Please contact: Tessa Gilder-Smith
Please email: Tessa.Gilder-Smith@north-norfolk.gov.uk
Please direct dial on: 01263 516047
12 May 2014
A meeting of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee of North Norfolk District Council will be held
in the in the Council Chamber at the Council Offices, Holt Road, Cromer on Tuesday 20 May
2014 at 9.30am.
At the discretion of the Chairman, a short break will be taken after the meeting has been running
for approximately one and a half hours.
Members of the public who wish to ask a question or speak on an agenda item are requested to
arrive at least 15 minutes before the start of the meeting. It will not always be possible to
accommodate requests after that time. This is to allow time for the Committee Chair to rearrange
the order of items on the agenda for the convenience of members of the public. Further information
on the procedure for public speaking can be obtained from Democratic Services, Tel: 01263
516010, Email: democraticservices@north-norfolk.gov.uk
Sheila Oxtoby
Chief Executive
To: Mrs A Claussen-Reynolds, Ms V R Gay, Mrs A Green, Mr B Jarvis, Mrs B McGoun, Mr P
Moore, Mr J H Perry-Warnes, Mr R Reynolds, Mr E Seward, Mr R Shepherd, Mr N Smith, and Mr P
Terrington.
All other Members of the Council for information.
Members of the Management Team, appropriate Officers, Press and Public.
If you have any special requirements in order to attend this
meeting, please let us know in advance
If you would like any document in large print, audio, Braille, alternative
format or in a different language please contact us.
Chief Executive: Sheila Oxtoby Corporate Directors: Nick Baker & Steve Blatch
Tel 01263 513811 Fax 01263 515042 Minicom 01263 516005
Email districtcouncil@north-norfolk.gov.uk Web site northnorfolk.org
AGENDA
1.
TO RECEIVE APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE
2.
SUBSTITUTES
3.
PUBLIC QUESTIONS
To receive questions from the public, if any
4.
MINUTES
(Page 1)
(9.30 – 9.35)
To approve as correct records the minutes of the meeting of the Overview and Scrutiny
Committee held on 12 March 2014.
5.
ITEMS OF URGENT BUSINESS
To determine any other items of business which the Chairman decides should be
considered as a matter of urgency pursuant to Section 100B(4)(b) of the Local Government
Act 1972.
6.
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
Members are asked at this stage to declare any interests that they may have in any of the
following items on the agenda. The Code of Conduct for Members requires that
declarations include the nature of the interest and whether it is a disclosable pecuniary
interest.
7.
PETITIONS FROM MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
To note a petition had been received by Democratic Services regarding the opposition to
fracking in the district.
Note: If members wish to view this petition it is being held in Democratic Services.
8.
CONSIDERATION OF ANY MATTER REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE BY A MEMBER
To consider any requests made by non-executive Members of the Council, and notified to
the Monitoring Officer with seven clear working days’ notice, to include an item on the
agenda of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee.
9.
RESPONSES OF THE COUNCIL OR THE CABINET TO THE COMMITTEE’S REPORTS
OR RECOMMENDATIONS
To consider any responses of the Council or the Cabinet to the Committee’s reports or
recommendations.
10.
THE CABINET WORK PROGRAMME
(Page 8)
(9.35 – 9.40)
To discuss the Cabinet Work Programme and to consider the programme of business for
Cabinet, Overview and Scrutiny, and Full Council
11.
UPDATE ON TOURISM ACROSS THE DISTRICT – OVERVIEW OF THE 2013 SEASON
(Page 12)
(9.40- 10.10)
Summary:
This report provides an update on tourism in North Norfolk in
terms of an overview of the 2013 season and the outlook for
the 2014 season.
Conclusion:
Last year was characterised by a cold Spring, dry and warm
Summer which extended to the Autumn but the wettest
Winter in decades. Overall, however, there was a good
turnout of visitors to the district and this led to growing
optimism and confidence amongst businesses for this year’s
season.
Better promotion and marketing of tourism in North Norfolk
will result from the continued collaboration between DMOs,
businesses and local authorities in the county and the region.
12.
ADOPTION OF EGMERE LOCAL DEVELOPMENT ORDER
(10.10-10.25)
(Cabinet Agenda page 7)
(Local Development Order – p.13) (Appendix A – p.27) (Appendix B – p.31)
(Appendix C – p.33) (Appendix D – p.34)
Summary:
This report:
Summarises the conclusions and recommendations of the
consultants’ Landscape Visual Impact Assessment and
Ecological Appraisal reports commissioned to strengthen the
evidence base in support of the proposed Local Development
Order;

Asks Cabinet to:
 agree the revised boundaries of the Local
Development Order and land uses / forms of
development proposed within the designated area,
and
 confirm principal points of access into areas of land
within the area covered by the Local Development
Order designation, as per the advice of the Highway
Authority;
Conclusions:

Advises that Cabinet agrees the documentation prepared in
support of the Egmere Local Development Order – ie the
Order and Schedule of Development, Design Guide and
Landscape Plan; and

