The Cabinet of Hillingdon Council met on Thursday, 27 July 2023, to discuss a range of important issues. Key decisions were made regarding the appropriation of land for new housing and community facilities, the adoption of an electric vehicle strategy, and the renewal of a Public Spaces Protection Order.

Strategic Climate Action Plan

The Cabinet reviewed the progress of the council's Strategic Climate Action Plan, noting a 43.8% reduction in electricity usage since the 2018/19 baseline year. Councillor Eddie Lavery, Cabinet Member for Residents' Services, highlighted the ongoing work to modernise buildings, improve insulation in housing stock, and enhance electric vehicle charging infrastructure. The council also committed to purchasing electric vehicles where appropriate. The Cabinet approved the priorities for the 2023/24 year.

Appropriation of Land at the Former Yiewsley Swimming Pool and Falling Lane, Yiewsley

Councillor Jonathan Bianco, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Corporate Services & Property, presented a report seeking authority to appropriate land at the former Yiewsley Swimming Pool and Falling Lane for planning purposes. This appropriation is a necessary step to facilitate the redevelopment of the site, which is intended to provide new residential units for social housing and community facilities. The Cabinet approved the appropriation, noting that this process would allow the council to override easements, restrictions, and other rights. Extensive public consultation had taken place, with numerous objections received, primarily concerning the loss of open space, increased pressure on local services, and traffic congestion. The council stated that these concerns would be addressed during the subsequent planning application process.

Hillingdon Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Strategy

Councillor Bianco also presented the Hillingdon Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Strategy. With the government's ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, the council is developing a strategy to increase and manage electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across the borough. The strategy outlines a plan to install approximately 300 EV charging points on council-owned property by 2030, focusing on destination chargers in car parks and other council facilities. The council's preferred route to market is a shared funding model with a private supplier, aiming to balance council control with private sector expertise. The Cabinet approved the strategy and its key actions.

Public Spaces Protection Order 2023

Councillor Eddie Lavery presented the finalised Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) for a three-year period. Following a public consultation, amendments were made to include new prohibitions against car meets and street racing, and to extend the ban on amplification equipment to all parks and green spaces, including Ruislip Lido. The PSPO aims to address anti-social behaviour and maintain the quality of life in public spaces. The Cabinet approved the finalised order for publication.

Monthly Council Budget Monitoring Report: Month 2

Councillor Martin Goddard, Cabinet Member for Finance, presented the council's projected financial position for the 2023/24 financial year. A marginal underspend of £23,000 was reported against the General Fund revenue budget at Month 2. Despite ongoing inflationary pressures, the council's financial performance was described as robust, with projected total reserves of £41.3 million by the end of the financial year. Challenges remain, particularly with the Dedicated Schools Grant, which showed an in-year overspend of £4.5 million due to increased costs for high-needs placements. The Cabinet approved the financial recommendations, including a contribution to the Mayor's Charity, acceptance of grant funding from the Department for Work and Pensions, and a contract extension for an early payment programme.

Public Preview of Matters to be Considered in Private

The Cabinet noted the reports to be considered in private, which included contractual and property-related matters. This preview was provided to ensure maximum transparency for the public.

The meeting then moved into Part 2, where private contractual and property matters were discussed.