NORTH LINCOLNSHIRE COUNCIL
ENVIRONMENT AND PUBLIC PROTECTION COMMITTEE
2 November 2000
PRESENT:- Councillor Gosling in the chair.
Councillors P Kirk (vice-chair), Appleyard, Barkworth, Berry, Mrs Bromby, J Ellis, England, Fordham, Holgate, M Kirk, Long, Mrs Metcalfe, Regan, Rocks, Sherwood, Swift, Wardle and Wood.
Councillors Mrs Redfern, Stewart and Whiteley attended the meeting under the provisions of Standing Order 40(b).
The committee met at Pittwood House, Scunthorpe.
229 DECLARATIONS OF PECUNIARY OR NON-PECUNIARY INTERESTS -
(i) Councillor Holgate declared a non-pecuniary interest in respect of minute 234 (Petition - Epworth Market Cross - Request for Permission to Erect a Fence).
(ii) Councillor Mrs Metcalfe declared a non-pecuniary interest in respect of minute 266 (Regeneration Project Development).
PETITIONS - In accordance with Standing Order 38, it was reported that six petitions had been received as follows:-
230 (160) RESTORATION OF SCHOOL BUS - CAISTOR ROAD TO CASTLEDYKE SCHOOL, BARTON-UPON-HUMBER - This petition was submitted by local residents and users of the former service requesting the council to restore the school bus service from Caistor Road to Castledyke School in Barton-upon-Humber. The petition had been received by the committee at its meeting on 13 September, 2000 (minute 156 refers) when the Director of Environment and Public Protection was requested to prepare a comprehensive investigative report on the matter. That report which provided background information on the petition and reasons why the service had been terminated previously was submitted to this meeting.
Resolved - (a) That consideration of the matter be deferred for further investigation, and report back to a future meeting, and (b) that the representative of the petitioners be invited to speak at the meeting, when the report in (a) above is to be considered.
231 (161) TRAFFIC ISSUES - FERRY ROAD WEST, SCUNTHORPE - This petition/series of letters were submitted by local residents of the Ferry Road West area of Scunthorpe seeking action by the council to improve traffic conditions on Ferry Road West, including noise, pollution, vibration and perceived accident potential created by levels of heavy goods vehicle traffic in the area. A representative of the petitioners attended the meeting and one addressed the committee on the subject matter of and background to the petition.
The Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a corresponding report which provided further background information on the petition, commented upon the concerns and requests of the petitioners and informed the committee of previous work undertaken along the route to reduce overall speeds of vehicles.
Resolved Unanimously - (a) That the petition be received; (b) that the route will continue to be monitored to ensure conditions do not deteriorate, and (c) that the Director of Environment and Public Protection be requested to contact operators of the local wharf and haulage yard and convene a meeting to which both the operators, the petitioners spokesperson, local ward members and appropriate officers of the council attend to try to devise a scheme to reduce the volume of heavy vehicles using Ferry Road West.
232 (162) ISLE OF AXHOLME ACCESS PROJECT (GREENWAY) - This petition was submitted by local residents of Haxey expressing potential environmental, vandalism and nuisance concerns anticipated by nearby home owners if the first stage of the above initiative along the former railway line (the Haxey cutting) was introduced for recreational uses.
A representative of the petitioners attended the meeting and one addressed the committee on the subject matter of and background to the petition.
Councillor Stewart attended the meeting under the provisions of Standing Order 40(b) and was invited to speak as a local member in support of the petition.
The Director of Environment and Public Protection referred to minute 186 and submitted a corresponding report which informed the committee of progress on the Isle of Axholme Access Project following completion of the first part of a three part public 'Planning for Real' public consultation exercise. The interim report of the first Planning for Real Day had just been published in time for the meeting and the consultant had identified the same concerns amongst residents as expressed by the petitioners. There were, however, still two further 'Planning for Real' days to be held as part of the consultation exercise.
Resolved - (a) That the petition be received; (b) that the genuine concerns of local residents together with the petition submitted, be acknowledged and incorporated into the final scheme; (c) that the Planning for Real exercise be continued with the events planned for Belton and Epworth, and that the report of findings on the Haxey Planning for Real day be accepted; and (d) that an inspection of the Haxey cutting be made by the committee in order to familiarise themselves with the issues raised in the consultation to date.
233 (163) REQUEST FOR THE REINSTATEMENT OF THE SCHOOL CROSSING PATROL AND FOR THE PROVISION OF A ZEBRA CROSSING, BELTON - This petition was submitted by parents of children attending Belton Church of England Primary School, which requested the reinstatement of the school crossing patrol outside the school and the provision of a zebra crossing for use by parents during the day as they collected and took children to and from the nursery. A representative of the petitioners attended the meeting and addressed the committee on the subject matter of and background to the petition.
Councillors Mrs Redfern and Stewart attended the meeting under the provisions of Standing Order 40(b) and were invited to speak as local members in support of the petition.
The Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a corresponding report which provided further background information on the petition. He explained that with regard to the school crossing patrol, as a result of advertising locally an applicant had been interviewed and subject to successful police and medical clearances, would be employed. An assessment would also be carried out at the site to determine the suitability of a zebra crossing in accordance with Department of Transport guidelines.