Recommends to Council that the Order be adopted
The report details the further work undertaken in developing the
proposal to establish a Local Development Order at Egmere so
as to accommodate investment by businesses associated with
the development and operation of offshore wind developments off
the North Norfolk coast and recommends that the Local
Development Order be adopted by the Council as the basis of
planning policy for this small area of the District for an initial
period of five years.
Recommendations:
Cabinet is recommended to:1. Note the further work undertaken to develop the
proposal to establish a Local Development Order at
Egmere in response to comments received during the
public consultation on the proposal; the further
technical surveys prepared as an evidence base for the
Order and the Screening Opinion completed in respect
of the Order.
COUNCIL
DECISION
2. Agree the revised boundaries of the Local Development
Order and land uses / forms of development proposed within
the designated area and confirm the principal points of
access into areas of land within the area covered by the
Local Development Order designation.
3. Agree the documentation prepared in support of the Egmere
Local Development Order – ie the Order and Schedule of
Development, Design Guide and Landscape Plan; and
4. Recommend to Full Council that the Egmere Local
Development Order be adopted
Cabinet Member(s)
Ward(s) affected
Contact Officer:
Telephone number
Email:
13.
Cllr R Wright
Primarily Walsingham, with some impact on Priory
Steve Blatch
01263 516232
steve.blatch@north-norfolk.gov.uk
NORTH NORFOLK ASSET MANAGEMENT PLAN
(10.25-10.40)
(Cabinet Agenda page 35)
(Asset Management Plan –p.38) (Appendix E – p. 58) (Appendix F – p.62)
(Appendix G – p.63)
Summary:
Conclusions:
The Asset Management Plan (AMP) 2014/15 to 2016/17
outlines the strategic framework within which the Council
manages its property assets and explains how the Council
assesses the condition, sufficiency and suitability of its
properties. It discusses the objectives for the portfolio
along with the costs and opportunities in relation to the
assets. It is supported by an Action Plan which includes
prioritised activities to enable delivery of Council’s property
objectives.
The AMP drives the capital programme and operational activities
within the Property Services Team in order that the work can be
planned and prioritised. It contains the Action Plan which will
help to ensure that the Council’s assets continue to play a key
role in reducing the forecast budget deficit for future years, while
also supporting communities and helping to deliver the Council’s
corporate objectives.
Recommendations:
It is recommended that Cabinet agree and recommend to
Council;
1. The Asset Management Plan be approved as the basis
for the strategic framework for asset management at
North Norfolk District Council, including implementation
of the Action Plan.
2. That a capital budget of £110,000 is approved to
continue the improvement works to the Council’s car
parks.
COUNCIL
DECISION
Cabinet Member(s)
Ward(s) affected
Contact Officer:
Telephone number
Email:
14.
Cllr R Oliver
All
Duncan Ellis
01263 516330
Duncan.ellis@north-norfolk.gov.uk
CAR PARKING UPDATE
(10.40-11.15)
(Page 22)
(Agenda Note - Appendix A – Car Parking Report is a separate document)
Summary:
Overview and Scrutiny Committee considered a report on
car parking in February 2014 and resolved:
To produce a comprehensive review of car parking,
covering the following aspects of:
a) The cost of enforcement versus the income to
the authority, particularly with regards to
evening tariffs, seasonal income, and
geographical areas (inland versus coastal
tariffs).
b) The cost benefit of each car park with a map.
c) To fully consider the viability of the introduction
of seasonal charging.
Options considered:
The attached report updates the report provided in
January with more recent information (were available) and
also provides the information requested. This covering
report summarises the requested information.
The review document (please see Appendix A) considers
all of the Council’s car parks and the income produced by
these assets in relation to the Council’s overall budget
position.
Conclusions:
Car park income is a key element of the Council’s budget
and helps provide the “tourism infrastructure” such as
public toilets, promenade facilities and other civic
infrastructure required in a tourist area, but not provided
for in any Government funding regime.
The current pricing regime was introduced in April 2012 to
recognise the contribution made by the coastal and resort
car parks compared with car parks in the inland towns.
The introduction of a 50p for half an hour was introduced
to ensure no deterrent to short shopping trips in the towns.
Comparisons with other similar areas show that North
Norfolk parking prices are in line with many tourist resorts.
As enforcement has improved over recent years, the
amount of compliance has also improved which is
reflected in the increased income. Weather has a
significant impact on car parking income.
Season ticket prices have not increased since April 2010
and represent exceptionally good value for local residents.
Although the coastal car parks show a very strong
seasonality, removal or reduction of these charges would
have an impact on income, as would the removal of the
evening charge.
Cabinet
Ward(s) affected;
Member(s)
Fakenham, Sheringham, Cromer, North Walsham and Wells.
Cllr Rhodri Oliver
Contact Officer: Duncan Ellis (Head of Assets and Leisure),
Telephone number: 01263 516330
Email: duncan.ellis@north-norfolk.gov.uk
15.
NORTH NORFOLK BIG SOCIETY FUND
(11.30- 11.40)
(Cabinet Agenda page 64)
Summary:
An appraisal and review of the North Norfolk Big Society Fund
during its first year of operation was considered by Cabinet in
April 2013.
It was subsequently agreed that Cabinet would receive an
annual report on the Fund at the end of each financial year.
Conclusions:
The North Norfolk Big Society Fund annual report provides an
overview of the Fund during its second year of operation. It
considers the effectiveness of the management, administrative
and decision making process and the extent to which the Fund
is achieving its aim. The report identifies the Fund’s strengths
and challenges and suggests approaches to ensure the Fund
continues to meet both Council and community aspirations.
Recommendations:
CABINET
DECISION
Reasons for
Recommendations:
Cabinet are requested to note the annual report and
consider if they wish to explore further any suggested
approaches to develop and enhance both the grant and
enabling fund schemes.
To ensure Cabinet are informed about the operation of the
Fund during its second year and to ensure that the Fund
continues to meet both Council and community aspirations.
LIST OF BACKGROUND PAPERS AS REQUIRED BY LAW
The Big Society Fund Prospectus
Big Society Fund Review April 2013
Cabinet Member(s)
Ward(s) affected
Contact Officer:
Telephone number
Email:
16.
Cllr J Lee
All
Sonia Shuter
01263 516173
sonia.shuter@north-norfolk.gov.uk
ENFORCEMENT BOARD UPDATE
(11.40-11.50)
(Cabinet Agenda page 75)
(Appendix 1 – p.81) (Appendix 2 – p. 84)
Summary:
CABINET
DECISION
This report provides an update to Members on the work of
the Enforcement Board over the past six months and also
gives an assessment of progress made since the Board’s
inception, in December 2012, to provide a cohesive
enforcement approach in respect of Long Term Empty
properties and other complex enforcement cases.
In broad terms, at the time of writing, the Board has
considered 102 cases, of which all but 4 have seen have
seen positive enforcement action. In addition to the direct
action around property, significant amounts of money due
to the Council continues to be recovered in terms of council
tax and business rates and almost all of the cost associated
with the Board’s work has been or will be recovered.
Conclusions:
The Enforcement Board continues to make significant
progress in dealing with difficult and long standing
enforcement cases and bringing Long Term empty
properties back into use, with both social and economic
benefits, and financial benefits to the council.
Recommendations:
That Cabinet notes the progress made to date by the
Enforcement Board.
Reasons for
To ensure appropriate governance of the Board.
Recommendations:
Cabinet Member(s)
Ward(s) affected
Contact Officer:
Telephone number
Email:
17.
Cllr R Oliver
All
Nick Baker
01263 516221
nick.baker@north-norfolk.gov.uk
OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY UPDATE
(11.50-12.00)
(Page 24)
(Appendix B – p.25) (Appendix C – p.27) (Appendix D – p.28)
To receive the Overview and Scrutiny Update from the Democratic Services Team Leader.
19.
EXCLUSION OF THE PRESS AND PUBLIC
To pass the following resolution, if necessary:
“That under Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972 the press and public be
excluded from the meeting for the following items of business on the grounds that they
involve the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in paragraph _ of Part I of
Schedule 12A (as amended) to the Act.”
20.
TO CONSIDER ANY EXEMPT MATTERS ARISING FROM CONSIDERATION OF THE
PUBLIC BUSINESS OF THE AGENDA
Agenda item no._______4_______
OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY
Minutes of a meeting of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee held on 12 March 2014
in the Council Chamber, North Norfolk District Council, Holt Road, Cromer at 9.30 am.
