discussed.

• City Hall Update: The committee reviewed the progress of maintenance works and discussed potential future uses for the building. They emphasized the importance of maintaining City Hall as a heritage building and explored various options for its future use, including leasing out office space and the event venue. Financial challenges of bringing the building up to modern standards and the potential for carbon offsetting were also discussed.

1. Children and Young People Scrutiny Committee - The meeting on Tuesday focused on developing an overarching education strategy for the city.

• Education Strategy: The strategy aims to be aspirational, equitable, and sustainable, focusing on educational outcomes, diversity, and opportunities unique to Cardiff as a capital city. The council is looking to develop its workforce and ensure any changes are supported by this development.

• Community Facility Use and Carbon Reduction: The council aims to achieve more consistency in the use of facilities for community purposes and reduce carbon emissions within the constraints of limited financial resources.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Feedback from Cardiff Influencers and a stakeholder reference group has significantly shaped the strategy.

• Strategic Aims: The strategy includes improving educational outcomes, working with partners in post-16 education, ensuring a better balance and distribution of school places, promoting inclusion, developing sustainable infrastructure, and instilling a community-focused schools approach.

• Rolling Program and Investment: The council plans a total investment of £675 million over nine years, with Cardiff's contribution being around £204 million. Key projects include primary provision in the Fitz Allen catchment area, strategic ALN citywide investment, and consolidation of Cathays High School.

• ALN Provision and Future Proofing: The council is focusing on additional learning needs (ALN) to avoid future issues seen in other councils like Bristol.

• School Deficits and Financial Sustainability: The council is developing funding strategies to support the estate and make it as efficient as possible.

• Catchment Areas and Surplus Places: The council is reviewing catchment areas to respond to local needs and support active travel.

• Carbon Reduction: The council is implementing activities to reduce carbon emissions, including behavioral changes and investment in energy-efficient infrastructure.

• Refugees and Asylum Seekers: The council is monitoring the impact of refugees and asylum seekers on school places.

• Three to Nineteen Schools: The council has not ruled out the model of three to nineteen schools but is waiting for more evidence on its effectiveness.

• Community-Focused Schools: The council aims to make schools more community-focused.

• Post-16 Provision: There was significant discussion about the importance of post-16 provision, particularly in relation to Willows High School.

1. Public Protection Sub Committee - The meeting on Wednesday did not have a video broadcast available.

This week’s meetings covered a wide range of issues, from housing and homelessness to cultural events and education strategy. The council continues to address critical areas affecting Cardiff’s residents, with a focus on sustainable development, community support, and strategic planning.

This week, the Cardiff Council convened for several important meetings, with significant decisions and discussions taking place. Here's a detailed look at the key meetings:

1. Children and Young People Scrutiny Committee - The scheduled meeting for this committee was postponed. No reasons or rescheduled dates have been provided yet.

2. Planning Committee - The meeting on Thursday was pivotal, especially concerning local development and heritage conservation:

• New School Construction: The approval of a new school in Splott, intended to replace Willows High School, was a major decision. The new facility is designed to accommodate more students and provide modern amenities. The committee highlighted:

  The dire condition of the current school and the educational benefits of the new location.

  While concerns about traffic and future expansion were noted, the decision is expected to significantly enhance educational infrastructure and community benefits in Splott.

• Coach House Modifications: The decision regarding modifications to a coach house was deferred pending a site visit. This decision underscores the committee's cautious approach to alterations in historically sensitive areas. The need for a site visit indicates a thorough evaluation process to ensure any modifications are in keeping with the area's historical character.

1. Environmental Scrutiny Committee - The meeting on the same day as the Planning Committee was equally significant, focusing on community welfare and local governance:

• Public Park Renovations: The approval of renovations for a local public park aims to enhance recreational spaces while necessitating careful budget management.

• New Traffic Regulations: The implementation of stricter traffic regulations is a response to high accident rates. This decision could save lives but may cause initial inconveniences as drivers adjust to new rules.

• School Funding: Increasing funding for local schools was decided to improve educational resources and facilities. This decision, while positive, will require adjustments in other areas of the city budget to maintain financial balance.

An interesting occurrence during this meeting was a technical glitch that temporarily suspended the session, highlighting the need for better technological preparedness.

These meetings reflect the council's ongoing commitment to addressing educational needs, heritage conservation, and community welfare. The decisions made this week are expected to have long-term implications on the city's development and the quality of life of its residents. As always, the council's actions continue to focus on balancing progress with preservation and fiscal responsibility.

This week, the Cardiff Council held three scheduled meetings, though not all proceeded as planned. Here's a summary of the council's activities:

1. Community & Adult Services Scrutiny Committee - This meeting was cancelled and no further details were provided.

2. Economy & Culture Scrutiny Committee - The meeting on Tuesday was substantial, covering several key areas:

• GLL Contract Review: The council reviewed the contract with GLL, a social enterprise that manages leisure facilities. The discussion acknowledged improvements but emphasized the need for better engagement at facilities like Pentwyn Leisure Centre. The committee supported continuing the contract due to GLL's positive performance and future plans.

• Employment Services Scrutiny: The services aimed at supporting employment across various demographics were discussed. The success of these programs is notable; however, they rely heavily on uncertain funding, particularly from the Shared Prosperity Fund. The need for a sustainable funding strategy was highlighted as crucial for the continuation of these services.

• Corporate Apprenticeships and Trainees: The council's apprenticeship and trainee programs are performing well, with low dropout rates and successful employment outcomes. The committee supports maintaining and possibly expanding these programs to enhance local employment opportunities and skills development.

An interesting moment occurred during the meeting—a brief power outage led to a light-hearted comment about needing to put money in the meter, showcasing the committee's ability to maintain a sense of humor amidst minor disruptions.

1. Licensing Sub Committee - The meeting held on Wednesday has not yet been summarized, and details are pending.

The focus this week was clearly on the Economy & Culture Scrutiny Committee's discussions, which touched on important aspects of community service and employment in Cardiff. These discussions are crucial as they directly impact the council's service delivery and its ability to support the community effectively. The emphasis on sustainable funding and strategic planning in these areas is a recurring theme that we will continue to monitor closely.