Resolved - (a) That the petition be received (b) that the current position regarding the appointment of a school crossing patrol at the Belton location be noted; (c) that contact be made with the relevant authorities to determine if a higher priority can be given to the procedures for obtaining medical and police clearances for school crossing patrols; (d) that a further report be submitted to this committee advising on the outcome of the discussions to change arrangements for stand by patrols, and (e) that a study be undertaken into the provision of a zebra crossing across the A161 in the vicinity of Belton Primary School and if the location meets the adoption criteria that a scheme is incorporated into the highway programme; (f) that the petitioners be informed of the outcome of the study;
234 (164) EPWORTH MARKET CROSS - REQUEST FOR PERMISSION TO ERECT A FENCE - This petition had been re-submitted by the Epworth Civic Society in support of erecting a wrought iron fence around the Market Cross in Epworth. A representative of the petitioners attended the meeting and one addressed the committee on the subject matter and background to the petition.
Councillor Stewart attended the meeting under the provisions of Standing Order 40(b) and was invited to speak as a local member in support of the Director of Environment and Public Protection's recommendations in his corresponding report.
The Director in his corresponding report referred to minutes 2713 and 2812 of the former Highways and Transportation Sub-Committee and explained that members of that sub-committee had previously decided that a decision on the request for permission should be deferred until such time as agreement could be reached between the Epworth Civic Society and Epworth Town Council which opposed the society's proposals.
Consequently the Epworth Civic Society had submitted a formal complaint to the Local Government Ombudsman, claiming maladministration by North Lincolnshire Council in respect of this matter. The Ombudsman investigated the complaint and concluded that the sub-committee should have determined the application for the permission rather than leaving the matter open until the Civic Society reached agreement with the Town Council.
The Director stated that Section 115B of the Highways Act 1980 empowered councils to place objects on in or over a highway where the amenity of the highway and its immediate surroundings would be enhanced. The power only arose where the council was of the opinion that the amenity of the highway and its immediate surroundings would be enhanced. Section 115E empowered a council to grant permission to a third party to do anything that the council could do under Section 115B.
An assessment of whether or not a particular object would enhance the amenity of the highway and its immediate surroundings was somewhat subjective, however it was the Director's opinion that the erection of the wrought iron fencing would not enhance the amenity for the following reasons:-
- it would provide a physical barrier (albeit with a gate in it) between the Cross and the public thus obstructing unrestricted access;
- it may attract and retain litter;
- its proposed positioning relatively close to the road may result in occasional damage from over-riding vehicles (although this is not a significant road safety problem); and
- it was not regarded as serving any purpose that would benefit the highway or highway users
and it was, therefore, recommended that the application for permission be refused.
Members had access to the Society’s written proposals, the Town Councils comments and had taken the opportunity to visit the site prior to the meeting.
The chair invited members of the committee to vote freely on this matter.
Moved by Councillor Regan and seconded by Councillor M Kirk -
That the request from Epworth Civic Society for permission to be granted for the erection of a wrought iron fence around the Market Cross in Epworth be refused on the grounds that it is the council's opinion that there will be no enhancement of the highway and its immediate surroundings resulting from the erection of the fence.
At the request of members and in accordance with Standing Order 18(b), the names of members voting for and against the motion are as follows:-
FOR: Appleyard, Berry, Mrs Bromby, England, Holgate, M Kirk, P Kirk, Long, Mrs Metcalfe, Regan, Sherwood, Wardle and Wood.
AGAINST: Barkworth, Ellis, Fordham, Rocks and Swift.
ABSTAINED: Gosling.
Motion Carried
235 (165) SEWERAGE PROBLEMS - BRACON, BELTON - This petition had been submitted by residents of the Bracon area of Belton requesting North Lincolnshire Council to take up a matter on their behalf with Severn Trent Water, to rectify the long-standing problems of escaping and overflowing sewage which was affecting the highways, footpaths and gardens and created a public health hazard.
Representatives of the petitioners attended the meeting but declined the opportunity to speak on the understanding that a representative would be allowed to speak at a future meeting when an investigative report on the matter would be considered.
Resolved - (a) That the petition be received; (b) that a site visit be arranged for members of the committee, and (c) that the Director of Environment and Public Protection prepare an investigative report on the matter for consideration at a future meeting.
At this stage in the proceedings the committee agreed to adjourn for a five minute comfort break. After five minutes the meeting was reconvened.
236 (166) HUMBERSIDE POLICE ACTIVITIES UPDATE - The Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a report informing the committee of a number of highways and transportation activities currently being undertaken by Humberside Police, together with relevant enforcement and casualty statistics.
A representative of Humberside Police attended the meeting and gave an oral update on the activities.
Resolved - (a) That this report, and the oral update given by the police representative be received, and (b) that the Director of Environment and Public Protection be authorised to continue to provide support for joint initiatives and accident prevention campaigns.
237 MINUTES - Resolved - That the minutes of the proceedings of this committee of 13 September, 2000 having been printed and circulated amongst the members, be taken as read and correctly recorded and be signed by the chair.
SUB-COMMITTEE PROCEEDINGS - The minutes of the proceedings of the following sub-committee were received and, where necessary, approved and adopted.
Sub-Committee
238 Planning Sub-Committee of 8 September and 6 October, 2000.
239 Licensing Sub-Committee of 13 October (Special Meeting) and 20 October, 2000.
240 (167) LAND RECLAMATION PROJECTS MANAGEMENT TEAM - Resolved - That the minutes of the above Management Team held on 2 October, 2000 be received, and where necessary approved and adopted.
241 (168) HUMBERSIDE FIRE AUTHORITY - Resolved - (a) That the minutes of the meetings of the authority held on 25 September, 2000 be received, and (b) that the issue raised briefly regarding the accuracy of the minutes by Councillor Barkworth as a representative of this council on the Humberside Fire Authority be noted.
