Brighton & Hove City Council
SPECIAL Council
4.30pm13 August 2020
Virtual Meeting - Skype
MINUTES
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Present: Councillors Robins (Chair), Mears (Deputy Chair), Allcock, Appich, Atkinson, Bagaeen, Barnett, Brennan, Childs, Clare, Deane, Druitt, Evans, Fishleigh, Fowler, Gibson, Hamilton, Heley, Hill, Hills, Hugh-Jones, Janio, Knight, Lewry, Littman, Lloyd, Mac Cafferty, McNair, Miller, Moonan, Nemeth, Nield, O'Quinn, Osborne, Peltzer Dunn, Phillips, Pissaridou, Platts, Powell, Shanks, C Theobald, Wares, West, Wilkinson and Williams.
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PART ONE
27 Declarations of Interest
27.1 Councillor Druitt declared a personal but not prejudicial interest in Item 35(5) as he owned a property in the city which was let and had been granted dispensation to speak and vote;
27.2 Councillor Gibson declared a personal but not prejudicial interest in Item 35(5) as he was a landlord and he and his partner both campaigned for the Living Rent Campaign. He also declared a personal interest in Item 35(8) as he was a member of the Credit Union and had been granted dispensation to speak and vote;
27.3 Councillor Heley declared a personal but not prejudicial interest in Item 35(5) as she was a tenant;
27.4 Councillor Mac Cafferty declared a personal but not prejudicial interest in Item 35(8) as he was a member of the Credit Union and had been grated dispensation to speak and vote;
27.5 Councillor Osborne declared a personal but not prejudicial interest in Item 35(5) as he was a member of the Rent Union and had been grated dispensation to speak and vote;
27.6 Councillor Phillips declared a personal but not prejudicial interest in Item 35(5) as she was a landlord in the city and had been granted dispensation to speak and vote;
27.7 Councillor Shanks declared a personal but not prejudicial interest in Item 35(8) as she was a member of the Credit Union and had been grated dispensation to speak and vote;
27.8 Councillor Appich declared a personal but not prejudicial interest in Item 35(8) as she was a member of the Credit Union and had been grated dispensation to speak and vote;
27.9 Councillor Evans declared a personal but not prejudicial interest in Item 35(8) as she was a member of the Credit Union and had been grated dispensation to speak and vote;
27.10 Councillor Hill declared a personal but not prejudicial interest in Item 35(8) as she was a member of the Community Land Trust and the Credit Union and had been grated dispensation to speak and vote;
27.11 Councillor Moonan declared a personal but not prejudicial interest in Item 35(5) as she was a tenant and had been grated dispensation to speak and vote;
27.12 Councillor O’Quinn declared a personal but not prejudicial interest in Item 35(5) as she was the Chair of the Brighton & Hove Estate Conservation Trust and had been grated dispensation to speak and vote;
27.13 Councillor Platts declared a personal and non-prejudicial interest in Item 35(5) as a member of Acorn and Item 35(8) as a member of the Credit Union and had been grated dispensation to speak and vote;
27.14 Councillor Robins declared a personal and non-prejudicial interest in Item 35(8) as a member of the Credit Union and had been grated dispensation to speak and vote;
27.15 Councillor Wilkinson declared a personal and non-prejudicial interest in Item 35(5) as a tenant and Item 35(8) as a member of the Credit Union and had been grated dispensation to speak and vote;
27.16 Councillor Williams declared a personal and non-prejudicial interest in Item 35(5) as a member of Acorn and as a tenant and had been grated dispensation to speak and vote;
27.17 Councillor West declared a personal but not prejudicial interest in Item 35(5) as he was a member of the Brighton & Hove Estate Conservation Trust and had been grated dispensation to speak and vote;
27.18 Councillor Peltzer Dunn declared a personal and non-prejudicial interest in Item 35(5) as a landlord and had been grated dispensation to speak and vote;
27.19 Councillor Brennan declared a personal and non-prejudicial interest in Item 35(5) as a tenant and a member of Acorn and had been grated dispensation to speak and vote;
27.20 Councillor Knight declared a personal and non-prejudicial interest in Item 35(5) as a member of Acorn and had been grated dispensation to speak and vote;
27.21 Councillor Fishleigh declared a personal and non-prejudicial interest in Item 35(5) as a landlord and had been grated dispensation to speak and vote;
27.22 No other declarations of interests in matters appearing on the agenda were made.
28 Mayor's Communications.
28.1 The Mayor stated that he had no update for today’s meeting as such but wanted to note that the Mayor’s Office was hoping to hold a couple of events in December at All Saints Church – a film night showing A Miracle on 34th Street and a Choir evening with the Gay Men’s Choir. He hoped that if these were finalised councillors would be able to join him at each event.
29 To receive petitions and e-petitions.
29.1 The Mayor invited the submission of petitions from councillors and members of the public. He reminded the Council that petitions would be referred to the appropriate decision-making body without debate and the person presenting the petition would be invited to attend the meeting to which the petition was referred.
29.2 Ms. Holly Pike presented a petition signed by 1,307 residents concerning the introduction of a household food and waste system.
29.3 Mr. Telford presented a petition signed by 364 residents which sought the installation of a sign to be added to the Queen Victoria statue in Hove to explain Britain’s role in India.
29.4 The Mayor thanked both Ms. Pike and Mr. Telford for presenting their petitions and noted that they would be referred to the Environment, Transport & Sustainability Committee for consideration.
30 Written questions from members of the public.
30.1 The Mayor reported that 5 written questions had been received from members of the public and invited Mr. Shepherd to and address the meeting.
30.2 Mr. Shepherd asked the following question; CovId-19 reduces peak bus capacity by 1173 passengers. Its temporary bus lane extends the A259 Greenways’ queue past Roedean Road, causing additional pollution. 100 people forced to switch to cars further extends this queue past Black Rock, obstructing emergency services’ eastbound access.
What figures for queues, delays and any increases due to the temporary bus lane and to extra traffic, did officers use planning for this CovId-19 Emergency and determining the bus lane would be beneficial, checking its viability with Emergency Services and what plans are in place to provide extra buses for longer distance commuters to reduce this problem?
30.3 Councillor West replied, as more people can thankfully now go back to work, we are very aware that the city could experience significant congestion and a rise in car journeys unless measures are taken to provide facilities for an increase in alternative sustainable options. Extending the priority on the A259 will ensure that public transport, especially the bus, will remain an attractive option for people to use. We have wanted to see bus travel return to its pre-pandemic levels at the earliest opportunity, because we know how reliant many people who live, and work here are on it; especially those people without access to a private vehicle. The city’s bus companies have been doing all they can to accommodate that in a safe and responsible way from the outset too and I am very glad we are seeing bus journey levels increasing to 50%. I am therefore really pleased to see that the Government has now begun to recognise the benefits of people returning to public transport, if they need to travel.
Priority lanes like these can be used by bus, coach and taxi passengers, and motorcyclists so they can have a wide range of benefits and provide more consistent journey times. That is why this proposal has been included in the Urgency Response Transport Action Plan that was agreed by committee in June. This proposal was also identified in the council’s 2018 Bus Network Review, so it is not a new idea. That citywide review was based on supporting traffic data and analysis, and it can be found on our website.
To respond to the Government, we have had to work at an unprecedented pace to identify, design and deliver active and sustainable travel measures for the city. The detailed design of this proposal is currently being progressed and Sussex Police and local bus operators have been involved as part of this process. That dialogue will continue, especially with bus operators about the level of service provision along the route. Should it ever be necessary, the priority lane can also be used by our emergency services when attending an incident.
I appreciate that you have calculated some figures based on your own assumptions of what may happen on the A259 as the city and its residents begin to recover from the pandemic, but as we all know from our own personal experiences and choices, there is a lot of uncertainty at the moment. This influences if, or how, we actually change our travel choices and behaviours. These include whether some people will travel at all, or will they continue to have to, or choose to, work from home for example. If they do travel on our roads, will they avoid the usual, busier times?
The priority lane will enable some of those choices to be made. It will be introduced using an Experimental Traffic Order and this allows the scheme to be introduced quickly and gives members of the public six months to comment and make any representations. If these include objections which cannot be resolved, then the future of the proposed scheme will be discussed and decided by the Environment, Transport & Sustainability Committee at a future date.
30.4 Mr. Shepherd asked the following supplementary question; I gratefully support the management of the A 259 and as he well knows I am a great supporter trying to make our sustainable bus services get the best deal for all our people. However, I have to say that I do not feel he has been correctly advised on some matters by the officers so my actual supplementary question is your response does not say how you will help out of town commuters cope with their buses having no spare seats and their roads being over loaded close to grid lock nor did it show that removing vehicle queuing space at Greenways were properly assessed for its safety and grid lock potential. Do you agree that the council's response for this Covid-19 emergency must consider the needs of the A259 bus commuters and do you further agree that such plans should be prepared for public scrutiny within 4 weeks, that being with a history of misunderstanding about the A 259 and this specific queue.
30.5 Councillor West replied; I will provide you with a proper response but am not adequately able to do so at the moment.
30.6 The Mayor thanked Mr. Shepherd for his questions and invited Mr. Trangmar to address the meeting.
30.7 Mr. Trangmar asked the following question; Last November residents presented a petition to ETS about Bristol Gardens in East Brighton being used as a rat run.
A consultation was promised in the spring. Can you please confirm that this has been rescheduled and will still take place as this road is increasingly dangerous for pedestrians and cyclists now that COVID restrictions are being lifted?
30.8 Councillor West replied, This location was identified in the 2020/21 Interim Local Transport Plan (LTP) programme for improvement this year. Unfortunately, the delivery of the interim LTP programme has been put on hold so that we can focus on the delivery of the COVID19 Transport Action Plan, which is very responsive to the current situation and is very much occupying all transport officers time. An update on the action plan and how this will impact on the Interim LTP programme will be bought to ETS in September.
It is our intention that all identified schemes will to taken forward at some stage but it is not possible to confirm when this will take place until after the prioritisation process is complete, I appreciate that is a technical and complex answer for you but I am sure you appreciate the challenging situation we are in.
30.9 Mr. Trangmar asked the following supplementary question; can you provide an assurance that any proposals will form part of the road traffic Master plan for East Brighton and surrounding areas and this takes into account future developments such as the Black Rock gas site, the Marina residential development and Black Rock swimming site because importantly they all need to be taken into account in any proposals for Bristol Gardens?
30.10 Councillor West replied; I will consult officers and get a written response to you about that.
30.11 The Mayor thanked Mr. Trangmar for his questions and invited Mr. Jones to address the meeting.
30.12 Mr. Jones asked the following question; The community of Roedean, Roedean School and the gateway to the National Park have no footpath or cycle lane connecting to the City. Some walk alongside dangerous and fast-moving traffic on Roedean Road others access the hazardous and overgrown A259 pathway. The elderly, disabled and young people must leave Roedean by car. Last month BHCC turned down 3 needed family homes on Roedean Road on grounds of road safety. (BH2020/00971). A foot and cycle path on Roedean Road are essential to the safe development of this community. Does the Council agree that this footpath is essential, and will they prioritise it?
