Please Contact: Emma Denny
Please email: emma.denny@north-norfolk.gov.uk
Please Direct Dial on: 01263 516010
27th November 2014
A meeting of the Cabinet of North Norfolk District Council will be held in the Council Chamber at
the Council Offices, Holt Road, Cromer on Monday 8th December 2014 at 10.00am
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
Anyone attending this meeting may take photographs, film or audio-record the proceedings and
report on the meeting. Anyone wishing to do so should inform the Chairman. If you are a
member of the public and you wish to speak on an item on the agenda, please be aware that
you may be filmed or photographed.
Sheila Oxtoby
Chief Executive
To: Mr B Cabbell-Manners, Mr T FitzPatrick, Mrs A Fitch-Tillett, Mr J Lee, Mr W Northam,
Mr R Oliver, Mr G Williams
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.
MINUTES
(page 1)
To approve, as a correct record, the minutes of the meeting of the Cabinet held on 03
November 2014.
3.
PUBLIC QUESTIONS
To receive questions from the public, if any.
4.
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.
5.
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.
6.
MEMBERS QUESTIONS
To receive oral questions from Members, if any.
7.
CONSIDERATION OF ANY MATTER REFERRED TO THE CABINET BY THE
OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY COMMITTEE OR COUNCIL FOR RECONSIDERATION
To consider matters referred to the Cabinet (whether by the Overview and Scrutiny
Committee or by the Council) for reconsideration by the Cabinet in accordance with the
provisions within the Overview and Scrutiny Procedure Rules or the Budget and Policy
Framework Procedure Rules.
8.
CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS FROM THE OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY
COMMITTEE
To consider any reports from the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, which may be
presented by the Chairman of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, and determination of
any appropriate course of action on the issues so raised for report back to that committee
9.
NORTH NORFOLK BIG SOCIETY FUND GRANTS PANEL
(attached – p.10)
To receive the minutes of the Big Society Fund Grants Panel meeting held on 9th June
2014
10.
FEES AND CHARGES 2015/16
(page 15)
(Appendix A – p.17)
Summary:
This report recommends the fees and charges for
2015/16 that will come into effect from April 2015
Options considered:
Alternatives for the individual service fees and charges
now being proposed will have been considered as part of
the process in arriving at the fees presented within the
report.
Conclusions:
The fees and charges as recommended will be used to
inform the income budgets for the 2015/16 budget.
Approval of the fees ahead of presenting the detailed
budgets allows for implementation of changes where
applicable and also informs the 2015/16 budgets..
Recommendations:
That Cabinet agree and recommend to Council:
a) The fees and charges from 1 April 2015 as
included at Appendix A.
Council Decision
Reasons for
Recommendations:
To approve the fees and charges as set out in the report
that will be used to inform the 2015/16 budget process.
LIST OF BACKGROUND PAPERS AS REQUIRED BY LAW
(Papers relied on to write the report and which do not contain exempt information)
Current fees and charges
Cabinet member(s):
Ward member(s)
Contact Officer,
telephone
and e-mail:
11.
Councillor W Northam
All
Malcolm Fry
01263 516037
malcolm.fry@north-norfolk.gov.uk
REVIEW OF HOUSING DELIVERY INCENTIVE SCHEME
(page 34)
(Appendix B – p. 39)
Summary:
This report considers if it is desirable to extend the current
Housing Delivery Incentive Scheme which is available as part of
the planning application process for a longer period.
Options considered:
Closure or retention of the scheme.
Conclusions:
Overall it is not considered that housing delivery or market
conditions have improved sufficiently to justify closing the
scheme. An extension of the current scheme for a further 12
months is recommended.
Recommendations: That Cabinet recommends to Council that the North Norfolk
Housing Incentive Scheme is extended until the 31st
December 2015.
Council
Decision
12.
Reasons for
Recommendations:
To support the quicker delivery of planned housing development
in North Norfolk in order to address housing need and demand.
Cabinet member(s):
Ward member(s)
Contact Officer,
telephone
and e-mail:
Cllrs R Oliver and B Cabbell Manners
All
Mark Ashwell
01263 516325
mark.ashwell@north-norfolk.gov.uk
ENFORCEMENT BOARD UPDATE
Summary:
(page 55)
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
two years ago.
In broad terms, at the time of writing, the Board has
considered 113 cases, of which all but 6 have seen positive
action. In addition to the direct action around properties,
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.
During 2014, more focus has been placed on Long Term
Empty properties, with the subsequent appointment of the
Empty Homes Manager
Conclusions:
Recommendations:
Cabinet
Decision
Reasons for
Recommendations:
The Enforcement Board continues to make significant
progress towards its objectives of dealing with difficult and
long-standing enforcement cases and bringing long term
empty properties back into use across all areas of the District,
with both social and economic benefits to the community, and
financial benefits to the council.
1. That Cabinet notes the progress made to date by the
Enforcement Board.
2. That the funding for legal support for
enforcement board is extended to 2015/16.
the
1. To ensure appropriate governance of the Board’s
activities.
2. To ensure that appropriate legal services are provided
to support the work of the Board.
Cabinet member(s):
Ward member(s)
Contact Officer,
telephone
and e-mail:
13.
Councillor R Oliver
All
Nick Baker
01263 516221
nick.baker@north-norfolk.gov.uk
CONSULTATION ON THE RELOCATION OF CROMER MARKET
(page 68)
Summary:
This report summarises the responses received to the Council
consulting on the principle of relocating the weekly Cromer
market from The Meadow Car Park into the town centre in
support of its aim of promoting successful and vibrant town
centres.
Conclusions:
The consultation process did not indicate significant support
for the proposals to relocate the weekly market into Cromer
town centre, with the majority of those people responding to
the consultation process commenting that the market should
be retained on The Meadow Car Park.
Recommendations: That the Council does not proceed with the relocation of
the weekly market from The Meadow Car Park to a
location within Cromer town centre.
Cabinet
Decision
Cabinet member(s):
Ward member(s)
Contact Officer,
telephone
and e-mail:
14.
Councillor T FitzPatrick
Cromer Town
Steve Blatch
01263 516232
steve.blatch@north-norfolk.gov.uk
EXCLUSION OF PRESS AND PUBLIC
To pass the following resolution:
“That under Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972 the press and public be
excluded from the meeting for the following item of business on the grounds that they
involve the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in paragraphs _ of Part I of
Schedule 12A (as amended) to the Act.”
15.
PRIVATE BUSINESS
Agenda Item 2__
CABINET
Minutes of the meeting of the Cabinet held on Monday 03 November 2014 at the
Council Offices, Holt Road, Cromer at 10.00am.
Mrs A Fitch-Tillett
Mr T FitzPatrick
Mr J Lee
Members Present:
Also attending:
Officers in
Attendance:
60.
Mr W Northam
Mr R Oliver
Mr G Williams
Mrs S Arnold
Mrs L Brettle
Mrs A Claussen-Reynolds
Mrs P Grove-Jones
Mr P High
Mrs A Moore
Mr P W Moore
Mr R Reynolds
Mr E Seward
Mr R Shepherd
Mr B Smith
Mr N Smith
Mrs V Uprichard
The Chief Executive, the Corporate Directors, the Head of Finance,
the and the Democratic Services Team Leader
APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE
Mr B Cabbell Manners and Mr R Wright.
61.
MINUTES
The minutes of the meeting held on 6th October 2014 were approved as a correct
record and signed by the Chairman
62.
PUBLIC QUESTIONS
None received
63.
ITEMS OF URGENT BUSINESS
None received
64.
Cabinet
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
1
03 November 2014
65.
MEMBER QUESTIONS
Ms V Gay sought clarification that members could ask questions as each agenda
item was considered. The Leader confirmed that they could and said that the
inclusion of ‘Members questions’ as a separate agenda item was at the request of
the Constitution Working Party.
66.
CONSIDERATION OF ANY MATTER REFERRED TO THE CABINET BY THE
OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY COMMITTEE OR COUNCIL FOR
RECONSIDERATION
At the meeting of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee held on 15th October 2014,
following consideration of a call-in by Mr E Seward of Agenda item 10 of the Cabinet
meeting held on 6th October 2014, ‘Car Park Order – results of consultation process’,
the following recommendations were made to Cabinet:
‘To recommend that Cabinet undertakes an urgent review of all the options open to
the Council for the Mundesley Road car park site is undertaken and for an option to
be pursued which is in the best interests of the Council and the town of North
Walsham.’
The Leader invited the Chairman of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, Mr P W
Moore to speak. He reminded Mr Moore that the car park order itself was not part of
the recommendation. Mr Moore said that the Overview and Scrutiny Committee felt
that the Mundesley Road car park in North Walsham should remain free. Wider
consideration of this car park in particular was requested. Mr Moore concluded by
saying that Members had been informed that no changes could be made to the car
park order following the consultation.
The Leader then asked the Portfolio Holder, Mr R Oliver to respond.
Mr Oliver said that he would briefly address the points that had been raised:
a) Cabinet firmly believed that all the car parks owned by the District Council should
be fee-paying. If this car park remained free then it would be the only one and
that was not fair to the other towns. Car parking charges were already lower in
North Walsham, Fakenham and Stalham as they were not tourist destinations.
He went on to say that all four free car parks had been offered to the town
councils on a leasehold basis and that North Walsham Town Council had taken
on the Midland Road car park but had declined to take on the Mundesley Road
car park.
b) It was not the case that the Car Park Order could not be changed following a
consultation. One of the reasons for undertaking a consultation was to respond
to the views and input of residents. He said that members may be confusing this
with the delay to the implementation of the CPO. This occurred because the
decision could not be split in its consideration.
c) Mr Oliver said that the recommendation from the Overview and Scrutiny
Committee had only referred to paragraph B of the original Cabinet
recommendation, which related specifically to the resurfacing of the Mundesley
Road car park, not charging for use of the car park. However, the Council could
not charge for an unsafe surface and therefore £70,000 must be spent on
resurfacing.
He proposed that the recommendations made at the Cabinet meeting held on 6th
October 2014 should stand.
Cabinet
2
03 November 2014
Members were invited to ask questions:
1. Mr E Seward said that he had put his full argument before the Overview and
Scrutiny Committee. However, he wanted to reiterate the following points:
a) There was no money to be made by charging for parking in North
Walsham
b) No research had been undertaken on whether an income from the
Mundesley Road car park was likely.
c) The reason the Town Council had not taken on the Mundesley Road car
park was not due to them not being prepared to take on the costs but
because of the surface issues as it had previously been a tar pit.
Consequently they did not want to take on the liabilities that this might
incur.
2. Mr P W Moore said that he was pleased to hear that changes could be made to
the Car Park Order following a consultation. In response to a query from the
Leader as to where he had been advised that changes could not be made, he
said that it had been at the October Cabinet meeting and at another committee
meeting. The Chief Executive reiterated the Portfolio Holder’s earlier comments
that the CPO could be amended and said that the confusion seemed to have
arisen over the non-implementation of the CPO, which was due to the inability to
call-in just one part of a decision.
3. Mrs A Claussen-Reynolds said that she wanted to support the Portfolio Holder’s
comments regarding Fakenham. The Town Council had taken over the car park
there and it had been very successful.
4. Mrs A Fitch-Tillett acknowledged that there were concerns over the surface of
the Mundesley Road car park and said that these would be addressed by
resurfacing it. She concluded by saying the she agreed with the Portfolio Holder
that the car park could not remain free.
Mr R Oliver replied to the points that Mr Seward had raised. He said that it was not
about a lack of income but a matter of fairness. He believed that the residents of
North Norfolk should not shoulder the burden for a free car park in North Walsham.
The Leader said that it was a matter of equity across the district. The car park
needed to be resurfaced on health and safety grounds. The cost may seem
unnecessary but it was important for the safety of local residents.
It was proposed by Mr R Oliver, seconded by Mr T FitzPatrick and
RESOLVED
a) That Cabinet makes the draft order without modification so that the order comes
into effect at midnight on 13 November 2014
b) That re-surfacing works (Gridforce –option 2) are undertaken on Mundesley
Road car park in North Walsham and a capital budget of £70,000 (funded by
capital receipts) is approved to undertake these works.
Reasons for the decision:
The Council was required, as part of the CPO consultation process, to consider any
objections received. The objections received were all in relation to the introduction of
pay and display charges on Mundesley Road car park in North Walsham. The
recommendations would allow the implementation of the removal of the evening
charges and the introduction of free 30 minute parking bays. Resurfacing Mundesley
Road car park would improve the parking facilities available within North Walsham as
Cabinet
3
03 November 2014
the current unmade surface suffered badly during periods of adverse weather
conditions.
67.
CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS FROM THE OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY
COMMITTEE
None
68.
PLANNING POLICY AND BUILT HERITAGE WORKING PARTY
Mr G Williams introduced this item in the Portfolio Holder’s absence. He encouraged
members to support the recommendation to review the Council’s Local Plan, which
would help ensure the success of the Council’s growth strategy beyond 2016.
It was proposed by Mr G Williams, seconded by Mrs A Fitch-Tillett and
RESOLVED
1. That the Local Plan review should commence in May 2015.
2. That a detailed Project Plan, including detailed budgetary information, is
prepared for consideration by the Working Party
69.
CONSTITUTION WORKING PARTY
Mrs A Fitch-Tillett, a member of the Constitution Working Party, introduced this item.
She explained that the responsibility for Housing Appeals lay with Cabinet and that it
was proposed that a small panel was established on an ‘as and when’ basis to
consider housing appeals. She concluded by saying that it was important that
members had a role in this process as they could bring a ‘softer’ touch to what could
be a difficult time for those involved.
It was proposed by Mrs A Fitch-Tillett, seconded by Mr J Lee and
RESOLVED
That a Housing Panel be established, comprising of three Cabinet members, to
consider housing appeals.
70.
BUDGET MONITORING REPORT 2014/15 – PERIOD 6
The Portfolio Holder for Finance, Mr W Northam, introduced this item. He explained
that the report compared the actual expenditure and income position at the end of
September 2014 to the updated budget for 2014/15. The report also provided a
monitoring position for the current capital programme and an update on the costs
related to the December 2013 storm surge. The overall position at the end of
September 2014 showed a year to date variance of £1,382,089 for the current
financial year on the revenue account and this was expected to deliver a forecast full
year underspend of £98,000. Mr Northam then outlined key points from the report
including costs and funding relating to the storm damage of December 2013, the
impact of removing the evening charges on car park income and the favourable
variance in relation to the local retention of business rates. For 2014/15 it was
anticipated that the net additional business rates income would exceed the budget by
£357,000.