242 (169) OUTSTANDING ITEMS - The Director of Corporate Affairs and the Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a joint report which identified outstanding items of business from this committee with an indication of when they were to be addressed.
Resolved - That the report be noted.
243 (170) REVISED ESTIMATES 2000/2001 AND BASE BUDGETS 2001/2002 - The Director of Environment and Public Protection and the Director of Corporate Affairs submitted a joint report which sought approval of the revised revenue and capital estimates of the committee for 2000/2001 and the present policies base budgets for 2001/2002. The above budgets were summarised within the joint report, together with any major budget variances which were detailed in appendix B and C. Appendix D also set out the Capital Expenditure proposed budget for 2001/2002.
The Director at the meeting informed the committee of the following changes that were required to his report as a result of corrected project costs for the Church Square Environmental Improvement Project:-
(i) Paragraph 3.5 should read - "St John's Church Square costs have increased by £71k. This increase has already been identified within the 1999/2000 carry forward budgets".
(ii) Appendix D - Capital Budgets - The revised budget for the scheme total = £1.068k, the 2000/2001 revised scheme budget = £652k.
(iii) The revised scheme total for the Directorate's Capital Programme then = £83.203k, the 2000/2001 Directorate Capital Programme = £18.794k.
Resolved - (a) That the revised revenue estimates for 2000-2001 and the present policies revenue base budget for 2001/2002 be approved, and (b) that the revised capital estimates for 2000/2001, and the budgetary impact of current schemes on future years be approved.
244 (171) TODAY'S CHOICES FOR TOMORROW'S WORLD - A LOCAL AGENDA 21 STRATEGY FOR NORTH LINCOLNSHIRE - Further to minute 2659 of the former Environment and Local Agenda 21 Sub-Committee, the Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a report informing the committee of the progress made towards meeting the Government's and Best Value requirements to adopt a Local Agenda 21 strategy by December 2000, and highlighted an important stage of transition where the responsibility for the strategy would be passed from the council to the wider community.
The report explained that following the last consultation exercise the final version of the strategy was under discussion and preparation and would comprise two main elements -
- Updated version of the draft strategy to act as background information.
- Short, attractive and accessible strategy summary outlining the main themes, actions and indicators.
Also, the time had come now for the direction of Local Agenda 21 to be passing to the community. This was an important stage of transition whereby a Steering Group was being established to ensure that the broader North Lincolnshire community owned and developed the strategy, as required by government guidance. It would include representatives of the groups and organisations which had been involved in the process (Health, Education, Environment Agency, voluntary and community sector groups, business etc). The council spokesperson on Environment and Local Agenda 21 or their nominated substitute would be invited to sit on the group. Once this group had considered the strategy, it should be adopted by those interests (including the council), to ensure that the required deadlines are met.
Resolved - (a) That responsibility for monitoring and reviewing the strategy be handed over to the Steering Group as outlined in the report, and (b) that, once the group has finalised the strategy it will be recommended to the council for adoption.
245 (172) PLANNING FOR RISING TIDES - HUMBER SHORELINE MANAGEMENT PLAN - Further to minutes 2655 and 2656, the Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a report on the publication of the Environment Agency's document 'Planning for the Rising Tides' detailing their vision for managing the estuary's flood defences. The current document set out the framework for investment in tidal flood defences to reduce the risk of flooding to people and property around the Humber until the middle of this century. North Lincolnshire Council had been actively involved on the officer Estuary Shoreline Management Plan Steering Group. Copies of the document were available in political group offices, from the Directorate of Environment and Public Protection and Committee Manager upon request.
The report explained the main features of the document and the need to progress further work with local planning authorities to ensure that flood risk and related issues were incorporated into regional planning guidance, structure and local plans, decisions in planning applications and also complied with conservation directives.
Resolved - That the Director of Environment and Public Protection ensure that flood risk issues are reflected in regional, structure and local plans so as to protect and enhance the economy and environment of North Lincolnshire.
246 EXAMINATION SUCCESSES - The Director of Environment and Public Protection reported the following examination success within his directorate insofar as this committee was concerned:-
Robert Turner - Accountancy Assistant - Passed Association of Accountancy Technicians Examination.
Resolved - That a letter be sent by the chair on behalf of this committee to the above officer congratulating him on his achievement.
247 (173) PUBLIC CONVENIENCES - The Director of Environment and Public Protection and the Director of Community and Commercial Services submitted a joint report seeking approval to transfer the provision and management of public conveniences in North Lincolnshire from the Directorate of Environment and Public Protection to the Directorate of Community and Commercial Services which would comply with the council's protocol regarding the development and operation of all partnership arrangements arising from the abolition of compulsory competitive tendering client/contractor splits. Rather than implementing a purchaser/provider partnership, the management provision and maintenance of public conveniences would be undertaken by Community and Commercial Services in line with the council's approach to achieving Best Value across all its services. This would commence on 1 January, 2001.
Associated resource implications were also outlined in the report.
Resolved - (a) That the provision and maintenance of public conveniences be transferred to the Directorate of Community and Commercial Services; (b) that all officers previously responsible for public conveniences in North Lincolnshire be thanked for their work over the years, and (c) that this committee reiterates its thanks to the former Councillors Mrs V Margetts and Turner for their efforts in providing new and improved public conveniences in Brigg and Barton-upon-Humber respectively.
248 (174) HEALTH AND SAFETY ENFORCEMENT POLICY - The Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a report proposing a statement of policy in respect of the enforcement of the Health and Safety at Work Act, 1974 by the officers of North Lincolnshire Council and the framework on which executive action should be based.