30.13 Councillor West replied, Pedestrian and cycle safety and enabling access to the national Park are certainly matters that myself and my fellow councillors take very seriously. There are a number of locations around the city where similar circumstances unfortunately exist, and we need to see that there is an improvement. The Council is currently developing its local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan for which there is a huge amount of excitement about the prospect of that and what it will be able to achieve, and I can confirm that your comments and requests about pedestrianisation and cycling issues have been noted by the officers and will be taken into account as part of that ongoing work. When assessing potential footway improvements, factors such as need to re-construct road surfaces and drainage and divert and lower underground services and whether there is generally enough space to do things all need to be taken into account. So, what in some ways can look like a very simple request can in fact be a very major undertaking. All these works have to be considered amongst all the other requests for works to be done so that an overall privatisation can be determined for what can be achieved for what is most needed. With, always, the budget that we have available at the time, so I do hope that when everything is looked at together it will be possible for the council to make improvements as your community is requesting. I am not personally able to make promises at this time it will be something for the committee to discuss the full range of matters that are before us.
30.14 Mr. Jones asked the following supplementary question; may I ask about time scales because these things are important and it is important there is an accountability back to the community from just 190 homes we have 236 signatures on the petition, so I most significant bit of town, so may I please ask when we will next hear from Brighton & Hove city council with some outcomes from this question?
30.15 Councillor West replied; we are working with officers in developing this plan. There will be a full consultation city wide for all communities to contribute to. I do agree with you, I think that you have a very strong expression of concern from your local community and I am sure that will be taken very seriously when we look at everything together. The Plan will be considered by councillors later in the year but at the moment we are in this rather ‘crisis’ position and normal schedules have been somewhat put aside so bear with us will happen.
30.16 The Mayor thanked Mr. Jones for his questions and invited Mr. Wilson to address the meeting.
30.17 Mr. Wilson asked the following question; Thousands of cyclists, pedestrians and dogs travel along the Undercliff between the Marina and Saltdean every day. We are getting to a situation where it is becoming a Health and Safety issue.
Please would the Council introduce more measures to prevent the minority of cyclists from speeding and spoiling it for the rest of us, and also provide bike racks on the Saltdean Seafront?
30.18 Councillor West replied, I do appreciate your concerns about unsafe behaviour displayed by a minority of people and I am very keen that we create a culture of respect on our roads and within our shared spaces so that all may feel safe and welcome and at their ease when getting around. And when I was in the Mayoral Chair, I actually tried to get a debate going on this very subject I called together a number of stake holders in the city involved in transport to try and get that kind of conservation going. We are aware that there have been concerns about congestion along the under cliff it is not a new phenomenon and have seen both before and during lockdown as more people have been taking exercise and using the route to access work and amenities. Officers across our Transport, Seafront and Communications teams have been working together to implement measures to improve the situation and to promote responsible behaviour by all users.
Works to date have include the installation of 12 additional large ‘pedestrian priority’ floor stickers along with new temporary barriers to slow cyclists on the approach to the Café at Ovingdean. We will also soon be installing additional ‘Cyclists Dismount’ signage at this location to further enforce the need for pedestrian priority. Supporting the need for pedestrian needs is especially important and we will continue to monitor the effectiveness of these measures and further action will be taken as appropriate. You have raised the question of whether or not speed limits might be applied and that is certainly something we can also ask the officers to consider as things go forward. I am glad to say also that your request for additional cycle paths has been passed on to the appropriate team and they will assess the situation as required.
30.19 Mr. Wilson asked the following supplementary question; I would like the Council policy decision on something that is the fastest growing segment in transport in the UK at the moment. Which is electric bikes and electric scooters. Now, we are all seeing every day more and more electric bikes that are travelling on the under cliff and on pathways. These bikes can go up to a speed of 35 miles per hour, we are seeing more and more of them, it is the fastest selling product in Halfords at the moment, and then we have a huge issue with electric scooters. They are totally illegal on British roads, on pathways, on footpaths at the moment. We need a policy decision for these modes of transport.
30.20 Councillor West replied; I know that electric bikes legally are restricted to only adding power to what you are doing to 16 miles per hour you find it quite difficult unless you have a down slope to go much faster because it is a heavy beast. E-scooters there are trials and consultations going on around the country, the Government is looking at various scenarios but there is a general understanding that high speeds on these scooters can present considerable danger to people. I think the jury is out on what we are going to get but as a Council we have to respond to the legislative position. Your points are noted and again it comes back down to asking everyone to be more responsible whether they are on a bike, a scooter or in motor vehicles.
30.21 The Mayor thanked Mr. Wilson for his questions and invited Mr. Smith to address the meeting.
30.22 The Mayor noted that Mr. Smith was unable to join the meeting and therefore asked Councillor West to ensure a written response was sent to Mr. Smith.
30.23 The Mayor thanked noted that concluded the item.
31 Deputations from members of the public.
31.1 The Mayor reported that three deputations had been received from members of the public and that he would invite each spokesperson to introduce their deputation and for the relevant Chair to respond. He noted that 15minutes were set aside for the consideration of deputations.
31.2 The Mayor then noted that the spokesperson for the first deputation was unable to join the meeting and in view of the time suggested that it be taken as read and invited Councillor West as Joint Chair of the Environment, Transport & Sustainability Committee to respond.
31.3 Councillor West thanked the Mayor and noted that the deputation related to the two petitions that were due to be debated later in the meeting and thanked Ms. Goddard for bringing it to the meeting. It raised the question for the reasoning of the Government for the introduction of the temporary cycle lanes which recognised the need to provide an alternative travel mode to meet safe distancing requirements and to enable people to get to work and around the city. It was going to be important with the return to schools and to enable people to have a choice and choose to cycle rather than drive which improves the environment and health of everyone. He noted that the lanes were temporary, and a report would be coming to the September meeting of the Environment, Transport & Sustainability Committee on the future of the lanes across the city.
31.4 The Mayor thanked Councillor West and noted that the deputation would be referred to the Environment, Transport & Sustainability Committee for consideration. The persons forming the deputation would be invited to attend the meeting and would be informed subsequently of any action to be taken or proposed in relation to the matter set out in the deputation.
31.5 The Mayor then invited Katherine Sykes as the spokesperson for the second deputation relating to the Deneway to address the council.
31.6 Ms. Sykes thanked the Mayor and stated that she was a resident of Westdene, and her children attended Patcham High School. She had become concerned about the Deneway and safety of residents and believed that there was an urgent need to review the road markings for the Deneway which was the only access road for Westdene residents. The difficulty was with the lack of road markings and dangerous parking as a result residents were put in danger and had with the LAT’s support previously requested action be taken to update the road markings. Whilst double yellow lines had been put in place along part of the East side, they were insufficient and the dangers to residents, children and cyclists remained with continued dangerous parking and traffic. She urged the council to review the situation and to take appropriate action to improve the safety for everyone in Westdene.
31.7 Councillor West thanked the Mayor and Ms. Sykes for bringing the deputation to the council meeting. He noted the challenges faced by residents and visitors and that double yellow lines ha recently been introduced which he believed had improved the situation along the East side. However, he acknowledged that problems persisted particularly along the Western side of the bridge but noted that previous proposals to address the matter had received a number of objections. He stated that the council was currently looking at a walking and cycling infrastructure plan for the city and hoped that residents would engage in the consultation process and that further improvements could then be made.
31.8 The Mayor thanked Ms. Sykes for joining the meeting and speaking on behalf of the deputation. He noted that it would be referred to the Environment, Transport & Sustainability Committee for consideration. The persons forming the deputation would be invited to attend the meeting and would be informed subsequently of any action to be taken or proposed in relation to the matter set out in the deputation.
31.9 The Mayor then invited Mr. Archard as the spokesperson for the third deputation relating to re-opening of Madeira Drive to address the council.
31.10 Mr. Archard thanked the Mayor and stated that the deputation intended to support the notice of motion that ha been brought by Councillor Wares. It represented the views of the local businesses and the Brighton Tourism Alliance all of whom supported the re-opening of the road to enable businesses to operate and attempt to avoid financial ruin as a result of the pandemic and decision to close the road to traffic. It had deterred people from coming to the area as tourists could not drive and there were no public transport links. The traders wanted to work with the Council to improve the area, but they needed support and to be able to operate to ensure the local economy could thrive. He noted that there were problems with access for disabled users and that the lack of parking facilities meant people were not coming to the beach and thereby visiting the local businesses etc. He agreed that there was a need to encourage people to exercise and to provide a safe environment for this but there was also a need to support those businesses that had supported the area for some time and kept the area going all year round. He hoped that the council would reconsider the decision to close the whole of the road.
31.11 Councillor West thanked the Mayor and Mr. Archard for bringing the deputation to the meeting. He stated that he appreciated the impact that the pandemic had had on local businesses and was aware of the effect it was having on the local economy as city that relied on visitors etc. He noted the Government’s desire for local authorities to take action to open up roads for recreational use and that the pandemic was not over as yet. The Environment, transport & Sustainability Committee had agreed to closure, and this was being kept under review and changes had been made recently to improve access for disabled users. There was a need to balance everyone’s needs and he welcomed further discussions with business users and residents to attract footfall to the area and to consider how matters could be taken forward.
31.12 The Mayor thanked Mr. Archard for joining the meeting and speaking on behalf of the deputation. He noted that it would be referred to the Environment, Transport & Sustainability Committee for consideration. The persons forming the deputation would be invited to attend the meeting and would be informed subsequently of any action to be taken or proposed in relation to the matter set out in the deputation.
31.13 The Mayor noted that concluded the item.
32 Petitions for Council Debate
32.1 The Mayor stated that where a petition secured 1,250 or more signatures it could be debated at the council meeting. He had been made aware of six such petitions and would take each in turn, although those relating to Madeira Drive and Old Shoreham Road would be taken in one debate as there were petitions in favour and against the proposals.
32.2 The Mayor noted that there were amendments to the cover reports’ recommendations for the first petition, the second and third petitions which would be taken as part of the debate on the matter in question.
(1) Prioritise & Support Community Led Affordable Housing over Private Developers in the City
32.3 The Mayor then invited Ms. Corina Edwards-Colledge to present the petition concerning the prioritisation of affordable housing in the city.
32.4 Ms. Edwards-Colledge thanked the Mayor and stated that the petition which had been signed by 1,351 people called on the Council to recognise the need to prioritise community-led housing over private developments. She stated that a thriving community-led housing sector would address many of the issues faced by people who wanted to secure an affordable home and would support the key aims of the city plan. She believed it would create supportive and secure communities with housing that met the highest environmental standards and support the growth of local communities. The hope was that the City Council would deliver on providing sites for truly affordable housing, access to funding through the public works loans board and to ensure that land prices are affordable. She hoped that a collaborative relationship with local Housing Groups could be developed so that strategic housing provision could become a reality.