Mr Northam concluded by bringing members’ attention the recommendations. He
said that the increase of funding to the Enforcement Board Reserve was in relation to
Cabinet
4
03 November 2014
a specific building in Cromer. Regarding the refurbishment of the Pier roof and toilets,
he said that visitors to the pier deserved access to the best facilities and it was
important to ensure that the tourism offer was always of the highest standard. He
thanked the Chief Accountant for all his hard work and support.
It was proposed by Mr W Northam, seconded by Mr J Lee and
RESOLVED
1) To note the contents of the report and the current budget monitoring position.
2) To note the contents of the Revised Capital Appendix C.
3) To approve an increase of £55,000 to the Enforcement board Reserve, funded
from the in-year underspend.
4) To approve the inclusion of capital budgets in the 2014/15 Capital Programme:
 Sheringham West Prom provision of grey water tank at £28,000, to be
funded from capital resources.
 Pier Roof full Repair/Refurbishment at a cost of £78,000, to be funded
initially from capital resources.
 Pier Public Conveniences refurbishment at a cost of £45,000 to be funded
from capital resources.
Reasons for the decision:
To update Members on the current budget monitoring position for the Council, and
make amendments to the capital budget as appropriate.
71.
HALF YEARLY TREASURY MANAGEMENT REPORT FOR 2014/15
Mr W Northam, Portfolio Holder for Finance, introduced this item. He explained that
report provided information on the Council’s treasury management activities
undertaken during the first 6 months of 2014/15. It was anticipated that the budget
target would be achieved at the end of the year. As expected, the pooled property
fund, LAMIT, continued to perform well.
Mr Northam then explained to members that the credit agencies were beginning the
process of removing the uplift in their ratings for government support, which was built
into many banks long-term credit ratings. It was possible that some of the banks on
the Council’s lending list would be downgraded below the current A- minimum rating
requirement. It was therefore proposed that the Treasury Management Strategy was
amended to allow investments in lower rated banks (BBB+) at the same time as
looking at alternative counterparties and instruments. In addition, it was proposed
that the list of approved investments was extended to include Reverse Repurchase
Agreements (Repos) which would provide the Council with access to alternative
institutions with good credit quality.
Mr Northam concluded by informing members that the Council would be transferring
its banking arrangements from the Co-operative Bank to Barclays from November
2014. He thanked the Technical Accountant for all his hard work and support.
It was proposed by Mr W Northam, seconded by Mrs A Fitch-Tillett and
RESOLVED
That the Half Yearly Treasury Management Report for 2014/15 is approved including
amendments to the Treasury Management Strategy Statement for 2014/15.
Cabinet
5
03 November 2014
Reasons for the decision:
To ensure compliance with the CIPFA Code.
72.
MANAGING PERFORMANCE Q2 2014/15
The Leader, Mr T FitzPatrick, introduced this item. He informed members that the
majority of the 56 activities in the Annual Action Plan 2014 were on track .
Performance was being monitored closely for the activities where issues or problems
had been identified. Mr FitzPatrick concluded by saying that the delivery of the AAP
was progressing according to plan. Where there were issues, the action being taken
in each case was detailed in the appendix to the report.
Members were invited to ask questions:
1. Mrs A Moore said that there were no figures on the number of completions under
the Housing Incentivisation scheme. Mr FitzPatrick agreed to provide the
information in time for the meeting of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee on
12 November.
2. Mr E Seward commented on the waste contract – he said that although the
household collection service continued to perform well there were problems with
grass-cutting and street cleansing. The Portfolio Holder, Mrs A Fitch-Tillett,
replied that she was aware of the issues with this aspect of the waste contract
and the Council was working with the contractor, Kier, to ensure that the service
improved. Mr J Lee added that he felt that street cleansing was of a very high
standard.
Mr G Williams reinforced the Leader’s comments regarding performance. He said
that the report demonstrated that the Council was delivering on its priorities and the
process clearly showed how, what and where action was being taken.
It was proposed by Mr T FitzPatrick, seconded by Mr G Williams and
RESOLVED
To note the report, welcome the progress being made and endorse the actions laid
out in Appendix G being taken by management where there are areas of concern.
Reason for the decision
To ensure the objectives of the Council are achieved.
73.
4 and 4A MARKET STREET, NORTH WALSHAM
Mr R Oliver, Portfolio Holder for Assets, introduced this item. He said that most
members were aware of the long-term issues with this site and he hoped they would
support this as a positive step forward for the town of North Walsham.
1. Ms V Gay said that the site had been in a poor state for several years and that it
would be better to have acted earlier rather than have allowed it to deteriorate so
much. She asked for an estimate of the total cost of dealing with this site over
the years. Mrs A Fitch-Tillett replied that she was first elected in 2003 and this
site had come before the Development Committee back then.
2. Mr E Seward said that he agreed with the recommendations and thanked Mr N
Baker, Corporate Director, for all his hard work. He said that there was a long
history of problems with the site and the previous administration had tried to
Cabinet
6
03 November 2014
accommodate the developer but nothing had come to fruition. He concluded by
saying that he hoped that the site would be landscaped.
3. Mr P W Moore said that he endorsed the previous comments. He felt that the
Council generally did not take care of its buildings and he supported the work of
the Enforcement Board. He said that opening up the view into the churchyard to
anyone entering the town was very important and he hoped that the work could
be progressed as quickly as possible.
4. Mr R Reynolds commented that it was important that members acknowledged
the efforts of the current administration to deal with this eyesore.
It was proposed by Mr R Oliver, seconded by Mr J Lee and
RESOLVED
a. To approve the acquisition of the site originally comprising 4 and 4A Market
Street by way of implementing the Option Agreement previously approved.
b. That delegated authority to proceed with the Option Agreement is given to the
Chief Executive after discussion with the Portfolio member for Property Assets.
c. That subject to the Council acquiring the site that a capital budget of £30,000 is
included in the capital programme.
d. That this acquisition and development is funded from the existing capital budget
for North Walsham regeneration and if necessary, from capital receipts.
Reason for the decision:
To provide delegation and funding for the acquisition and improvement of the site.
74.
COUNCIL OFFICES, NEW ROAD, NORTH WALSHAM – CONSIDERATION OF
AN OFFER MADE FOR PREMISES BY J D WETHERSPOON
Before the Portfolio Holder introduced the report, the Leader updated members on
the current situation with the closure of the Heinz factory in North Walsham. He said
that himself, Councillor G Williams and Mr S Blatch, Corporate Director, had met with
Heinz recently. Assistance and support with job seeking had been offered to affected
employees. He went onto say that the issue had been raised at a recent Leaders
meeting and at the Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) Board meeting. Funding may
be available to prospective buyers via the LEP’s Growing Business Fund and the
Council would also ensure that advice and support on the planning process and
environmental issues was also offered to interested parties.
Mr R Oliver, Portfolio Holder for Assets then introduced the report. He explained that
a conditional offer had been made to the Council for the council office premises at
New Road, North Walsham by J D Wetherspoon. The report provided details of the
offer and outlined the issues for the Council if it was minded to accept the offer, in
terms of supporting existing tenants of the premises, including North Walsham Town
Council, to find and relocate to alternative premises in the town. He concluded by
saying that if the Council proceeded with the proposals, it would lead to a major
investment of approximately £1.6m, creating up to 50 new full and part-time posts
and providing an anchor development in North Walsham, leading to the rejuvenation
of the high street.
Members were invited to ask questions:
Cabinet
7
03 November 2014
1. Ms V Gay, local member for North Walsham East, asked whether discussions
had begun with the existing tenants of the council office building. Mr R Oliver
replied that arrangements had been made to meet with them the following week.
2. Mrs A Moore, local member for North Walsham East, said that was concerned
that 20% of the existing shops in North Walsham were food businesses –
compared to a national average of 12% and it was likely that this was due to the
proximity of Paston College. She said that she believed that it was likely that at
least 50 jobs would be lost because other retailers would be priced out of the
town, citing the example of the Sainsbury’s petrol station.
3. Mr E Seward commented that it was assumed that the J D Wetherspoon would
provide a boost to the town. However, it should be acknowledged that it may not.
He asked whether a study had been undertaken of other market towns where J
D Wetherspoon had already opened a premises. He referred to comments
regarding Fakenham, Dereham and Beccles which indicated that no positive
impact had been felt. He said that as the Council was the owner of the property,
it needed to ensure that it was advantageous. In response to a question from the
Leader regarding the source of the comments, Mr Seward said they were from
traders in those towns and he assumed the Council would undertake a similar
survey.
4. Mrs A Claussen-Reynolds said that like North Walsham, Fakenham also had a
lot of food outlets and tearooms. However, since Wetherspoons had opened in
the town, a branch of Subway had also opened.
5. Mr P W Moore said that he did not want to pre-judge this proposal. Surveys and
impact assessments would form part of the planning process and any final
decision would be subject to the necessary consideration by the Development
and Licensing Committees. He added that it was worth noting that there were
already empty pubs in North Walsham and one of those may be a more suitable
location.
6. Mr W Northam commented that there had been similar concerns about Tesco
opening in Sheringham and the anticipated impact on the town centre had not
occurred.
7. The Leader said that there were a growing number of micro-breweries in North
Norfolk and J D Wetherspoon supported the provision of local ales in their pubs.
He added that there was nothing to fear from competition, as Fakenham had
showed.
8. Mr J Lee said that people travelled to Fakenham from as far away as Cromer to
use the Wetherspoons pub there.
It was proposed by Mr R Oliver, seconded by Mr J Lee and
RESOLVED
That delegated authority be provided to the Chief Executive in consultation with the
Cabinet Portfolio holder for Assets, that:a) Subject to being satisfied that JD Wetherspoon has given reasonable
consideration to other potential investment opportunities in the town, negotiate
the best financial deal with JD Wetherspoon regarding their interest in
purchasing the North Walsham council offices and site and,
b)
Cabinet
If, in agreeing in principle to take forward discussions with JD Wetherspoon
about accommodating their proposed investment in the North Walsham council
offices, take forward discussions with existing occupiers of the council offices
building so as to facilitate the unencumbered freehold sale of the asset to JD
Wetherspoon.
8
03 November 2014
Reasons for the decision:
To progress the sale of a council owned building to accommodate the proposals of J
D Wetherspoon, enabling the Council to take forward discussions with existing
occupiers of the building.
The Meeting closed at 11.02 am
_______________
Chairman
Cabinet
9
03 November 2014
Agenda Item 2__
NORTH NORFOLK BIG SOCIETY FUND GRANTS PANEL
Minutes of the meeting of the Big Society Fund Grants Panel held on Monday 9th June
2014 at the Council Offices, Holt Road, Cromer at 13.00pm.
Members Present:
Officers in
Attendance:
1.
Mr J Lee
Mrs P Grove-Jones
Mr P High
Mr R Reynolds
Mr J Wyatt
Mrs V Uprichard (sub)
The Growth & Communities Manager, the Health and Communities
Officer and the Democratic Services Team Leader
APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE
Mr B Jarvis and Mr S Ward
2.
MINUTES
The minutes of the meeting of the Big Society Fund Grants Panel held on 18 March
2014 were approved as a correct record
3.
4.
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
Member
Minute No & Heading
Nature of Interest
Mr P High
Holt Community Centre
Non pecuniary interest – trustee
CONSIDERATION OF APPLICATIONS TO THE BIG SOCIETY FUND
Applications ineligible for application
The Health and Communities Officer explained that that there were a few
applications that were not eligible for consideration by the Panel. She outlined the
reasons for their ineligibility and said that she would contact the applicants and
suggest alternative funding sources.
Applications deferred to the next panel
The Health and Communities Officer said that there was one application
recommended for deferral to the next meeting of the panel: the ‘Victory Explorer
Scout Unit, North Walsham’. She advised the Panel that the application had been
received on 10th April without any supporting documentation. Without this the
application could not be fully assessed to ensure that it was eligible for consideration
and the extent to which it met the purpose of the fund.
Big Society Fund Grants Panel
1
10
09 June 2014
AGREED to recommend
To defer consideration of the above application to the next meeting of the Panel.
Decision deferred from last Panel
The Health and Communities Officer advised that an application from the RBL
General Townshend Club had been deferred at the last meeting whilst clarification
was sought regarding the ownership of the building, the potential impact of the club’s
disaffiliation from the Royal British Legion and current and additional community use.
Since then, the Club had advised that they wholly owned the building and that they
were no longer planning to disaffiliate from the British Legion.
The Health and Communities Officer advised the Panel that they should consider the
individual elements of the project for which funding was requested, as some related
to routine maintenance and repair which was outside the scope of the fund.
It was agreed that replacing the fire escape was a priority and that any funding
awarded should be towards this.
AGREED to recommend
To award £2000 towards the cost of replacing the fire escape subject to planning
permission being granted.
New applications for decision
Great Snoring Social Club
The Health and Communities Officer introduced the application. She said that the
Club were using a significant amount of their own funds to build a kitchen at the club
and improve disabled access. The Panel felt that some of the items that Club wished
to purchase for the new kitchen were not essential at this time and that any funding
should be spent on essential equipment only.
AGREED to recommend
To award funding of £7,500 towards the purchase of essential equipment.
Wells Emergency Wardens
The Health and Communities Officer explained that funding of £4,671.77 had been
requested to purchase equipment to improve radio communication systems and to
provide generators and lighting in the event of loss of power at rescue centres. The
Growth and Communities Manager advised the Panel that it might be appropriate to
check whether the Big Society Fund was the best source of funding or whether the
EDP emergency fund would be better. He said that there was a meeting scheduled
for later in the week to discuss whether to use the emergency fund for such projects.
If the Panel felt minded to approve this application then they could do so subject to
any decision regarding the emergency fund.
AGREED to recommend
To award funding of £4,671.77, subject to no other funds being forthcoming.