The report explained that the Health and Safety Commission in its Enforcement Handbook (of November 1998) identified that a clear statement of enforcement policy and practice was essential to enable the council to discharge adequately its duty as an enforcing authority. Furthermore, the enforcement of health and safety law should be influenced by the principles of proportionality in applying the law and securing compliance, consistency of approach, targeting of enforcement action and transparency about how they operated and what those, the subject of enforcement could expect. These four principles were incorporated into the occupational health and safety enforcement policy, a copy of which was attached for information at appendix one to the report.
The Director in his report identified some of the areas of the council's priorities and objectives implemented within the review of the enforcement policy and also principles of the Enforcement Concordat adopted by the council. The Concordat set out what business and others being regulated could expect from enforcement officers, in terms of consistency, fairness and practicality of enforcement policies and procedures.
Resolved - That the statement of health and safety enforcement policy as detailed in appendix one to the report be approved and adopted.
249 (175) APPLICATIONS FOR HEALTHY LIVING CENTRE FUNDING - The Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a report advising the committee of three applications that had been or were being submitted for funding under the New Opportunities Healthy Living Centre programme, and also sought approval for the council to be the lead partner for the bids, accepting their financial and management responsibility.
The report explained that the New Opportunities Fund was created in 1999 to award grants as a Lottery distributor for projects that related to health, education or the environment. The principal focus of the grants was to target funds to those in society who were most disadvantaged.
With regard to health, £300 million had been made available under the Healthy Living Centre programme for innovative projects that promoted health in its widest sense, helping people improve their well being and get the most out of life.
Applications for funding were dealt with in two stages : the first stage bid was intended for applicants to outline their proposals and the outcomes they expected to achieve. If this was successful, a more detailed application had to be provided incorporating a business plan. The deadline for the submission of all first stage bids was 21 December, 2000.
The Healthy Living Centre funding offered an excellent opportunity for the council to support its priorities of increasing community capacity and social inclusion and it specifically addresses Council Objectives 42 and 43 of improving levels of health and fitness in the community and reducing inequalities in health.
The Director in his report identified and summarised the content of three bids for Healthy Living Centre funding that were being progressed under the following headings -
(i) Barton and District Healthy Living Centre bid,
(ii) Crosby Bridge - Bridging the inequalities, and
(iii) Fit for Football.
Although each of the above bids had been compiled by a wide range of organisations working in partnership with North Lincolnshire Council, one organisation must assume the lead for each project. This organisation was ultimately responsible for the financial management of the project. Most of the partner organisations were of insufficient size to fulfil this role and looked to local authorities or the health authority to take on this responsibility. Discussions had been held with South Humber Health Authority who had indicated that should North Lincolnshire Council should take on the lead organisation role for the Barton and Crosby projects, they would jointly undertake to explore ways to ensure that should there be any shortfalls in the projects, the financial commitments of the projects were met. The football project included partners on both sides of the Humber and a more formal arrangement would be needed if this council was to assume the lead.
Resolved - (a) That the submission of the three bids for Healthy Living Centre funding as detailed in the report be supported; (b) that North Lincolnshire Council be approved as the lead organisation for the Barton and Crosby Healthy Living Centre bids; (c) that in the case of the Fit for Football bid, North Lincolnshire Council be approved as the lead organisation for the bid subject to a formal agreement being made between the major partners for the financial management of the project, and (d) that this committee acknowledges the important role of schools and their governing bodies in the 'Fit for Football' project which reference should be included in paragraph 3.4 of the report.
250 (176) IRRESPONSIBLE DOG OWNERSHIP - Further to minute 984, the Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a report advising the committee on the outcome of enforcement action taken against irresponsible dog owners to date and clarified the position/responsibilities of Parish and Town Councils and the public with regard to the fouling by dogs, of public open spaces. The Director also sought members' approval to adopt the strategy proposed within his report regarding enforcement action.
Resolved - (a) That Town and Parish Councils be consulted about the possible future designation of land within individual parishes that might fall within the scope of the Act, and that a pilot partnership with a Town or Parish Council be undertaken with a joint approach to enforcement of the Dog Fouling of Land Act, 1996 on such land; (b) that pilot partnerships be established with other directorates willing to make resources available for a joint approach to enforcement of the legislation, and (c) that further initiatives for the prosecution of dog fouling on land already designated by the authority be undertaken in 2001 and that police assistance in such initiatives be sought.
251 (177) REVIEW OF LEGAL AGREEMENT IN RESPECT OF THE HUMBER AUTHORITIES CALIBRATION TEST CENTRE - The Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a report recommending a review of the joint arrangement between North Lincolnshire Council, the East Riding of Yorkshire Council, the Kingston Upon Hull City Council and the North East Lincolnshire Council in respect of the Humber Authorities Calibration Test Centre (CTC). The Humber Authorities Calibration Test Centre, situated in the East Riding of Yorkshire, provided statutory calibration facilities to the Trading Standards Service of the Humber Authorities, as well as offering a service to businesses in the area which required the regular calibration of measuring equipment as an essential part of their businesses. Since the local government reorganisation of 1996, the facility had been operated on a joint arrangement basis with East Riding of Yorkshire acting as lead authority.
The report explained that in order to provide a longer term view in the planning and management of this service, and confirm the commitment of the participants, it was now proposed that the current contractual arrangements; under which authorities commit themselves to the service a year at a time, be changed so that the partners enter into a rolling three year contract. A new agreement was also required to address certain shortcomings in the existing agreement.