32.5 Councillor Hugh-Jones thanked Ms. Edwards-Colledge for presenting the petition and stated that the Administration fully supported its aims. She noted that the community land trust focussed on building for the community and placed an emphasis on affordability. The key point being that the land was held in trust so that prices remained affordable for future buyers. It did allow for units to be sold to finance other building and developments could be of a mixed tenure although the aim would be that the majority of properties would be for rent. The difficulty for local authorities was managing the right to buy scheme which has its complexities and means the council is having to try to constantly catch-up to maintain its housing stock. There was a clear need to work with community led schemes to maximise housing availability at an affordable cost for those in need. Hence the amendment that she wished to move on behalf of the Green Group.
32.6 Councillor Gibson formally seconded the amendment and reserved his right to speak in the debate.
32.7 Councillor Appich welcomed the petition and stated that the planning policies set out in the City Plan parts 1 and 2 were strongly supportive of community-led housing. She noted that officers and councillors were working to find ways to support local schemes and enable access to funding streams and hoped that this would be progressed. She also expressed concern on the impact of the proposed changes to the planning process could have on the availability of affordable housing in the city.
32.8 Councillor Mears welcomed the petition and the Green Group amendment and stated that housing was an important issue for the city and the availability of suitable housing for everyone needed to be addressed. There was a need for a mixture of provision, and she acknowledged that community-led schemes were an important element in developing communities and ensuring that affordable housing was available in the city.
32.9 Councillor Janio questioned the approach and suggested that the provision of housing should be left to the private sector and the free market rather than the council selling assets to a particular group at a discount which would then disadvantage another group. He could not support the petition or the amendment.
32.10 Councillor Gibson noted the comments and suggested that the current housing crisis had resulted from the failure of the free market to ensure that there was sufficient availability at an affordable rate. He believed the petition and the support of the council for a community land trust was an opportunity to begin to tackle the crisis and he welcomed the cross-party support for the amendment.
32.11 The Mayor thanked Ms. Edwards-Colledge for joining the meeting and presenting the petition and noted that the amendment had been accepted.
32.12 The Mayor then put the recommendations as amended to the vote and called on each of the Group Leaders to confirm their position as well as the Groups in turn and each of the Independent Members:
Councillor Mac Cafferty stated that the Green Group were in favour of the recommendations as amended and this was confirmed by the Green Group Members;
Councillor Platts stated that the Labour Group were in favour of the recommendations as amended and this was confirmed by the Labour Group Members;
Councillor Wares stated that the Conservative were in favour of the recommendations as amended and this was confirmed by the Conservative Group Members;
Councillor Brennan confirmed that she was in favour of the recommendations as amended;
Councillor Fishleigh confirmed that she was in favour of the recommendations as amended;
Councillor Janio confirmed that he was against the recommendations as amended;
Councillor Knight confirmed that she was in favour of the recommendations as amended.
32.13 The Mayor confirmed that the recommendations as amended had been carried.
32.14 RESOLVED:
(1) That the petition be noted and referred to the Tourism, Equalities, Communities & Culture Committee for consideration;
(2) That the Council recognise and welcome the role of community-led housing projects in creating neighbourhoods while at the same time addressing the city’s housing shortage in a manner that focuses on the quality of the build, affordability, social value, sustainability, conservation and enhancement of the natural environment; and
(3) That the Council continue to explore borrowing from the PWLB and on-lending to community-led housing projects as a matter of urgency as a way of supporting such community-led efforts.
(2) (i) RE-OPEN MADEIRA DRIVE
(ii) KEEP MADEIRA DRIVE CLOSED
32.15 The Mayor then invited Ms. Laura King and Mr. Ollie Wilson to present the petition calling for Madeira Drive to be re-opened. However, due to technical difficulties Ms. King and Mr. Ross were unable to join the meeting and the Mayor therefore called on Mr. Ross to present the petition calling for Madeira Drive to remain closed.
32.16 Mr. Ross thanked the Mayor and noted that the petition had secured 2,884 signatures supporting the continued closure of Madeira Drive. He stated that Covid-19 was far from over and the closure of the road had enabled people to take exercise safely and helped to improve the environment. He recognised the need for disabled parking to be available at both ends of the Drive so that people with disabilities could also enjoy the benefit of the road closure. He believed that the closure would not prevent the use of the Drive for specific events in the city such as the Brighton Marathon or the veteran car race. He believed the council had the opportunity to take a bold decision and stop Madeira Drive from being a seafront car park and to look at the long-term future for the area and the city.
32.17 The Mayor thanked Mr. Ross and noted that Ms. King was still having technical difficulties and stated that he would adjourn the meeting for ten minutes to enable officers and Ms. King to try to resolve the problem. He then adjourned the meeting at 18.07pm.
32.18 The Mayor reconvened the meeting at 18.15pm and invited Ms. King and Mr. Wilson to present their petition.
32.19 Ms. King and Mr. Wilson thanked the Mayor and stated that the petition which had been signed by 9,748 people called on the Council to re-open Madeira Drive. They believed that the closure had been a temporary measure and that there was now a need to recognise that lockdown restrictions had been lifted and to give access back to the many motorists who used madeira Drive as well as enabling local businesses to re-open. The use of Madeira Drive for events such as the London to Brighton car run and filming of Quadrophenia brought visitors and tourists to the city and benefitted the economy. The continued closure would impact on people and prevent them from being able to gain access to the Pier etc. and be detrimental to the campaign to restore the Terraces. They therefore hoped that the council would see the need to re-open Madeira Drive and acknowledge the support for this request.
32.20 The Mayor thanked Ms. King and Mr. Wilson and invited Councillor West as Joint Chair of the Environment, Transport & Sustainability Committee to respond to the petitions.
32.21 Councillor West thanked the petitioners for presenting their petitions and acknowledged the strength and diversity of views held in regard to the matter. It does appear that a number of local people clearly support the continued closure of Madeira Drive, whilst others feel there is a need to open it to traffic to enable others to come into the city and enjoy the area. The intention is to review matter at the September Environment, Transport & Sustainability Committee and I note that adjustments have been made to enable parking at the far end. It will not be possible to undertake any further changes as there is a need for consultation and review which will need to be considered by the committee. In regard to the two amendments to be put forward, it will not be possible to support either of these given the required work that needs to be undertaken and time constraints. I will take a personal interest in the situation to ensure that all concerns can be considered, and any minor alterations put in place as necessary.
32.22 Councillor Fishleigh moved an amendment as an Independent Member and referred to the Facebook page of the Blue Badge holders, BADGE who felt that their needs were not being addressed by the implementation of such changes in Madeira Drive and across the city. The closure of Madeira Drive meant that toilets were in accessible and permission had to be obtained from marshals. She also stated that a full environmental impact was required and should be completed as part of the report to the committee in September. There was also a need to fully quantify the environmental and traffic impact for the whole area to assist in a rational informed decision for Madeira Drive.
32.23 Councillor Janio formally seconded the amendment as an Independent Member and reserved his right to speak.
32.24 Councillor Wares moved an amendment on behalf of the Conservative Group and noted that a considered evidenced based decision would be required, and that the amendment sought to support local businesses ahead of the scheduled meeting in September. The council has taken decisions quickly and he believed that a report could be produced ahead of that meeting for an urgent committee as officers would already have been preparing information for the September meeting. It was possible to alter the traffic regulation order and it was possible to consider the petitions and a report on the 21st August if the Administration had the desire to do so.
32.25 Councillor Miller formally seconded the amendment and thanked the petitioners for their work. He noted that the closure of Madeira Drive had had some adverse impact for users and local business in Madeira Drive hence the importance to act as quickly as they had in determining the closure. He therefore urged all councillors to support the amendment.
32.26 Councillor Wilkinson thanked all the petitioners and commended the work of those involved in bringing them forward. He believed there was a need for the petitions to come to the ETS committee in September along with an officer report so that the committee Members could give full consideration to the issues. He noted that the Government had encouraged local authorities to take action and improve walking and cycling facilities and road layouts and there had already been a significant increase in the people cycling across the city and the country. There was a need to consider the impact of changes in terms of parking income road use, environmental improvements and people’s health etc. and as such could not support the amendments that had been moved. He therefore looked forward to the petitions and the report being considered by the committee in due course.
32.27 The Mayor congratulated Councillor Wilkinson on his maiden speech on behalf of the council.
32.28 Councillor Janio stated that the decision to create temporary cycle lanes was not the answer and referred to the Dutch who he felt were the exemplar in relation to cycling. It has to be a shared experience and should not disadvantage any one group, and yet decisions were being taken without any real evidenced-based facts and such decision s should be stopped.
32.29 Councillor Williams stated that there was a need to remember that the swift action that had been taken was in response to the pandemic and it was far from over. She also noted that a consultation exercise was being undertaken and the results should be considered by the committee.
32.30 Councillor Mac Cafferty stated that the Green Group would not support the amendments and that having become Leader of the Council only in the last few weeks he had already met with interested parties and would continue to meet with those organisations with an interest in helping to bring the city out of the current economic climate. He was acutely aware of the need to invest in the area and noted that a review of the transport plan was due to come to committee in September. An urgent decision had been taken in relation to the pandemic and there was a need to consult with all users and local businesses involved. There were clear differences of opinion on the use of Madeira Drive and there was now an opportunity to give full consideration to best options for the area and how improvements could be made for everyone’s benefit. He hoped that the cross-party working group would continue with its work and that funding streams could be identified to support the necessary improvements and looked forward to progress reports coming to committee in due course.
32.31 The Mayor thanked the petitioners for joining the meeting and presenting their petitions and noted that both of the amendments had not been accepted and he would therefore need to put each in turn to the vote.
32.32 The Mayor then put the Conservative amendment to the vote and called on each of the Group Leaders to confirm their position as well as the Groups in turn and each of the Independent Members.
Councillor Mac Cafferty stated that the Green Group were against the amendment and this was confirmed by the Green Group Members;
Councillor Platts stated that the Labour Group were against the amendment and this was confirmed by the Labour Group Members;
Councillor Wares stated that the Conservative were in favour of the amendment and this was confirmed by the Conservative Group Members;
Councillor Brennan confirmed that she was voting against the amendment,
Councillor Fishleigh confirmed that she was voting for the amendment;
Councillor Janio confirmed that he was voting for the amendment;
Councillor Knight confirmed that she was voting against the amendment.
32.33 The Mayor confirmed that the amendment had been lost.
32.34 The Mayor then put the Independent amendment to the vote and called on each of the Group Leaders to confirm their position as well as the Groups in turn and each of the Independent Members.
Councillor Mac Cafferty stated that the Green Group were against the amendment and this was confirmed by the Green Group Members;
Councillor Platts stated that the Labour Group were against the amendment and this was confirmed by the Labour Group Members;
Councillor Wares stated that the Conservative were in favour of the amendment and this was confirmed by the Conservative Group Members;
Councillor Brennan confirmed that she was voting against the amendment,
Councillor Fishleigh confirmed that she was voting for the amendment;
Councillor Janio confirmed that he was voting for the amendment;
Councillor Knight confirmed that she was voting against the amendment.