Big Society Fund Grants Panel
2
11
09 June 2014
Holt Community Centre
Mr P W High left the room for this application.
The Health and Communities Officer introduced the grant report. She explained that
the group were requesting funding of up to £7,331 to fund the purchase and
installation of two projectors and a laptop to enable the presentation of audio visual
material. This would reduce the need to hire such equipment and also enhance the
facilities available at the Centre.
Mr R Reynolds commented that the Centre had a high turnover of visitors which
should be commended.
AGREED to recommend
To award funding of £5000 to be towards the purchase and installation of projectors.
Swanton Novers Village Hall & Amenities Committee
The Health and Communities Officer introduced the application and explained that
funding was sought to build an extension to the village hall for storing large pieces of
equipment. Increased storage would enable new and current organisations wanting
to use the hall to store equipment safely.
Mr P High commented that the hall was very well used. In response to a query from
Mrs P Grove-Jones regarding the level of reserves, the Health and Communities
Officer said that due to an embezzlement, a significant amount of funding was lost
several years ago and it had taken the Committee some time to rebuild their current
reserves.
AGREED to recommend
To award £8000, subject to the Committee obtaining the rest of the funding required
for the project.
Happisburgh Coast Watch (HCW)
The Health and Communities Officer introduced this report to the panel. She
explained that the grant was requested to enable the relocation of the CoastWatch
Station from Happisburgh to a more accessible site at Cart Gap.
The Panel were concerned that the access road was in a poor condition and this
needed to be addressed.
AGREED to recommend
To award funding of £8786 to cover the cost of the site clearance, levelling and
erection of cabin, fencing and craneage. The grant should not be used for the
purchase of surveillance equipment and would be subject to the remaining funding
being secured.
Northrepps Film Society
The Health and Communities Officer introduced this report. She said that the Film
Society which was established in 2013 , was very popular and the request was for a
Big Society Fund Grants Panel
3
12
09 June 2014
grant to enable them to buy their own equipment so they no longer had to hire it. The
equipment would also be used by the local school.
AGREED to recommend
To award funding of £3268.
Trunch Playing Field Project Steering Group
The Health and Communities Officer explained that the application had been
submitted to purchase play equipment for the first phase of the playing field project
which aimed to install specific equipment for the use of older children. A consultation
had been held with the community to identify community need.
The Panel felt that it would be beneficial to match the funding offered by the parish
council. It was hoped that this would incentivise further fundraising within the
community.
AGREED to recommend
To award funding of £4000, subject to other funding being obtained.
Sheringham Sports Association
The Health and Communities Officer introduced this report. She explained the sports
association was requesting a contribution towards the provision of disabled access to
the clubhouse, enabling them to make greater use of the activities both within the
club and the toilet, changing and refreshment facilities that are needed for those
using the outside sports areas.
Mrs P Grove-Jones agreed that the current access was very difficult.
AGREED to recommend
To award funding of £10,000, subject to other funding being obtained.
Corpusty and Saxthorpe Parish Council
The Health and Communities Officer introduced this report. She explained the parish
council were requesting a grant to provide a range of play equipment for younger
children and a trim trail on the village green.
AGREED to recommend
To award funding of £5000 to be used specifically for the purchase of play equipment
and subject to additional funding being obtained
Thorpe Market Parish Council
The Health and Communities Officer introduced this report. She explained that the
parish council were requesting £3340 to purchase and install a birds nest swing and
safety matting.
AGREED to recommend
To award the full amount requested, £3340..
Big Society Fund Grants Panel
4
13
09 June 2014
Team Guella
The Health and Communities Officer informed the Panel that this application had
been withdrawn due to some inaccuracies within the information provided on their
application form. It was anticipated that it would come back to the Panel for
reconsideration at the next meeting in September.
5.
MONITORING, PUBLICITY AND FEEDBACK
The Panel noted the monitoring report which provided an update on the projects that
had been awarded Big Society Fund grants previously.
6.
BIG SOCIETY AWARDS
The Health and Communities Officer informed the Panel that there had only been a
few applications initially but after a further push to encourage more, there were now
enough to progress with an awards event. The only category which was still low on
numbers was the award to a local business. However, there were 3 potential entries
for this category and she was confident that there would be enough to include this.
The Growth and Communities Manager said the awards ceremony would be held on
15th July 2014 at the Atrium in North Walsham. It was agreed that the Panel would
meet on 23rd June to shortlist the applications.
7.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS
Mr P W High requested that local members should be involved in the events for the
opening of Big Society Funded projects. The Health and Communities Officer
advised that the local member(s) were advised of any opening events taking place in
their Wards.
The Meeting closed at 5.10pm
_______________
Chairman
Big Society Fund Grants Panel
5
14
09 June 2014
10
Agenda Item No____________
FEES AND CHARGES 2015/16
Summary:
This report recommends the fees and charges for
2015/16 that will come into effect from April 2015
Options considered:
Alternatives for the individual service fees and charges
now being proposed will have been considered as part
of the process in arriving at the fees presented within
the report.
Conclusions:
The fees and charges as recommended will be used to
inform the income budgets for the 2015/16 budget.
Approval of the fees ahead of presenting the detailed
budgets allows for implementation of changes where
applicable and also informs the 2015/16 budgets..
Recommendations:
That Cabinet agree and recommend to Full Council:
a) The fees and charges from 1 April 2015 as
included at Appendix A.
Reasons for
Recommendations:
To approve the fees and charges as set out in the report
that will be used to inform the 2015/16 budget process.
LIST OF BACKGROUND PAPERS AS REQUIRED BY LAW
(Papers relied on the write the report and which do not contain exempt information)
Current fees and charges
Cabinet Member(s)
Ward(s) affected All
Cllr Wyndham Northam
Contact Officer, telephone number and email:
Karen Sly, 01263 516243, Karen.sly@north-norfolk.gov.uk
1.
Introduction
1.1
The setting of the fees and charges for the next financial years forms part of
the annual budget setting process. The reason for presenting them for
approval ahead of the detailed budget report provides a lead in time where
applicable to allow implementation of the revised charges from 1 April 2015
(or before where applicable) and also to ensure service income budgets can
be updated accordingly to be reflected in the budget for 2015/16 and future
projections.
15
2.
Fees and Charges 2015/16
2.1
Fees and charges proposals for 2015/16 have been circulated to the relevant
budget managers so that income budgets can be updated as part of the
budget process. Appendix A to this report provides the detail of the proposed
charges for the forward financial year from 1 April 2015 which have been
discussed and agreed with the relevant portfolio holders.
2.2
Approval to these charges in advance of the approval of the budget for the
2015/16 financial year enables Officers to make preparations for the new
financial year and also enable more accurate projections for income to be
factored into the budget for 2015/16 which will then be presented to Members
in February 2015. Any further work in this area will be reported in the Budget
reports in February 2015.
2.3
Where applicable the proposed increase to fees and charges is generally
around 2.5% for 2015/16 or to the nearest sensible figure after allowing for
rounding. The exceptions to this are for those fees and charges which are set
by central government, for example planning and premises licence fees and
also where a contractor manages a facility on behalf of the Council as the
Council has no discretion over these prices.
2.4
No changes have been made to the car parking charges, beach huts and
chalets.
2.5
The proposals recommend maintaining Market fees at current levels to help
stimulate growth of the markets.
2.6
Housing Act Notices are a new addition. The Housing Act 2004 allows local
authorities to make reasonable charges for notices it serves, including the
inspection of property and the drafting and service of the notice itself.
3.
Conclusion
3.1
The report makes recommendations for the fees and charges that will come
into effect from 1 April 2015. These will be used to inform the service income
budgets that will be included within the detailed 2015/16 budget when it is
presented for recommendation and approval in February 2015.
3.2
In addition the report makes recommendations for a new fee in relation to the
certification of wood burners which is currently outside of the building control
service charges and therefore is not eligible for cost recovery.
4.
Financial Implications and Risks
4.1
For demand led services there is a risk that income will not be received as
budgeted. When producing the income budgets assumptions will be made
around the level of income to be achieved from the services, these will be
based on previous experience and recent trends, furthermore one of the
reasons for holding a level of general reserve is to mitigate fluctuations in
income.
5.
Sustainability - None as a direct impact.
6.
Equality and Diversity - None as a direct impact.
7.
Section 17 Crime and Disorder considerations - None as a direct impact.
16
Assets & Leisure Service Area
CAR PARKING
Pay & Display Car Parks between 08:00 - 18:00
Coastal Car Parks
Cromer
East Runton
Happisburgh
Mundesley
Overstrand
Sea Palling
Sheringham
2014/15
Charge
£:p
Increase from
2014/15
£:p
Appendix A
%
Comments
50p for 30
50p for 30
minutes only, minutes
£1.20 per
only, £1.20
hour
per hour
thereafter
thereafter
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
- Cadogan Road
- Meadow
- Promenade (Disabled only)
- Albert Street
- Station Road
- Chequers
- Morris Street
- Staithe Street
50p for 30
50p for 30
minutes
minutes only,
only, £1.00
£1.00 for the
for the first
first hour, 70p
hour, 70p
per hour
per hour
thereafter
thereafter
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
Stalham
- Bridge Street
- The Limes
- Queens Road
- Bank Loke
- New Road
- Vicarage Street
Mundesley Road
- High Street
50p for 30
50p for 30
minutes
minutes only,
only, £1.00
£1.00 for 2
for 2
hours, 70p per
hours, 70p
hour
per hour
thereafter
thereafter
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
All P&D Car Parks (Coastal Car Park tickets transferable)
- All day ticket
£5.00
£5.00
£0.00
0%
- Half day (up to 4 hours)
- All day ticket
- Per Car, Per Entry
- Per Motorcycle, Per Entry
£5.00
£10.00
£6.00
£3.00
£5.00
£10.00
£6.00
£3.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
0%
0%
0%
0%
Wells
Weybourne
Other Car Parks
Cromer
Holt
Sheringham
Wells
Fakenham
North Walsham
Other Charges
Coach Parking (where permitted)
Carnival Day (Runton Road)
Fees and Charges 2015/16
- Runton Road
- Beach Road
- Cart Gap
- Beach Road
- Pauls Lane
- Clink Road
- Beach Road
- Station Road
- Stearmans Yard
- Beach Road
All day ticket for above
2015/16
Request
£:p
17
Sheet 1 of 17
Assets & Leisure Service Area
Weekly Permit
Annual Permit
Half Year Permit
Quarter Year Permit
Penalty Charge Notice
2014/15
Charge
£:p
£27.50
£55.00
£200.00
£30.00
£120.00
£16.00
£65.00
£50.00
£25.00
- 3 hour permit
- 24 hour permit
- 3 hour permit
- 24 hour permit
- 3 hour permit
- 24 hour permit
- Full
- Prompt Payment
2015/16
Request
£:p
£27.50
£55.00
£200.00
£30.00
£120.00
£16.00
£65.00
£50.00
£25.00
Increase from
2014/15
£:p
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
Appendix A
%
Comments
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
Sheet 2 of 17
Fees and Charges 2015/16
18
Assets & Leisure Service Area
2014/15
Charge
£:p
2015/16
Request
£:p
Increase from
2014/15
£:p
Appendix A
%
Comments
MARKETS
Site = 4m Frontage x 5m Depth
Cromer, Stalham and Sheringham (Weds) - Per Site
Weekly
Quarterly
Half Yearly (Up to 2 pitches, £ per pitch)
Half Yearly (3rd pitch +, £ per pitch)
Sheringham (Saturday) - Per Site
Weekly
Quarterly
Half Yearly (Up to 2 pitches, £ per pitch)
Half Yearly (3rd pitch +, £ per pitch)
Yearly
Other Charges
Full Annual Payment in Advance
Refunds - Administration Fee
New Traders Discount (conditions apply)
- April, May, June, Oct, Nov, Dec
- July, August, Sept
- Jan, Feb, March
- April - June
- July - September
- October - December
- January - March
- April - Sept
- October - March
- April - Sept
- October - March
£18.00
£27.00
£15.00
£135.00
£220.00
£100.00
£80.00
£250.00
£130.00
£200.00
£100.00
£18.00
£27.00
£15.00
£135.00
£220.00
£100.00
£80.00
£250.00
£130.00
£200.00
£100.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
- April, May, June, Nov, Dec
- July, August, Sept, Oct
- Jan, Feb, March
- April - June
- July - September
- October - December
- January - March
- April - Sept
- October - March
- April - Sept
- October - March
£30.00
£40.00
£22.00
£300.00
£460.00
£220.00
£175.00
£580.00
£300.00
£440.00
£225.00
£855.00
£30.00
£40.00
£22.00
£300.00
£460.00
£220.00
£175.00
£580.00
£300.00
£440.00
£225.00
£855.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
10% discount
£15.00
25% discount
£15.00
£0.00
0%
Sheet 3 of 17
Fees and Charges 2015/16
19
Assets & Leisure Service Area
2014/15
Charge
£:p
2015/16
Request
£:p
Increase from
2014/15
£:p
Appendix A
%
CHALETS & BEACH HUTS
Chalets
Sheringham
Old Chalets
New Chalets (incl electricity)
£690.00
£830.00
£690.00
£830.00
£0.00
£0.00
0.0%
0.0%
Cromer
West Beach
East Beach
£640.00
£690.00
£640.00
£690.00
£0.00
£0.00
0.0%
0.0%
Weekly Lets - Cromer & Sheringham
Low Season
High Season
£62.50
£120.00
£62.50
£120.00
£0.00
£0.00
0.0%
0.0%
Weekly Lets - Cromer East & Sheringham New (Serviced)
Low Season
High Season
£78.00
£142.00
£78.00
£142.00
£0.00
£0.00
0.0%
0.0%
Winter Lets
Per Month
Per Week
40 Week Lets (October - July)
40 Week Lets (October - July)
£65.00
£21.00
£490.00
£540.00
£65.00
£21.00
£490.00
£540.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
Hut Sites
Cromer, Overstrand & Sheringham
One Year (Excluding Rates)
Mundesley
£220.00
£210.00
£220.00
£210.00
£0.00
£0.00
0.0%
0.0%
Huts
Weekly Lets
Low Season
High Season
Mundesley - Seasonal Let
£47.50
£105.00
£540.00
£47.50
£105.00
£540.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
£30.00
£30.00
£0.00
0.0%
Termination of Licence (early - mid-term)
Cromer West
Cromer East
Admin Fee
PARKLANDS CARAVAN SITE
Site Per Year
£1,023.00
HOLT COUNTRY PARK
School visits where Ranger's assistance required (Per Person)
£3.30
Comments
Increased by RPI as under Mobile Homes Act.