Members Present:
Committee:
Mr P W Moore (Chairman)
Mrs A Claussen-Reynolds
Ms V R Gay
Mrs A Green
Mr J H Perry-Warnes
Mrs V Uprichard (Sub)
Mr R Reynolds
Mr E Seward
Mr R Shepherd
Mr N Smith
Mr P Terrington
Officers in
Attendance:
The Chief Executive, The Chief Accountant, The Policy and Performance
Management Officer, The Health and Communities Officer, The Democratic
Services Team Leader, The Democratic Services Officer.
Members in
Attendance:
Mrs A Moore, Mrs P Grove-Jones, Mr B Smith, Mrs L Brettle, Mr W J
Northam, Mr P W High, Mr G Williams, Mr R Oliver.
Democratic Services Officer (TGS)
145. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE
Mrs B McGoun
146. SUBSTITUTES
Mrs V Uprichard for Mrs B McGoun
147. PUBLIC QUESTIONS
None received
148. MINUTES
The minutes of the previous meeting were approved and signed by the Chairman as a
correct record of the meeting.
149. ITEMS OF URGENT BUSINESS
None received.
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
1
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12 February 2014
150. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
Member(s)
Minute
Item
Interest
Consideration of any matter
referred to the committee by a
member (The Living Wage)
Non Pecuniary
Interest: Honorary life
member of Unison.
No.
Mr P Moore
110
151. PETITIONS FROM MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
None received.
152. CONSIDERATION OF ANY MATTER REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE BY A
MEMBER
(Note: this item was discussed following the presentation by the Ambulance
Service)
Mr P High introduced the matter he had referred to the committee regarding the
application of the Living Wage at North Norfolk District Council. He explained that the
original report put together by the Head of Organisational Development had been
considered by the Joint Staff Consultative Committee at their previous meeting, where
they had agreed to propose a supplementary payment to the two posts at NNDC which
fell below the living wage bracket. He also pointed out that the JSCC had not considered
full affiliation with the living wage scheme due to the implications on the authority’s subcontractors. Members then discussed the item.
1. Mr N Smith agreed with this explanation and further supported a supplementary
payment system for the two posts which did not receive the living wage in order to set
a good example.
2. Ms V Gay agreed with this proposal, stating that NNDC was the largest employer in
the region and should be setting an example to other employers. She stated
supporting a supplement seemed a fair solution to the issue at hand and explained
that if Mr N Smith had proposed the recommendation, she would second it.
3. The Chief Executive provided some new information to the committee regarding the
application of the living wage. She explained that the proposal had originally been
taken to JSCC by Unison. She also explained that of the two posts that were below
the living wage, one was currently out to consultation as a part of a restructure and
may be subject to change in the near future. She also explained that the other post
would move up the scale points on the payment scale in April. She stated it may be
useful for JSCC to consider a report on the pay scale system at NNDC as opposed to
proposing a one-off system of supplementary pay, as the issue was around the pay
grading system. She further explained that compared to the private sector, Grade 12
was very competitive and the public sector offered other benefits such as competitive
pensions. The Chief Executive also wished to point out that the authority did employ
apprentices which whilst on a different pay scale, were technically paid below the
living wage and this might be information members wished to consider.
4. Following this information received from the Chief Executive, members Mr P High
and Mr N Smith agreed that a report needed to go to JSCC regarding the pay and
grading structure at the authority, and that more information was required to be able
to make a decision regarding the two posts in question. The Democratic Services
Team Leader informed members that the following meeting of JSCC was on the 28 th
April and a report could be taken to this meeting. The Chief Executive further
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
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12 February 2014
explained that should any recommendation come from this meeting, it would again be
a recommendation for the Cabinet to consider, unless it was a policy change, which
would be a decision for Full Council.
5. Mr E Seward agreed with these comments but wished for it to be noted that the
authority should also expect high standards of its sub-contractors, and that this
shouldn’t be a factor considered when deciding on pay and grading for NNDC staff.
The Chairman agreed to defer this item until a further report could be taken to JSCC
regarding pay and grading at the authority.
153. RESPONSES OF THE COUNCIL OR THE CABINET TO THE COMMITTEE’S
REPORTS OR RECOMMENDATIONS
None received.
154. THE CABINET WORK PROGRAMME
The Committee considered the Cabinet Work Programme and noted its content.
155. PRESENTATION BY THE EAST OF ENGLAND AMBULANCE SERVICE
The Chairman thanked the Ambulance Service for their presentation and invited
members to ask questions.
1. Mr R Reynolds commended the work of the ambulance service and encouraged
members of the committee to go and visit the ambulance hub in Norwich. He further
commented that the geographical layout of North Norfolk may make the 8 minute
target for ambulances unrealistic. Mr B Norton agreed with this and stated the
service was becoming increasingly busy with the same level of resources. He stated
an important factor was educating the public to use the service appropriately. Mr M
Broad agreed, stating that public awareness was imperative and particularly an
improvement of other health services’ utilisation of the ambulance service was
needed. He further commented that the service was working with the Norwich and
Norfolk Hospital to prevent delays at the receiving end of the ambulances in order to
maximise valuable resources. Mr M Broad went on to comment on the time targets,
stating that the way in which success was measured may need to be reconsidered;
suggesting successes in terms of patient health were also important to incorporate.
He explained that following an independent clinical capacity review the previous
year, an additional 24 hour ambulance had been allocated to the Cromer area, with
12 hour coverage on Fridays and Saturdays. An ambulance had also been allocated
to Diss on a 24 hour basis, and a 10 hour ambulance, seven days a week to
Fakenham. He commented that the unique demographic and geographical layout of
the area meant that the service had to think differently to other areas of the country,
particularly with regards to paramedics’ cars. He explained that as 60% of
emergency cases in the area were taken to hospital, this increased the need for
transportable response vehicles as opposed to using paramedics’ cars.
2. Mrs A Claussen-Reynolds commented that following her visit to the Norwich hub she
believed the service to be efficient and transparent. She queried if the 111 system
was currently effective. Mr B Norton commented that in Norfolk the system was
working well; however elsewhere in the country, the referring of a call might not be
appropriate. He explained that as the system was managed ‘in house’ in the clinical
hub, different services had each other to discuss issues with and explain systems
which created beneficial cross-working. He also explained that Norfolk had high
conveyance rates from 111 calls (i.e. when referred to the ambulance service, often
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
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12 February 2014
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
ambulances were deployed to deal with the call), which suggested that the referral
to the ambulance service was appropriate.
Mr R Shepherd commended the ambulance service for their hard work and queried
if it would be beneficial for Norfolk to have its own bespoke ambulance service with
own funding, asking if it would be effective. Mr M Broad stated that there was an
interesting dichotomy, as to create efficiencies most organisations now pooled
resources, encouraging for example, one hub and one HR team. He did explain
however, that the bigger the organisation, often the less local it felt and acted. He
further explained that Dr Anthony Marsh, the new Chief Executive of the East of
England Ambulance Service had now introduced a manager for the Norfolk area, as
opposed to Norfolk and Suffolk, which helped improved the localisation of the
service.
The Chairman enquired what the process was for triaging a call. Mr M Broad
explained that often it was entirely dependent on the call; for example, if a caller
claimed that an individual was unconscious this automatically set a priority level, and
often information was extrapolated purely through what the individual on the call
said. He further explained language differences could sometimes be an issue with
gathering information. Mrs A Claussen-Reynolds queried if the language line they
used to translate was an expensive service. Mr B Norton responded that as it was
such an over-arching service it was quite costly, particularly as it covered a variety of
languages. Mrs A Claussen-Reynolds requested that the committee follow up on