32.35 The Mayor confirmed that the amendment had been lost.
32.36 The Mayor then put the recommendations to the vote and called on each of the Group Leaders to confirm their position as well as the Groups in turn and each of the Independent Members:
Councillor Mac Cafferty stated that the Green Group were in favour of the recommendations and this was confirmed by the Green Group Members;
Councillor Platts stated that the Labour Group were in favour of the recommendations and this was confirmed by the Labour Group Members;
Councillor Wares stated that the Conservative were in favour of the recommendations and this was confirmed by the Conservative Group Members;
Councillor Brennan confirmed that she was voting in favour of the recommendations;
Councillor Fishleigh confirmed that she was voting in favour of the recommendations;
Councillor Janio confirmed that he was voting in favour of the recommendations;
Councillor Knight confirmed that she was voting in favour of the recommendations.
32.37 The Mayor confirmed that the recommendations to note the petitions and refer them to the Environment, Transport & Sustainability Committee had been carried.
32.38 RESOLVED: That the petitions be noted and referred to the Environment, Transport & Sustainability Committee for consideration.
(3) (i) REmove old shoreham ROAD cycle lane extension
(ii) MAKE OLD SHOREHAM ROAD CYCLE LANE PERMANENT AND ESTABLSIH A CITY-WIDE CYCLE NETWORK
32.39 The Mayor then invited Councillor Atkinson to present the petition on behalf of the petitioner, Mr. Challis which called for removal of the temporary cycle lane along Old Shoreham Road.
32.40 Councillor Atkinson thanked the Mayor and stated that the petition requesting the removal of the temporary cycle lane had over 4,400 signatures. The extension to the cycle lane had been made with little planning and no consultation and with little consideration of the impact for local residents and road users. There was a need to base the decision on traffic data and traffic modelling and no such information was available, but it was clear that the closure of one lane had had an impact on traffic flow, tradesmen and local businesses. Whilst there was a need for cycle lanes to encourage people to cycle and to have an alternative option, these needed to be in the right place and should not cause major traffic problems. As such the temporary cycle lane should be removed.
32.41 The Mayor thanked Councillor Atkinson and invited Mr. Williams to present his petition calling for the temporary cycle lane along Old Shoreham Road to be made permanent.
32.42 Mr. Williams thanked the Mayor and stated that 5,135 people had signed the petition and stated that there had not been any consultation to install the dual carriageway and remove part of the local neighbourhood at the time. It was, however, possible to control traffic and tackle health and social inequalities and to make streets safe for all forms of transport. The Government’s drive was to encourage more people to cycle and yet many of the roads in the city including those with schools were unsafe for cyclists. There was a clear need to look at the situation and to find ways to improve the cycle network across the city and make cycling a safe alternative to using the car.
32.43 The Mayor thanked Mr. Williams and invited Councillor West as Joint Chair of the Environment, Transport & Sustainability Committee to respond to the petitions.
32.44 Councillor West thanked the petitioners for presenting their petitions. Clearly the situation with Covid has raised challenges in dealing with the pandemic and having been specifically asked by Government to take action to improve transport facilities to enable people to return to work and school, we have implemented changes. The council is getting significant funding from the Government for this and changes are temporary at this point and a report will come back to the committee in September. Any proposals to make permanent changes would need to be taken through the appropriate design and consultation process. In regard to the Conservative amendment that is going to be put forward, the request cannot be met and therefore it cannot be supported. There is a need for more facilities across the city such as this and as the opportunity to use them increases with more people returning to work it will be clear that they are necessary and important if the issue of congestion is to be addressed in the city.
32.45 Councillor Lewry moved an amendment on behalf of the Conservative Group and stated that the temporary cycle lane was putting people’s lives at risk and creating traffic jams which added to pollution levels. He believed there was need to improve traffic flows in the city and to create an interconnected transport policy. He was an avid cyclist but could not support the continuation of the temporary cycle lane and called for the reinstatement of the dual carriageway to prevent lives from being put at risk.
32.46 Councillor Barnett formally seconded the amendment and stated the decision to create the temporary cycle lane had been taken without any consultation with residents or ward councillors. The impact on traffic had been disastrous with queues of traffic for miles and had created safety issues for everyone trying to access the recycling centre. She hoped that the situation could be reviewed, and the lane removed so that the road could be returned to how it was and wishes of the local residents acknowledged.
32.47 Councillor Wilkinson welcomed both petitions and stated that he felt they should be considered at the next Environment, Transport & Sustainability Committee meeting as that meeting was due to receive a report on the use of cycle lanes etc. He stated that the Labour Group would not be supporting the amendment and that there was a need to take positive action to improve the city’s economic and environment recovery and to reduce carbon emissions. The introduction of temporary cycle lanes across the city was one measure to help to address this and to achieve safe and clean transport options for the city.
32.48 Councillor Janio stated that one the schools returned the overall situation would become worst with more congestion and an increased risk of accidents unless the cycle lane was removed. He hoped that the right decision would be reached, and the cycle lane taken out as soon as possible.
32.49 Councillor Atkinson stated that it was clear that the introduction of the cycle lane had led to an increase in congestion and was not being used by that many cyclists because it was not safe. Having been installed with little consultation, they were in the wrong place and further consideration needed to be given to where in the city these temporary lanes would be effective. He noted that recently Greater Manchester had been forced remove similar temporary lanes that had been created in response the pandemic but without proper consideration of how they would work and their impact on the area and traffic flow. He had received an overwhelming number of complaints in regard to the Old Shoreham Road cycle lane and hoped that it could be reviewed as soon as possible.
32.50 Councillor Lloyd welcomed the petitions and noted that the level of cycling on the temporary cycle lane had increased by 61% which had to contribute to a reduction in air pollution in the area. The decisions to introduce the temporary lanes had been made because of the Government’s desire to enable people to travel safely during the pandemic and this had to be accepted. There was a clear need for the cycle lane along the Old Shoreham Road and it was time to start looking at how the council can reduce car use in the city and reduce air pollution levels.
32.51 Councillor Fishleigh stated that she would like to see more money spent on maintaining the current cycle lanes and ensuring they were safe to use.
32.52 The Mayor thanked the petitioners for joining the meeting and presenting their petitions and noted that the amendment had not been accepted and he would therefore need to put it to the vote.
32.53 The Mayor also noted that a request for a recorded vote on both the amendment and the subsequent recommendation had been made and he therefore asked the Head of Democratic Services to undertake a recorded vote on the Conservative amendment.
32.54 A recorded vote was then undertaken.
Note: Due to technical difficulties and some Members being unable to register their vote, the Mayor called an adjournment at 19.45pm for fifteen minutes and reconvened the meeting at 20.00pm.
32.55 The Mayor reconvened the meeting and noted that those Members who had not been able to confirm their vote had done so either orally or via the instant messaging facility.
32.56 The Head of Democratic Services confirmed that the vote had been completed and that the amendment had been lost by 12 votes to 33.
|
|
|
For |
Against |
Abstain |
|
|
For |
Against |
Abstain |
|
1 |
Allcock |
|
x |
|
28 |
Lewry |
√ |
|
|
|
2 |
Appich |
|
x |
|
29 |
Littman |
|
x |
|
|
3 |
Atkinson |
|
x |
|
30 |
Lloyd |
|
x |
|
|
4 |
Bagaeen |
√ |
|
|
31 |
MacCafferty |
|
x |
|
|
5 |
Barnett |
√ |
|
|
32 |
Mcnair |
√ |
|
|
|
6 |
|
Not present |
33 |
Mears |
√ |
|
|
||
|
7 |
Brennan |
|
x |
|
34 |
Miller |
√ |
|
|
|
8 |
|
Not present |
35 |
Moonan |
|
x |
|
||
|
9 |
Childs |
|
x |
|
36 |
Nemeth |
√ |
|
|
|
10 |
Clare |
|
x |
|
37 |
Nield |
|
x |
|
|
11 |
|
Not present |
38 |
O’Quinn |
|
x |
|
||
|
12 |
Deane |
|
x |
|
39 |
Osborne |
|
x |
|
|
13 |
Druitt |
|
x |
|
40 |
Peltzer Dunn |
√ |
|
|
|
14 |
Gibson |
|
x |
|
41 |
Phillips |
|
x |
|
|
15 |
|
Not present |
42 |
Pissaridou |
|
x |
|
||
|
16 |
|
Not present |
43 |
Powell |
|
x |
|
||
|
17 |
Evans |
|
x |
|
44 |
Platts |
|
x |
|
|
18 |
Fishleigh |
√ |
|
|
45 |
|
Not present |
||
|
19 |
Fowler |
|
x |
|
46 |
Robins |
|
x |
|
|
20 |
Hamilton |
|
x |
|
47 |
Shanks |
|
x |
|
|
21 |
Heley |
|
x |
|
48 |
|
Not present |
||
|
22 |
|
Not present |
49 |
Theobald C |
√ |
|
|
||
|
23 |
Hill |
|
x |
|
50 |
Wares |
√ |
|
|
|
24 |
Hills |
|
x |
|
51 |
Wilkinson |
|
x |
|
|
25 |
Hugh-Jones |
|
x |
|
52 |
Williams |
|
x |
|
|
26 |
Janio |
√ |
|
|
53 |
West |
|
x |
|
|
27 |
Knight |
|
x |
|
54 |
|
Not present |
||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
12 |
33 |
|
32.57 The Mayor noted that the request for a recorded vote on the recommendation to refer the petitions to the Environment, Transport & Sustainability Committee had been withdrawn. He therefore moved to a vote on the recommendation and called on each of the Group Leaders to confirm their position as well as the Groups in turn and each of the Independent Members.
Councillor Mac Cafferty stated that the Green Group were in favour of the recommendation and this was confirmed by the Green Group Members;
Councillor Platts stated that the Labour Group were in favour of the recommendation and this was confirmed by the Labour Group Members;
Councillor Wares stated that the Conservative were in favour of the recommendation and this was confirmed by the Conservative Group Members;
Councillor Brennan confirmed that she was voting for the recommendation,
Councillor Fishleigh confirmed that she was voting for the recommendation;
Councillor Janio confirmed that he was voting for the recommendation;
Councillor Knight confirmed that she was voting for the recommendation.
32.58 The Mayor confirmed that the recommendation to note the petitions and refer them to the Environment, Transport & Sustainability Committee had been carried.
32.59 RESOLVED: That the petitions be noted and referred to the Environment, Transport & Sustainability Committee for consideration.
(4) Declare Brighton & Hove to be an Anti-Racist City
32.60 The Mayor then invited Mo Kanjilal to present the petition concerning the prioritisation of affordable housing in the city.
32.61 Mo Kanjilal thanked the Mayor and stated that the petition which had been signed by 1,949 people called on the Council to declare Brighton and Hove as an Anti-Racist City. She noted that the petition had reached the required 1,250 signatures within two days and had then reached a total of 2,380 which showed the desire to be seen as an anti-racist city. There was a clear need to address the spectre of racism that existed in the city and action needed to be taken so that real change could be made, and this could be demonstrated to the rest of the country. She hoped that such change would be led by the city council and a clear pathway for a truly anti-racist city to be created.
32.62 Councillor Powell thanked Mo for presenting the petition and noted that a report had been considered at the special meeting of the Tourism, Equalities, Communities & Culture Committee on the 29 July outlining the council’s commitment to becoming an anti-racist city. The report had been unanimously agreed and set out the work programme to achieve the objective. The Council recognised the need for it as an organisation to change and intended to work with community groups to help to achieve that and to lead the city in becoming an anti-racist city.