It was proposed that under the new agreement, all staff working at the centre would be directly employed by the lead authority. It was proposed that this be done by applying the principles of TUPE, although the agreement of the relevant staff would be necessary for this to take place. North Lincolnshire Council currently had no employees in the centre.
Similarly, under the new agreement there would be a joint management group constituted of officers from the four member authorities. This would give a formalised role to the present co-ordinating group.
A business plan had been produced which set out the way ahead for the facility in order that it may provide an optimum level of service to its owners and the commercial users of the area. This envisaged contribution costs only increasing in accordance with inflation for five years, followed by reductions in the contributions thereafter, owing to additional external income being generated.
Resolved - (a) That the CTC Business Plan as outlined in the report be approved, and (b) that the Assistant Director of Environment and Public Protection (Environmental Health and Trading Standards) in consultation with the Cabinet Member, Health and Public Protection (Councillor Barkworth) be authorised to receive the legal agreement and, if appropriate, approve it on behalf of this committee.
252 (178) NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR CLEAN AIR AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION CONFERENCE AND EXHIBITION 2000, SCARBOROUGH - 25 - 27 SEPTEMBER, 2000 (i) Chair's Report (ii) Director of Environment and Public Protection's Report - The above reports submitted outlined the content, observations and outcome of the above conference and exhibition.
Resolved - (a) That the reports be noted, and (b) that this committee supports attendance at any future NSCA conference.
253 (179) PROPOSED COUNCIL HIGHWAY PROGRAMME - 2000/2001 - The Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a report seeking approval of the highway programme for 2001/2002. The proposed programme of works was identified in an appendix to the report.
Resolved - That the proposed 2001/2002 Highways Programme as identified in the appendix to the report be approved up to the level of the revenue and capital budgets for 2001/2002.
254 (180) PUBLIC TRANSPORT : EXPERIMENTAL FREE BUS SERVICE - ISLE OF AXHOLME - The Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a report informing the committee of a proposed experiment to provide certain evening bus services between Scunthorpe and the Isle of Axholme at no cost to passengers.
Two routes in the Isle of Axholme currently funded through the Rural Bus Grant, had been identified as having the potential to launch an experiment for a limited period, when certain evening journeys would be provided at no cost to the passengers.
The services were the 356 Garthorpe/Crowle/Scunthorpe and the 399 Epworth/Belton/Scunthorpe. Full details of the services involved in the experiment were appended to the report.
The experiment was also a response to the concerns expressed by young people, during the Great Youth Debate, who felt that the potential to travel into and out of Scunthorpe in the evenings was limited, and that fares were expensive.
The experimental services had commenced on Saturday 14 October, and would run until mid January 2001. They would be kept under review, and a report on the outcome would be presented to this committee in due course.
Resolved - (a) That the introduction of the free bus services as outlined in the report be noted, and (b) that a progress report be submitted to the committee when the outcome of the experiment is known.
255 (181) PUBLIC TRANSPORT : BOTTESFORD EVENING AND SUNDAY BUS SERVICE - Further to minute 200, the Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a report requesting the committee to consider determining the future of the evening and Sunday bus service between Scunthorpe and Bottesford.
North Lincolnshire Council inherited a contracted bus service between Scunthorpe Bus Station and Valley View Drive and Timberlands in Bottesford. The service continued to run from 6.00 p.m. until 10.50 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and from 2.00 p.m. until 10.50 p.m. on Sunday and bank holidays. It was operated by Lincolnshire Road Car and a current timetable was appended to the report (appendix 1).
The existing contract expired on 2 October, 2000 but the service was continuing on a temporary arrangement until its future was resolved.
The report explained the costs of providing the service which was not well used, and also performed poorly against the council's public transport policy priorities and checks as detailed in appendix 2.
Resolved - That the temporary arrangement remain in place until 31 March 2001 and consideration be given to a "free fare" experiment similar to the promotions currently being carried out on rural routes in the Isle of Axholme.
256 (182) PROPOSED CHANGES TO EXISTING TRAFFIC REGULATION ORDER AND INTRODUCTION OF NEW ORDER, WINTERTON - The Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a report seeking approval of proposed changes to an existing Traffic Regulation Order, and to make a new order in respect of limited waiting in Earlsgate, Winterton.
Details of the proposals were outlined in the report as identified on a plan attached as an appendix.
Resolved - That approval be given for the advertising of an Order, and for changes to an existing Order on Earlsgate, Winterton, and that subject to no objections being received that the Order be made.
257 (183) PUBLIC TRANSPORT - RURAL BUS CHALLENGE - The Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a report informing the committee of the bid made for the 2000 Rural Bus Challenge competition.
The report explained that the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions (DETR) had announced that the Rural Bus Challenge competition previously run in 1998 and 1999 would be repeated in 2000, and invited bids. The Challenge was a competition for funding for innovative projects in rural areas to support and improve public transport and allied facilities, and formed a part of the current rural transport initiative.
The council had submitted bids for each of the previous competitions, being unsuccessful in 1998, but being awarded £88,000 for infrastructure improvements in Brigg from last years bid.
The Director in his report stated that the bid document had been submitted to the DETR to meet their deadline of the 6 October and copies were available at the meeting for inspection.
Whilst the council had made clear that it intended to use Local Transport Plan capital to enhance and improve various bus related infrastructure, the bid covered the route between Barton-upon-Humber and Scunthorpe. The proposal comprised of improvements to bus stop infrastructure in Barton-upon-Humber, South Ferriby, Winteringham, Winterton and Roxby.
The bid at a total value of £457,255, was based on making improvements to existing bus stop facilities and would, where possible provide new shelters or improvements to existing facilities, better access kerbs and timetable information.
