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Weekly updates

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Key Scrutiny Report Reviewed and Hybrid Meetings Discussed

In the last 7 days (since Saturday 22 June 2024), the council has held the following meetings:

The most impactful meeting this week was the Resources Overview & Scrutiny Panel on Wednesday 26 June 2024. Here are the key points discussed:

Annual Scrutiny Report

The panel reviewed the Annual Scrutiny Report, summarising the work carried out by the scrutiny panels and committees over the past municipal year. The report highlighted several changes following a review by the Centre of Governance and Scrutiny, including the establishment of a new overview and scrutiny programming group and scrutiny seminars led by Camilla. Councillor Gladhill praised the officers for their contributions and stressed the importance of maintaining high standards in scrutiny.

Councillor Malion emphasised the need for scrutiny to be evidence-based rather than anecdotal and suggested that Cabinet members should be accompanied by relevant officers to provide detailed responses during sessions. The reduction of key performance indicators (KPIs) from 140 to less than 100 was also discussed to focus on the most critical performance elements.

Timeliness of Report Submissions

Concerns were raised about the timeliness of report submissions, with Councillor Roberts noting that receiving reports only five days before meetings hampers effective scrutiny. He suggested that reports should be provided at least two weeks in advance. Councillor Gladhill agreed, stating that timely reports are essential for effective scrutiny and democratic accountability.

Hybrid Meetings

The panel discussed the potential for hybrid meetings. Councillor Abbally inquired about the direction of travel regarding hybrid meetings, noting complications with hybrid technology during the COVID-19 pandemic. Councillor Gladhill responded that while hybrid meetings had been tried, they were not successful due to technological issues. He indicated that in-person meetings and Teams meetings for non-public scrutiny matters would continue to be the preferred approach.

For more details, you can refer to the Agenda frontsheet and the Public reports pack for the meeting.

The other meetings held this week, including the Community Select Committee, Information Digest (SMDC), and The Executive - Individual Executive Decisions, did not have video broadcasts available, so detailed insights from those meetings are not provided.

Planning Applications Committee Approves Springfield Farm Café and Tea Room, Refuses TPO Application

In the last 7 days (since Saturday 15 June 2024), the council has held the following meetings:

The most impactful meeting this week was the Planning Applications Committee on Thursday 20 June 2024. Here are the key points discussed:

Springfield Farm Café and Tea Room Application

The committee reviewed an application to change the use of an agricultural building at Springfield Farm from a retail use to a café and tea room. The site is located within the green belt, and the change of use was considered acceptable in principle. However, concerns were raised about the impact on residential amenity and highway safety.

Key Issues Discussed:

Green Belt Policy: The change of use was deemed acceptable under green belt policy, provided there was no harmful impact on openness.
Residential Amenity: Concerns were raised about potential impacts from cooking smells and increased vehicle movements. Environmental health objections were noted, but it was concluded that the development, being contained within the existing building, would not adversely affect residential amenity.
Highway Safety: The local highway authority had no objections, and it was noted that the development would not significantly increase vehicle movements.
Enforcement Issues: There were ongoing enforcement investigations related to other developments at the site, but these were considered separate from the current application.

The committee ultimately approved the application, emphasizing the importance of conditions to mitigate any potential impacts on residential amenity and highway safety.

TPO Application at 1 Bank End, Brown Edge

The committee also considered an application to fell a mature sycamore tree protected under a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) at 1 Bank End, Brown Edge. The application was refused, with the committee noting the tree's significant public amenity value and the lack of sufficient justification for its removal.

Key Issues Discussed:

Tree's Condition: The sycamore tree was found to be in good condition, with no evidence of structural damage or disease.
Applicant's Personal Circumstances: The applicant cited personal circumstances, including the health of a disabled child, as reasons for the tree's removal. However, the committee determined that these did not outweigh the tree's public amenity value.
Policy Considerations: The decision was guided by the council's tree protection policies and the adopted tree strategy, which generally do not support the removal of protected trees without compelling reasons.

The other meetings held this week, including the Development Control Committee, Cabinet Delegated Decisions, Standards Committee (SMDC), and The Executive - Individual Executive Decisions, did not have video broadcasts available, so detailed insights from those meetings are not provided.