£3.40
£0.10
3.0%
Sheet 4 of 17
Fees and Charges 2015/16
20
Assets & Leisure Service Area
2014/15
Charge
£:p
Car Park
Per car per occasion
Annual Permit
(NNDC Standard Car Park Season Tickets are also valid)
MOBILE GYM
Fees for the use of the facility per session
Concessionary price per session
2015/16
Request
£:p
Increase from
2014/15
£:p
£1.50
£20.00
£1.50
£20.00
£0.00
£0.00
£3.00
£2.50
£1.00
£1.00
-£2.00
-£1.50
Appendix A
%
Comments
0.0%
0.0%
-66.7% Reduced as result of Sport England
-60.0% funded project
Sheet 5 of 17
Fees and Charges 2015/16
21
Corporate Service Area
LEGAL SERVICES
Legal Work (exclusive of VAT charged)
Mortgage Redemption
Preparation of a new lease
Sale of land
Preparation of License
Private Mortgage
Quest re: second Mortgage
Agreement - section 18 Public Health Act 1936
Legal Work in connection with release of covenant
2014/15
Charge
£:p
2015/16
Charge
£:p
At Solicitors
Hourly Rate
At Solicitors
Hourly Rate
Appendix A
Sheet 6 of 17
Fees and Charges 2015/16
22
Customer Services Service Area
TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES
Concessionary Fares
Application processing
Renewals (lost)
2014/15
Charge
£:p
2015/16
Request
£:p
£7.00
£10.00
Increase from
2014/15
£:p
Appendix A
%
£0.00
£0.00
0%
0%
£1,000.00
£165.00
£460.00
£75.00
85%
83%
Documentaries and charities (depending on nature of organisation, subject and
crew size)
Per Day
£330.00
£450.00
Per Hour
£57.00
£80.00
£120.00
£23.00
36%
40%
Administration Charge (only charged where a fee and/or contract is appropriate)
Standard
£26.00
£30.00
Less than 7 days notice
£57.00
£80.00
£4.00
£23.00
15%
40%
£7.00
£10.00
FILMING*
TV drama/advertisements/feature films
*These figures are for guidance only and any enquiries could be subject to further negotiation.
Per Day
Per Hour
Stills (specifically commercial advertising with props, etc)
£540.00
£90.00
£100 - £500 £100 - £500
£100 - £500
Education/news/weather/student/individual photographers or 'in the interest of the district'
Parking (if required)
PHOTOCOPYING
Per Copy
Fees and Charges 2015/16
£10 - £15
£0.07
23
£10 - £15
£0.07
£10 - £15
£0.00
0%
Sheet 7 of 17
Customer Services Service Area
Per Copy - Staff
Colour Copying (A4)
Colour Copying (A3)
Colour Copying - Staff (A4)
Colour Copying - Staff (A3)
2014/15
Charge
£:p
£0.07
£0.61
£1.21
£0.61
£1.21
2015/16
Increase from
Request
2014/15
£:p
£:p
£0.07
£0.00
£0.61
£0.00
£1.21
£0.00
£0.61
£0.00
£1.21
£0.00
Appendix A
%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
Sheet 8 of 17
Fees and Charges 2015/16
24
Environmental Health
WASTE COLLECTION SERVICES
Clinical Waste - Commercial & Prescribed
Commercial Waste Bins - Collection & Hire
Commercial Recycling Bins - Collection & Hire
Prescribed Waste Bins - Collection & Hire
Prescribed Recycling Bins - Collection & Hire
Sacks - Commercial & Prescribed
Bulky Items - Commercial, Prescribed & Household
2014/15
Charge
£:p
2015/16
Request
£:p
Increase from
Appendix A
2014/15
£:p
%
Prices on
Application
Prices on Application
Garden Bin Collection - Per Annum
£42.12
£42.64
£0.52
1.2%
EDUCATION & PROMOTION
(CIEH) Foundation Certificate in Food Hygiene
Resident or employed in North Norfolk
Other
£52.00
£65.00
£53.00
£67.00
£630.00
£1.00
£2.00
1.9%
3.1%
2.7%
3.6%
Specially arranged courses for businesses - held at business
premises for their staff only
for up to 15 candidates
per additional candidate up to maximum of 18
COMMERCIAL SERVICES
Food Inspections
Unfit food inspections
Food export certificates
Officer time per hour
Sunday Trading Application for loading consent
Sampling - per visit
Other Investigations (e.g. Investigating failure)
Granting an authorisation to depart from the standard authorisation
Registration of Food Premises
Charge for copies of Register (or parts of)
- Single Entry
- Part of Register
- Complete Register
Prices on
Application
£42.00
£37.00
£28.00
£40.00
£86.00
£38.00
£29.00
£40.00
£88.00
£1.00
£1.00
£0.00
£2.00
2.3%
£51.00
£103.00
£103.00
£52.00
£106.00
£106.00
£1.00
£3.00
£3.00
2.0%
2.9%
2.9%
£16.00
£410.00
£870.00
£16.00
£420.00
£892.00
£0.00
£10.00
£22.00
0.0%
2.4%
2.5%
Sheet 9 of 17
Fees and Charges 2015/16
25
Environmental Health
2014/15
Charge
£:p
2015/16
Request
£:p
Increase from
Appendix A
2014/15
£:p
%
Private Water Supplies Sampling Regulations
Laboratory Analysis of a sample
"Regulation 10 - Single Private Dwelling
Regulation 9 "Check Monitoring"
Regulation 9 " Audit Monitoring"
Risk Assessments
- Single Private Dwelling
- Small Domestic Supplies
- Large Domestic Supplies
- Commercial or Public Small
- Commercial or Public Medium
- Commercial or Public Large
- Commercial or Public Very Large
Sampling - per visit
Other Investigations (e.g. Investigating failure)
Granting an authorisation to depart from the standard
authorisation
£25.00
£25.00
£0.00
0.0%
£100.00
£100.00
£200.00
£200.00
£300.00
£500.00
£500.00
£100.00
£100.00
£200.00
£200.00
£300.00
£500.00
£500.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
£50.00
£100.00
£51.00
£100.00
£1.00
£0.00
2.0%
0.0%
£100.00
£100.00
£0.00
0.0%
No Charge
£350.00
£350.00
£350.00
£350.00
£50.00
£50.00
£350.00
£350.00
£350.00
£350.00
£50.00
£50.00
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
£70.00
£70.00
£70.00
£70.00
0.0%
0.0%
HOUSING ACT NOTICES
Hazard Awareness Notice
Improvement / Suspended Improvement Notice
(Section 11 & 12)
Prohibition/Suspended Prohibition Order
Emergency Remedial Action
Emergency Prohibition Order
Demolition Order
Service of second and subsequent HA2004 Statutory Notices
(inc Schedule 3 Notices for works in default)
Review of suspended HA 2004 Statutory Notices
Notice with up to 3 hazards identified
For each additional hazard included in Notice
Sheet 10 of 17
Fees and Charges 2015/16
26
Environmental Health
2014/15
Charge
£:p
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION SERVICES
Register of Authorised Processes
TAXI LICENCE FEES
Taxi Licences
Licence to Drive Hackney Carriages or Private Hire Vehicles
Licence to Drive Hackney Carriages or Private Hire Vehicles
Hackney Carriage Vehicle Licence
Private Hire Vehicle Licence
Private Hire Operators Licence
2015/16
Request
£:p
Increase from
Appendix A
2014/15
£:p
%
Set on cost recovery basis
- New Licence valid for 1 year
- New Licence valid for 3 years
- Renewal valid for 1 year
- Renewal valid for 3 years
- New or Renewal valid for 1 year
- New or Renewal valid for 1 year
- New or Renewal valid for 5 years
Taxi Licence Charges
Replacement badge (including name or address change)
Replacement drivers badge holder with lanyard
Windscreen pouches (additional or replacement)
Replacement plate for vehicle
Vehicle Inspection full initial test (if undertaken other than at a time of licensing or relicensing
vehicle)
Vehicle Inspection re-test following failure of initial test
Meter test or retest undertaken separate to full vehicle inspection
£170.00
£170.00
£170.00
£170.00
£190.00
£190.00
£150.00
£170.00
£170.00
£170.00
£170.00
£190.00
£190.00
£150.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
£20.00
£3.00
£1.50
£38.00
£52.80
£20.00
£3.00
£1.50
£38.00
£52.80
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
£12.00
£24.00
£12.00
£24.00
£0.00
£0.00
0.0%
0.0%
Sheet 11 of 17
Fees and Charges 2015/16
27
Environmental Health
OTHER LICENSING
Permits for Goods and Amenities on the Highway
Premises Licence Fees - Gambling Act 2005
Betting Premises (excluding tracks)
2014/15
Charge
£:p
- New Application
- Annual Fee
- Application to Vary
- Application to Transfer
- Application to Reinstatement
- Application for Prov. Statement
- Application (Prov. State Holders)
- Copy Licence
- New Application
- Annual Fee
- Application to Vary
- Application to Transfer
- Application to Reinstatement
- Application for Prov. Statement
- Application (Prov. State Holders)
- Copy Licence
- Notification of Change
Family Entertainment Centres
- New Application
- Annual Fee
- Application to Vary
- Application to Transfer
- Application to Reinstatement
- Application for Prov. Statement
- Application (Prov. State Holders)
- Copy Licence
- Notification of Change
Adult Gaming Centre
Fees and Charges 2015/16
Increase from
Appendix A
2014/15
£:p
%
- Application Fee
- Notification of Change
Tracks
2015/16
Request
£:p
- New Application
- Annual Fee
- Application to Vary
- Application to Transfer
- Application to Reinstatement
- Application for Prov. Statement
28
£2,670.00
£535.00
£1,335.00
£1,080.00
£1,080.00
£2,670.00
£1,080.00
£25.00
£2,670.00
£535.00
£1,335.00
£1,080.00
£1,080.00
£2,670.00
£1,080.00
£25.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£50.00
£50.00
Maximum level
set by statute
£1,335.00
£890.00
£1,100.00
£840.00
£840.00
£2,220.00
£1,335.00
£890.00
£1,100.00
£840.00
£840.00
£2,220.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£25.00
£25.00
£50.00
£50.00
£1,800.00
£670.00
£895.00
£840.00
£840.00
£1,795.00
£840.00
£25.00
£1,800.00
£670.00
£895.00
£840.00
£840.00
£1,795.00
£840.00
£25.00
£50.00
£50.00
£1,800.00
£895.00
£895.00
£1,080.00
£1,080.00
£1,800.00
£1,800.00
£895.00
£895.00
£1,080.00
£1,080.00
£1,800.00
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
Maximum level
set by statute
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
Maximum level
set by statute
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0
0
£0.00
0.0%
£0.00
0.0%
£0.00
0.0%
£0.00
0.0%
£0.00
0.0%
Sheet 12 of0.0%
17
£0.00
Environmental Health
2014/15
Charge
£:p
- Application (Prov. State Holders)
- Copy Licence
2015/16
Request
£:p
Increase from
Appendix A
2014/15
£:p
%
£1,080.00
£25.00
£1,080.00
£25.00
£50.00
£50.00
- Application Fee
- Change of Name
- Copy of Permit
£300.00
£25.00
£15.00
£300.00
£25.00
£15.00
Prize Gaming
- Application Fee
- Annual Fee
- Change of Name
- Copy of Permit
£300.00
£300.00
£25.00
£15.00
£300.00
£300.00
£25.00
£15.00
Small Lottery Society
- Application Fee
- Annual Fee
- Change of Name
- Copy of Permit
£40.00
£20.00
£25.00
£15.00
Club Gaming
- Application Fee Gaming Permit
- Application Fee Machine Permit
- Annual Fee
- Change of Name
- Copy of Permit
£200.00
£200.00
£50.00
£25.00
£15.00
£200.00
£200.00
£50.00
£25.00
£15.00
License Premises Gaming Machine Permit
- Application Fee (2 or less)
- Application Fee (3 or more)
- Annual Fee
- Change of Name
- Copy of Permit
- Variation
- Transfer
£50.00
£150.00
£50.00
£25.00
£15.00
£100.00
£25.00
£50.00
£150.00
£50.00
£25.00
£15.00
£100.00
£25.00
- Notification of Change
Permits
Family Entertainment Centres
£0.00
Maximum level
set by statute
0.0%
0
£40.00
£20.00
£25.00 Maximum level
£15.00
set by statute
Sheet 13 of 17
Fees and Charges 2015/16
29
0
Environmental Health
2014/15
Charge
£:p
2015/16
Request
£:p
Increase from
Appendix A
2014/15
£:p
%
Licences and certificates of suitability
Skin piercing premises
Skin piercing each additional operative at same premises
Goods & Amenities on the Highway
Scrap Metal Dealer
Scrap Metal Dealer
Scrap Metal Collector
Scrap Metal Collector
Sex Shop or sex cinema
Sexual Entertainment Venue
Street Trading Consents
Animal Boarding
Dangerous Wild Animals (and vet fees where appropriate)
Dog Breeding (and vet fees where appropriate)
Pet Shop
Riding Establishment (and vet fees where appropriate)
Zoo (and vet fees where appropriate)
- Registration (one-off)
- Registration (one-off)
£230.00
£30.00
n/a
£400.00
£300.00
£100.00
£75.00
£1,800.00
£2,670.00
Free
£68.00
£120.00
£155.00
£120.00
£120.00
£205.00
£165.00
£205.00
New/Renewal (3 years)
Variation
New/Renewal (3 years)
Variation
- Non profit
- Commercial
- New/Renewal
- New/Renewal
- New/Renewal
- New/Renewal
- New/Renewal
- Variation
- New/Renewal
£230.00
£30.00
£0.00
£0.00
0.0%
0.0%
£400.00
£300.00
£100.00
£75.00
£1,800.00
£2,670.00
Free
£70.00
£123.00
£159.00
£123.00
£123.00
£210.00
£169.00
£210.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
£2.00
£3.00
£4.00
£3.00
£3.00
£5.00
£4.00
£5.00
2.9%
2.5%
2.6%
2.5%
2.5%
2.4%
2.4%
2.4%
Sheet 14 of 17
Fees and Charges 2015/16
30
Development Management Service Area
2014/15
Charge
£:p
DEVELOPMENT PLAN
Development Plan for North Norfolk (all prices inclusive of postage)
Core Strategy (incorporating Development Control Policies) and Proposals Map (complete set)
2015/16
Request
Increase from
2014/15
£:p
Appendix A
%
£67.00
£69.00
£2.00
3.0%
£11.00
£56.00
£5.50
£11.00
£57.00
£6.00
£0.00
£1.00
£0.50
0.0%
1.8%
9.1%
£5.50
£6.00
£0.50
9.1%
£6.00
£6.00
£0.00
0.0%
Supplementary Planning Documents
Design Guide SPD
Landscape Character Assessment SPD
£16.00
£22.00
£16.00
£23.00
£0.00
£1.00
0.0%
4.5%
Other Publications and Background Studies
LDS - b/w or colour
AMR - b/w
AMR - colour
Core Strategy Sustainability Appraisal (Final)
Tourism Study - b/w
Tourism Study - colour
Landscape Character Assessment - b/w
Landscape Character Assessment - colour
Retail & Commercial Study - b/w
Retail & Commercial Study - colour
3 Dragons - b/w
3 Dragons - colour
Settlement Planning - b/w
Settlement Planning - colour
Rural Economy - b/w
Rural Economy - colour
Open Space Study - Volume 1
Open Space Study - Volume 2
Open Space Study - Volume 3
Open Space Study - Volume 4
Open Space Study - Complete
Free
£6.00
£25.00
£29.00
£19.00
£54.00
£6.00
£12.00
£9.00
£37.00
£6.00
£31.00
£6.00
£25.00
£12.50
£60.00
£10.00
£12.00
£21.00
£7.00
£55.00
Free
£6.00
£26.00
£30.00
£19.00
£55.00
£6.00
£12.00
£9.00
£38.00
£6.00
£32.00