32.63 Councillor Appich welcomed the petition and stated that the Labour Group would continue to support the work required to implement change that was required. She noted that the proposed anti-racism strategy had been approved at the Tourism, Equalities, Communities & Culture Committee meeting. She stated that it was a hugely important piece of work that had to be undertaken and welcomed the full support of all the Groups on the council.
32.64 Councillor McNair welcomed the petition but felt that there were questions that needed to be considered in taking matters forward such has how issues would be raised in schools, how would businesses ensure they can employ the best people for the job, and how will a holistic approach be taken to ensure all aspects of diversity are included as anti-racism was not just about colour. He hoped that in looking to the future people would also look to where we have come from.
32.65 Councillor Brennan welcomed the petition and stated that with the recent death of George Lloyd the need for action had been highlighted. In looking across the council chamber she was mindful of the need for the political groups to take action and encourage people from all ethnic groups to get involved and stand as councillors to reflect the community make-up of the city. She was pleased to see the anti-racism strategy had been agreed and looked forward to seeing that taken forward and the council taking action to become an anti-racist authority.
32.66 Councillor Powell noted the comments and thanked councillors for their contributions and noted that there was a lot to do. She believed that a start had been made and by working together change could be achieved.
32.67 The Mayor thanked Mo for joining the meeting and presenting the petition.
32.68 The Mayor then put the recommendation to the vote and called on each of the Group Leaders to confirm their position as well as the Groups in turn and each of the Independent Members:
Councillor Mac Cafferty stated that the Green Group were in favour of the recommendations as amended and this was confirmed by the Green Group Members;
Councillor Platts stated that the Labour Group were in favour of the recommendations as amended and this was confirmed by the Labour Group Members;
Councillor Wares stated that the Conservative were in favour of the recommendations as amended and this was confirmed by the Conservative Group Members;
Councillor Brennan confirmed that she was in favour of the recommendations as amended;
Councillor Fishleigh confirmed that she was in favour of the recommendations as amended;
Councillor Janio confirmed that he was against the recommendations as amended;
Councillor Knight confirmed that she was in favour of the recommendations as amended.
32.69 The Mayor confirmed that the recommendations as amended had been carried.
32.70 RESOLVED: That the petition be noted and referred to the Tourism, Equalities, Communities & Culture Committee for consideration.
33 Oral questions from Councillors
33.1 The Mayor noted that 13 oral questions had received and that 30 minutes were set aside for the duration of the item. The Mayor then called on Councillor Appich to put her question to Councillor Powell.
33.2 Councillor Appich asked the following question, as you all know, in recent weeks and at this committee earlier today, we have seen local residents demanding re-opening of Madeira drive for car use, with consequential improvements to the councils car parking income compared to current position, what consideration is the administration giving to the suggestion that this additional parking revenue could be used to fund public sector workforce loans to enable the Council to undertake the full Madeira terrace's restoration?
33.3 Councillor Powell replied, the cross-party working group now Chaired by Councillor Rainey working with Councillors Miller and Evans have been making good progress in overseeing the appointment of a specialist design team and the development and proposals to lead the first phase of the heritage restoration plans of Madeira Terraces.
A specialist design team of architects plus consultants and structural engineers have been appointed, to lead the first phase of restoration of Madeira Terraces and it has been led by Percell Architects who specialises in heritage design and have worked with Houses of Parliament and Canterbury cathedral. We work with an advisory panel of stakeholders and community groups working alongside the council. The officers have been asked to consider private sector investment options alongside heritage restoration and we will bring a progress update support to the TECH committee in the autumn after discussion with the cross-party working group.
33.4 Councillor Appich asked the following supplementary question, is the Administration open to making use of excess parking charge income to fund the restoration?
33.5 Councillor Powell replied, I will discuss it with colleagues and officers and see what I can come back with, hopefully with a written response. I hope that is acceptable.
33.6 Councillor Wares asked the following question, the Greens alongside the Conservative criticised the Labour administration to get City Clean into a reliable service. With the environment service way behind £3.1 million overspend for lack of management controls and the recent outrageous revelations by the Audit Team about the bad practice and wrongdoing in City Clean. Please could the new co-chair Councillor Heley provide a deadline by when she will get it resolved once and for all and when will she organise the badly needed round restructure.
33.7 Councillor Heley replied, as I think you know the Modernisation Programme will have an update to the September Environment, Transport & Sustainability Committee. You will be fully updated then. Yes, we did give the previous administration a hard time and I expect you all will give us a hard time because it is a big problem that needs sorting out. I cannot give you a deadline but, I hope we can work together to find a solution to this. And I will get more details to you from officers.
33.8 Councillor Wares asked the following supplementary question, I am grateful for your response and also for your candour so I hope we can keep that up in our dealings. So, when you bring that report in September please could you ask officers not just to tell us how they our getting on but to have a detailed plan for when all this will finish. What is important for us all is to know when this will end because as you know we have been doing this for over 2 years and I think we are all very sick and tired with what has been going on. Lastly because I have been having a problem with the previous administration, do you feel personally that the deal between the unions and the previous Labour Administration that prevented the threatened strike should be made public?
33.9 Councillor Heley replied, thankfully yes. I will speak to officers and see if we can get a proper timeline. I know a large reason why it was delayed was because the pandemic and that is fair enough. But we do need a deadline. I don't want to comment too much on the final question. I think it was a, bit problematic and that is all I will say for now but, we can talk further about this.
33.10 Councillor Fishleigh asked the following question, nearly 2,000 new flats will be built at Brighton Marina and the gas works site over the next few years. Approximately 90 per cent of flats already built as phase one on the Marina Tower blocks were bought by investors and the developer of the gas works site has openly said it will market its’ flats overseas. What can the council do over the next three years during the construction phase to ensure the new flats are bought by only occupiers who live in Brighton currently?
33.11
Councillor Powell replied, the adopted
City Plan Part 1 seeks 1,940 new homes to be built within the
development area that covers Brighton Marina, gas works and the
Black Rock area. Almost 200 homes have already been built as part
of the Phase one outer harbour scheme. As the local planning
authority, the council has sadly no means to control to whom
completed properties are sold. We are unable to control future
occupation through donorship either as the council does not own any
of the housing sites across the development area. What we are able
to have a say in, is occupation of affordable housing units. This
will be achieved by securing an appropriate level of affordable
housing required by policy in the Adopted Plan and ensure
affordable rented properties are allocated to people with a local
need and a local connection.
33.12 Councillor Fishleigh asked the following supplementary question, there are a few things that the council could do, and I will give you this idea for free. People who already own homes are put off buying new builds because a large deposit is required upfront. Most people won't have this deposit until they sell their home. And they won't want to sell their homes until they have a completion date for a new flat. I think it will be straight forward and low risk for the council if you loaned people the money for these deposits. In the end that a resident decided not to buy a flat in one of these new developments after the deposit has been paid there would be liable for any penalties. You don't have to give a response to that. That is just a kind of common sense thing to me, that I came up with I am sure if there was a bit of creative thinking applied then we could come up with some ways to stop these flats all going to second homers and investors. So, I haven't really got a supplementary apart from please have a think about it I am very happy to discuss my other ideas with you any time?
33.13 Councillor Powell replied, thank you, Councillor, that is a very innovative and creative. Let's take that away and see if we can do anything about it but thank you for your suggestion.
33.14 Councillor Allcock asked the following question, addressing disadvantage is absolutely a top priority for the Labour group. Even before Covid-19 we lived in a city of 2 halves and the pandemic has shown too clearly how little support some of the people in the city have to fall back on. The burden of COVID has fallen heaviest on these people least able to withstand it, the elderly, the poor, the sick, the underpaid and people of colour. This is really urgent; many families are on the brink of financial collapse and health and well-being becoming irreparably damaged and will all know this will become an impact on the educational achievement of our young people. Our city was already struggling to close the gap between educational achievement levels in the most prosperous parts of the cities and those areas on the out skirts many which features in top ten most deprived areas in the country and that is one of the reasons why that is in the Corporate Plan. I do not question you or your colleague’s commitments to make this a fairer city for everyone I know we share that goal. But my question is this. What is the administration's top five priorities in the fight to eradicate disadvantage and where do you think you may be on this by the end of the year?
33.15 Councillor Clare replied, as you have indicated, addressing the disadvantages for children and young people is a priority for us and is one, as you say, that Covid-19 has had an impact on. I think there are ways you can do this within and outside of the classroom, from supporting young people and providing a good standard youth service to programmes like continuing programmes like ‘Every Child a Reader’. So, while I can't give you my top priorities right now, I am happy to discuss and to take input all of groups into that. It is an issue we need to resolve and work together in doing.
33.16 Councillor Allcock asked the following supplementary question, with this deepening recession that is forecast in the country, what ways could services for disadvantaged people and particularly around children and young people be strengthened and maintained considering the very challenging budgets we've got forecasted. What I am worried about is particularly that budgets are going to be stretched even more than they already are because of austerity and yet there is a deepening need and I am really worried about children and young people losing out particularly in disadvantaged areas through this.
33.17 Councillor Clare replied, yes. I would agree and I think that traditionally when budgets are cut not necessarily on a local level but national level it is children and young people and disadvantaged people who often lose out. We have to make sure when reviewing our budget that we include that thought I am happy to keep working and discussing with you to get those priorities down. I think that your group has done good work and hopefully we can continue that now we are in Administration.
33.18 Councillor Lewry asked the following question, anti-social behaviour is a major concern to the local residents in my ward of Hangleton & Knowle and this is an issue that was not given enough priority by the previous administration. The council employ a team of Field Officers with the job description of tackling different types of antisocial behaviour across the city but residents in my ward often feel they are not visible enough. Can the administration please advise what percentage of overall officer time is spent in Hangleton & Knowle. What efforts have been made to date by Field Officers to target anti-social behaviour in Hangleton & Knowle and what commitment will the Green Administration make to improve efforts in tackling anti-social behaviour in Hangleton & Knoll?
33.19 Councillor Powell replied, I will preface it by saying I can't speak specifically for Hangleton & Knoll ,I am sorry and I can get back to you with specifics in a written statement but, if I may, I will try and answer your question. Just to recap the Field Officer team are a responsive team working 7 days a week 12 until 8. The team of one field office manager and 7 field officers is currently 2 and a half full-time equivalents down, but recruitment is under way to fill these posts as quickly as possible. The work covers a wide range of services including, and not an exhaustive list, Housing Services, Environmental Protection, including noise and Planning Enforcement and, having been a front line worker myself, I have actually said in a tech committee “it is a job I wouldn't want to do because it is so far wide ranging”. The remit of the team was identified to undertake the following tasks so the enforcement notices are quick and responsive to customer needs such as serving enforcement notices on behalf of other services, gathering intelligence and evidence for particular services gathering quick and robust evidence including photographs and mapping and statements to inform those services and enable them to deliver a faster more effective and coordinated enforcement action for resolving both environmental and community problems and to work proactively to promote community collaboration. The team have continued to respond to complaints throughout the Covid pandemic, but it is clear they have not been able to undertake the full range of duties due to lockdown and staff having to shield and having staff numbers down, however those duties have now resumed. Officers do tend to work in pairs though lone risk assessments allow officers to work on their own but must be assessed on a case by case basis. Updated reports on the works of the team were presented in July 2019 following the agreement on the NICE Committee in January 2018 for the development on the service. The service is developing all the time. I do think there needs to be some work to look at what they do. I suggest we bring a further report to a future TECH Committee to look at what options could be addressed to deal with the challenges they face as workers and to improve the service.