High Peak Council Backs Transition Buxton's Sustainability Initiatives

In the last 7 days (since Saturday 08 June 2024), the council has held the following meetings:

The most impactful meeting this week was the Corporate Select Committee on Monday 10 June 2024. Here are the key points discussed:

Transition Buxton and the Repair Café

Jean Beale from Transition Buxton presented an update on the Repair Café initiative. Transition Buxton, established in 2009, is part of a network of around 350 groups across the UK aiming to reduce waste, fossil fuel use, and plastic consumption. The Repair Café has been running since September 2009, holding 10 sessions a year. They have processed 1,085 items, repairing 650 of them, saving an estimated 21.4 tonnes of CO2. Jean highlighted the need for regulatory reform to eliminate designed obsolescence and the importance of community engagement in sustainability efforts.

Hard to Recycle Scheme and Library of Things

Transition Buxton also runs a hard-to-recycle scheme through TerraCycle, processing significant amounts of waste, including 550 kilograms of crisp packets. They have launched a Library of Things, allowing community members to borrow useful items, reducing the need to own, store, and maintain them. The library has 87 items and 123 members, with popular items including gardening tools and party supplies.

Plastic-Free Community Certification

Transition Buxton has achieved a plastic-free community certification from Surfers Against Sewage, involving 18 businesses, 24 community organizations, six schools, the College, and the Council. They aim to reduce single-use plastics and raise awareness about plastic use and misuse.

Community Engagement and Education

Transition Buxton organizes various activities, including workshops, seminars, and energy audits. They emphasize the importance of working in partnership with local authorities, businesses, and community groups to tackle environmental challenges.

Council's Commitment to Sustainability

The committee discussed the Council's role in supporting sustainability initiatives, including the potential for regulatory changes and increased community engagement. Councillor Anthony McEwen, chair of the Climate Change Working Group, emphasized the importance of collaboration and the Council's commitment to addressing the climate emergency.

Next Steps

The committee agreed to continue supporting Transition Buxton's initiatives and explore further opportunities for collaboration. They also discussed the importance of promoting sustainability efforts through the Council's communication channels and engaging with the community to raise awareness and participation.

The other meetings held this week, including the Cabinet, The Executive - Individual Executive Decisions, Climate Change Working Group (SMDC), The Executive, and The Executive - Individual Executive Decisions, did not have video broadcasts available, so detailed insights from those meetings are not provided.

Key Developments in Disabled Facilities Grants and Biodiversity Initiatives: High Peak Council's Latest Actions

In the last 7 days (since Saturday 01 June 2024), the council has held the following meetings:

The most impactful meeting this week was the Service Delivery Overview & Scrutiny Panel on Wednesday 05 June 2024. Here are the key points discussed:

Disabled Facilities Grants (DFGs)

Richard Cole from Alliance North presented on the progress and future plans for Disabled Facilities Grants. The council has faced challenges in spending the allocated funds due to previous data issues but has made significant strides in the past year. Richard highlighted that they have completed 287 cases and have 74 in progress. The council is looking to further reduce dependency on subcontractors and bring more work in-house, which has already resulted in cost savings. Richard emphasized the importance of marketing the availability of DFGs, as many residents are unaware of the support they can receive.

Mowing Regimes and Biodiversity

The panel discussed proposed changes to mowing regimes to enhance biodiversity. The plan includes creating wildflower meadows and adjusting mowing practices to support pollinators like bees and butterflies. The approach aims to balance the need for well-maintained recreational spaces with the benefits of increased biodiversity. Councillor Yates presented a detailed plan, including the use of signage to inform the public about the changes and the benefits for wildlife. The council will work with AES to review the contract and ensure the necessary machinery and staff training are in place.

Work Programme

Councillor Haynes introduced a new Teams channel for committee members to discuss and suggest items for the work programme. The panel will have a programme-setting meeting on 13 June 2024 to finalize the agenda for upcoming meetings. Members were encouraged to provide feedback and suggestions through the Teams channel or directly to the chair and vice-chair.