£6.00
£26.00
£13.00
£62.00
£10.00
£12.00
£22.00
£7.00
£56.00
£0.00
£1.00
£1.00
£0.00
£1.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£1.00
£0.00
£1.00
£0.00
£1.00
£0.50
£2.00
£0.00
£0.00
£1.00
£0.00
£1.00
0.0%
4.0%
3.4%
0.0%
1.9%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
2.7%
0.0%
3.2%
0.0%
4.0%
4.0%
3.3%
0.0%
0.0%
4.8%
0.0%
1.8%
Individual Core Strategy Documents (all prices inclusive of postage)
Core Strategy (incorporating Development Control Policies)
Map Set (complete set including the Proposals Map)
Proposals Map
Map Key
CD-ROMS (contains all documents and maps)
Inspectors Report of the Core Strategy
LDF Magazine File
Single page extracts of Core Strategy Maps (various sizes inclusive of postage)
Sheet 15 of 17
Fees and Charges 2015/16
31
Development Management Service Area
LAND CHARGES
Official Search of - One Part
Official Search of - Whole
2014/15
Charge
£:p
2015/16
Request
Increase from
2014/15
£:p
Appendix A
%
£2.50
£29.00
£25.00
£2.00
£2.50
£29.00
£25.00
£2.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
Part 1 Enquiries
Non National Land Information Service Search
One Parcel
National Land Information Service
First Parcel
Additional Parcels
£77.00
£77.00
£77.00
£66.00
£15.00
£77.00
£77.00
£77.00
£66.00
£15.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
Optional Enquiries
Printed
Additional
Enquiry 22
£15.00
£21.00
£27.00
£15.00
£21.00
£27.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
£72.00
£72.00
£7.00
£0.00
£0.00
0.0%
0.0%
£2.50
£0.00
0.0%
£2.50
£5.00
£0.00
£0.00
0.0%
0.0%
- Paper Search
- Electronic Search
- Additional Parcel
Other Fees relating to Local Land Charges
Registration of a charge in Part 11 of the Register (Light Obstruction Notice)
Filing a judgement order or application for variation or cancellation of any entry in Part 11 of the
Register (Light Obstruction Notice)
Filing a definitive certificate of the Lands Tribunal under rule 10 (3) of the Local Land Charges
Rules 1977
Inspection of documents filed under Rule 10 in respect of each parcel of land
Office copy of any entry in the Register (not including a copy or extract of any plan or document
filed pursuant to 1977 Rules)
£7.00
£2.50
£2.50
£5.00
Sheet 16 of 17
Fees and Charges 2015/16
32
Development Management Service Area
PLANNING
Weekly list Planning Applications per annum
Preparation of Section 106 Agreement (simple)
Discharging of conditions
2014/15
Charge
£:p
£305.00
£333.00
£87.00
£26.00
- Non householder permission
- Householder permission
2015/16
Request
£313.00
£341.00
Statutory
Statutory
Increase from
2014/15
£:p
Appendix A
%
£8.00
£8.00
2.6%
2.4%
£55.00
Building Control Fees
PLANNING - MISCELLANOUS
Misc. Photocopies (per copy)
A4 copies - per sheet
A3 copies - per sheet
Large documents - subject to negotiation
£0.10
£0.20
£0.10
£0.20
£0.00
£0.00
2.5%
-2.5%
£415.00
£2.70
£425.00
£3.00
£10.00
£0.30
2.4%
11.1%
Supply of Information on Permitted Use/History
Administrative Staff - per hour
Professional Staff - per hour
£45.00
£88.00
£46.00
£90.00
£1.00
£2.00
2.2%
2.3%
Check compliance with Conditions (for Solicitors, Agents)
Administrative Staff - per hour
Professional Staff - per hour
£45.00
£88.00
£46.00
£90.00
£1.00
£2.00
2.2%
2.3%
General Research
Administrative Staff - per hour
Professional Staff - per hour
£45.00
£88.00
£46.00
£90.00
£1.00
£2.00
2.2%
2.3%
Single Street
2-5 Streets
5+ Streets
£128.00
£256.00
£513.00
£131.00
£262.00
£526.00
£3.00
£6.00
£13.00
2.3%
2.3%
2.5%
1-5 Plots
6-10 Plots
11-50 Plots
50+ Plots
£82.00
£72.00
£62.00
£51.00
£84.00
£74.00
£64.00
£52.00
£2.00
£2.00
£2.00
£1.00
2.4%
2.8%
3.2%
2.0%
£26.00
£27.00
£1.00
3.8%
High Hedges Complaint
Architects Plans A1 & A2 Sheets (per copy)
Naming of new street, consultation process and notification of decision
Street numbering Schemes
Change of property name
Sheet 17 of 17
Fees and Charges 2015/16
33
Agenda Item No____11________
Review of Housing Delivery Incentive Scheme
Summary:
This report considers if it is desirable to extend the
current Housing Delivery Incentive Scheme which is
available as part of the planning application process for
a longer period.
Options considered:
Closure or retention of the scheme.
Conclusions:
Overall it is not considered that housing delivery or
market conditions have improved sufficiently to justify
closing the scheme. An extension of the current scheme
for a further 12 months is recommended.
Recommendations:
That Cabinet recommends to Full Council that the
North Norfolk Housing Incentive Scheme is
extended until the 31st December 2015.
Reasons for
Recommendations:
To support the quicker delivery of planned housing
development in North Norfolk in order to address
housing need and demand..
Cabinet Member(s)
Cllr R Oliver, Cllr B C Manners
Ward(s) affected
All
Mark Ashwell, 01263 516325, mark.ashwell@north-norfolk.gov.uk
1.
Introduction
1.1
Council resolved on the 23rd of July 2013 to introduce a number of changes
to the application of adopted planning policies aimed at improving the rate of
housing delivery in the District. This Housing Incentive Scheme included an
upward revision to the size of developments that would trigger a requirement
to contribute towards affordable housing together with a number of targeted
measures to improve the financial viability of development in some parts of
the District. The scheme was introduced in September 2013 for a temporary
period which will end on the 30th of December 2014. This report considers if it
is desirable to close the scheme or extend it for a further period. A summary
of the scheme is attached as Appendix B.
2.
Scheme rationale
2.1
The National Planning Policy Framework requires that Councils meet all
objectively assessed needs for housing. The need and demand for housing in
the District is established via the preparation of assessments which take into
account matters such a population growth, dwelling occupancy rates,
migration patterns, and dwelling affordability. Targets are set for the delivery
of new homes which are incorporated into the Development Plan for the
34
district covering a plan period of 20 years. These dwelling targets are the
basis for monitoring performance in relation to housing delivery and are an
important consideration in the planning application process for residential
development proposals. Failure to meet targets results in housing need and
demand not being met.
2.2
To achieve adopted Core Strategy housing targets for North Norfolk it is
currently necessary to provide an average of 400 net additional dwellings per
year in each of the 20 years covered by the plan period 2001 – 2021.
Dwelling completion numbers vary significantly from year to year but over the
period 2007 to 2013 completions in the District fell and annual housing targets
were missed to the extent that by the end of 2013 new dwelling numbers in
the District were some 800 units behind the rate that was required to meet the
overall housing targets proposed in the adopted Core Strategy. The
remaining period covered by adopted Plans is relatively short (7 years) so a
sustained improvement in dwelling completions will be necessary over the
next few years if overall plan targets are to be met. In 2012/13 only 242 new
dwellings were provided in the District against the annual average target of
400.
2.3
Development viability evidence prepared to inform the potential introduction
of the Community Infrastructure Levy in 2013 concluded that in some, but not
all, parts of the District a combination of depressed market conditions and
high development costs, including the costs associated with complying with
adopted planning policies, resulted in development that was either unviable,
or insufficiently profitable, to encourage growth. As a result the Council
concluded that it was not the right time to consider introducing the Community
Infrastructure Levy (a non-negotiable tariff payment payable for each sqm
meter of new development), as this might further impact on the delivery of
development.
2.4
The Housing Incentive Scheme was designed to encourage both the making
of planning applications and the earlier construction of new development once
it has secured planning permission and includes measures to discourage
‘land banking’ of sites with planning permission such as shorter time limited
planning permissions and incentives to build approved schemes quickly. The
scheme is only accessible to those developments that comply with the
locational policies of the adopted Development Plan and to those proposals
where applicants can commit to either quick starts (small schemes of less
than 10 units) or quick completions (large schemes).
3. Scheme Applications.
3.1
Since its launch in September 2013 around 60 separate development
schemes proposing some 600 dwellings have taken part in the scheme.
These include three large estate scale allocations at Stalham, Cromer and
North Walsham and a significant number of smaller housing proposals and
building conversion schemes (Table 1).
35
Table 1. Scheme Applications.
Development
type
Large new build
proposals of more
than 10 dwellings
Number of
dwellings
295
New build
proposals of less
than 10 dwellings
Building
Conversions and
removal of
restrictive
occupancy
conditions
Registered
applications
awaiting decision
Total
67
3.2
Required/ Expected Delivery
Stalham – Complete part of estate road and complete 20
dwellings by March 2015.(on target)
Cromer – Complete estate road and 20 dwellings by
December 2015 (ahead of target)
These applications are all subject to one year
commencement conditions.
82
These applications are subject to two year commencement
conditions or in relation to removal of holiday conditions
are recorded as immediately available as permanent
housing.
156
Includes 132 dwellings on the large allocated site at North
Walsham (Persimmon Homes application).
600
Compared to proceeding years the number of permissions granted and
commencement of development is improving. Currently, there are more
dwellings with planning permission than there has been for many years and
the number of dwellings recorded as under construction is also at the highest
level recorded in the last five years (Table 2).
Table 2 – Permissions, Under Construction, and Completions
Year
(Commencing 1st April
and ending 30th March)
Dwellings with planning Dwellings under
permission as of 30th
construction as of 30th of
March. (includes those
March.
under construction)
2010/11
1,368
481
2011/12
1,329
345
2012/13
1,584
442
2013/14
1,790
439
Sept 2014
2,377 (approved
556 (Recorded as under
dwellings on 1st Sept)
construction on 1st Sept)
*Figure includes a one off windfall of 107 units at RAF Coltishall.
Dwellings
completed
within year.
178
337*
242
383
4.
Assessment
4.1
There are many factors which are likely to impact on development rates in the
District and it is thought likely that even had the scheme not been introduced
there would have been some improvement in development rates.
Nevertheless, applicants and agents have expressed the view that many of
the applications made under the scheme would not have progressed had the
scheme not been available. This is particularly the case in relation to smaller
sites where the cost of complying with adopted planning policies is argued to
36
be disproportionately high and discourages the making of planning
applications.
4.2
The scheme has only been available for a period of twelve months and
consequently it is regarded as too early to judge it’s success in terms of actual
dwelling completions as although the scheme includes incentives to build
there will be an inevitable lag (often in excess of 12 months) whilst
development is under construction. Only 10 of the new build dwellings
included within the scheme have been completed to-date although a further
90 are recorded as currently under construction and are expected to be
completed by year end. The most notable change is the increase in the
number of dwellings which have planning permission - 2,377 units with
planning permission on the 1st of September 2014 of which 444 are within the
incentive scheme and 556 were recorded as under construction.
4.3
Despite the improvements across a range of indicators such as permissions
granted and developments started it remains the case that as of March 2014
the shortfall in dwelling completions was still around 750. This shortfall figure
had previously been increasing and until such time as completions exceed
400 dwellings per year this will not improve.
4.4
The original justification for introduction of the scheme was to increase the
supply of housing and help close the gap between the target number of
dwellings required and actual provision. This gap has not yet narrowed,
although it is projected to over the next twelve months and beyond.
Furthermore the Council has started to consider the timetable for formal Local
Plan Review. This review will necessitate further consideration of issues
relating to both the overall target for housing and development viability. In
addition Government is currently consulting on the implementation of revised
Housing construction standards which are likely to be implemented through
amendment to the national Building Regulations. The impact of these
standards on development costs will also need to be taken in to account.