33.20 Councillor Moonan asked the following question, the Green Party have often expressed reservations about the integration of health and social care and called for a level of scrutiny and governance that is not in the powers of local authorities or the local NHS but is in the hands of the national government. What is the new Green administration's position on health and the social care integration and where are the red lines that you will not move beyond in terms of progressing our joint agenda locally?
33.21 Councillor Shanks replied, we have managed to work together quite well, the National Health service is a huge beast and when it was set up there were lots of things that were perhaps wrong. Although we all love the National Health Service, and not in the past as much we do at the moment, perhaps but the private provider split that came in with the Langley report has not been a good thing and you know we do want to make sure that the NHS is a public service and at the point of need. I think the Green Party policy nationally is about health and the social care integration there is no question about that and I think anybody looking where we are now actually in a pandemic the NHS we move people out of hospital into care homes and they were paid for so it can be done. It needs the political will to do that. I think the concern has always been with health and social care integration that the very top down and controlling nature of the NHS in terms of lack of democratic control of the NHS is the main problem. If we are going to try and get that, it is going to be difficult and I don't see the current government providing much impetus towards that. Making sure that people don't fall off a cliff when they leave hospital. We can get really good emergency care and of course hospitals do want to send people out of the hospital because it costs a lot of money to keep them in and we are ready to pick up the tab as a local authority often with elderly people. Yes, we do want to make sure of that integration and we are waiting for a Green paper from the government as we were waiting in previous years for previous governments to sort out. It is a national crisis and it is not getting any better. I think let's see what we can do locally, I certainly want to see the Health & Wellbeing Board have a much more democratic accountability for example
33.22 Councillor Moonan asked the following supplementary question, the modernisation of the Health & Wellbeing Board has been a cross-party piece of work that was drawing to a conclusion this summer with recommendations due to come to the Health & Wellbeing Board in September. As the Chair knows the proposals were to make the board more strategic in order to promote health and well-being across the city. More inclusive of NHS providers in the voluntary sector and it was also intended to facilitate greater health and social care integration and joint decision making. Does the chair intend to complete this review or will she be taking any modernisation of the Health & Wellbeing Board in a different direction?
33.23 Councillor Shanks replied, yes, we felt that we needed to just make sure that we were all on board wish this but also to consult a bit more widely. So we'll be looking at the current proposals, asking partners and stakeholders. We started an LGA review which got stopped partly because of the pandemic. We didn't want to rush into something that we might afterwards have thought it maybe would have been better to do it like this. We are going to have another look at it and hopefully bring it back very soon and I would like to encourage anybody interested in this topic to talk to us about how we can improve the Board.
33.24 Councillor Mears asked the following question, on the 12th June the previous Labour Administration released a statement. Brighton & Hove City Council pledge to be an anti-racist council. On July the 30 Councillor Alex Phillips criticised the Lefts’ reference to anti-Semitism in the council becoming an anti-racist council report. Does the Council Leader agree with Councillor Phillips that the lack of reference to anti-Semitism is a problem and if so, what steps will he take to rectify this?
33.25 Councillor Mac Cafferty replied, thank you for raising this important issue, racism targeted at Jewish people and Jewish communities in the city will not be tolerated. If you recall 2 years ago the council explicitly demonstrated its commitment to tackling anti-Semitism when we adopted the International Holocaust Alliance definition of anti-Semitism. As you have just stated, at the TECC meeting in July Green councillor colleagues raised the issue of including anti-Semitism in the Anti-racist Strategy and under our pledge to become an anti-racist council and city we are committed to acknowledging and confronting racism in all its forms and all its ways that it is identified and experienced by Black, Asian and ethnic minority communities in Brighton and Hove including our Jewish communities. We've committed to being community-led and therefore with our residents will take the necessary steps to eradicate racism, and to support better people harmed by racism and to improve the outcomes for BAME communities, that was clearly demonstrated in the recent debate at the special TECC Committee on the Anti-racist Strategy.
33.26 Councillor Mears asked the following supplementary question, does the Leader of the Council agree by having 3 Labour Councillors accused of anti-Semitism still on the council reflects badly on the Council and us as councillors and sends a negative message to the city that we are not all inclusive regardless of race, creed and religion?
33.27 Councillor Mac Cafferty replied, we in our recent statement about political control that we issued just before the change in Administration underlined that anti-Semitism is unacceptable. We call on all political parties to resolve it and given the local impact we did say at that point in time and we speculated that that needed to be the case with Labour as well. We are no fools. Anti-Semitism is a cancer. There may be elements within the Green Party that might express those views and they are repugnant as well. We are deeply disappointed that anti-Semitism continues and as I have previously stipulated, we will be doing everything in our power to stamp it out.
33.28 Councillor Nemeth asked the following question, will the Leader of the council join me and Councillor Peltzer Dunn in paying tribute to Andrea Lauro who tragically died on Sunday 2nd August whilst kayaking. He was a delightful character whose zest for life who touched the community in many ways. He leaves behind a loving family and 2 beautiful daughters Courtney and Lucy who miss him dearly.
33.29 Councillor Mac Cafferty replied, I would want to pay tribute to Mr. Lauro. I was on the seafront like many people on Sunday 2nd August and I contacted officers around 12 mid-day, like many of us I became really wary of the hovering coastguard helicopter. I was subsequently then briefed hourly by officers about developments until about midnight when the news was not looking good. I have to say it is about the saddest of any news that the Lead councillor can be given when we have lost one of our own citizens. We know that Andrea Lauro, father of 2 who was also a resident of my own ward and lived on Western Road, so there is extra poignancy there as well. Last Tuesday as some of you may have seen I offered the thoughts and sympathy of myself and the entire council to Andrea's family and friends. He leaves a grieving family and friends both in the but beautiful Lake Como region of Italy where he stemmed from and in a city where his flair helping small businesses was championed and our thoughts are with all of them at this incredibly sad time.
33.30 Councillor Nemeth asked the following supplementary question, yes thank you Councillor MacCafferty for that I am sure the family will much appreciate what you just said.
In light of two more tragedies taking place off the coast of the city this past week which really hits home how dangerous the sea can be. Will the Leader commit to providing a briefing for Councillors to supplement the existing helpful messages from the Council’s Communications Team that can be shared far and wide by Councillors amongst residents and community groups that might deal with detail things like where life guards are based, what equipment is advisable and inadvisable and what best practices must be embraced to reduce the likelihood of further tragedy on our coast?
33.31 Councillor Mac Cafferty replied, absolutely, I will first of all say that there will be an all Member briefing provided. I think we have to take seriously any single death in our seas and keeping the public safe is our first duty as elected Councillors and as a council. We have also, as you said had 2 further deaths. They were identified earlier this afternoon as Harry … and Matthew Smiley. The perished in the sea as well so in one week our city has lost 3 people through drowning. I want to work in as cross-party fashion as soon as possible to ensure we don't have a repeat of those dreadful tragedies. I have been reacting to the situation with the seriousness you would expect and in the past week an instruction will be written on all sea safety will now be prepared. Ward Councillors of all coastal wards will be offered a face to face briefing early next week and that will enable ward Councillors such as yourself to be involved in sea safety messaging and help us all gain a better understanding of the issues. I have secured the sea safety messaging which includes the danger of inflatables which has been a really prominent thing to be increased by the council Comms team and to work with the very strong messages, that some of you may be aware of, from the RNLI as well. I have asked officers about additional recruitment to employ extra staff with the end of the season approaching, I have asked to consider extending the season where life guards are on the beach because the sheer quantity of ‘stay-cations’ because of the pandemic. I have also asked officers to look into how we can lobby for further powers to assist with sea safety I also want to take the opportunity to thank the city's beach lifeguards and seafront officers. I have been concerned to hear that there has been some abuse and harassment of some of the lifeguards and I would trust that none of us would want the harassment of some of our own staff in the city.
33.32 Councillor Peltzer Dunn asked the following question, my question is in respect of the sea front. The A259 has recently had works done to it which has involved part closure of the A259 with a cycle lane. Does the Chair agree with me that the loss of a substantial number of car parking places on the A259 is causing considerable inconvenience to residents and visitors who wish to use the Hove beaches. Does she agree there could be an adverse effect on traders within the area?
33.33 Councillor Powell replied, I think it is really fabulous to see visitors returning to the city following the easing of lockdown restrictions I agree it is really important that we support the recovery of our visitor economy and support local businesses to take advantage of what is left of the summer season. With the good weather and the school holidays we have seen significantly higher numbers of people flocking to the city, we want people to enjoy our sea front but we also want them to do so as safely as possible and this must be our priority. The active travel measures which we are implementing are designed to support this. Afterall the economy can only recover if we act to prevent further outbreaks and a second wave of Covid-19. I understand there has been concern regarding the temporary removal of parking spaces due to the temporary cycle lane which has been introduced thanks to a Directive and funding from your Conservative Government. Whilst the changes mean a number of parking places along the seafront have been removed to accommodate a temporary cycle lane. As much parking as possible has been retained, around 40 per cent and only one metre of a loading bay has been taken away and in addition no disabled parking has been lost given the speed the Conservative Government has requested us to act here a lot of detail has not been made available to traders and residents but the council communications team are currently working on this and expect this to be published in the coming days. In line with your own government's guidance we have been taking urgent action across the city to support walking and cycling and providing spaces for residents and visitors to physically distance. We have received £660,000 funding from the Department of Transport to implement the changes and we are awaiting the outcome of second bid for a £2.68 million. As before, visitors are encouraged to use off-street car parks rather than seafront bays also walking and cycling open up opportunities for traders as well as using the city's excellent bus network. We are pleased to hear some of traders are seeing some of these measures you’re your Conservative government who asked us to introduce this. Lastly as part of the parks actively will be installing bike lockers and ‘wayfinding’ signage and promotional material to encourage people to park and cycle or walk and park and this initiative will link with the successful bike share scheme already in operation throughout the city which we are also expanding in response to more people cycling.
33.34 Councillor Peltzer Dunn asked the following supplementary question, I hadn't realised that the Government had specifically requested this lane on the A259 I didn’t think it would go into that amount of detail. I think with your responsibilities Madam Chair with total respect of the role you our now playing. If you could just outline what information you would want when it comes to the reconsideration of what happens with the cycle lane, i.e. the effect on tourism. I was intrigued that the users for the Hove central beaches will be encouraged to use off-street car parking.
33.35 Councillor Powell replied, I couldn’t quite hear your question; I will get back to you with a more detailed response in writing.
33.36 The Mayor noted that there were 4 remaining questions and that the 30minutes set aside for Members’ questions had expired and therefore the questions would be carried over to the next meeting unless otherwise directed by those Members.