Leisure Operations Model

Councillor Beswick raised concerns about the leisure operations model and requested that it be brought to the committee before any cabinet decisions are made. The panel agreed to review the report at the next meeting, ensuring that the implications for the moorlands are thoroughly considered.

Conclusion

The meeting concluded with a motion to approve the consideration of changes to mowing regimes and the work programme. The discussions highlighted the council's efforts to improve service delivery, enhance biodiversity, and engage with the community effectively.

The other meetings held this week, including the Community Overview and Scrutiny Panel, Climate Change Working Group (HPBC), Audit & Regulatory Committee, The Executive - Individual Executive Decisions, and Audit & Accounts Committee, did not have video broadcasts available, so detailed insights from those meetings are not provided.

Key Insights from High Peak Council's Scrutiny on Financial Efficiency and Community Engagement

In the last 7 days (since Saturday 18 May 2024), the council has held the following meetings:

The most impactful meeting this week was the Resources Overview & Scrutiny Panel on Wednesday 22 May 2024. Here are the key points discussed:

Scrutiny of Outside Bodies

Councillor Johnson raised concerns about the level of scrutiny given to outside bodies, particularly those funded by the council, such as Support Staffordshire. He suggested that the scrutiny should be more performance and financially related rather than anecdotal. Martin, a council officer, responded by explaining that the head of communities, David Smith, is working with the management team to assess the value derived from these groups. The scrutiny panel will be pointed towards questions of value for money.

The Leader supported the idea, stating that while the community should scrutinize Support Staffordshire, any financial issues should be raised at the resources committee. The leader emphasized the importance of ensuring value for money, especially for bodies receiving significant funding.

Corporate Peer Challenge Report

Martin presented the corporate peer challenge report, which highlighted several positives about Staffordshire Moorlands District Council, including well-managed finances and strong governance. However, the report also recommended areas for improvement, such as accelerating the pace of change in ICT programs, environmental aspects, and accommodation.

Councillor Taylor raised concerns about the council's ability to attract and retain talented staff. Martin responded by outlining efforts to improve recruitment and retention, including developmental posts and succession planning.

Councillor Malion and Councillor Roberts expressed frustration over the local plan, noting that while planning applications are approved, builders are not constructing the houses. The leader mentioned that representatives from the council are attending the UK Reef Conference to attract developers.

Councillor Abbally asked about the impact of the East Midlands Combined Authority on High Peak and Staffordshire Moorlands. Martin explained that the council is closely monitoring the situation and will respond appropriately to any changes.

Efficiency Programme

Lyndon and Emily presented the efficiency programme, focusing on income and charges. They outlined several objectives, including identifying potential additional income and reviewing the cost of delivering services. The presentation highlighted the importance of balancing income generation with protecting vulnerable groups and maintaining vibrant town centres.

Councillor Johnson requested evidence on the relationship between car parking charges and economic performance for future discussions. Councillor Parks emphasized the need for involving town and parish councils in discussions about the efficiency programme, particularly regarding assets.

Councillor Hopcroft asked for better breakdowns of delivery dates for each objective to scrutinize progress more effectively. Martin assured that quarterly reports would be provided.

Councillor Aberly inquired whether the car parking charges review would stick to the budget or accept potential revenue variations. Martin responded that while the council aims to maintain or increase income, any significant changes would require adjustments elsewhere.

Councillor Swindell and Councillor Wood discussed the challenges of balancing fees and charges with protecting frontline services, especially given the uncertainty of government settlements.

Councillor Yates emphasized the importance of efficiency savings and the potential need for upfront investments in areas like green space strategy and AI to achieve long-term benefits.

Conclusion

The meeting concluded with a motion to exclude the public for the final agenda item. The discussions highlighted the council's efforts to balance financial prudence with effective service delivery and community engagement.

The other meetings held this week, including The Executive - Individual Executive Decisions, Development Control Committee, Cabinet Delegated Decisions, and Economy and Growth Select Committee, did not have video broadcasts available, so detailed insights from those meetings are not provided.