costings and the languages that the language line dealt with.
Mr N Smith discussed his local community defibrillator, and queried if the ambulance
service would know its location if a 999 call was placed in the village. Mr B Norton
replied that all local defibrillators should be on maps that the ambulance service had
access to, and they would be able to instruct the caller on its location and its usage.
He explained that they could also add number of those locally trained in its usage to
their system to provide their details to callers. Mr M Broad commented that it may be
useful for the group to get in contact with the local Community Partnerships
Manager who would be able to assist them further.
Mr E Seward discussed the limitations of targets for the ambulance service,
particularly with regards to differences between urban and rural areas, and also
raised the issue of the limitation of telephone conversation, with regards to
describing injury. He also discussed the walk-in centre in Norwich, and asked if that
reduced 999 calls in the city. Mr M Broad explained that the walk-in centre in
Norwich, Timber Hill, was not 24 hours so didn’t necessarily lower the level of
attendance to A&E at the N&N, but rather dealt more with the ‘worried well’; he
explained that often A&E took more referrals from the walk-in centre, than it passed
on to it. With regards to the differences between urban and rural areas, he
commented that they were often not comparable, suggesting that more often than
not the ambulance service would receive calls from the smaller geographically urban
area in comparison to the larger but more rural areas. He also commented however,
that Cromer had the highest priority level for ensuring there was a resource within
the community.
Mrs V Uprichard commented on the ambulance call centre where she had spent
some time, commending the staff on their professionalism and attitude. She went on
to query what the paramedic response rate was. Mr M Broad explained that as they
were removing some of the less transportable vehicles in North Norfolk to allow for
more transportable ambulances, two cars with an immediate paramedic car first was
only sent out under ‘Red 1’ circumstances.
Mrs P Grove-Jones commented on the progression away from regional hospitals
which worked successfully in the past. She queried if they would be brought back.
Mr M Broad commented that he thought regional hospitals were an excellent
resource, particularly regarding metrics such as ‘Stroke 60’ which often couldn’t be
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
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12 February 2014
met in north Norfolk due to geographical issues. He replied further that whilst it did
not seem to be a national priority, he believed there to be value in their existence.
The Chairman thanked members for questions and the ambulance service for their
informative presentation.
156. HEALTH UPDATE
This item was agreed to be deferred by the committee.
157. BUDGET MONITORING 2013/14- PERIOD 10
Mr W Northam, the portfolio holder for finance, introduced this item. He explained that
this was the final monitoring report for the 2013/14 financial year.
The Chairman then invited members to ask questions.
1. Mr E Seward referred to information regarding severe weather recovery on page 19
of the Cabinet report, pointing out it discussed funding for communities and
highways. He queried if the authority would be eligible for highways funding as it
was not a district responsibility. The Chief Accountant agreed and replied that he
was correct in assuming the authority would only be eligible for funds from the
communities’ fund. Mr E Seward went on to query a figure on page 21 of the
Cabinet report, regarding repairs and maintenance expenditure to ‘New Road
offices’. He queried if these were the New Road offices in North Walsham and
queried what the funds were being spent on. The Chief Accountant replied that he
would enquire and let Mr E Seward know the details. His third query related to
savings obtained as given on page 23 of the Cabinet report regarding vacant posts.
He wished to know if they were genuine savings or whether the posts would be
filled. The Chief Executive replied that with respect to Environmental Health, the
posts were held vacant during the recent restructure to establish redeployment
options, and the permanence of this would be decided imminently. With regards to
Revenues and Benefits, the Chief Executive replied that they had come to no view
on the posts as detailed but they may yet be taken as efficiencies. Mr E Seward then
asked about information on page 36 of the Cabinet report regarding the General
Fund Capital Programme. He asked why under the Pathfinder scheme, there was
£299,481 left to spend. The Chief Accountant explained that whilst most funding was
committed, some of the projects still had to be started. The Chief Executive
reiterated that she believed £60,000 was uncommitted with the rest having been
ring-fenced for projects. She also commented that there would be a report coming to
Cabinet in the near future regarding coastal work, which could be circulated to
members.
The Chairman thanked members for their questions and the committee noted the report.
158. ANNUAL ACTION PLAN 2014/15
The Chief Executive introduced this item. She commented that the action plan was a
reflection of the on-going corporate plan, which worked to allocate actions to officer
leads and their relevant portfolios. She then outlined a number of changes from the
previous year’s action plan. With regards to the section on ‘Jobs and the Local
Economy’, she explained that the district was developing a growth plan which would link
to the Strategic Economic Plan in the new Anglia LEP area. She explained within the
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
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12 February 2014
growth plan there would be specific mentions of the Coltishall air base, engagement with
the business forum, as well as mention of discretionary rate relief to ensure a fair
representation of north Norfolk priorities. She further explained changes to the ‘Housing
and Infrastructure’ section, and ‘Coast, Countryside and Built Heritage’ section.
The Chairman invited members to ask questions.
1. Ms V Gay referred to the second target in Coast, Countryside and Built Heritage,
commenting that she was pleased that the authority hoped to retain four blue flag
awards. She went on to ask about conservation area appraisals and who was
working on them and if they were still in progress. The Chief Executive replied that
the Planning Policy and Property Information Manager now had responsibility for
conservation, however there were no plans to do further appraisals. There might
however be a need to go through past appraisals in order to action previously
approved plans. Ms V Gay requested for the committee to see the results of these
appraisals.
2. Mr P Terrington discussed targets set by the Annual Action Plan, querying why the
number of targets had been reduced since the previous year. He also queried the
status of enterprise hubs for the district. The Chief Executive replied that enterprise
hubs were not currently realistic without external funding, and it would also need to
be considered the best route for establishing; for example, would a number of hubs
be better than one individual hub. Mr P Terrington commented that it may be useful
to simplify targets to provide more of a connection to the individual priorities, to
improve transparency. The Chief Executive replied that it could be possible to reinsert previous targets if necessary, but that the authority was focussed primarily on
measurable goals with specific output measures. The Policy and Performance
Management Officer reaffirmed that many of these targets were also embedded in
individual service plans.
3. Mr E Seward referred to the priority of redeveloping the Energy Strategy and queried
if this would have pre-Scrutiny. He also requested that members be further informed
with regards to updates on the Coltishall air base. With regards to pre-Scrutiny, the
Chief Executive replied that as a Cabinet report, this would be a Cabinet decision.
With regards to Coltishall, she commented that there was an upcoming briefing
which she would invite all members to. Mr E Seward went on to comment on the
planning application targets, querying if 70% completion in the specified time frame
was realistic. The Chief Executive replied that as a cumulative target, they may not
reach it at the beginning of the year, but considering successes in the previous
quarter with regards to major applications (81% were completed in the specified time
frame in the last quarter), she believed the target was achievable.
4. Mr R Reynolds referred to priorities A2 and A3 on page 70 of the Cabinet report,
querying if work was going forward on the site in Fakenham. The Chief Executive
replied that it was in progress and that there was a meeting to discuss the project.
She also stated the intention for a brief to come to the Planning Policy and Built
Heritage working party.
5. Mrs A Claussen-Reynolds referred to the target on page 77 of the report referring to
fly-tipping, querying if this target would be realistic when considering charging
changes to recycling centres. Mr E Seward commented that changes were not
coming in until 2016, and the Chief Executive commented that the Head of