33.37 The Mayor then stated that the meeting had been in session for over 4 hours and in accordance with procedural rules he moved a closure motion which was lost by 27 votes to 17.
34 Review of Political Balance and Committee Allocations
34.1 The Mayor noted that the next item was a report from the Chief Executive detailing the proposed changes to the allocations for committees to reflect the change in the Administration of the Council. He drew Members’ attention to appendix 4 of the report and an officer correction to recommendation 2.2 and the number of councillors appointed to the Community Wealth Building Task & Finish Working Group. The Mayor also noted that there was an amendment to the recommendations from the Conservative Group.
34.2 Councillor Clare moved the recommendations and stated that the Council was being asked to accept the review which confirmed the changes to the make-up of committees to reflect the political balance of the council.
34.3 Councillor Mears moved an amendment on behalf of the Conservative Group which was formally seconded by Councillor Wares.
34.4 The Mayor noted that the amendment had not been accepted and put it to the vote and called on each of the Group Leaders to confirm their position as well as the Groups in turn and each of the Independent Members:
Councillor Mac Cafferty stated that the Green Group were in against the amendment and this was confirmed by the Green Group Members;
Councillor Platts stated that the Labour Group were against the amendment and this was confirmed by the Labour Group Members;
Councillor Wares stated that the Conservative were in favour of the amendment and this was confirmed by the Conservative Group Members;
Councillor Brennan confirmed that she was voting against the amendment.
Councillor Fishleigh confirmed that she wished to abstain from voting on the amendment.
Councillor Knight confirmed that she was voting against the amendment.
34.5 The Mayor confirmed that the amendment had been lost and therefore put the recommendations as detailed in the report together with the officer correction to the vote. He called on each of the Group Leaders to confirm their position as well as the Groups in turn and each of the Independent Members:
Councillor Mac Cafferty stated that the Green Group were in favour of the recommendations as amended and this was confirmed by the Green Group Members;
Councillor Platts stated that the Labour Group were in favour of the recommendation as amended and this was confirmed by the Labour Group Members;
Councillor Wares stated that the Conservative were against the recommendations as amended and this was confirmed by the Conservative Group Members;
Councillor Brennan confirmed that she was voting for the recommendations as amended.
Councillor Fishleigh confirmed that she wished to abstain from voting on the item.
Councillor Knight confirmed that she was voting for the recommendations as the amended.
34.6 The Mayor confirmed that the recommendations as amended by the officer correction had been agreed.
34.7 RESOLVED:
(1) That the Council appoints/re-appoints its committees with the sizes and allocation of seats between political groups as set out in appendix 1 to the report;
(2) That the allocation of seats as detailed in the report and in appendix 2 to the report be approved;
(3) That having received nominations to the committees from the 3 political groups, as detailed in appendix 2 to the report, such nominations (including a BME Standing invitee to the Policy & Resources Committee when appointed) be agreed, and the committee places filled accordingly;
(4) That those Members listed as Chair, Deputy Chair and Opposition Spokesperson of the respective committees, sub- committees, project boards and working groups in appendix 2 be appointed to those positions and the changes referred to in paragraph 3.10 to Council Procedure Rules be agreed;
(5) That having regard to 2.2. above, it be agreed that for the purpose of enabling meetings of the Personnel Sub-Committee Appeals Panel and Licensing Panels to be convened without disproportionate difficulty, the make-up of such panels need not be politically proportionate, although every effort will be taken to achieve it and the Council further agrees:
(i) Although the Panels have the Members referred to in appendix 2 as their standing Members, the Council agrees that, where any of the 3 Members are not available,
(a) any Member of the Council who has received appropriate training shall be eligible to sit on the Personnel Appeal Panel; and
(b) any Member of the Licensing Committee who has received the appropriate training shall be eligible to sit on the Licensing Panel;
(ii) That the Head of Democratic Services be authorised to set up the Panel(s), as and when needed with the permanent Members or, where any of them is not available, by including any other eligible Member of the Council or Committee as appropriate, having regard to the need, where possible, to secure cross party representation;
(iii) The above arrangements, and those set out in paragraph 2.5
above, are intended to operate as "alternative arrangements"
pursuant to section 17 of the Local Government & Housing Act
1989 and Regulation 20 of the Local Government (Committees and
Political Groups) Regulations 1990.
(6) That Council appoints Members/representatives to various bodies as listed in appendix 3 to the report.
35 The following Notices of Motion have been submitted by Members for consideration:
(1) MADEIRA DRIVE
35.1 The Notice of Motion as listed in the agenda was proposed by Councillor Wares on behalf of the Conservative Group and formally seconded by Councillor Miller.
35.2 Councillors Wilkinson, Hamilton and Hugh-Jones spoke on the motion and expressed their opposition to the motion.
35.3 Councillor Wares noted the comments and stated that he hoped the motion would be supported.
35.4 The Mayor then put the motion as listed to the vote:
This Council resolves to :
(1) Request officers produce a briefing document for consideration by an Urgency Sub-Committee of the Environment, Transport & Sustainability Committee to partially reopen Madeira Drive to traffic under a Temporary Traffic Regulation Order broadly in line with the proposal outlined in the supporting information.
(2) Request that the Urgency Sub-Committee referred to in point (1) be convened by the 21st August 2020.
(3) Requests the Environment, Transport & Sustainability Committee to ensure that, at such point when legislation no longer supports the closure of Madeira Drive in respect to emergency measures under the Temporary TRO associated with Covid-19, Madeira Drive be fully reopened and restored to its previous use following which the council can engage in full public consultation (including with stakeholders who hold events on Madeira Drive) to determine any future potential changes.
35.5 He then called on each of the Group Leaders to confirm their position as well as the Groups in turn and each of the Independent Members:
Councillor Mac Cafferty stated that the Green Group were against the motion and this was confirmed by the Green Group Members;
Councillor Platts stated that the Labour Group were against the motion and this was confirmed by the Labour Group Members;
Councillor Wares stated that the Conservative were in favour of the motion and this was confirmed by the Conservative Group Members;
Councillor Fishleigh confirmed that she was voting in favour of the motion;
Councillor Knight confirmed that she was voting against the motion.
35.6 The Mayor confirmed that the motion had been lost.
(2) COMMITTING TO MAKE BRIGHTON & HOVE FREE OF MODERN SLAVERY
35.7 The Notice of Motion as listed in the agenda was proposed by Councillor Appich on behalf of the Labour Group and formally seconded by Councillor O’Quinn.
35.8 Councillor Mears moved an amendment on behalf of the Conservative Group which was formally seconded by Councillor Bagaeen.
35.9 Councillor Shanks spoke on the motion and expressed the Green Group’s support for the motion as amended.
35.10 Councillor Appich noted the comments and confirmed that she was happy to accept the amendment.
35.11 The Mayor noted that the amendment had been accepted and that the Council was happy to move to a vote on the motion as amended, and therefore put the revised motion to the vote:
That this Council opposes modern slavery in all its forms and requests officers to bring a report to the next ordinary meeting of the TECC Committee exploring proposals to commit the Council to doing everything in its power to make our city free of modern slavery, and ways to work with national and local government, law enforcement agencies, business, the community and voluntary sector, faith bodies and our local communities to;
· demonstrate strong leadership for anti-slavery initiatives:
· raise awareness amongst our staff, associates and the people we service on a daily basis
· train our staff to recognise and respond appropriately to potential signs of slavery
· share intelligence and information to help detect slavery and ensure it cannot take root
· support victims and survivors in our communities
· remove slave-based labour from our supply chains
· contribute to building a prosperous and slavery-free economy.
That the report in 2.1 also includes a full detailed update on the work the council has done in respect to the Labour Group NoM (referred to in the supporting information) agreed by this Council in July 2018 by reference to the report that was requested by the Policy, Resources & Growth Committee in October 2018.
35.12 He then called on each of the Group Leaders to confirm their position as well as the Groups in turn and each of the Independent Members:
Councillor Mac Cafferty stated that the Green Group were in favour of the motion as amended and this was confirmed by the Green Group Members;
Councillor Platts stated that the Labour Group were in favour of the motion as amended and this was confirmed by the Labour Group Members;
Councillor Wares stated that the Conservative were in favour of the motion as amended and this was confirmed by the Conservative Group Members;
Councillor Fishleigh confirmed that she was voting in favour of the motion as amended;
Councillor Knight confirmed that she was voting in favour of the motion as amended.
35.13 The Mayor confirmed that the motion had been carried.
(3) BLACK LIVES MATTER / ANTI-RACIST COUNCIL
35.14 The Notice of Motion as listed in the agenda was proposed by Councillor Heley on behalf of the Green Group and formally seconded by Councillor Powell.
35.15 Councillor Peltzer Dunn moved an amendment on behalf of the Conservative Group which was formally seconded by Councillor Bagaeen.
35.16 Councillor Evans moved an amendment on behalf of the Labour Group which was seconded by Councillor Childs.
35.17 Councillors Littman and Platts spoke on the motion and the proposed amendments.
35.18 Councillor Heley thanked the Members for their comments and stated that she could not accept the Conservative amendment but was happy to accept the Labour amendment.
35.19 The Mayor noted that the Conservative amendment had not been accepted and therefore put it to the vote and called on each of the Group Leaders to confirm their position as well as the Groups in turn and each of the Independent Members:
Councillor Mac Cafferty stated that the Green Group were against the amendment this was confirmed by the Green Group Members;
Councillor Platts stated that the Labour Group were against the amendment and this was confirmed by the Labour Group Members;
Councillor Wares stated that the Conservative were in favour of the amendment and this was confirmed by the Conservative Group Members;
Councillor Fishleigh confirmed that she was voting in favour of the amendment;
Councillor Knight confirmed that she was voting against the amendment.
35.20 The Mayor confirmed that the amendment had been lost.
35.21 The Mayor noted that the Labour amendment had been accepted and that the Council was happy to move to a vote on the motion as amended, and therefore put the revised motion to the vote:
Further to previous council communications, this council formally pledges to be an antiracist council and to advocate values of anti-racism across Brighton and Hove. [1]
Council therefore resolves to ask the Chief Executive to:
· Work to convene a meeting with political leaders in the city and the Brighton and Hove Black Lives Matter group, to respond to demands
· Offer support to those taking part in the Black Lives Matter protests through outlining practicable council health and safety assistance available to organisers during the Covid-19 pandemic; e.g. measures or signage to aid social distancing, access to protective equipment etc.
Council also requests that the Chief Executive writes to the Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), expressing this council’s desire for the PCC to conduct an investigation into:
· the disproportionate use of stop-and-search powers against BAME communities, and pressing for a review into the response of Sussex PCC to the Stephen Lawrence inquiry and Lammy review; as well as the role of local Community Scrutiny panels; [2]
· how the use of excessive force and the Prevent strategy discriminate against BAME communities in Sussex
Further, that council requests officers bring a report on the above matters to the Tourism Equalities, Communities and Culture committee, in particular detailing:
· information on the BAME pay gap and underrepresentation of BAME employees within the council, [3] which may be shaped by the results of the Global HPO report on Race Equality in Employment; and a timeline for implementation of any recommendations that result from this [4]
35.22 He then called on each of the Group Leaders to confirm their position as well as the Groups in turn and each of the Independent Members:
Councillor Mac Cafferty stated that the Green Group were in favour of the motion as amended and this was confirmed by the Green Group Members;
Councillor Platts stated that the Labour Group were in favour of the motion as amended and this was confirmed by the Labour Group Members;
Councillor Wares stated that the Conservative were in favour of the motion as amended and this was confirmed by the Conservative Group Members;
Councillor Fishleigh confirmed that she was in favour of the motion as amended;
Councillor Knight confirmed that she was in favour of the motion as amended.
