Subscribe to updates

You'll receive weekly summaries like the ones below about this council every week.

If you have any requests or comments please let us know at community@opencouncil.network. We can also provide custom updates on particular topics across councils.

Please note, emails for this council have been paused whilst we secure funding for it. We hope to begin delivering them again in the next couple of weeks. If you subscribe, you'll be notified when they resume. If you represent a council or business, or would be willing to donate a small amount to support this service, please get in touch at community@opencouncil.network.

AI Generated

Weekly updates

Exeter Council to Fund New Homes, Take Charge of Exe Estuary

Exeter City Council's Executive met on Tuesday, 25 June 2024. They agreed to fund the purchase of four new council homes and confirmed that the Executive would become the 'duty holder' for the Exe Estuary, under the Port Marine Safety Code.

Local Authority Housing Fund

The Council has been awarded just short of £600,000 from the government's Local Authority Housing Fund (LAHF) to buy four homes for families arriving in Exeter through the Afghan Resettlement Scheme. This is the third time the Council has received funding from the scheme.

Under the terms of the LAHF, the Council will need to contribute £297,000 in match funding to support the purchase of the properties. Officers recommended that the funding should come from the Council's uncommitted Section 106 funds1.

What I'm recommending to you today is that the Council use some uncommitted section 106 funding for that purpose. So if approved by Executive and Council, that additional budget would be used to purchase all of X council homes off the open market. That would enable the Council to meet some of its temporary accommodation needs without having to borrow any money and it does represent value for money, especially when one considers that once those families have been resettled, the Council can use those homes for other wider housing needs. - Ian, Service Lead, Housing Needs

Councillor Moore raised a question about the time it was taking to house families already in the city.

I appreciate being told that there's been a delay in matching up people to houses that were called previously. I'd like to know the reason for this. - Councillor Moore

She also asked about the proposed rent levels for a two-bedroom property, which are higher than the Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rate for a property of that size. The LHA is the amount of housing benefit the government believes is enough to cover the cost of renting in a particular area.

Secondly, in terms of the two-bedroom accommodation, there's £100 over the local housing allowance rate, which means people who are made on benefits will have to find additional funds. So I would like to understand why that rent is proposed at a higher level than the local housing allowance. - Councillor Moore

Councillor Wright asked whether the £297,000 the Council has allocated to the project could be used to help fund the authority's council house building programme.

Just to clarify that if the same amount of section 106 went towards the council own good programme and lands at the moment, it still wouldn't be enough to generate what we need to have to actually make that programme happen. So is it really an either or? - Councillor Wright

The Service Lead, Housing Needs, responded to Councillor Moore's points saying he would provide a written response. He also explained that while the £297,000 could be spent on the Council's building programme, the Council would still need to borrow £2,000,000 to build any new homes.

Councillor Olcott asked about the costs associated with buying older properties and whether they might have higher maintenance costs. In his response, the Service Lead, Housing Needs said that experience from the first two rounds of the LAHF had shown that new build homes often do not meet the Council's standards for things like gas and electrical safety, and so require more work when they are purchased, so there is less difference in the cost of buying new build properties and the cost of buying former council homes than you might expect.

Exeter Canal Duty Holder

The Executive agreed that they would collectively take on the role of 'Duty Holder' for the Exe Estuary. The Port Marine Safety Code requires the Council, as a statutory harbour authority, to have a Duty Holder in place to ensure the safe operation of the harbour.

So, as a council, we've previously stated it was our ambition to comply with the Port Marine Safety Code. We put that back in April 2020. So, the report lists some of our responsibilities in section 8.1. And it explains the Port Marine Safety Code in more detail in 8.2. So, we're going to go into the detail of that. But the big bits in there, the important bits for the duty holder, are compliance and insurance - compliance and assurance. - David, Service Lead, Legal and Democratic Services

The Council has been working towards appointing a Duty Holder since April 2020. In a report to the Executive, officers identified the Executive as the most appropriate body to be the Duty Holder.

Councillor Moore asked how the Executive would be supported to fulfil their new role, and what indemnity would be in place in the event an Executive decision as Duty Holder led to legal action against the Council. Councillor Mitchell asked about the Duty Holder's reporting requirements. The Service Lead, Legal and Democratic Services, said that he would be happy to provide further information on how the role would operate in practice.

Councillor Williams welcomed the appointment of the Executive as the Exe Estuary's Duty Holder, explaining that this was a key step toward securing a Harbour Revision Order for the Exe.

The Leader of the Council confirmed that the Executive would provide an update on their work as Duty Holder to a future meeting of the Council's Scrutiny Committee.

Members Allowances

The Executive noted the publication of the amounts paid to Councillors in allowances and expenses. Councillor Cross questioned where the information published on the Council's website had come from. The Leader of the Council explained that this was information the Council is required to publish each year.