4.5
When introduced it was clearly the intention that the scheme would be
temporary and in part it was justified by viability evidence. Market conditions
and individual scheme viability vary significantly across the district. Since
introduction of the scheme in December 2013 there has been an overall
increase in average sales values of between 5-8% but also an increase in
constructions costs (materials and labour) and some evidence of upward
pressure on land prices. The number of sales improved over the summer but
more recently has slowed. Overall market conditions have improved but
recently this improvement has slowed.
5
Implications and Risks
5.1
Development proposals, even those on allocated development sites, remain
locally controversial and result in significant local objection. Continuation of
the scheme may be seen by objectors as an inappropriate course of action. In
this regard the Council needs to be clear that it is striking the right balance
between speed of housing delivery and compliance with its wider policy
objectives to deliver sustainable development.
5.2
The main risk associated with the continuation of these measures is that
some development may take place which could have otherwise provided
higher levels of affordable housing. Viability evidence prepared to support the
37
possible introduction of CIL supports the lowering of affordable housing
requirements. This could be partly mitigated if development proceeds which
would not have otherwise occurred as this in itself will deliver a greater
quantum of affordable housing.
5.3
6
6.1
The measures are regarded as a proportionate response to current economic
conditions and the continuing need to encourage quicker delivery of housing
development in the district.
Financial Implications and Risks
The delivery of housing in the district is important on a number of fronts, it will
provide much needed accommodation, is a significant element of economic
and job creating activity and will increase homes bonus payments.
7. Sustainability
7.1
The reduction in the requirement for Code for Sustainable Homes standards
and on-site renewable energy provision included within the scheme represent
a sustainability impact, but this needs to be balanced against the social and
economic benefits of increased housing delivery. Furthermore much of the
code requirements in relation to building construction standards are included
within the National Building Regulations.
8. Equality and Diversity
There are no equality and diversity implications.
9. Section 17 Crime and Disorder considerations
There are no Section 17 implications.
10. Conclusion
Overall it is not considered that housing delivery or market conditions have
improved sufficiently to justify closing the scheme. An extension of the current
scheme for a further 12 months is recommended.
38
North Norfolk District Council
Housing Delivery Incentives Scheme: Developer Guide
39
North Norfolk District Council
Planning Policy Team
Telephone: 01263 516318
E-Mail: planningpolicy@north-norfolk.gov.uk
Write to: Planning Policy Manager,
North Norfolk District Council,
Holt Road, Cromer, NR27 9EN
www.northnorfolk.org/ldf
Documents can be made available in
Braille, audio, large print or in other languages.
Please contact 01263 516318 to discuss your requirements.
40
Housing Delivery Incentives Scheme: Developer Guide
Contents
1
Introduction
1
2
Available Incentives
2
3
Scheme Eligibility
3
4
Compliance with the Schedule of Works
5
5
Next Steps
6
Appendix 1: Application Form
8
Appendix 2: Affordable Housing Zones Map
41
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Housing Delivery Incentives Scheme: Developer Guide
Introduction 1
1 Introduction
1.1
This is a new scheme which North Norfolk District Council has decided to introduce for a trial
period. The scheme will operate between the 1st of September 2013 and the 30th December
2014. During this period the Council reserves the right to amend or withdraw the scheme at
any time.
1.2
The purpose of the scheme is to incentivise the quick delivery of developments which have
been granted planning permission, and to encourage applications and house building on those
sites which are allocated for development in the adopted North Norfolk Site Allocations
Development Plan or are in locations where planning permission would normally be granted.
The scheme is not intended to allow building in locations where planning permission would
not normally be approved.
1.3
The scheme includes four separate types of incentive, some of which will need to be specifically
applied for. All incentives are available for a temporary period (until Dec 2014) and are subject
to commitments to start and/or deliver development quickly. They will only apply therefore in
cases where applicants are prepared to accept either short time limited planning permissions
and/or can agree to complete an agreed level of development within an agreed specific time
period.
1.4
Other than in relation to Incentive 1, entry to the scheme is by formal application and a specific
form is available for this purpose. Applications to take part in the scheme will normally only
be accepted at the same time as applying for planning permission. Sites which hold existing
planning permissions, where development has not started, may be considered but applicants
should note that a further planning application may be required to vary conditions attached to
the existing planning permission. Advice should be sought from a planning officer prior to
making an application.
42
1
2
Housing Delivery Incentives Scheme: Developer Guide
2 Available Incentives
2 Available Incentives
2.1
The incentives that are available comprise the temporary relaxation of certain current policy
requirements which are normally applied to planning applications, including:
Incentive 1 - Affordable Housing (1)
Increasing the number of dwellings which will be permitted on a development before seeking a
contribution towards affordable housing. The Council will allow schemes of up to 9 dwellings
(new build and conversions) without seeking contributions towards affordable housing. This
incentive relates to the affordable housing usually made available via a Housing Association or
similar registered social landlord. Smaller, lower cost housing for sale will continue to be required
within larger schemes (Policy H01 of the adopted Core Strategy). This incentive is available for
outline, reserved matters and full planning applications on request.
Incentive 2 - Affordable Housing (2)
Reducing the quantity of affordable housing to 20% on large scale development proposals of 10
dwellings or more in defined parts of the district (see 'Appendix 2: Affordable Housing Zones
Map'). This is available in association with full and reserved matters planning applications only
where quick implementation and phased delivery of development is agreed. This incentive is
not available for outline planning applications and is only available by formal application.
Incentive 3 - Code for Sustainable Homes
Relaxing the requirement that dwellings should be constructed in accordance with the Code for
Sustainable Homes. This is applicable to full and reserved matters planning applications only
where quick implementation and phased delivery of development is agreed. This incentive is
not available for outline planning applications and is only available by formal application.
Incentive 4 - Renewable Energy
Relaxing the requirement that part of the schemes energy needs should be generated from
on-site renewable sources. This is available in association with full and reserved matters
applications only where quick implementation and phased development is agreed. This incentive
is not available for outline planning applications and is only available by formal application.
2.2
These incentives will only be available where applicants accept a short time limited planning
permission and/or complete an agreement to start, or partly complete, the approved
development within an agreed time period as outlined in the Scheme Conditions and an
approved Schedule of Works.
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Housing Delivery Incentives Scheme: Developer Guide
Scheme Eligibility 3
3 Scheme Eligibility
3.1
The scheme is intended to apply to most types of residential development which results in the
provision of permanent housing. Proposals for new build housing, building conversions, and
proposals to remove restrictive occupancy controls such as holiday conditions will all be
considered. Proposals for hostels, care homes and holiday homes are not eligible for these
incentives.
3.2
Each of the Incentives is subject to a number of eligibility criteria and standard conditions:
Incentive 1 - Affordable Housing (1)
Available on all proposals for 9 or fewer dwellings provided as a result of either new build,
conversion of buildings to residential dwellings and the removal of holiday and other restrictive
occupancy conditions from dwellings. This incentive is solely available in association with planning
applications where the applicant accepts a condition requiring commencement of development
within one year in the case of full applications and two years in the case of outline applications
and building conversion schemes. Sites which already have planning permission are not eligible
unless a further planning application is made.
Incentive 2 - Affordable Housing (2)
This is available on proposals for 10 or more dwellings provided via new build, building conversion,
or the removal of restrictive occupancy controls. It is only available in defined parts of the district
(see 'Appendix 2: Affordable Housing Zones Map'). For new build proposals and conversion
proposals that secure full or reserved matters planning approval a separate legal obligation will
be required to ensure construction is undertaken in accordance with an agreed Schedule of
Works.
Incentive 3 - Code for Sustainable Homes
Available on all planning applications for residential development (except for proposals to lift
restrictive occupancy conditions from buildings which have already been converted).For new
build proposals and conversion proposals that secure full or reserved matters planning approval
a separate legal obligation will be required to ensure construction is undertaken in accordance
with an agreed Schedule of Works.
Incentive 4 - Renewable Energy
Available on all planning applications for residential development of 10 or more dwellings (except
for proposals to lift restrictive occupancy conditions from buildings that have already been
converted).For new build proposals and conversion proposals that secure full or reserved matters
planning approval a separate legal obligation will be required to ensure construction is undertaken
in accordance with an agreed Schedule of Works (see section 4).
44
3
4
Housing Delivery Incentives Scheme: Developer Guide
3 Scheme Eligibility
Other Scheme Conditions
3.3
To be considered for participation under the scheme the following will apply:
The development proposal must usually be the subject of a current undetermined planning
application. It may be acceptable to apply for the incentives after the grant of planning
permission but applicants will need to check the terms and conditions of the planning
permission and the need or otherwise to make a further application to vary planning
conditions and or vary an existing legal agreement. A request under this Incentive scheme
does not constitute a revised planning approval.
Those proposals which only seek outline planning permission will not qualify for incentives
2, 3 and 4 which are only available at Reserved Matters or Full Planning application stage.
In the case of proposals involving ten or more dwellings a Section 106 Agreement will
be required. A standard template is available for this purpose. This obligation will require
development to be commenced and partly constructed within agreed time-frames and
include a fall-back position in relation to failure to comply with the agreed timetable.
In relation to incentives 2,3 and 4 applicants must be the freeholder of the site or have
an option to purchase the site from the current owner upon the grant of planning permission
or shortly thereafter.
Applicants must confirm that all other consents are, or will be, in place to allow the
development to progress quickly. This will include confirmation of resolution of any legal
issues, building regulations approval, and confirmation that development finance is in
place.
Applications will need to include a detailed Schedule of Works and include a specific
commitment in a legal agreement to complete an agreed proportion of the approved
development within 18 months of the grant of planning permission, together with an
obligation to complete the development in accordance with the agreed fall-back position
in the event of the schedule of works not being completed.
The associated planning application/permission should be sufficiently detailed to allow
for rapid commencement of development without the need for further approval of
outstanding matters. There should be no significant outstanding conditions requiring the
submission and approval of further details. For example, full details of construction
materials, landscaping, surfacing, and boundary treatments should all be included within
the planning application or have already been agreed and there should be no outstanding
requirements in relation to issues such as land contamination or wildlife surveys and
protection.
3.4
Access to the incentives scheme may be declined if these conditions are not met.
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Housing Delivery Incentives Scheme: Developer Guide
Compliance with the Schedule of Works 4
4 Compliance with the Schedule of Works
4.1
The purpose of the Housing Delivery Incentive Scheme is to deliver development quickly. If
development is not built in accordance with the agreed timetable the scheme incentives shall
be withdrawn in relation to the remaining development to be completed.
4.2
If works are commenced but sufficient works are not completed in accordance with the agreed
Schedule of Works, full compliance with the terms and conditions of the planning permission
will be required. This will be controlled via the imposition of conditions on the relevant planning
permission and / or within a Section 106 Agreement as appropriate.
46
5
6
Housing Delivery Incentives Scheme: Developer Guide
5 Next Steps
5 Next Steps
5.1
Applications to take part in the scheme should not be made without prior discussion with the
Planning Authority. This enables appropriate advice to be given and to establish if your
proposals are likely to be eligible.
5.2
If you are interested in taking part in the scheme please contact:
Mark Ashwell
Planning Policy & Property Information Manager
01263 516325
mark.ashwell@north-norfolk.gov.uk
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Housing Delivery Incentives Scheme: Developer Guide
48
7
8
Housing Delivery Incentives Scheme: Developer Guide
Appendix 1: Application Form
Appendix 1: Application Form
APPLICATION FORM
North Norfolk Housing Delivery Incentives Scheme
Please note. Before completing this form it is recommended that you read the ‘Housing Delivery Incentives Scheme: Developer Guide’
document. Information provided on this form and any supporting documentation will be made available for public inspection.
Notes on completing this application form are shown at the end.
APPLICANT DETAILS
1
Name
Address
Email
Tel
AGENT DETAILS (IF APPLICABLE)
2
Name
Address
Email
Tel
DESCRIPTION OF THE DEVELOPMENT
Please give the description of the development as detailed in the planning application.
49
3
Housing Delivery Incentives Scheme: Developer Guide
Appendix 1: Application Form
INCENTIVES
4
Which of the available Housing Incentives are you applying for?
Incentive 2 - Affordable Housing
Incentive 3 - Code for Sustainable Homes
Incentive 4 - Renewable Energy
SCHEDULE OF WORKS
5
Please provide a short description of the development included with the Schedule of Works which are
proposed to be completed within 18 months of the date of planning permission being granted.
ENCLOSURES
6
Please confirm you have included the following enclosures with your application:
This completed application form
A scaled plan showing the site to which the application relates
A Schedule of Works describing Phase 1 of the development
A draft Section 106 legal agreement incorporating the standard obligations
50
9
10
Housing Delivery Incentives Scheme: Developer Guide
Appendix 1: Application Form
DECLARATION (DELETE AS APPROPRIATE)
I/the applicant is the freehold owner of the site
I/The applicant has a legally binding option to buy the site
I confirm I have served notice on the land owner of this application
Name
Signature
Organisation
Date
Please return this completed form and all relevant enclosures to:
Planning Policy Team
North Norfolk District Council
Holt Road
Cromer
Norfolk
NR27 9EN
planningpolicy@north-norfolk.gov.uk
01263 516318
Notes on completing the application form
Section 1
Please complete your full name, address and contact details.
Section 2
Please complete the full name, address and contact details of any agent you are using in relation to your incentives applicat ion. All
correspondence and other communication will be sent via your appointed agent unless you advise otherwise.
Section 3
This description should match the description of the proposed development used on the associated planning application.
Section 4
You may apply for one or more of the available incentives using this form. Indicate which incentives you are applying for by ticking
the appropriate boxes.
Section 5
Complete this section by providing a short written summary of you proposed Schedule of Works which you intend to complete
within 18 months of the grant of planning permission. The extent of these works should have been di scussed with a planning
officer prior to making this application.
Section 6
Your application will not be accepted unless all of the listed enclosures are included.
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Housing Delivery Incentives Scheme: Developer Guide
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Housing Delivery Incentives Scheme: Developer Guide
Affordable Housing Zones (Incentive 2)
Appendix 2: Affordable Housing Zones Map
Appendix 2: Affordable Housing Zones Map
12
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Housing Delivery Incentives Scheme: Developer Guide
54
13
Agenda Item No____12________
ENFORCEMENT BOARD UPDATE
Summary:
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 two years ago.