Environmental Services was still in discussion with the contract holder so this target
may be liable to change.
The Chairman thanked members for their comments and the committee noted the
report.
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
6
6
12 February 2014
159. OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY UPDATE
The Democratic Services Team Leader introduced this item, commenting that she had
provided information regarding the internal boards.
1. Mr P Terrington commented that the information provided had been excellent
however it did raise more questions, and it would be useful to hear from the
Monitoring Officer regarding the status of the boards. He also commented on the
terms of reference of some of the boards, pertaining to ward members being invited
to meetings when issues relevant to their ward arose. He queried if this was
happening. The Chief Executive informed members that the title ‘boards’ was quite
misleading for members as they were not formally constituted and not decision
making bodies, but rather officer-led groups who could make recommendations to
committees. She further commented that some of the terms of reference of the
groups, in particular the Assets and Localism board, would need to be looked at
further, and that she would ensure members were informed when relevant ward
issues arose.
2. Ms V Gay commended the work of the Enforcement Board for putting empty homes
back into use. She further stated it would be useful for minutes of the board
meetings to be made available to members. Mr E Seward stated his agreement, as
context was necessary for members to understand certain issues. The Chief
Executive agreed and commented that the boards would be looked at in the near
future in order to ensure they were working effectively.
The Chairman thanked members for their comments and for their patience during the
meeting.
The meeting concluded at 12.15pm
____________________
Chairman
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
7
7
12 February 2014
North Norfolk District Council
Cabinet Work Programme
For the Period 01 June 2014 to 31 October 2014
Decision Maker(s)
Meeting
Date
Subject &
Summary
Cabinet
Member(s)
Lead Officer
June 2014
Cabinet
09 Jun 2014
Out-turn report
Wyndham
Northam
Scrutiny
18 Jun 2014
Karen Sly
Head of Finance
01263 516243
Council
23 July 2014
Cabinet
09 Jun 2014
Tom
FitzPatrick
Scrutiny
18 Jun 2014
Performance
Management –
Annual Report
Helen Thomas
Policy & Performance
Management Officer
01263 516214
Council
23 July 2014
Cabinet
09 Jun 2014
Debt Management
Annual Report
Wyndham
Northam
Scrutiny
18 Jun 2014
Louise Wolsey
Revenues & Benefits
Manager
01263 516081
Council
23 July 2014
Cabinet
09 Jun 2014
Wyndham
Northam
Scrutiny
18 Jun 2014
Treasury
Management Annual
Report
Tony Brown
Technical Accountant
01263 516126
Council
23 July 2014
Status / additional
comments
Key Decision – a decision which is likely to incur expenditure or savings of £100,000 or more, or affect two or more wards. (NNDC
Constitution, p9 s12.2b)
* Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972 (As amended by the Local Authorities (Access to Information) (Exempt Information) (England) Order
2006)
8
North Norfolk District Council
Cabinet Work Programme
For the Period 01 June 2014 to 31 October 2014
Decision Maker(s)
Meeting
Date
Subject &
Summary
Cabinet
Member(s)
Lead Officer
Cabinet
09 Jun 2014
Local Investment
Strategy: Loans to
registered providers
Cabinet
09 Jun 2014
Disposal of Council
Land
Rhodri Oliver
Nicola Turner
Team Leader Strategy
01263516222
Cabinet
09 Jun 2014
Thwaite Common
Rhodri Oliver
Paul Ingham
Countryside & Parks
Manager
01263 516001
Cabinet
09 Jun 2014
Car parking charges
Rhodri Oliver
Duncan Ellis
Council
23 Jul 2014
Cabinet
09 Jun 2014
Award of Banking
Contract
Wyndham
Northam
Karen Sly
Status / additional
comments
Nicola Turner
Team Leader Strategy
01263516222
Key Decision – a decision which is likely to incur expenditure or savings of £100,000 or more, or affect two or more wards. (NNDC
Constitution, p9 s12.2b)
* Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972 (As amended by the Local Authorities (Access to Information) (Exempt Information) (England) Order
2006)
9
North Norfolk District Council
Cabinet Work Programme
For the Period 01 June 2014 to 31 October 2014
Decision Maker(s)
Meeting
Date
Subject &
Summary
Cabinet
Member(s)
Lead Officer
Status / additional
comments
Cabinet
07 July 2014
Planning Service –
overview & future
Benjie Cabbell
Manners
Moved from May at request
of Head of Service
Scrutiny
16 July 2014
Nicola Baker
Head of Planning
01263 516135
Cabinet
07 July 2014
Energy Strategy
Russell Wright
Scrutiny
16 July 2014
Steve Blatch
Corporate Director
01263 516232
Council
23 July 2014
Cabinet
07 July 2014
Rhodri Oliver
Glyn Williams
Scrutiny
16 July 2014
Business
Transformation
Update
Sean Kelly
Business
Transformation
Manager
Council
23 July 2014
S106 agreements /
outline planning
permissions
Benjie Cabbell
Manners
Nicola Baker
Head of Planning
01263 516135
July 2014
September 2014
Cabinet
01 Sep 2014
Key Decision – a decision which is likely to incur expenditure or savings of £100,000 or more, or affect two or more wards. (NNDC
Constitution, p9 s12.2b)
* Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972 (As amended by the Local Authorities (Access to Information) (Exempt Information) (England) Order
2006)
10
North Norfolk District Council
Cabinet Work Programme
For the Period 01 June 2014 to 31 October 2014
Decision Maker(s)
Meeting
Date
Subject &
Summary
Cabinet
Member(s)
Lead Officer
Status / additional
comments
Cabinet
06 Oct 2014
Growth Strategy
Russell Wright
Jill Fisher
Head of Economic &
Community
Development
01263 516080
Will go to Council in
September for input first
There will also be a
member Briefing on this
Key Decision – a decision which is likely to incur expenditure or savings of £100,000 or more, or affect two or more wards. (NNDC
Constitution, p9 s12.2b)
* Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972 (As amended by the Local Authorities (Access to Information) (Exempt Information) (England) Order
2006)
11
Agenda Item No_____11_______
UPDATE ON TOURISM ACROSS THE DISTRICT – OVERVIEW OF THE 2013 SEASON
Summary:
This report provides an update on tourism in North Norfolk in
terms of an overview of the 2013 season and the outlook for
the 2014 season.
Conclusion:
Last year was characterised by a cold Spring, dry and warm
Summer which extended to the Autumn but the wettest
Winter in decades. Overall, however, there was a good
turnout of visitors to the district and this led to growing
optimism and confidence amongst businesses for this year’s
season.
Better promotion and marketing of tourism in North Norfolk
will result from the continued collaboration between DMOs,
businesses and local authorities in the county and the region.
LIST OF BACKGROUND PAPERS AS REQUIRED BY LAW
(Papers relied on to write the report, which do not contain exempt information and which are not published
elsewhere)
Cabinet Member(s):
Ward(s) affected:
Cllr. Russell Wright
All wards in North Norfolk
Contact Officer, telephone number and email:
Jose Socao, 01263 516303, jose.socao@north-norfolk.gov.uk
1.
Introduction
1.1
This report provides an overview of the performance of the tourism sector in North
Norfolk. It uses a range of data sources to give an overall impression of
performance and future outlook.
1.2
The latest available estimates for the volume and value of tourism in North Norfolk
are for 2012. There were approximately 6.5 million day and staying trips with a total
visitor related spend of £364.6 million. When supplier and income induced
expenditure generated as a result of visitor spend are also considered, the total
value of tourism in North Norfolk was an estimated £416 million, supporting an
estimated 9,100 tourism related jobs or about 23% of all employment within the
district. In comparison with data from 2010, this shows there has been a 6%
increase in visitor numbers and a 9% increase in the total visitor spend.
2.
Overview of the 2013 season
Tourism Businesses
2.1
Poor weather in early part of 2013 up to Easter meant many outdoor related
businesses had disappointing visitor numbers at the beginning of the year.
12
However, the weather improved and the Summer was the driest and warmest for
over a decade. The wet Winter and the December’s storm surges did affect many
tourism businesses along the coast, but there was also excellent publicity about the
efforts to get businesses back and open for business.
2.2
The long-term trend is for people to take shorter, more frequent breaks and this
benefits the coastal towns of Cromer, Sheringham and Wells-next-the-Sea in
particular. Accommodation businesses have reported a general increase in late
bookings by up to 77% with most bookings made on-line.
2.3
However, discretionary spending has remained fragile – although there was an
increase in the proportion of businesses which reported more visitor spend, this
was matched by an increase in businesses reporting a decrease. Richardsons
reported a similar story of their Broads boat hire picking up with the improvement in
the weather. Outside the main season, many businesses have reported trading to
be challenging. Some business owners have offered discounts in response to the
reality of an age where people waited late to book and searched for the best value.
Tourist Information Centres (TICs)
2.4
There are six TICs in the district, as shown in the table below.
Table 1