New Leadership, Community Plans, and Environmental Management: Key Highlights from High Peak Council Meetings

In the last 7 days (since Saturday 11 May 2024), the council has held the following meetings:

The most impactful meeting this week was the Council (SMDC) meeting on Wednesday 15 May 2024. Here are the key points discussed:

Election of Chairman and Vice Chairman

Councillor Ian Plant was elected as the new Chairman of the Council, and Councillor Adam Parks was elected as the Vice Chairman. Both decisions were unanimous, indicating strong support and cohesion within the council.

Checkley Neighbourhood Plan

The Council approved the Checkley Neighbourhood Plan following a successful referendum where 88% voted in favor. This plan has been in the works for eight years, and its approval marks a significant milestone for the community. Councillor Stephen Bell and other local contributors were thanked for their efforts.

Countryside Sites Management

Councillor Joe Porter inquired about the transfer of countryside sites to the Staffordshire Wildlife Trust. Councillor Yates confirmed the successful transfer and suggested that the Community Overview and Scrutiny Panel receive an annual update on the progress and plans for these sites. This transfer is expected to enhance the management and conservation of these areas.

Fly-Tipping Enforcement

Councillor Joe Porter also asked about the number of prosecutions for fly-tipping over the past year. Councillor Cooley provided detailed national and local context, revealing that Staffordshire Moorlands issued 7 fixed penalty notices (FPNs) for 326 incidents. This places them roughly in the middle among local authorities, highlighting an ongoing issue with waste management.

Calendar of Meetings

The Council approved the calendar of meetings for 2024-2025. The leader mentioned plans to produce a skeleton calendar for 2025-2026 to help Councillors plan their time better. This forward planning is expected to improve efficiency and participation in future meetings.

Appointments to Outside Bodies

The Council approved appointments to various outside bodies for the upcoming year. There was a discussion about the disbanding of the sports councils and the need to reinvigorate them, indicating a potential area for future development.

Parish Assembly Chairmanship

A proposal was made to change the chairmanship of the Parish Assembly from the Chairman of the District Council to a separately elected position. Councillor Lin Swindlehurst was proposed for the role. An amendment to consult parish councils on this change was defeated, and the original proposal was approved. This change aims to provide more focused leadership for the Parish Assembly.

Questions from Councillors

Councillor Flunder asked for a breakdown of grant allocations under the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Councillor Price provided the figures and encouraged Councillors to promote the grants in their communities. Additionally, Councillor Joe Porter asked about the consultation process for countryside sites and the role of grazing in habitat management. Councillor Yates confirmed ongoing consultations and support for grazing as part of habitat management.

The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks and the closing of the session.

The other meetings held this week, including The Executive - Individual Executive Decisions, Cabinet Delegated Decisions, and Housing Board, did not have video broadcasts available, so detailed insights from those meetings are not provided.

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Weekly updates

Key Scrutiny Report Reviewed and Hybrid Meetings Discussed

Annual Scrutiny Report

Timeliness of Report Submissions

Hybrid Meetings

Planning Applications Committee Approves Springfield Farm Café and Tea Room, Refuses TPO Application

Springfield Farm Café and Tea Room Application

Key Issues Discussed:

TPO Application at 1 Bank End, Brown Edge

Key Issues Discussed:

High Peak Council Backs Transition Buxton's Sustainability Initiatives

Transition Buxton and the Repair Café

Hard to Recycle Scheme and Library of Things

Plastic-Free Community Certification

Community Engagement and Education

Council's Commitment to Sustainability

Next Steps

Key Developments in Disabled Facilities Grants and Biodiversity Initiatives: High Peak Council's Latest Actions

Disabled Facilities Grants (DFGs)

Mowing Regimes and Biodiversity

Work Programme

Leisure Operations Model

Conclusion

Key Insights from High Peak Council's Scrutiny on Financial Efficiency and Community Engagement

Scrutiny of Outside Bodies

Corporate Peer Challenge Report

Efficiency Programme

Conclusion

New Leadership, Community Plans, and Environmental Management: Key Highlights from High Peak Council Meetings

Election of Chairman and Vice Chairman

Checkley Neighbourhood Plan

Countryside Sites Management

Fly-Tipping Enforcement

Calendar of Meetings

Appointments to Outside Bodies

Parish Assembly Chairmanship

Questions from Councillors

Recent meetings

Upcoming meetings