In broad terms, at the time of writing, the Board has
considered 113 cases, of which all but 6 have seen
positive action. In addition to the direct action around
properties, 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.
During 2014, more focus has been placed on Long
Term Empty properties, with the subsequent
appointment of the Empty Homes Manager
Conclusions:
Recommendations:
The Enforcement Board continues to make significant
progress towards its objectives of dealing with difficult
and long-standing enforcement cases and bringing long
term empty properties back into use across all areas of
the District, with both social and economic benefits to
the community, and financial benefits to the council.
1. That Cabinet notes the progress made to date
by the Enforcement Board.
2. That the funding for legal support for the
enforcement board is extended to 2015/16.
Reasons for
Recommendations:
Cabinet Member(s)
1. To ensure appropriate governance of
Board’s activities.
the
2. To ensure that appropriate legal services are
provided to support the work of the Board.
Ward(s) affected
Cllr Rhodri Oliver
All Wards
Contact Officer, telephone number and email: Nick Baker, Corporate Director
01263 516221
nick.baker@north-norfolk.gov.uk
55
ENFORCEMENT BOARD UPDATE
1.
Introduction
This is the fourth, six monthly progress update on the work of the Enforcement
Board, which members will recall was set up to tackle difficult, often
longstanding enforcement issues, with a focus on Long Term Empty homes.
The cases dealt with have involved a wide range of the Council’s services and
the Board was tasked with bringing a focus to each case, by ensuring all the
Council’s regulatory and enforcement powers were considered, in order to
bring about the most effective resolution to the issue at hand.
In terms of empty homes there were, and still are, a number of issues arising
which provided good reason to act. As well as the obvious social advantage,
of utilising as much of the District’s housing stock as possible, thereby
maximising housing provision, many long term empty properties attract New
Homes Bonus to the Council when brought back into use.
However, in addition to New Homes Bonus, by bringing these properties back
into use, the Council is then able to maximise its Council Tax collection from
the properties in question, on an on-going basis, from them being occupied
and having Council Tax paid. In addition, it is clear that some owners have
historically sought to take properties out of Council Tax banding with the
Valuation Office, thus avoiding any claim the Council may otherwise have for
Council Tax or Non-Domestic Rates.
Furthermore, empty properties; not only houses but commercial premises and
land; often cause blight to the local neighbourhood, both by looking an
eyesore, and also by attracting anti social behaviour, pest control issues and
causing potential danger by way of structural instability or being open to
access by children, etc.
Within the District are also a number of companies and individuals whose
business activities, especially around property ownership, but also in the
areas of environmental pollution, planning and conservation, landlord and
tenant relations and council tax evasion; have a very negative effect on the
local economy and cause risk to others.
The setting up of the Enforcement Board has enabled a different and more
effective approach to be taken in respect of these problems. As well as
allowing in some cases, a range of enforcement powers to be used in a
combined manner to solve a problem, the Board has been able to focus on
the most appropriate solution rather than, as has happened historically, a
more haphazard approach to difficult cases.
Dealing with difficult cases in this way has also encouraged more innovative
approaches to the use of the Council’s legislative powers. Whilst this may give
rise to additional risk, much work has been done to ensure enhanced
governance, with significant support from officers in both legal and finance
teams.
Whilst Members do not routinely sit at meetings of the Enforcement Board,
because of legal sensitivities around enforcement decisions; where decisions
have a wider implication and or risk, CLT and or relevant members are
involved in the decision making process; indeed one such case appears on
56
this report for decision. Other decisions are taken under officer delegated
powers.
In addition to the six monthly update to Cabinet, local members and Group
Leaders are kept informed of progress on the individual cases being dealt
with by the Board.
2
Progress update
2.1
General
Since its inception in December 2012, the Board has continued to meet
fortnightly to ensure that good progress continues to be made across the full
range of cases under consideration.
In terms of property related cases, the Board has considered the numbers of
properties, shown in the table below, with a significant degree of success.
Over half the properties considered have been or are being brought back into
use following intervention by the Board.
Residential properties that were Long Term
Empty but now occupied and or back in
Council Tax banding:




Occupied - 16
Renovated/under renovation - 24
Sold - 13
Being marketed for sale - 16
Works scheduled to be undertaken in the
near future:
Intended EDMO (dependent on Registered
Provider)
Other Enforcement Action:
On hold or No Further Action:
2.2
69
7
5
26
6
Total: 113
Long Term Empty Homes
During 2013, as well as the Enforcement Board commencing its work, an
additional Council Tax levy was placed on properties which had been empty
for over two years. There is no doubt that this provided an incentive for some
owners to bring properties back into use and the numbers of Long Term
Empty properties reduced by 325 in the 2012/13 Council Tax year.
Both as a result of action by the Board, the learning gained from its crossservice working and a more “joined up” approach, the Council achieved a
further reduction in Long Term Empty Homes of 105 across the 12 months to
October 2014, over which the Council Tax return is calculated. This has
contributed significantly to the additional New Homes Bonus the Council will
receive in future years.
The Empty Housing Policy was reviewed and updated by officers and
approved by Cabinet in October 2014, in response to a change in the
emphasis of our approach towards owners of Long Term Empty homes. This
gives a clearer course of action, for all those involved.
57
In order to provide a better link between the Council and other key
stakeholders, especially Registered Housing Providers, the Empty Homes
Manager post was created during the summer of 2014 and is funded on an
invest to save basis.
As a result of the initial work already done by the postholder, we are now
close to finalising legal agreements with two Registered Providers to enable
the use of Empty Dwelling Management Orders (EDMOs) in the District. In
parallel to drafting the Agreements, we have also identified a number of
properties which we intend will be the subject of this course of action, where
the empty property is effectively handed over to a Registered Provider for use
as social housing stock.
In addition, our internal processes have been streamlined to ensure we are
more efficient in dealing with properties that become empty, and returning
them to use as quickly as possible, before enforcement action is required.
There has been better analysis of the Council Tax database and we will look
to further improve our use of other data sets such as the electoral register, to
inform our enforcement approach.
2.3
Difficult Enforcement Cases
As mentioned above, as well as the empty homes issues, the Enforcement
Board has also been charged with dealing with a number of cases which are
more complex in nature and range from properties causing long term or
significant blight, as opposed to merely being empty, through to people with
large and potentially deliberate debts to the Council, and often illegal business
activities, that cause for example, a high risk of pollution or are putting jobs at
risk.
Often, a cross-service approach is the only way forward and it is clear that
many of these cases require high levels of formal intervention, sometimes
with outside agencies, such as the Environment Agency or utility providers,
and often using works in default powers available in some of the legislation
enforced by the Council.
Our focus has been on those cases where the Council’s intervention will give
us the best chance of securing an improved position in terms of local
environment, safety, revenue collection and or reputation.
Many of the case examples are summarised in Appendices 1 and 2 attached,
although some are not in the public domain because of associated legal
issues or other sensitivities.
3.
Future Working
3.1
It is intended to that the Empty Homes Manager will target additional work
towards Long Term Empty homes where more simple resolutions are
available, which will ensure that the Enforcement Board is left to deal with the
more complex or difficult cases. Importantly, this will be focused around the
Empty Homes Policy which was approved earlier this year.
3.2
As part of this process, we will also seek to bring properties that have been
taken out of Council Tax banding, back into charge and for further action to
be taken to encourage occupation.
58
3.3
The potential for Compulsory Purchase still exists where all reasonable legal
powers have been exhausted and it is likely that some cases which require
this level of action will now start to come forward.
3.4
A high profile for the work of the Board is being maintained with the local
media. This ensures that all property owners are made aware of the Council’s
intention to take action wherever appropriate and that local communities are
aware that issues they are raise with the Council are being addressed.
4.
Performance Management
4.1
Local members are kept informed of cases being taken forward in their wards
and Group Leaders are also being kept informed of all cases. This continues
to be well received and enables members to report back to Town and Parish
Councils as to progress on local issues.
4.2
Where appropriate, Town and Parish Councils are also kept directly informed
of progress and where there is an obvious legal risk or other implication for
the Council, the relevant Portfolio holder is also informed, as well as the local
member.
5.
Financial Implications and Risks
5.1
The work of the Enforcement Board is partly driven by the need to maximise
revenue from Business Rates, Council Tax and, for Long Term Empty
Properties, the New Homes Bonus scheme. Significant contributions have
already been made by bringing 69 properties (with a further 7 anticipated in
the short-term) empty homes back into use and or back into Council Tax
banding, in the two years the Board has been working.
In addition, a number of cases have also been taken forward around historical
Business rates and Council Tax evasion, including the use of shell companies
and charities for evasion purposes.
5.2
As has been stated above, a number of the properties targeted give rise to
local blight and therefore an expectation from local communities for the
Council to resolve the issues, with accompanying reputational risk if we do
not act.
5.3
It is however, also important that we act sensitively in some cases, and that
we adhere to our own Enforcement Policies in terms of proportionality of
approach. The proposed, combined Enforcement Policy across all areas of
the Council’s enforcement and regulatory activities will help in this regard.
5.4
There is also a reputational risk involved, if we lose legal action. Whilst this
can be mitigated by good process, evidence gathering, etc. we are seeking to
be innovative in our use of legal powers and we may not always win the case
at hand.
The use of the Council’s powers in different ways will almost certainly cause
some complaint from those who have not previously seen direct action from
the Council in respect of the issues concerned.
59
It is therefore essential that we ensure both the technical and legal processes
used are sound and that, in terms of our reputation, our rationale for action is
clearly understood.
5.5
There is, in some cases, a risk of not being able to recover costs
of
both
officer and legal input, and where works in default are undertaken. However,
these risks
are being mitigated, through good intelligence and evidence
gathering and ensuring that the correct processes are followed during any
action taken. It should also be noted that cost recovery often spans more
than one financial year.
In addition, where necessary, valuation advice is taken to ensure that there is
enough value in a site against which to provide proceeds of an enforced sale
to recover costs.
During this year, Cabinet approved a request for the Enforcement Board
Reserve of £200k to be extended by £55k, to allow for additional, unexpected
works in default to be undertaken. However, following valuation advice
exposing significant financial risks, this work is no longer proceeding and
officers are now seeking alternative remedies to the issue concerned.
5.6
There has been the need for significant additional legal input to the cases and
although much of the cost is recovered, this has been underwritten by the
Reserve. It is recommended that this continues for 2014/15.
5.7
The table below shows the current position regarding works in default and
other outstanding costs associated with them.
Case and
Action Taken
2 Seastone
Cottages
Housing Act
Works in Default
and Officer
Costs
The Coach
House
Melton Hall
Housing Act
Works in Default
Officer Costs
6.
Costs
Outstanding
(Actual/Potential)
£34,180
£1,897
£25,544
£4,076
Recovery
Action Route
Estimated
Timescale
Local Land
charge
Enforced sale
Costs Recovery
6 months
Local Land
Charge
Recovery from
person receiving
rent
Awaiting
judgement of
Residential
Property Tribunal
Sustainability
The only sustainability implications directly resulting from this report are
around better use of existing housing stock, as opposed to new build and
therefore the use of green field sites.
60
7. Equality and Diversity
There are no equality and diversity implications directly resulting from the
recommendations or options considered in this report.
8. Section 17 Crime and Disorder considerations
Some of the work being undertaken by the Board has a direct link to criminal
activity, around deliberate Council Tax avoidance. In addition, a number of
empty properties have been associated with anti-social behaviour, which of
course will be removed when properties are brought back into use.
9. Conclusions
The Enforcement Board continues to make significant progress towards its
objectives of dealing with difficult and long-standing enforcement cases and
bringing long term empty properties back into use across all areas of the
District, with both social and economic benefits to the community, and
financial benefits to the council.
61
Appendix 1
Key Activity on Long Term Empty Properties (as at 20 November 2014)
Note: this is not an exhaustive list of cases, as some issues legally sensitive
and therefore not for publication.
Property
Issues
Action
56 Beeston
Common,
Sheringham
Dilapidated,
overgrown garden
Empty for over 10
years
Current correspondence with owners’
solicitors advises properties now
being marketed
55 Beeston
Common,
Sheringham
Dilapidated,
overgrown garden
As above.
35-36 Beeston
Common,
Sheringham
Extremely dilapidated
Empty for over 10
years
Sold further to pressure by the Legal
Team with new owners to commence
works in the near future.
1 and 2 Church
Cottages, West
Runton
Dilapidated and in
poor repair.
Overgrown and untidy
garden, attracting
anti-social behaviour,
local blight.
s215 Notice served and garden
cleared to discourage anti-social
behaviour.
Housing Act Improvement Notices
served, requiring works to commence
October 2013.
Works are being undertaken and
Notice to be extended to cover likely
period of works, which continue to
progress.
121 Mundesley Rd,
North Walsham
Empty since 2007
Dilapidated,
overgrown garden
Squatters and antisocial behaviour
Extremely dilapidated
internally and
externally
Structurally
dangerous
Legal pressure and Housing Act
Notice on owners by NNDC led to
sale.
New owners renovated and occupied
from summer 2014.
Legal pressure applied to owners,
threatening action.
Property sold, renovations now
complete and occupied.
Empty since 2001
Dilapidated and in
poor condition
detracting from
neighbourhood
amenity
Empty Property –
deteriorating and
attracting anti social
behaviour
Planning permission obtained and
expected to be implemented
Works starting autumn 2014
11 St Austin’s
Grove, Sheringham
37 St Giles Road,
Swanton Novers
24 Corbett Road,
North Walsham
62
Works carried out by the owner
Clarence House,
The Buttlands,
Wells next the Sea
Listed building in
prime site,
unoccupied for over
20 years, in poor
condition detracting
from neighbourhood
amenity.
On English Heritage
Properties At Risk
Register.
No works being undertaken following
service of Notice and Legal pressure,
works in default threatened.
Property sold as a result and full
restoration planned by new owners.
36 Beck Close,
Weybourne
Empty since October
2010
Housing defects
Untidy and overgrown
garden detracting
from neighbourhood
amenity
Owner has complied with Notice and
has potential tenants.
Further issues and another s215
Notice to be served.