TIC
Cromer
Sheringham
Holt
Wells
North Walsham
Mundesley
2.5
Opening Hours
Organisation
All year
25 March- 3 November
25 March – 3 November
All year (Nov-Mar weekends
only)
25 March – 1 November (0.5
Days)
25 March – 1 November
NNDC
NNDC
NNDC
Maltings Trust
2013
numbers
13
390,813
82,322
36,956
70,710
Volunteers
1,897
Volunteers
6,904
Figures 1 and 2 show the visitor numbers to the TICs in the district.
Figure 1
visitor
Figure 2
8
7
K
6
5
2011
4
2012
3
2013
2
1
0
North Walsham
Mundesley
TIC Seasonal Footfall Figures
Events, Theatres and Selected Attractions
2.6
Attendance to NNDC Countryside events more than doubled from 2,541 people in
2012 to 5,740 people in 2013. Good feedback in terms of visitor numbers and
response were also received from Cley13 Contemporary Art, Worstead Festival,
Folk on the Pier, COAST Festival, Crab & Lobster Festival and St Catherine’s
Ludham Season of Music & the Arts.
2.7
Sheringham Little Theatre was closed for 8 weeks in October and November 2013
due to refurbishment of the Hub, the café area but still achieved good audiences
and an increase in attendance to the Panto in December compared with the
previous year.
K
Figure 3
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
2012
2013
Oct
Nov
Dec
Total
Sheringham Little Theatre Bookings
2.8
Attendance numbers for Cromer Pier Pavilion Theatre were slightly down for 20132014 which may be attributed partly to a hot Summer plus damage sustained from
the storm surges led to the cancellation of some shows.
14
Figure 4
2.9
Sheringham Park and Felbrigg Hall both had slight increases year-on-year on their
footfall figures as can be seen on the chart below.
Figure 5
250
200
2011
150
k
2012
100
2013
50
0
Sheringham Park
Felbrigg Hall
National Heritage Seasonal Footfall Figures
Car Parking in North Norfolk
2.10
Car parking figures provide a good indication of visitor numbers in the area.
However, car parking figures are very influenced by weather as fine weather
encourages an increase in day trippers compared with staying visitors. Overall,
there was a 4.16% increase in income in 2013/14 compared with the previous year.
In terms of ticket sales, overall there was a 1% increase in the number of car park
tickets sold, but in the coastal car parks the increase was 5%. This suggests that
car park ticket sales also reflect a positive picture of improving tourist visitors in
north Norfolk.
3.
Outlook for the 2014 season
3.1
The tourism sector has shown resilience during the recession and periods of
unreliable weather and confidence is reasonably good for future prospects.
According to the Spring 2014 Larking Gowen Tourism Survey for Norfolk as a
whole, 68% expect turnover to rise this year, compared to 57% last year.
15
3.2
On line booking is essential for future booking growth, and it is of concern that 41%
of firms still offer no on-line booking service.
3.3
The Spring break and Easter holidays augur well for 2014 with warm weather in
contrast to the cold and wet period in 2013. Wroxham Barns reported that it had its
busiest Easter weekend ever, with a 3,000 increase on visitors compared with last
year’s Easter. North Norfolk Railway’s also report increased visitors for the Easter
school holiday. A new attraction Wroxham Miniature Worlds which only opened in
early April had more than 225 people through their doors on Good Friday alone.
4.
Marketing North Norfolk
Visit North Norfolk Coast and Countryside Ltd (VNNC&C)
4.1
A tourism sector-run Destination Management Organisation (DMO) was
established in January 2013 called Visit North Norfolk Coast and Countryside and
a Service Level Agreement (SLA) between the Council and the DMO was agreed
as part of the funding agreement setting out the services provided by the DMO.
4.2
Within the SLA with VNNC&C, NNDC set a range of targets and Performance
Indicators for the activities. This is monitored through bi-monthly service meetings
between the VNNC&C and the Council.
4.3
Appendix 2 shows the latest progress report submitted by VNNC&C on 6 March
2014. Most of the targets were achieved except for the number of members (160
against target of 165) and businesses signed up to online booking facility.
Attendance numbers in Oversight Committee meetings are also below target.
4.4
VNNC&C has outsourced the delivery of their promotion, marketing and
membership services in 2014/15 to Visit East Anglia at a contracted base budget of
£74,000. This will include having a North Norfolk Brand Manager in the person of
Lucy Downing who will be responsible for establishing and delivering the agreed
programme of marketing activities for the area.
4.5
This contract will further strengthen the collaborative working across the region’s
tourism organisations since VEA already operates a similar contract for Visit
Norfolk, and it can bring economies of scale which will ensure more money is spent
on promotion and marketing.
Tourism website (www.visitnorthnorfolk.com)
4.6
Website referrals for accommodation entries were generally some 16-17% up year
on year and attraction entries were 40-50% up.
4.7
The 3-year contracts for the design and hosting of the website from 2014/15 to
2016/17 was tendered in November 2013 and both won by New Mind. The go-live
date for the new website will be 1 June this year. It will have a clean and
responsive design approach which will provide an optimal viewing experience for
users – easy reading and navigation with a minimum of resizing, panning and
scrolling – across a wide range of devices from mobile phones and tablets to
desktop or laptop computer monitors.
5.
Conclusion
5.1
Last year was characterised by a cold Spring, dry and warm long Summer but the
wettest Winter in decades. Overall, however, there was a good turnout of visitors to
16
the district and this led to growing optimism and confidence amongst businesses
for this year’s season.
5.2
Better promotion and marketing of tourism in North Norfolk will result from the
continued collaboration between DMOs, businesses and local authorities in the
county and the region.
17
Appendix 1
Ticket Sales by Car Park
CAR PARK
2012/13
2013/14
Cromer Cadogan Road
55,936
59,010
Cromer Promenade
7,526
6,393
-15%
Cromer Runton Road
68,770
75,813
10%
Cromer The Meadow
164,439
168,288
2%
East Runton Beach Road
17,567
17,543
0%
Fakenham Bridge Street
69,610
75,936
9%
Fakenham Queens Road
62,320
61,273
-2%
Fakenham The Limes
14,534
17,659
22%
Happisburgh Cart Gap
7,885
8,548
8%
Holt Albert Street
115,590
107,292
-7%
Holt Station Yard
14,428
16,443
14%
Mundesley Beach Road Gold
34,286
41,424
21%
North Walsham Bank Loke
69,880
64,574
-8%
North Walsham New Road
26,626
27,425
3%
North Walsham Vicarage Street
34,610
34,220
-1%
Overstrand Pauls Lane
14,458
15,694
9%
Sea Palling Clink Road
11,157
10,641
-5%
Sheringham Chequers
26,443
26,870
2%
Sheringham Cliff Road
15,778
17,745
12%
Sheringham Morris Street
74,300
64,310
-13%
Sheringham Station Approach
136,229
134,446
-1%
Stalham High Street
14,851
15,572
5%
Wells Staithe Street
20,856
22,900
10%
Wells Stearmans Yard
86,735
91,973
6%
Weybourne Beach Road
13,845
12,221
-12%
TOTAL
1178659
18
1194213
increase
5%
1%
CAR PARK
2012/13
2013/14
increase
COASTAL RESORT CAR PARKS
Cromer Runton Road
East Runton Beach Road
Happisburgh Cart Gap
Mundesley Beach Road Gold
Overstrand Pauls Lane
Sea Palling Clink Road
Sheringham Cliff Road
Sheringham Station Approach
Wells Stearmans Yard
Weybourne Beach Road
68770
17567
7885
34286
14458
11157
75813
17543
8548
41424
15694
10641
10%
0%
8%
21%
9%
-5%
15778
136229
86735
13845
17745
134446
91973
12221
12%
-1%
6%
-12%
TOTAL COASTAL RESORTS
406710
426048
5%
19
Appendix 2
Progress Report of VNNC&C against the SLA (As of 6 March 2014)
a)
b)
c)
d)
Progress
May 13 – Feb 14 – 224,188 unique visitors
Website advertising income is now £2170.84 and
has generated a total of 877 clicks to the websites of
the businesses concerned.
We have sent out a total of 20 e-mail consumer
newsletters, and 16 member newsletters
We now have 621 likes on Facebook and 963
followers on Twitter.
Activity
Maintain and enhance
optimised website
an
Produce and distribute emarketing materials
Create presence in social
media websites
Timescale
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
So far this year (since the inception of the PR
Contract with Jungle PR) there has been
£1,118,135.38 worth of PR, and 14 media visits with
3 pending confirmation.
Establish PR Campaign by
developing brand for area and
press releases
e)
This has proved a difficult target because other
organisations have cut back on marketing or are no
longer developing joint marketing. We have worked
with Larking Gowen to promote their Business
Monitor, and with Visit Norfolk on promoting their
events. As part of our PR contract, Jungle have
worked with Paul Gogarty (PR company contracted
by Visit Norfolk) on media visits.
Develop appropriate added
value marketing activities with
other agencies
Ongoing
f)
This will now be met through the new website, which
will have an inward polling option with online
booking through the OTAs. A meeting has been set
up for 16 March with New Mind and Eviivo to
negotiate rates. Silver members will be upgraded to
online booking under the enhanced new
membership rates, and were automatically upgraded
accidentally last week, resulting in 6 additional
bookings.
Grow
on
‘availability/bookability’
functionality
Ongoing
line
Some of our members will retain Guestlink capability
if they also remain with VEA or VN.
20
Current/Baseline Position
Performance Annual Targets