Resolved - (a) That the bid made to the DETR in the Rural Bus Challenge Competition be noted, and (b) that a further report be submitted to the committee when the outcome of the bid is known.
258 (184) COUNTRYSIDE AND PUBLIC RIGHTS OF WAY BILL - The Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a report alerting the committee to the impending enactment of the Countryside and Public Rights of Way Bill, arising out of which would be additional statutory responsibility and duties for the council to bear.
The report summarised the content of Parts 1 and 2 of the Bill especially its impact for local authorities and gave greater detail of the legislative requirements under the following headings:-
(i) Cut-off date for the Definitive Map and Statement.
(ii) Improving the Rights of Way Network.
(iii) Protecting the Environment.
(iv) Unlawful Obstructions - Making Removal Easier.
(v) New Powers and Procedures for Extinguishing and Diverting Footpaths and Bridleways.
(vi) Reclassification of Roads Used as Public Parks (RUPP).
(vii) Miscellaneous Measures.
Associated resource implications were also outlined in the report.
Resolved - That the contents of this report be noted in anticipation of subsequent reports that will offer recommended means of meeting the authority's ever-growing commitment to its public rights of way network..
259 (185) ENVIRONMENT TEAM - USE OF CONSULTANTS - The Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a report in accordance with Financial Standing Order 10.17.3 informing the committee of the engagement of consultants to provide specialist advice in the directorate's Environment Team.
Resolved - That the report and its compliance with Financial Standing Order 10.17.3 be noted.
260 (186) SPECIAL AREA OF CONSERVATION (SAC) AND SPECIAL PROTECTION AREA (SPA) CONSULTATIONS - The Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a report updating the committee on a series of consultations received from English Nature on their proposals for:-
(i) extending the Humber Estuary and Crowle Moors Special Protection Area (SPA);
(ii) the designation of the Estuary as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) under the European Habitats and Birds Directive;
(iii) the designation of the Humber Estuary as a Ramsar Site under the International Treaty for the Conservation of Wetlands.
The Director in his report described the background to the proposals and their significance for North Lincolnshire, together with information on the preparation of a Single Scheme of management for the estuary required under the Habitats Regulations.
Resolved - (a) That a detailed analysis of the likely economic and social implications of such designation upon the plans and policies of North Lincolnshire Council be undertaken in conjunction with the interested parties and that this report be sent to English Nature and the Department of the Environment Transport and the Regions; (b) that the council recognises its responsibilities as a "relevant" authority and works with other relevant authorities to prepare the Single Scheme of Management for the Humber, and (c) that a further report be submitted to the next committee detailing the additional staff and financial resources required to implement this important piece of legislation.
261 (187) ISLE OF AXHOLME INITIATIVE - The Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a report informing the committee of recent developments with the Isle of Axholme Project, and sought approval to progress the development and market testing of a special project under the Countryside Stewardship Scheme. The Isle of Axholme Project was established in 1996 as a partnership between North Lincolnshire Council, Countryside Agency, English Heritage and the Farming and Rural Conservation Agency in response to issues of landscape conservation that had arisen from Countryside Stewardship Applications.
Resolved - (a) That approval be granted to progress the development and market testing of a Special Project under the Countryside Stewardship Scheme as outlined in the report, and (b) that a grant of £7,500 from the Countryside Agency towards the cost of employing consultants to undertake this specified work be accepted.
262 (188) STREET NUMBERING IN NORTH LINCOLNSHIRE - The Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a report which considered an objection to the proposed numbering scheme for Ferry Road, Barrow-upon-Humber under Section 64 of the Town Improvements Clauses Act 1847.
The report explained that Barrow-upon-Humber Parish Council requested North Lincolnshire Council to investigate street and property identification in general within the village. Following surveys, additional street nameplates had been erected on those streets where none existed, or where additional signs were necessary to improve way finding.
Investigations also revealed no numbers existed on properties within Ferry Road. A scheme was prepared and sent to the fifty-five residents of Ferry Road for consultation. One objection to the scheme had been received. The letter of objection was appended to the report for consideration.
Resolved - That the proposed numbering scheme be approved.
263 (189) ENVIRONMENT GRANT APPLICATIONS - The Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a report detailing three applications for funding under the council's Environment Grant Scheme.
Resolved - (a) That a grant of £300 be awarded to the Vale of Ancholme School; (b) that a grant of £284 be awarded to the Flixborough Millennium Committee; (c) that a grant of £300 be awarded to the Eastoft Millennium Group, and (d) that the applicants be requested to provide a short progress report on their scheme in six months time.
264 (190) DIRECTION ON RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT OF GREENFIELD LAND - Further to minute 48 the Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a report informing the committee of new government procedures for dealing with planning applications for larger scale housing developments on greenfield sites, in the form of the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions Circular 8/2000.
Resolved - (a) That the new guidance in Circular 8/2000 be taken into account in dealing with relevant planning applications, and (b) that this report be referred to the Planning Sub-Committee for information.
265 (191) NORTH LINCOLNSHIRE OBJECTIVE 2 TRANSITIONAL AREAS ACTION PLAN 2000/2005 - The Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a report seeking approval of the North Lincolnshire Objective 2 Transitional Areas Action Plan (2000/2005) for submission to the Yorkshire and Humber Programme Monitoring Committee (PMC).
The report explained that North Lincolnshire had been deemed eligible for EU Structural Fund support within the new Objective 2 Programme (2000/2006). Two wards were eligible for mainstream Objective 2 funding, these were Humber and Abbey, which were located in the north eastern part of North Lincolnshire and covered the parishes of North Killingholme, South Killingholme, Thornton Curtis, New Holland, Barrow upon Humber, Barrow Haven and Wootton. All the remaining wards of North Lincolnshire were eligible for Transitional Area funding.
