The Ribble Valley Council has been active this week, with key decisions made in two significant meetings: the Planning and Development Committee and the Accounts and Audit Committee.

Planning and Development Committee - 27 June 2024

The Planning and Development Committee considered six planning applications, resulting in two approvals, one deferral, and three refusals. The committee also approved several minor policy changes.

Major Planning Decisions

One of the most significant decisions was the refusal of an application by Story Homes to build 99 homes on land off Chapel Hill (Hall Barn Drive) Longridge. The refusal was based on concerns about overdevelopment and the negative impact on the area's character. The decision followed public objections and the applicant's failure to address issues related to a previously approved pond.

Another notable refusal concerned the conversion of a home at 29 Castle View Clitheroe into a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO)¹. Residents raised issues of anti-social behaviour, noise, and litter.

Policy Updates

The committee approved updates to the Planning Enforcement Policy to align with amendments to the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. This Act governs planning permissions and enforcements in England and Wales.

Additionally, a new Scheme of Delegation and Code of Conduct were recommended for adoption to ensure fair and transparent planning decisions.

Local Development Plan Working Group

The Local Development Plan working group was re-appointed to provide input into developing the council's new Local Plan. This re-appointment aligns with the Conservative group's manifesto commitment to engage residents in shaping the new Local Plan.

Financial Decisions

The committee approved transferring £20,370 of unspent capital funding from the 2023/24 financial year to 2024/25 for upgrading the council’s planning software system.

Accounts and Audit Committee - 26 June 2024

The Accounts and Audit Committee endorsed the proposed accounting policies for 2023/24, approved the Strategic Internal Audit Plan, and noted a variation in audit fees for the 2022/23 financial year.

Accounting Policies and Audit Plans

The committee reviewed and endorsed the accounting policies for the 2023/24 financial year, noting no major changes to the CIPFA Code of Practice. The Strategic Internal Audit Plan 2024/25 to 2026/27 was approved, focusing on the council’s strategic risk register and aligning with the Corporate Plan (2023/27).

Audit Fee Variation

The committee noted an audit fee variation from Public Sector Audit Appointments (PSAA) for the 2022/23 financial year, increasing the fees from £55,384 to £78,384. This increase reflects the additional work required due to new auditing standards.

Progress Reports

Updates were received on the progress of internal and external audits. Grant Thornton, the council’s external auditors, presented their audit progress report. The committee also reviewed the strategic risk management activities, noting sixteen open risks affecting the Corporate Strategy's delivery.

This week’s meetings highlight the council's active role in shaping the Ribble Valley's development and ensuring robust financial and strategic management.