May 12 – Feb 13 
132,398 unique visitors
N/A

12 e-newsletters per year

300 fans in Facebook

Min 500 fans in Facebook

100 followers in Twitter

Min 500 followers in Twitter

£30K pa additional press
coverage equivalent

10 press visits per year

At least 2 joint marketing
initiatives
As of March 2013 – 30 
businesses
Seek to grow number of
signed up businesses by at
least 25 businesses per
year – ie 55 businesses by
March 2014; 80 businesses
by March 2015 and 100
businesses by December
2015
Ongoing

g)
The Head of VNNC&C has had one formal
introductory meeting with TIC staff, and attended the
Green Build Event at Felbrigg Hall, the Holkham
Event, and the Visit Norfolk’s end of season event
nd
on 7 Oct. This is the 2 meeting with NNDC and
the TIC Manager.
Maintain communication with
the TICs
Ongoing

At least 4 meetings with TIC
manager
h)
The two members (Cllr Russell Wright and Cllr Paul
Williams) have been welcomed to the Board
meetings. The Board meetings have been held at
regular 2-monthly intervals.
Hold regular meetings of the
Board, stakeholder funders
and oversight committee
For
duration of
agreement

Appointment of a minimum
of two NNDC Directors to
the Board

Hold a minimum of three
meetings of the Oversight
Committee a year with a
minimum attendance of at
least 30 people with a
broad
geographic
and
sectoral spread across the
VNN area
Current membership of 115 
VNN businesses
Seek to grow number of
signed up members by at
least 50 businesses per
year – ie 165 businesses by
March
2014;
215
businesses by March 2015
and 250 businesses by
December 2015
The Oversight Committee has now been set up and
met on 12 September and 13 January, and due to
meet next week. A draft Destination Management
Plan has been produced.
i)
A members’ meeting was held on 5 December at
Kelling Heath.
We currently have 160 members, and are awaiting
late payments that are not due until 1 April, when
membership numbers will become clearer.
Hold regular networking events
and meetings with VNN
members and other relevant
businesses
21
Ongoing
Agenda Item No______14______
CAR PARK REVIEW
Summary:
Overview and Scrutiny Committee considered a report on
car parking in February 2014 and resolved:
To produce a comprehensive review of car parking,
covering the following aspects of:
a) The cost of enforcement versus the income to
the authority, particularly with regards to
evening tariffs, seasonal income, and
geographical areas (inland versus coastal
tariffs).
b) The cost benefit of each car park with a map.
c) To fully consider the viability of the introduction
of seasonal charging.
Options considered:
The attached report updates the report provided in
January with more recent information (were available) and
also provides the information requested. This covering
report summarises the requested information.
The review document (please see Appendix A) considers
all of the Council’s car parks and the income produced by
these assets in relation to the Council’s overall budget
position.
Conclusions:
Car park income is a key element of the Council’s budget
and helps provide the “tourism infrastructure” such as
public toilets, promenade facilities and other civic
infrastructure required in a tourist area, but not provided
for in any Government funding regime.
The current pricing regime was introduced in April 2012 to
recognise the contribution made by the coastal and resort
car parks compared with car parks in the inland towns.
The introduction of a 50p for half an hour was introduced
to ensure no deterrent to short shopping trips in the towns.
Comparisons with other similar areas show that North
Norfolk parking prices are in line with many tourist resorts.
As enforcement has improved over recent years, the
amount of compliance has also improved which is
reflected in the increased income. Weather has a
significant impact on car parking income.
Season ticket prices have not increased since April 2010
and represent exceptionally good value for local residents.
Although the coastal car parks show a very strong
seasonality, removal or reduction of these charges would
have an impact on income, as would the removal of the
evening charge.
22
LIST OF BACKGROUND PAPERS AS REQUIRED BY LAW
(Papers relied on to write the report, which do not contain exempt information and which are not published
elsewhere)
Cabinet Member(s)
Cllr Rhodri Oliver
Ward(s) affected;
Fakenham, Sheringham, Cromer, North Walsham and
Wells.
Contact Officer, telephone number and email: Duncan Ellis (Head of Assets and
Leisure), 01263 516330, duncan.ellis@north-norfolk.gov.uk
Enforcement
As can be seen in the table on page 33 of the report, the cost of enforcement, cash
collection, banking and processing of Penalty Charge Notices during 2013/14 was
£268,415., and the income derived from PCNs is £123,662. Therefore half the total
cost of enforcement is covered by the income derived from penalty charges. However,
without adequate enforcement, income would inevitably drop. The net cost of
enforcement, represents only 7% of total income from car parking which for 2013/14
was £2,241,425.
The cost of evening enforcement is difficult to determine exactly. The number of PCNs
issued after 6.00pm for 2013/14 is 25% of the total number issued. We are unable to
determine the exact PCN income for the evening period but based on average PCN
income this equates to approx. £31k and the pay and display income from evening
charges in 2013/14 is £86,274. The hours spend on evening enforcement equate to
just under 1fte.
Evening charges have been generally unpopular and raised concerns regarding the
impact on the evening economy, although this is unproven.
Cost Benefit by Car Park
The table on page 8 of the report gives the 2013/14 income and costs by car park.
Maps of the car parks are given in Appendix B.
Seasonal Charging
There is an argument to suggest that while it may be acceptable to charge for parking
during the busy Summer season, these levels of charges are inappropriate during the
Winter period. This may be particularly the case for the Coastal Car Parks where a
different tariff applies compared with the other car parks. The table on page 31 of the
report shows that only 21% of income from Coastal car parks derives from the Winter
period (Oct-March). As would be expected, the inland car parks in Fakenham and North
Walsham are not seasonal in use, while the car parks in the resort towns show some
70% of income is brought in during the summer period.
Further analysis would need to be undertaken to determine the cost of changes to
seasonal parking depending on the extent of any proposals.
23
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
20 May 2014
Agenda No. 17
OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY UPDATE
1.
Introduction
The Scrutiny Update report is a standing item on all Overview and Scrutiny
Committee agendas. The report updates Members on progress made with
topics on its agreed work programme and provides additional information
which Members may have requested at a previous meeting.
2.
Progress on topics since the last meeting
2.1
Living Wage
A further report is being taken to Joint Staff Consultative Committee regarding
pay and grading at the Authority on 5th June 2014. Any recommendations
made by the Committee will go to Cabinet for consideration and will be
reported to the Overview & Scrutiny Committee.
2.2
Norfolk Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee
The latest update from the NHOSC is attached at Appendix B. It is proposed
that a representative from the NHOSC attends a future committee meeting to
update members on the status of mental health care across the region.
3.
The Work Programme and Future Topics
The April meeting of the Committee spent some time considering the work
programme for the 2014/15 and the outcomes from that meeting are attached
at Appendix C.
Democratic Services has adjusted the main work programme to