A draft North Lincolnshire Objective 2 Transitional Areas Action Plan 2000/2005 had been prepared, based on the results of initial consultation with partners throughout North Lincolnshire, and was available in political group offices. The document contained all the elements required and demonstrated strategic fit with council priorities and appropriate regional and local strategies. It was required to be submitted to the PMC in December 2000, following agreement with partners.
The total proposed investment in the Objective 2 eligible areas in Yorkshire and the Humber was approximately £770 million, of which £284 million was European grant. The proposed investment for Transitional Areas in the region is approximately £98 million of which £34 million was European grant. The draft North Lincolnshire Objective 2 Transitional Areas Action Plan 2000/2005 identified a programme totalling around £36 million of which approximately £12 million was required from Europe.
Resolved - That the draft North Lincolnshire Objective 2 Transitional Areas Action Plan 2000/2005 be approved for submission to the regional PMC.
266 (192) REGENERATION PROJECT DEVELOPMENT - Further to minute 54 the Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a report on the progress of the four projects below within the Single Regeneration Budget (SRB) 6 Programme, and sought approval to develop the projects further by creating new posts using associated SRB6 funding. The projects were:-
- Community and Personal Development Outreach Project
- Growing Active Communities.
- Isle of Axholme Regeneration Project.
- Credit Union Development Project.
Resolved - (a) That Regeneration Officers (Outreach) posts (Scale 5-6) be established for the duration of the SRB funding, the Credit Union Development Worker post be established for 2 years, the Crowle Community Resource Centre Manager and the Regeneration Assistant posts be extended for the duration of SRB funding; (b) that the report be referred to Community, Commercial and Corporate Affairs Committee to consider the staffing implications, and (c) that the associated budgets for the next financial year 2001/2002 be approved.
267 (193) COMMUNITY SAFETY UPDATE - Further to minute 194, the Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a report updating the committee on the success of four community safety projects within the Resurgo North Lincolnshire Programme, and sought approval for working arrangements between the projects. The four projects were:-
(i) The Domestic Violence Co-ordinator;
(ii) The Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator;
(iii) The Key Fund (Community Chest), and
(iv) The Offender Monitoring Project.
Resolved - (a) That the North Lincolnshire Community Safety Co-ordinator works jointly with the Domestic Violence Worker and the Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator to achieve the objectives and targets of the Community Safety Plan; (b) that part funding of the Key Fund (Community Chest) be made through existing budgets, and (c) that a financial contribution be made from existing budgets, towards an Information Officer within the Youth Offending Team to undertake the audit each year instead of employing external consultants.
268 (194) HOUSEHOLD RECYCLING CENTRES - This item was considered after the chair had decided it was urgent because of the need to inform service users as soon as possible of Christmas and New Year opening arrangements at the council's network of Household Recycling Centres.
The Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a report seeking approval of proposed opening arrangements over the Christmas and New Year period for the council's network of Household Recycling Centres managed on behalf of the council by North Lincolnshire Waste Services Limited under the terms of the current waste disposal contract. An appendix to the report detailed the proposed opening hours of the sites. Both the Environment Agency and North Lincolnshire Waste Services Limited had been consulted on the proposals.
Resolved - That the proposed hours of opening detailed in the appendix to the report, as agreed with North Lincolnshire Waste Services and the Environment Agency, be approved and adopted.
269 EXCLUSION OF THE PUBLIC - Resolved - That the public be excluded from the meeting for consideration of the following items (minute 270 to 273 refer) on the grounds that they involved the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in paragraphs 7, 8 and 9 of Part 1 of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act, 1972.
270 (195) HIGHWAYS AND TRANSPORTATION DIVISIONAL REVIEW - SECOND PHASE - Further to minute 1887 and 2792 of the former Development and Environment Committee the Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a report seeking approval of the review of his directorate's Highways and Transportation Division.
The background and proposals of the review were detailed and explained in the report under the following headings -
- Compulsory Competitive Tendering ; (CCT);
- Staff Consultations;
- Key Changes;
- Resources Required to Improve Service Delivery, and
- Resource implications
, together with eleven supporting appendices.
Resolved - (a) That the review of the Highways and Transportation Division, as detailed in the attached appendices, be approved, including the termination of the CCT contract with effect from 1 April 2001; (b) that further consideration be given to the benefits of combining all or parts of the highway service in the Directorates of Community and Commercial Services and Environment and Public Protection through the best value review process and as stage three of this review process; (c) that the highway maintenance best value review considers the merits of combining the highway and housing infrastructure as outlined in the report; (d) that the three senior managers who have expressed an interest in voluntary redundancies be offered this option; (e) that the redundancies identified be referred to the Confidential Matters Sub-Committee for consideration and approval, and (f) that the staffing implications of this report be referred to Community, Commercial and Corporate Affairs Committee for consideration and approval.
271 (196) REVIEW OF PERSONNEL SECTION - The Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a report reviewing the staffing structure of his directorate's Personnel Section. The proposals of the review, together with associated resource implications were detailed and explained in the report.
Resolved - That the proposals detailed in paragraph 4.1 be approved, and referred to Community, Commercial and Corporate Affairs Committee for consideration and approval.
272 (197) ADMINISTRATION STAFF - ENVIRONMENT TEAM - The Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a report reviewing his directorate's Environment Team's Administration Section, and sought approval to combine two part-time posts into one full time post. The proposals and associated resource implications were detailed in the report.