Items Not Discussed

Several items were removed from the agenda because the start of the pre-election period at 4pm on 25 June meant that it would be inappropriate for the Executive to make decisions on those issues.

The Customer Focus Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday, 27 June 2024. They discussed Stagecoach's withdrawal from Exeter, the future of the council's Community Lottery, and a proposal to add the problem of anti-social behaviour to their work plan. The committee decided to recommend that the council engage in further talks with Stagecoach and that the Community Lottery scheme should be closed. They voted to add anti-social behaviour to the committee's work plan.

Stagecoach Bus Services

The committee discussed the recent announcement that Stagecoach would no longer be running bus services in Exeter. Councillor Martin Snow had submitted a report on the matter. He argued that the council should be doing more to get Stagecoach to stay in Exeter. He proposed that the council enter into talks with Stagecoach about continuing to run services in the city, even though Stagecoach had already said that they would not be able to run services profitably in Exeter. Councillor Snow argued that

Exeter residents need a reliable bus service. The council should be doing everything it can to ensure this happens. Stagecoach’s departure from the city would be disastrous for thousands of residents, and the Council should be doing all it can to encourage Stagecoach to reconsider.

The committee voted to recommend that the council enter into talks with Stagecoach.

Community Lottery

The committee discussed the Community Lottery. The Community Lottery was launched in 2021 to raise money for local good causes, but has been performing poorly. In an email to the council, dated 20 May 2024, D Moore of Exeter CVS said that the lottery had raised just £7000 for good causes in the two years since its launch. The report also noted that the council's Corporate Plan for 2023-27 made a commitment to supporting the voluntary and community sector in Exeter. It also noted that one of the council's three strategic priorities is A Healthy and Sustainable City. The report argued that these commitments meant that the council should keep the Community Lottery running, despite its poor performance.

A majority of committee members disagreed, and the committee voted to recommend that the Community Lottery scheme be closed.

Scrutiny Work Plan

The committee considered a proposal to add the issue of anti-social behaviour to its work plan for the coming year. The proposal was made by Councillor M Mitchell, who argued that

Anti-social behaviour is a growing problem in Exeter. It is having a detrimental impact on the lives of many residents. This committee has a duty to scrutinise the work of the council in tackling this issue.

The committee voted to add the issue of anti-social behaviour to its work plan for the coming year.


  1. Section 106 funds are contributions made by developers to local authorities to help fund the infrastructure needed to support new developments, such as schools, roads, and affordable housing. 

Exeter Council Tackles Budget Challenges, Community Support, and Climate Adaptation

This week, the Exeter Council convened on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, to discuss several significant issues. You can access the full meeting details here.

General Fund Revenue Budget for Quarter Three

The council reviewed the General Fund Revenue Budget for Quarter Three. The discussion highlighted ongoing income challenges and the impact of higher-than-expected pay awards. However, there were some offsets due to decisions around VAT on leisure and improved net interest positions.

We have a number of areas of income that are troubling and we're not going to deliver the targeted income budget for the financial year. - Council Discussion

The council noted that several projects are likely to extend into the next financial year, necessitating supplementary budget requests. This includes significant projects like the Liverpool Exeter program and the demolition of the bus station.

General Fund Capital Monitoring Statement for Quarter Three

The General Fund Capital Monitoring Statement for Quarter Three was also reviewed. The council acknowledged the challenges in delivering the capital program, with only a fraction of the planned expenditure achieved by the end of December.

As at the end of December, we had spent 3.45 million of that, which gives you a real indication as to the challenges we're having in delivering the capital program. - Council Discussion

The council is facing difficulties in recruiting and retaining staff in key areas, which is impacting the delivery of significant projects. This will likely result in a substantial carry-forward of the capital program into the new financial year.

HRA Budget Monitoring Report for Quarter Three

The HRA Budget Monitoring Report for Quarter Three revealed significant overspending in the repairs and maintenance budget, primarily due to a high number of voids. However, this was somewhat offset by higher investment interest and lower-than-expected capital charges.

Repairs and maintenance is an area that we're really going to have to monitor closely going forward. - Council Discussion

The council emphasized the need for close monitoring and management of the repairs and maintenance budget to ensure financial stability.

Household Support Fund Scheme 5

The council discussed the Household Support Fund Scheme 5, which was announced in the March budget. The scheme aims to provide support to vulnerable households, including disabled people, care leavers, and those with caring responsibilities.

Given the timing of the announcement, the timing of the notification of the award and the guidance from DWP, we are seeking delegation to ensure that we're able to spend the money by the 30th of September. - Council Discussion

The council is working on a policy to reflect the guidance and ensure the effective distribution of funds.

Climate Adaptation Strategy for Devon, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly

The council endorsed the Climate Adaptation Strategy for Devon, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly. The strategy outlines how to adapt to climate change across the region, focusing on issues like flooding, sea level rise, and temperature changes.