accommodate these items and that is attached at Appendix D. At the April
meeting it was suggested that a separate meeting was arranged to consider
housing. We have been in contact with Victory Housing and the proposed
date for this meeting is Tuesday 22 July. If members are in agreement with
this date, I will confirm it with VHT. This session will start with questions to
VHT and there will also be reports and updates on the housing allocations
scheme, the Council’s approach to dealing with homelessness and an
overview of sustainable housing.
24
Outcomes and Actions
Norfolk Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee (NHOSC)
17 April 2014
Agenda Report Title
Item
Number
Outcomes and Actions
6.
Ambulance turnaround times
at the Norfolk and Norwich
hospital
NHOSC welcomed the improvement in ambulance turnaround times at
the N&N and noted the continuation of Project Domino phase 2.
7.
Wheelchair provision by the
NHS, Central and West
Norfolk
NHOSC agreed that it is imperative that the voice of children, young
people and their families should be heard in the planning and
provision of wheelchair services. The commissioners and service
providers were asked to report back to the Committee in six months
time on what more has been done to hear the views of the children,
young people and families who use the wheelchair service, in keeping
with the spirit of The Children and Families Act 2014.
8.
Appointment of a link member
Cllr John Bracey was appointed as NHOSC formal link with North
25
Action By Whom
Commissioners
Jane Webster,
WNCCG
Jocelyn Pike,
SNCCG
Sally Child, Anglia
CSU
Providers
Steve Sheldrake,
QEH
Tanya Clarke,
NCH&C
Nina Melville,
NCH&C
9.
with North Norfolk Clinical
Commissioning Group
Forward work programme
Norfolk Clinical Commissioning Group
‘Changes to Mental Health Services in West Norfolk – consultation by
the CCG and Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust on potential
(permanent) closure of inpatient facilities’ – postponed to a later
meeting (after May 2014), when the CCG and NSFT will be ready to
consult.
‘Delayed Discharge from Hospital in Norfolk’ – postponed to 10 July
2014.
‘Use of the Liverpool Care Pathway in Norfolk’s hospitals’ – brought
forward from 10 July to 29 May 2014 meeting, subject to the hospitals
being able to report in May.
‘Hospital complaints processing and reporting’ – 29 May 2014 – alert
all County Councillors that this subject will be on the NHOSC agenda
and that they are welcome to attend.
‘Availability in the local NHS of NICE recommended treatments and
drugs’ – for a future NHOSC meeting (item suggested by Cllr P
Balcombe).
Copied to:Representatives attending the NHOSC meeting for NHS / other organisations
Chairman of NHOSC
District Council Members of NHOSC
Member Support Officer - Christine Byles
26
Maureen Orr
CCG engagement contacts (x5)
Health and Wellbeing Board support officer – Linda Bainton
Healthwatch Norfolk – Chris MacDonald
27
Appendix C
Issue for work programme
Victory Housing
Housing Allocations Policy
Homelessness Policy
Sustainable Housing
RIPA Policy
Waste Contract
Sustainability Report
When to be picked up
To cover at a one-off Scrutiny ‘Housing’ meeting on the 4th July or
the 22nd July. (General reserve days).
Invite Victory to answer questions in front of the committee, with
questions organised and provided in advance.
Coming to committee in June. To ensure it covers an overview and
previous usage.
6 monthly updates already input (coming July); ensure they pick
up on issues arising with fly tipping/ lack of recycling following
charging system input. If not picked up, to look at again towards
the end of the year.
Being picked up under the Energy Strategy. Investigate option of a
full Sustainability report coming to Scrutiny.
Crime and Disorder
To bring regular Police and Crime Panel reports (panel minutes?)
via the Scrutiny update. To ensure 6-monthly updates from the
PCC. (next attendance June)
Mental Health
To invite someone from the HOSC to provide a talk on Mental
Health at committee, to ensure no duplication of work load.
Suggested committee date is September.
Environmental Health
To provide an overview of the service area and provision of service
following the restructure. Ensure it picks up on issues arising out of
‘over-inspecting’ (to explain approach particularly regarding
voluntary groups).
The role of environmental health in the tourist industry.
To bring in September following the summer season.
To be covered under member briefing for the Energy Strategy.
Shale Gas Extraction (Fracking)
Licensing, council restructures
To provide new structure information regularly via the Members’
Bulletin. If it becomes a significant issue, to bring before
committee regarding restructure process. Update regarding
Licensing Task and Finish groups following the upcoming Licensing
committee.
28
Appendix D
OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY COMMITTEE WORK PROGRAMME 2014/2015
Period May 2014 – October 2014
May
Update on Tourism across the
District – overview of the 2013
season. Include figures for
Mundesley & Wells TICs.
Challenges & progress in
addressing shortcomings. To
include presentation on the
DMO.
Car Parking Update Following
Scrutiny Recommendation
Asset Management Plan
Jill Fisher
Russell Wright
Requested
(Moved from March)
Duncan Ellis
Rhodri Oliver
Duncan Ellis
Rhodri Oliver
Steve Blatch
Russell Wright
Nick Baker
Glyn Williams
Requested
Big Society Fund – Annual
Review
Rob Young
John Lee
Annual (info only)
Health Update
Sonia Shuter
John Lee
Nick Baker
Rhodri Oliver
Cyclical (info only)
LDO @ Egmere
New Telephony System
(Business Transformation
Stream)
Enforcement Board Update
29
Council Decision
Council Decision
Requested (For information
Only)
Cyclical
June
Presentation by the PCC
Empty Homes Policy with
information included on the
impact of Council Tax
premiums on reducing empty
homes.
Police and Crime Commissioner
Steve Hems
Nicola Turner
Nick Baker
Rhodri Oliver
Requested
Cyclical and requested.
Nick Baker
Angie-Fitch Tillett
Karen Sly
Wyndham Northam
Helen Thomas
Tom FitzPatrick
Louise Wolsey
Wyndham Northam
Tony Brown
Wyndham Northam
Annual
Council Decision
Annual
Council Decision
Annual
Council Decision
Annual
Council Decision
Annual
Council Decision
Energy Strategy
Steve Blatch
Tom FitzPatrick
Planning service – Overview
& future
Waste Update
Nicola Baker
Benjie Cabbell-Manners
Nick Baker
Angie Fitch-Tillett
Council Decision
(Moved from May at request
of HoS)
(Moved from March- at
request of HoS)
6 monthly cyclical
Also information on derelict
land and derelict shops.
Regulation of Investigatory
Powers Act- Policy
Outturn Report
Performance ManagementAnnual Report
Debt Management- Annual
Report
Treasury ManagementAnnual Report
July
30
Business Transformation
Project- Six Monthly Update
July
Nick Baker
Sean Kelly
Tom FitzPatrick
SCRUTINY
John Archibald
Requested by the committee
Lisa Grice
Requested
Housing Allocations Scheme
Nicola Turner
Rhodri Oliver
Annual (Requested)
Sustainable Housing
Summary
Nicola Turner
Rhodri Oliver
Requested
Mental Health Update
Maureen Orr
Requested
HOUSING
Victory Housing- To answer
questions before the
committee
Homelessness Strategy
MEETING
September
Environmental Health- update Steve Hems
following restructure
James Wilson
including provision of
Angie Fitch-Tillett
service, impact of inspections
on voluntary groups, and the
role of environmental health
in the tourist industry.
Requested
Leisure Services – an
overview of the leisure
services across the District –
to include costings, input by
Requested by the committee
October
Karl Read
Glyn Williams
31
stakeholders, profit etc.
Also figures on running of
Pier Theatre and Openwide
contract
Profile of those using leisure
centres
TBC
Customer Service Update
Customer Access Strategy
Business Transformation
Project- Six Monthly Update
Nick Baker
Glyn Williams
Nick Baker
Glyn Williams
Nick Baker
Tom FitzPatrick
32
Annual
Requested by the committee