35.23 The Mayor confirmed that the motion as amended had been carried.
(4) HISTORIC MOTORING EVENTS ON MADEIRA DRIVE
35.24 The Notice of Motion as listed in the agenda was proposed by Councillor Nemeth on behalf of the Conservative Group and formally seconded by Councillor Miller.
35.25 Councillor Appich moved an amendment on behalf of the Green Group which was formally seconded by Councillor Evans.
35.26 Councillors Theobald and Lloyd spoke on the motion and the amendment and expressed their support.
35.27 Councillor Nemeth thanked everyone for their comments and the support for the aims of the motion and stated that he would accept the amendment.
35.28 The Mayor noted that the amendment had been accepted and that the Council was happy to move to a vote on the motion as amended, and therefore put the revised motion to the vote:
This council resolves to:
(1) Recognise the huge financial and cultural contribution to the local tourist economy of the many motoring events that take place in the city and on Madeira Drive in particular;
(2) Recommends to ETS Committee that any post-Covid changes to the layout of Madeira Drive do not prevent historic motoring events from taking place; and
(3) Recommends to TECC Committee that urgent confirmation is given that historic motoring events will be given permission to take place.
35.29 He then called on each of the Group Leaders to confirm their position as well as the Groups in turn and each of the Independent Members:
Councillor Mac Cafferty stated that the Green Group were against the motion as amended and this was confirmed by the Green Group Members;
Councillor Platts stated that the Labour Group were in favour of the motion as amended and this was confirmed by the Labour Group Members;
Councillor Wares stated that the Conservative were in favour of the motion as amended and this was confirmed by the Conservative Group Members;
Councillor Fishleigh confirmed that she was voting in favour of the motion as amended;
Councillor Knight confirmed that she wished to abstain from voting on the motion as amended.
35.30 The Mayor confirmed that the motion as amended had been carried.
(5) HOUSING & EVICTIONS
35.31 The Notice of Motion as listed in the agenda was proposed by Councillor Platts on behalf of the Labour and Green Groups and formally seconded by Councillor Gibson.
35.32 Councillors Childs and Williams spoke on the motion and outlined their support, whilst Councillors Mears and Barnett outlined their opposition to motion.
35.33 Councillor Childs noted the comments and stated that he believed there was a clear need to support tenants.
35.34 The Mayor then put the motion as listed to the vote:
The Council asks the Chief Executive writes to the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities & Local Government, requesting an urgent response by 31st August:
· the moratorium on evictions be extended beyond September, allowing for consideration of additional reforms to prevent people losing their homes
· the benefit cap be lifted by the same amount that Local Housing Allowances have increased
· the bringing forward of the abolition of s21 evictions
· the following additional reforms be considered by government:
a) moving towards a Living rent cap at 33% of household income,
b) giving councils powers to set local rent controls,
c) capping rents at local housing allowance during the pandemic,
d) ending no fault evictions and placing a duty on landlords and councils to work to resolve rent arrears issues, and requiring these efforts be demonstrated to a court before an eviction is granted for rent arrears
The Council further requests that officers;
· continue to work and consult positively with tenant groups and representative organisations and raise awareness of them
· ensure there are no evictions of tenants for arrears arising during and as a consequence of the crisis period 23rd March – 31st October 2020
· finalise the establishment of the Ethical Lettings Agency and Ethical Landlords Charter.
35.33 He then called on each of the Group Leaders to confirm their position as well as the Groups in turn and each of the Independent Members:
Councillor Mac Cafferty stated that the Green Group were in favour of the motion and this was confirmed by the Green Group Members;
Councillor Platts stated that the Labour Group were in favour of the motion and this was confirmed by the Labour Group Members;
Councillor Wares stated that the Conservative were in against the motion and this was confirmed by the Conservative Group Members;
Councillor Fishleigh confirmed that she wished to abstain from voting on the motion;
Councillor Knight confirmed that she was voting for the motion.
35.34 The Mayor confirmed that the motion had been carried.
(6) LITTER REDUCTIONS
35.35 The Notice of Motion as listed in the agenda was proposed by Councillor Littman on behalf of the Green Group and stated that he wished to make a textual change by inserting the word ‘suitable’ after next in the first line of the motion and sought the council’s acceptance to the change.
35.36 The Mayor noted that Members were happy to accept the textual change.
35.37 Councillor Lloyd formally seconded the motion.
35.38 Councillor Wares moved an amendment on behalf of the Conservative Group which was formally seconded by Councillor Nemeth.
35.39 Councillors Fowler and Theobald spoke on the motion and the amendment and expressed their support.
35.40 Councillor Littman thanked the councillors for their comments and confirmed the he was happy to accept the amendment.
35.41 The Mayor noted that the amendment had been accepted and that the Council was happy to move to a vote on the motion as amended, and therefore put the revised motion to the vote:
This Council requests that:
1. A report is commissioned for the next suitable meeting of the ET&S Committee, outlining a further strategic response to the problem of littering, including:
- joint working between the council, supermarkets and hospitality industry that can stem the flow of rubbish at the source
- the development of a voluntary scheme, whereby businesses can be supported to develop a ‘return/refund’ system for disposable items, to help minimise littering among customers; and where participation is rewarded e.g. through promotional materials / stickers for businesses who join the scheme;
- details on how any strategy aligns with the council’s unnecessary single-use plastics pledge
- an update on the council’s food waste trial
- the strategy to deal with seasonal increases in littering especially on the beaches to avoid unnecessary build-up of waste by bins whilst also not impacting on general residential household waste and recycling collection services through-out the city
- the potential to increase the number of Civil Enforcement Officers employed by the council
-
the potential to increase the number of staff and support equipment
(including vehicles) that can be dedicated to litter picking
throughout the city on a planned or response basis.
2. That the Chief Executive writes to the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, requesting:
- that the Government urgently provide an update on the status of their ‘Litter Strategy’, which suggests that a ‘Reducing Litter caused by Food on the Go: A Voluntary Code of practice,’ scheme will be rolled out in 2020/21; and asks that schemes of this type be made mandatory;
- the immediate introduction of the proposals in the Government’s Litter Strategy, to ensure packaging is more clearly labelled, to allow local councils to identify and record major sources of litter;
3. That the Chief Executive also writes to the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government requesting that government introduce an ‘Excessive Packaging Levy’, to generate funds to help councils deal with the £800m costs of cleaning up litter in the UK annually.
35.42 He then called on each of the Group Leaders to confirm their position as well as the Groups in turn and each of the Independent Members:
Councillor Mac Cafferty stated that the Green Group were in favour of the motion as amended and this was confirmed by the Green Group Members;
Councillor Platts stated that the Labour Group were in favour of the motion as amended and this was confirmed by the Labour Group Members;
Councillor Wares stated that the Conservative were in favour of the motion as amended and this was confirmed by the Conservative Group Members;
Councillor Knight confirmed that she was voting in favour of the motion as amended.
35.43 The Mayor confirmed that the motion had been carried.
(7) LOCAL DECISION MAKING ON HEALTH AND ADULT SOCIAL CARE
35.44 The Notice of Motion as listed in the agenda was proposed by Councillor Nield on behalf of the Green and Labour Groups and formally seconded by Councillor Moonan.
35.45 Councillors Bagaeen and McNair spoke on the motion and confirmed that they would not be supporting it.
35.46 The Mayor then put the following motion to the vote:
This council resolves:
1. To ask the Chief Executive to write to the Secretary of State for Health to detail:
· the role of local councils in taking leadership during the Covid-19 pandemic, delivering rapid action for residents and enabling new services to commence in response to the crisis: for PPE, prevention, public health messaging and care;
· to call on Government to adequately support Councils to address the pandemic and recovery locally by undertaking a review of powers available to local authorities to manage local outbreaks of the virus and other public health emergencies, and to ensure that councils are properly resourced for this work, including guaranteed funding for:
1) sourcing PPE
2) staff recruitment and management to undertake local track and trace needs
3) support for a national carers qualification and pay scales, applicable to all
4) support for councils managing local outbreaks, including provision of further business support and assistance to house rough sleepers
2. Further, that such a letter expresses this council’s:
· Concerns over the state of Adult Social Care provision and the need for reform of how this is managed locally, echoed by the LGA;
· ongoing concern over the inadequacy of the funding model for social care, and lack of powers available to local councils to manage decision making;
· request for a long-term solution to adult social care, overseen and monitored by Local Authorities and supported through adequate funding and provision of local decision-making powers to help govern budgets and services affecting health and social care locally.
35.47 The Mayor then called on each of the Group Leaders to confirm their position as well as the Groups in turn and each of the Independent Members:
Councillor Mac Cafferty stated that the Green Group were in favour of the motion and this was confirmed by the Green Group Members;
Councillor Platts stated that the Labour Group were in favour of the motion and this was confirmed by the Labour Group Members;
Councillor Wares stated that the Conservative were against the motion and this was confirmed by the Conservative Group Members;
Councillor Knight confirmed that she was voting for the motion.
35.48 The Mayor confirmed the motion had been carried.
(8) SUPPORTING CREDIT UNION WORKPLACE SAVINGS SCHEME
35.49 The Notice of Motion as listed in the agenda was proposed by Councillor O’Quinn on behalf of the Labour and Green Groups and formally seconded by Councillor Clare.
35.50 Councillors Peltzer Dunn, Barnett and Gibson spoke on the motion and confirmed that they would be supporting it.
35.51 The Mayor then put the following motion to the vote:
That this Council supports the credit union workplace savings scheme within the Council and the benefits it brings to staff and the local economy and therefore:
· requests that officers work with the credit union to ensure awareness of the scheme to all staff members including (but not exclusively) staff conferences, internal communication channels, and new staff induction;
· without obligation, request that all councillors consider joining the scheme and start saving through payroll to show their support for the credit union.
35.52 The Mayor then called on each of the Group Leaders to confirm their position as well as the Groups in turn and each of the Independent Members:
Councillor Mac Cafferty stated that the Green Group were in favour of the motion and this was confirmed by the Green Group Members;
Councillor Platts stated that the Labour Group were in favour of the motion and this was confirmed by the Labour Group Members;
Councillor Wares stated that the Conservative were in favour of the motion and this was confirmed by the Conservative Group Members;
Councillor Knight confirmed that she was voting for the motion.
35.53 The Mayor confirmed the motion had been carried.
36 Close of Meeting
36.1 The Mayor thanked everyone for joining the meeting and their patience and closed the meeting.
The meeting concluded at 11.52pm
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Signed
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Chair |
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Dated this |
day of
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2020 |