The strategy has been produced by RSK with support from the Devon Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Climate Impacts Group. - Council Discussion

The strategy will inform the work of the Net Zero team and the new program manager for Citywide Net Zero.

Strategic Scrutiny Committee

The Strategic Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday, June 6, 2024. Details of the discussions and outcomes from this meeting are yet to be published.

Licensing Sub-Committee

The Licensing Sub-Committee also convened on Thursday, June 6, 2024. As with the Strategic Scrutiny Committee, the specifics of this meeting are pending release.

Interesting Note: The council's discussions this week underscored the ongoing financial challenges and the need for careful budget management. There was also a strong focus on community support and climate adaptation, reflecting broader priorities in local governance.

Key Decisions and Future Directions: Insights from This Week's Exeter Council Meeting

This week, the Exeter Council convened on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, to deliberate on several pivotal community and infrastructure initiatives. The key outcomes and discussions from this meeting are crucial for understanding the council's current focus and future direction. You can access the full meeting details here.

Mumford Community Wellbeing Hub

The council approved the development plan for the Mumford Community Wellbeing Hub and decided to explore funding options. This project aims to revitalize the existing community center by integrating it with leisure facilities, which is expected to enhance local well-being significantly. However, concerns about financial sustainability were raised, emphasizing the need for a robust business case.

The project aims to revitalize the community center, integrating it with leisure facilities to enhance local well-being. - Council Discussion

The implications here are profound. If managed effectively, this could lead to improved community engagement and health outcomes. However, the financial and operational risks need careful management.

Live and Move Sport England Place Partner 2025-2028

The council also approved a bid to continue the partnership with Sport England under the Live and Move initiative from 2025 to 2028. This program has previously shown positive impacts on community health and activity levels. The continuation is crucial as the current funding will expire in 2025, and no alternative funding sources have been identified.

The program has shown positive impacts on community health and activity levels. - Council Discussion

The successful funding of this bid is essential for the continuation of health and activity programs in Exeter. A failure to secure funding could lead to a significant reduction in these community initiatives.

Exeter Plan Full Draft Consultation Report

The council noted the consultation report for the Exeter Plan and planned the next steps for finalizing this crucial document. The report summarized public feedback, showing general support for the proposed policies but also highlighting concerns about specific developments.

The report summarized public feedback on the draft plan, with general support for the proposed policies but some concerns about specific developments. - Council Discussion

The Exeter Plan will guide future city development, impacting housing, infrastructure, and environmental policy. It's crucial that this plan aligns with both public and expert input to ensure its effectiveness and acceptance.

Pre-application Advice Charges

Finally, the council approved charges for pre-application advice on major planning applications. This decision aims to improve service quality and align with neighboring authorities. However, there were concerns about the potential impact on developer relations and transparency.

The new charges aim to improve service quality and align with neighboring authorities. - Council Discussion

The introduction of these charges could lead to better-resourced planning services but might affect developers' willingness to engage in pre-application discussions.

Interesting Note: During the meeting, there was a strong emphasis on community involvement and the social value of projects. This reflects a broader trend towards inclusive and participatory local governance, a theme we've seen developing over time in council priorities.

Recent meetings
Audit and Governance Committee

Audit and Governance Committee - Wednesday 25th September 2024 5.30 pm

We have not been able to find a video broadcast of this meeting.

September 25, 2024
Licensing Sub-Committee

Licensing Sub-Committee - Friday 20th September 2024 10.00 am

We have not been able to find a video broadcast of this meeting.

September 20, 2024
Strategic Scrutiny Committee

Strategic Scrutiny Committee - Thursday 12th September 2024 5.30 pm

We have not been able to find a video broadcast of this meeting.

September 12, 2024
Licensing Committee

Licensing Committee - Tuesday 10th September 2024 5.30 pm

We have not been able to find a video broadcast of this meeting.

September 10, 2024
Committee

Exeter Harbour Board - Thursday 5th September 2024 6.00 pm

We have not been able to find a video broadcast of this meeting.

September 05, 2024
Licensing Sub-Committee

Licensing Sub-Committee - Wednesday 4th September 2024 10.00 am

We have not been able to find a video broadcast of this meeting.

September 04, 2024
Executive

Executive - Tuesday 3rd September 2024 5.30 pm

The notes from this meeting have not yet been summarised.

September 03, 2024
Licensing Sub-Committee CANCELLED

Licensing Sub-Committee - Tuesday 3rd September 2024 10.00 am

This meeting has been cancelled.

September 03, 2024
Planning Committee CANCELLED

Planning Committee - Monday 2nd September 2024 5.30 pm

This meeting has been cancelled.

September 02, 2024
Licensing Sub-Committee

Licensing Sub-Committee - Wednesday 21st August 2024 10.00 am

We have not been able to find a video broadcast of this meeting.

August 21, 2024
Upcoming meetings

No meetings found.