This week, the West Lindsey council held two meetings: the Governance and Audit Committee on Tuesday, 11 June 2024, and the Planning Committee on Wednesday, 12 June 2024.

Governance and Audit Committee

The Governance and Audit Committee's most significant discussions revolved around the internal audit reports and the draft statement of accounts for 2023-2024.

Internal Audit Reports

The committee reviewed the Quarter 4 Internal Audit Report, which highlighted several key areas:

• Procurement: The audit revealed a limited assurance opinion on procurement, indicating significant gaps and weaknesses. The council has requested a re-audit in 2024-2025 to ensure improvements are made.
• ICT Incident Management: This area received substantial assurance, though it was noted that the scope excluded cyber security practices to ISO 27001 standards¹.
• Financial Key Controls: These controls also received substantial assurance, reflecting robust financial management practices.

We are implementing all of the recommendations at pace. — Emma Foy, discussing procurement improvements

Draft Statement of Accounts

The draft statement of accounts for 2023-2024 was presented, showing an improved balance sheet position primarily due to a reduction in the council's pension fund deficit from £8.8 million to £2.5 million. The general fund remains within prudent levels, and earmarked reserves have increased slightly.

The council has good reserve levels and a robust medium-term financial strategy. — Peter Davie

The committee also discussed the need for clearer, more accessible financial reporting to ensure transparency and ease of understanding for all stakeholders.

Planning Committee

The Planning Committee's most impactful discussion was the approval of a planning application for nine dwellings in Scampton.

Planning Application for Nine Dwellings

The application (147639) for nine dwellings on land off Northumberland Avenue and Westmoreland Avenue, Scampton, was approved despite concerns about residential amenity and ecological impact. The committee considered the following points:

• Residential Amenity: Neighbours raised concerns about the new dwellings overlooking existing properties. The planning officer noted that this was an outline application, and detailed design considerations would be addressed in subsequent applications.
• Ecological Impact: An ecological impact assessment was conducted, and measures were proposed to enhance biodiversity, including new tree planting and hedgerows.

The biodiversity net gain matrix achieves 11%, which is in excess of national requirements. — Marcus Tams, representing the applicant

The committee approved the application, emphasizing the need for detailed scrutiny in future stages to address residents' concerns.

Implications

The decisions made this week have several implications:

• Procurement Improvements: The re-audit of procurement practices will ensure that the council addresses identified weaknesses and improves compliance with the new Procurement Act².
• Financial Transparency: Efforts to make financial reporting more accessible will enhance transparency and stakeholder engagement.
• Residential Development: The approval of the Scampton development highlights the council's commitment to balancing growth with community and environmental considerations.

These meetings reflect ongoing efforts to improve governance, financial management, and community development in West Lindsey.

This week, the West Lindsey council held three meetings: the Prosperous Communities Committee on Tuesday, 04 June 2024, the Licensing Committee on Thursday, 06 June 2024, and the Regulatory Committee on Thursday, 06 June 2024.

Prosperous Communities Committee

The most impactful discussion in the Prosperous Communities Committee was the review of the Progress and Delivery Quarter Four Report. This report covered the performance of various council services from January to March 2024, and provided a year-end summary for 2023-2024.

Key Performance Highlights

• Overall Performance: 83% of all measures either exceeded or were within the agreed tolerance of their targets. This is a slight reduction from 85% in Quarter Three.
• Recycling Rates: The recycling rate measure was reintroduced this quarter. It is expected to fluctuate seasonally and will be reported annually going forward.
• Disabled Facilities Grants (DFGs): Councillor Young expressed frustration over the prolonged process of DFGs, which take over a year to complete. Sally, an officer, highlighted the need for fairer funding distribution and ongoing lobbying efforts.

The simple matter here is the funding formula means our community that requires DFGs is massively disadvantaged in Lincolnshire. — Sally

• Market Stalls: The introduction of the antique market in Quarter Four was well-received, although the organizers had to step back for personal reasons. Councillor Fleetwood emphasized the positive impact on local businesses and footfall.

The footfall has been much increased and there's been people in there going into the shops and it's been very, very positively received. — Councillor Fleetwood

Environmental and Sustainability Strategy Refresh

The committee also adopted an updated 10-year Environment and Sustainability Strategy. This refreshed strategy aligns with the corporate plan and the Central Lincolnshire Local Plan, focusing on medium-term carbon reduction objectives and community engagement.

By working together with our communities, the refreshed environmental sustainability strategy provides a strong foundation for delivering on the commitment. — Councillor Bunny

Licensing Committee and Regulatory Committee

The Licensing Committee and Regulatory Committee meetings were held on the same day, Thursday, 06 June 2024. Unfortunately, the transcripts for these meetings are not available at this time.

Implications

The discussions and decisions made this week have several implications:

• Performance Monitoring: The detailed review of the Progress and Delivery Report highlights areas needing improvement, such as DFGs and market stall performance, while also celebrating successes in other areas.
• Environmental Strategy: The adoption of the refreshed Environment and Sustainability Strategy sets a clear direction for the council's environmental efforts, emphasizing both immediate and long-term goals.
• Community Engagement: The positive reception of the antique market and the focus on local business support underscore the council's commitment to fostering community engagement and economic activity.

These meetings reflect ongoing efforts to improve council services, address community needs, and promote sustainability across West Lindsey.

This week, the West Lindsey council held two meetings: the Planning Committee on Wednesday, 22 May 2024, and the Corporate Policy and Resources Committee on Thursday, 23 May 2024.

Planning Committee

The Planning Committee's most significant discussion was around a planning application for nine dwellings in Scampton. This is an ongoing theme we've discussed before, where the balance between development and community impact is a recurring issue.

