This meeting's agenda includes a briefing from Councillor Helen Crane, the Executive Member for Waste, Environmental Health, Licensing and Sustainability, and a report on the second quarter finances, performance, and projects. The meeting will also include time to discuss any matters the Councillors wish to add to the work programme.

Quarter 2 2024/2025 finances

The most significant variances from the budget include a projected overspend of £417,639 on the waste collection contract. This overspend has arisen because Norfolk County Council closed the Shipdham waste transfer station, increasing travel times.

There is also a projected overspend of £417,358 on Planning & Building Control. This is due to income shortfalls against budget... due to the downturn in the construction industry & housing market. The report also notes that Nutrient neutrality continues to delay planning applications.

The final significant variance is an underspend of £676,876 on interest receivable. This is due to additional capital receipts invested and interest rates remaining higher for longer than anticipated when the budget was set.

Councillor Helen Crane Portfolio Briefing

Councillor Crane's briefing covers the performance of the Waste, Environmental Health, Licensing and Sustainability portfolio.

Waste and Recycling

The report notes that overall performance on waste and recycling is strong, and that less than 1% of bins were not collected on their scheduled day. It also notes the ongoing work on the Waste Reform programme, which will change the way that Breckland residents recycle. The briefing says that by 31 March 2026 the Council will need to be ready to introduce weekly food waste collections.

Environmental Crime and Enforcement

Councillor Crane reports that the Council continues to lead the County league tables for successful prosecutions for fly-tipping. She notes that the recent closure of waste centres in Norfolk is a challenge, as is the rising cost of waste disposal.

Environmental Health

The report notes the success of the Council's Environmental Health team, with 99.2% of food businesses rated 3 or above in the National Food Hygiene Rating Standards. It says that there are challenges recruiting and retaining skilled staff.

Licensing

Councillor Crane's briefing notes that the Council is currently consulting on renewing its Gambling Act policy, and reviewing its contracts for taxi garages.

Climate & Sustainability

The briefing celebrates the Council's work on climate change, highlighting the installation of Solar Panels at the Dereham Leisure Centre. Looking to the future, Councillor Crane says that the Council will develop a Tree Planting Strategy and a roadmap to Net Zero.

Outside Body Feedback

Councillor Gordon Bambridge has provided a report on his attendance at the National ADA Flood and Water Conference, which he attended as part of [his] duties on the board of Norfolk Rivers IDB[^2].

Councillor Bambridge says that he spoke to the new Flood Minister, Emma Hardy, and did lobby [her staff] on matters of the SIG[^3] and de-maining[^4] of rivers.

Councillor Bambridge ends his report by saying that he will be attending the meeting and is happy to answer any questions.