Resolved - (a) That approval be given to combine post number DE059 with post number DE050 to create one full time Administrative Officer post; (b) that post number DE059 be deleted from the establishment of the Environment Team, and (c) that this report be referred to the Community, Consultative and Corporate Affairs Committee for consideration and approval.
273 (198) HIGHWAYS CONTRACTS AWARDED - The Director of Environment and Public Protection submitted a report informing the committee of highway contracts awarded since the last meeting of this committee, minute 201 refers.
Resolved - That the report be noted.
This schedule does not form part of the Minutes
FOR MEMBERS’ INFORMATION - SCHEDULE OF DECISIONS MADE SINCE THE LAST MEETING BY THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE/DIRECTORS, IN CONSULTATION WITH THE CHAIR OR VICE-CHAIR, IN MATTERS OF URGENCY AND UNDER DELEGATED POWERS
Decision Record Reference - Subject and Decision
EPP/05/00 Approval for the disposal of land in High Street, Barton upon Humber in order to facilitate a supermarket development.
EPP/06/00 Approval to accept the second lowest tender for the Cary Lane, Brigg – Public Conveniences Contract – Project No 11386.
EPP/07/00 Approval to accept the lowest tender for the B1396 Park Drain and Wroot, Thorn Bank Contract.
EPP/08/00 Authorisation for the Council’s Legal Adviser to prepare a Temporary Road Closure Order – B1396 Park Farm Drain and Thorn Bank, Wroot.
EPP/09/00 Approval to suspend Standing Orders 4 and 6 to enable extension of existing contract and associated costs – Waters’ Edge Pond B Tip Works Contract.
EPP/10/00 Approval to appoint consultants to prepare bids for ERDF transitional funding to support the Waterside Regeneration Scheme.
EPP/11/00 Approval to appoint consultants to produce definitive map statements for fifty per cent of the Rights of Way Network.
EPP/12/00 Approval to pay compensation to Mr R of Ealand following complaint to the Ombudsman into the Ealand Modification Order.
EPP/13/00 Approval to grant a six month Licence to O H B Ltd to occupy part of the Old Boathouse at Barton upon Humber.
EPP/14/00 Approval to accept grant aid from the Countryside Agency towards the Isle of Axholme Greenway Access Project.
EPP/15/00 Approval to a response to the "National Strategy for Neighbourhood Renewal : A Framework for Consultation".
EPP/16/00 Approval to appoint the Quality Standards Unit Manager as Chief Inspector of Weights and Measures on a temporary basis pending a review of the Trading Standards Function.
EPP/17/00 Approval to revoke Hackney Carriage Licences – numbered 053 and 189.
EPP/18/00 Approval to accept the lowest tender for the Waters’ Edge, Barton – Pond A South Contract.
EPP/19/00 Approval to award Public Transport Contracts RTF 00/1200; 1201 and 1202 "Music Buses".
EPP/20/00 Approval to name new roads as Clifford’s Close, Scawby and Kings Croft, Ealand.
EPP/21/00 Approval to award Public Transport Contract Service NL 00/1193 Scunthorpe to Keadby and Amcotts.
EPP/22/00 Approval to extend fixed term Contract of the Regeneration Officer (Barton) from 31.3.01 to 31.3.02.
EPP/23/00 Approval to accept the lowest tender for the Waters’ Edge, Barton – Visitor Centre Preparation Works Contract.
EPP/24/00 Approval to award Public Transport Contract RTF 00/1203 Winter Sunday Bus Service between Cleethorpes and Barton.
EPP/25/00 Approval to extend the No Waiting at Any Time Order to prohibit waiting on a section of Ashby High Street.
EPP/26/00 Approval to changes to the disposal arrangements, amendment to contract arrangements, tender and contract award timetable and the select list of tenderers – Waters’ Edge Phase 1 Reclamation Scheme.
EPP/27/00 Approval to accept the lowest tender for the B1434, Kettleby Beck Bridge Contract.
EPP/28/00 Approval to enter into a Licence with Local Government Information House Limited (LGIH) to enable the National Land Use Database to be made available via a web site.
EPP/29/00 Approval to establish a programme team (three posts) to manage the SRB6 Programme.
EPP/30/00 Approval to accept the lowest tender for the Waters’ Edge, Barton – Humber Bank Walkway Improvements Contract.
EPP/31/00 Approval to submit a Modification Order, to add Sandy Lane, Barton, to the definitive map and statement to the Secretary of State for confirmation.
EPP/32/00 Approval to award Public Transport Contracts NL 00/1204, Kirton – Brigg and NL 00/1205, Brigg Area Shoppers services.
EPP/33/00 Approval to accept the lowest tender for the Waters’ Edge Phase 1 Reclamation Scheme Contract and Variation to the existing Contract to co-dispose of waste from Waters’ Edge in the Conesby Quarry Landfill facility.
EPP/34/00 Approval to dispose of a 1 acre site at Atherton Way, Ancholme Business Park, Brigg.
EPP/35/00 Approval for Alkborough Parish Council to site public seats on the highway at West Halton Lane, Walcot Road and Whitton Road.
EPP/36/00 Approval (i) to the response to outstanding representations on the Deposit Draft North Lincolnshire Local Plan and (ii) the Revised Deposit Draft of the North Lincolnshire Local Plan.
EPP/37/00 Approval to accept the lowest tender for the Supply and Delivery of Road Salt for Winter Maintenance 2000/2001.
EPP/38/00 Approval to accept the lowest tender for the A18 Queensway/East Common Lane Contract.