Planning Application for Nine Dwellings in Scampton

The application (147639) for nine dwellings on land off Northumberland Avenue and Westmoreland Avenue, Scampton, faced strong objections.

• Scampton Parish Council: Chris Boutil, Chairman, raised concerns about conflicts with the West Lindsey District Council plan and the preservation of green spaces. He also mentioned insufficient infrastructure.
• Local Residents: Jadie Jackson highlighted issues with design, traffic congestion, and strain on local amenities. She also pointed out the ecological impact, including potential loss of mature trees and habitats for protected species like bats and red kites.
• Ward Member: Councillor Paterson emphasized the lack of need for additional housing and the poor condition of local infrastructure.

The planning officer clarified that the proposal falls under minor development and noted that an ecological impact assessment had been conducted. Councillor Fleetwood proposed a site visit to better understand the location, which was unanimously approved.

Update on Planning Policy

The planning officer provided an update on changes to planning policy, specifically the expansion of Class Q development rights. Agricultural buildings can now be converted to up to 10 dwellings without requiring full planning permission, except in protected areas like the Lincolnshire Wolds AONB¹.

Applications for Determination

A planning application (148059) for the conversion of a building at 16 Silver Street, Gainsborough, into three flats was discussed and approved unanimously. Councillor Fleetwood highlighted the benefits of town centre living, a point echoed by Councillors Bunny and Barrett.

Corporate Policy and Resources Committee

The Corporate Policy and Resources Committee's most significant discussion was around the Household Support Fund 5, which aims to distribute £241,000 to West Lindsey residents in need.

Household Support Fund 5

Angela presented the details, explaining that West Lindsey has been allocated £241,000 from Lincolnshire County Council. The fund must be spent by September 30, 2024. The proposal includes:

• 60% of the funds to be distributed by a charitable organization.
• 35% to go to voluntary organizations, food banks, and charities.
• 5% reserved for internal administration and contingencies.

Councillor Snee expressed regret that such a fund is necessary but acknowledged its importance. Councillor Burley sought clarification on whether the fund should reach people who hadn't benefited before. Angela clarified that this round of funding is open to all. The proposal was approved unanimously.

Customer Experience Strategy

Lynn introduced the Customer Experience Strategy, aimed at improving the quality of customer service provided by the Council. The strategy focuses on utilizing new technologies, ensuring consistent customer experiences, and proactive engagement. Councillor Burley praised the strategy for its simplicity and comprehensive data. The strategy was approved unanimously.

Market Fees and Charges

Lisa presented a proposal to amend the market fees and charges, specifically reducing the number of stalls required for a discount from 25 to 20. This aims to support market traders and increase footfall in Gainsborough. The proposal was approved unanimously.

Change of Committee Meeting Date

A proposal to change the date of the Corporate Policy and Resources Committee meeting from July 18, 2024, to a week later was rejected. Councillor Smith opposed the change, and the meeting will remain on July 18, 2024.

Implications

The decisions made this week have several implications:

• The site visit for the Scampton development will provide a clearer understanding of the challenges and potential impacts on the community.
• The Household Support Fund 5 will provide crucial support to residents in need, reflecting ongoing efforts to address social welfare.
• The Customer Experience Strategy and changes to market fees aim to enhance community engagement and economic activity in Gainsborough.

This week, the West Lindsey council held its Annual Council meeting on Monday, 13 May 2024. This meeting covered several significant topics, including the election of key council positions and discussions on ongoing projects.

The meeting began with formalities, including a moment of reflection and prayers led by Reverend Colton. Condolences were extended to Emma Foy and her family for their recent bereavement. Apologies for absence were noted from several councillors, including Councillor Mrs. Lawrence, Councillor Barrett, and Councillor Mrs. Rogers.

Key Elections

The most notable part of the meeting was the election of the Chairman and Vice Chairman for the civic year 2024-2025. Councillor Stephen Bunny was re-elected as Chairman, and Councillor Matt Bowles was re-elected as Vice Chairman. Both were praised for their dedication over the past year. Councillor Bunny reaffirmed his commitment to promoting West Lindsey and engaging with the community.

In addition, Councillor Trebe Young was elected as the Leader of the Council, with Councillor Lizzie Rawlings as the Deputy Leader. Councillor Young emphasized the importance of the Council's work on the former RAF Scampton site, calling it a crucial project for the community. He also highlighted efforts to improve Gainsborough, such as the introduction of weekly markets and the restoration of heritage buildings. Councillor Rawlings supported these points and praised the officers' support in various projects.

Committee Appointments and Governance

The meeting also included the appointment of committee chairs and vice chairs, as well as the allocation of seats to political groups. There was a brief discussion about the political balance of committees, which will be reviewed in the next Council meeting.

The Council approved the annual report from the Monitoring Officer, which provides an overview of governance matters. This report, recommended by the Governance and Audit Committee, included the appointment of lay members to various positions. The Chair praised the quality of the interviews for these positions.

Overview and Scrutiny Committee

Councillor Paul Herrick-Canne presented the Overview and Scrutiny Committee's annual report. He highlighted the committee's work over the past year, including presentations from outside bodies and the review of the Council's performance measures. He also mentioned the excellent scrutiny training received by the committee members.

Councillor Dobby raised a concern about the lack of changing places for disadvantaged people in the community and requested that this issue be discussed by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee in the coming year.

50th Anniversary Celebrations

The meeting concluded with a reminder of the Council's 50th anniversary, which will be celebrated with various events throughout the year. The Chair invited members to join for refreshments after the meeting.

This meeting set the stage for the upcoming year, with new leadership and ongoing projects aimed at improving the community. The focus on governance and scrutiny highlights the Council's commitment to transparency and accountability.