22 All Saints Close,
Weybourne
Empty since
approximately 2001
Untidy forecourt and
garden detracting
from neighbourhood
amenity
Housing defects
Owner has complied with the Housing
Act Notice
Further enforcement action and,
subject to Registered Provider
Agreement, will now move for an
EDMO
2 Seastone
Cottages,
Weybourne
Empty for 16 years
Dilapidated property
with significant
defects
No works undertaken by owner.
Council has completed works in
default.
Owner invoiced November 2014
33 Oak Street,
Fakenham
Empty since
approximately April
2008
Property very
dilapidated.
1-4 The Cottages,
Tattersett
Dilapidated Listed
Buildings
Orchid Lee, Sandy
Lane, West Runton
Empty for
approximately 15
years due to probate
issues
Dilapidated condition
detracting from
neighbourhood
amenity
s215 Planning Enforcement Notice
served
Survey carried out under warrant to
gain entry under Housing Act
Subject to agreement, will be passed
for EDMO with Freebridge Housing
for social housing use.
Housing Act and Building Act Notices
served requiring works to renovate
properties. Owner sought to comply
with the Notice.
Property now being marketed for
sale.
Legal pressure applied to owner’s
solicitor, probate obtained.
Property placed on market in May
2014 and now sold with completion
due by the end of November with the
intention to fully renovate
63
16 Norwich Road,
Fakenham
Empty property –
poor state of repair
Trafalgar Court,
Mundesley
Prominent former
hotel converted into
flats
A number of flats
unoccupied since
2010
Eyesore property in
prime location
Leighton House, 1113 St Mary’s Road,
Cromer
Significant residential
property in extremely
dilapidated condition
detracting from
neighbourhood
amenity
Unfit for habitation
Previous pest
infestations
Little London
Cottages, Croft
Lane,
Corpusty
Partially completed
houses, left empty
snce early 1990s
The Sheiling,
Horning
Long term Empty
Property in poor
condition subject to
probate issues
Long term Empty
Property in poor
condition
Long term empty
home in poor
condition, detracting
from amenity of local
area
Long term empty
home in dilapidated
condition detracting
from amenity of local
area and Council Tax
issues
1 and 1a Victoria
Lane,
Fakenham
19 Holt Road,
Cromer,
Crimond, Norwich
Rd, Cromer
64
Notice served under the Building Act
which has prompted the sale and
potential re-development of the site.
Planning Approval given for
development
On-going liaison and pressure from
Council on Management Company
appointed by the land tribunal, and
owners.
Housing Act Prohibition Order on
East Wing and Improvement Notice
served remains to enforce works.
Council Tax bills issued to all
properties.
Owners of majority of flats refusing to
pay Council Tax, subsequent Court
Action and payment received.
s79 Building Act Notice served June
2013 giving 9 months to complete
work and no appeal received.
Tenders drawn up to do works in
default if Notice not complied with.
Work commenced February 2014 will
be monitored for progress.
Only 10% of work completed
September 2014.
Works in Default authorised subject to
valuation and Cabinet approval, due
to cost of works.
Other remedies being sought to
provide solution.
Brought into Council Tax banding via
Completion Notice February 2014
Subject to agreement with RP, will be
passed for EDMO for social housing
use.
Legal pressure applied, probate
confirmed and advised works nearly
complete. New owners expect to be
occupying by end of November.
Legal pressure applied and now
being actively marketed for sale
s215 Notice Served, threat of works
in default has secured start of works
Pressure applied to owner by Legal
and Fraud Teams which successfully
resulted in payment of correct Council
Tax.
Appendix 2
Key Activity in Non-Residential Cases Considered (as at 20 November 2014)
Note: this is not an exhaustive list of cases, as some issues legally sensitive
and therefore not for publication.
Property
Tyre Storage
Tattersett
Business Park
Issue
Long term storage of
c600,000 tyres, giving
rise to environmental
risk.
Action
The site received a Planning Refusal for
continued storage of the tyres in 2013
Site owner has applied for Planning
permission for a tyre recycling plant to
process the stored tyres and further
feedstock.
This and the associated Permit under
consideration by NCC Planning and the
Environment Agency.
Their action will drive NNDC Planning
Enforcement timetable, around Planning
Enforcement Notice, Works in Default
and wider action.
Star Yard,
Fakenham
Dilapidated garage in
dangerous condition
detracting from
neighbourhood amenity
Survey
and
costing
information
completed.
s79 Building Act Notice (Dangerous
Structures,
Dilapidated
Sites
and
Unsecure Premises) served June 2013.
Works not completed.
Tenders progressed for required works.
Environmental Protection progressing
works in default.
Property sold December 2013 and new
owner agreed to commence works once
57 Oak Street largely completed.
Planning Approval given for conversion to
two dwellings and commencement
expected imminently.
57 Oak Street,
Fakenham
Dilapidated
commercial/residential
property detracting
from neighbourhood
amenity
As above but works completed
Broads Hotel,
Station Road,
Hoveton
Empty since
approximately 2004
Derelict and dilapidated
with significant impact
on local amenity
Survey
and
costings
information
completed for renovation or demolition.
Notice served to renovate or demolish; no
appeal and works not completed.
Works in default commenced October
2013.
Site secured and hoarded, condition
survey, Asbestos survey undertaken.
Tenders for demolition received and
planning application for demolition
65
applied for.
Demolition delayed due to required utility
disconnections.
Demolition now complete and invoice
being completed for owner.
Site sold to Roys and full costs of
£79,127.22 recovered
Broadland
Cottage,
Station Road,
Hoveton
(linked to
Broads Hotel)
Externally dilapidated
detracting from
neighbourhood amenity
Owner has been confirmed and s79
Notice
(Dangerous
Structures,
Dilapidated
Sites
and
Unsecure
Premises) served on 4 November
Owner has not carried out works
required.
Demolition contractors in process of
being appointed.
Currently awaiting Planning Approval to
hoard site and demolish from Broads
Authority (expected early May)
Site sold to Roys and Council’s contractor
utilised for
demolition.
All costs
amounting to £8,086.84 recovered
4A Market
Street, North
Walsham, and
adjacent toilet
block.
Long term (over 10
years) derelict property
in prime position,
detracting from local
amenity.
Toilets previously
transferred to current
owner to assist
development.
Survey
and
costing
information
completed.
s79 Building Act Notice (Dangerous
Structures,
Dilapidated
Sites
and
Unsecure Premises) served January
2014.
Owner has confirmed he will demolish
property, but cannot develop it out.
Demolition completed September 2014.
Cabinet approval to acquire the site and
landscape for public use received
November 2014.
Option Notice to acquire served on owner
in late November.
48-50 Bacton
Road, North
Walsham
Derelict building plot
detracting from
neighbourhood
amenity, squatters on
site
Legal team pressurising owner to act.
Squatters have left and the site is now
secured by fencing.
Building Act Notice served requiring the
removal of demolition waste
Notice complied with
Black Swan
Loke, North
Walsham
Untidy premises
detracting from local
amenity.
s215 notice served.
Owners due to complete works by end of
April
Works completed July 2014
66
Sutton Mill
Potentially Dangerous
structure that is
dilapidated and also of
important historic status
as a Listed Building
Initial Building Act (public safety)
involvement from Environmental
Protection. Subsequent Conservation
Team input to oversee work.
Mill cap removed and temporary cap
installed September 2014.
Ongoing Conservation work to achieve
restoration.
Former
Shannocks
Hotel,
Sheringham
Long term empty
property in poor
condition in prime
location.
Laundry Loke
North
Walsham
Derelict partially
cleared industrial site.
Potential danger from
unauthorised access,
loss of local amenity.
Long term empty
commercial buildings,
in poor condition,
detracting from local
amenity in prime
tourism site
Enforcement action under Planning
legislation has secured some
improvement and results of recent survey
in respect of wider property issues now
awaited.
Further enforcement action likely.
Fencing being attended to, to prevent
access, all loose material being removed
from site.
Buildings
Adjacent to
Kings Head
Hotel,
Hoveton
Survey and access ordered for midNovember 2014 to ascertain position
regarding structural and dilapidation
issues, with a view to serving Building Act
Notice.
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8th December 2014
Cabinet
Agenda Item No______13_______
Consultation on the Relocation of Cromer Market
Summary:
This report summarises the responses received to
the Council consulting on the principle of relocating
the weekly Cromer market from The Meadow Car
Park into the town centre in support of its aim of
promoting successful and vibrant town centres.
Conclusions:
The consultation process did not indicate significant
support for the proposals to relocate the weekly
market into Cromer town centre, with the majority of
those people responding to the consultation process
commenting that the market should be retained on
The Meadow Car Park.
Recommendations:
That the Council does not proceed with the
relocation of the weekly market from The Meadow
Car Park to a location within Cromer town centre.
Cabinet member(s):
Councillor T FitzPatrick
Ward member(s)
Cromer Town
Contact Officer,
Steve Blatch
telephone
01263 516232
and e-mail:
steve.blatch@north-norfolk.gov.uk
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8th December 2014
Cabinet
1.0
Summary:-
1.1
This report provides background to the Council inviting public comment on the possibility
of relocating the weekly Cromer market to a location within the town centre in seeking to
promote and support successful and vibrant town centre economies.
1.2
The report summarises the responses received through the consultation process and
proposes, based on the comments received, that the Council does not proceed with the
relocation of the weekly market from The Meadow car park to a location within Cromer
town centre.
2.0
Background:-
2.1
In recent times, in response to changing retail trends and consumer habits, there has
been a national debate around the future role of traditional high streets and town centres
(as per the Portas Pilot programme and other similar initiatives). Key conclusions from
this debate have established that the more activity and footfall which can be generated
within a central area of a town the more linked trips and overall business / spend will be
realised and the stronger the economic wellbeing of the town will be.
2.2
Nationally, many smaller towns have sought to respond to these trends through seeking
to stage regular events and seasonal, themed or specialist markets – eg farmers
markets, craft markets, Christmas markets, French Markets; as a way of attracting more
visitors and shoppers to their town centres, in order to compete with larger retail centres
(city centres and shopping centres) through offering something different – a USP. This
strategy is being pursued to challenge the perceived “bland” offer of larger towns, cities
and regional shopping centres which have a “clone” offer, with little individuality.
2.3
The District Council believes that Cromer should be well-placed to take advantage of
such initiatives being an important local service and shopping centre for local residents,
many of whom are elderly and might not want to travel to Norwich regularly; and
because of its role as a tourist destination where people seek out different things to
purchase and also purchase smaller quantities of fresh produce – fruit, veg, meat and
bread, for daily consumption, rather than doing a “bulk” shop.
2.4
It was against this background and the District Council wanting to promote successful
and vibrant town centre economies that it invited comments on a proposal to relocate the
weekly Cromer market from The Meadow Car Park to the town centre. Locally the
weekly Thursday markets in Fakenham and North Walsham, which are held in the
centre of these towns, are the busiest trading days for established town centre retail
businesses, as well as for local pubs and cafes; and it was felt that relocating Cromer
market into the centre of the town could potentially deliver similar positive benefits to
both established businesses and market traders.
2.5
The District Council also saw the relocation of the market to Cromer town centre as a
means of strengthening the market which over recent years had experienced declining
fortunes with only ten regular traders during the summer months and only three or four
during the winter.
3.0
The consultation
3.1
The District Council therefore invited comments on the principle of accommodating the
weekly Cromer market in High Street (southern end) and Tucker Street. This area is the
heart of the town and the Council believed would generate additional footfall and custom
for both established town centre businesses and market traders; both for the weekly
market and for any themed markets or events which might be staged such as the
Christmas Lights Switch-on.
3.2
It was recognised that such a proposal would impact upon the use of High Street and
Tucker Street on a Friday when the market was staged, as Tucker Street has
accommodated the town’s taxi rank since 2002 when it was established there as part of
The consultation
the wider Cromer Town Centre Enhancement Programme.
69
8th December 2014
Cabinet
questionnaire therefore invited comments on whether the taxi rank might be
accommodated in Bond Street and/or in Cadogan Road, close to the town’s bus station
and whether this should be just on a Friday or permanently. Any permanent move of the
taxi rank would provide greater flexibility in staging other events in High Street and
Tucker Street, as it would not involve the need to relocate the rank to accommodate
such events through Road Closure Orders. The consultation questionnaire also invited
comments on how the space in Tucker Street occupied by the taxi rank could be used, if
the taxi rank was to be relocated, when the street was not used for markets or events –
ie whether for on-street parking or disabled parking.
3.3
The consultation was launched on 18th September through letters being sent to: Cromer Town Council,
 Cromer Chamber of Commerce,
 traders having stalls on Cromer market,
 local taxi drivers using the Cromer rank,
 residential and business properties in High Street, Tucker Street, Brook
Street, Bond Street and Cadogan Road.
 An article outlining the consultation was also carried in the North Norfolk
News and EDP.
 The consultation was supported through an on-line questionnaire on the
Council’s website and through hard copies of the questionnaire being
available from the North Norfolk Information Centre on the Meadow Car
Park, and the offices of Cromer Town Council and the District Council.
 The North Norfolk News and EDP also conducted a web poll which asked
the question “Should Cromer Market be moved to the town centre?”
3.4
It was originally proposed that the consultation would run for a month until Friday 17th
October, but following a request from Cromer Town Council the consultation end date
was extended and closed on Friday 7th November.
3.5
During the consultation period, meetings to discuss the proposal were held with market
traders having stalls on Cromer Market and with local taxi drivers. The Leader of the
Council and Corporate Director also outlined the proposal to a meeting of Cromer Town
Council’s Planning Committee on 9th October which was well attended by the public.
3.6
The proposal to relocate the market into Cromer town centre met strong opposition from
local taxi businesses who have collected a petition objecting to the proposal and
encouraged a large number of their customers and local retailers to complete the
questionnaire objecting to the proposal to move the market in to the town centre.
3.7
Initially regular traders on Cromer market expressed their opposition to the proposed
move of the market from The Meadow Car Park where they felt customers knew where
the market was, felt that they (and the market) had “space to grow” and was well-served
by the public toilets in the North Norfolk Information Centre. However, following a
meeting with the Council the majority of the traders and their representative from the
national Market Traders Association recognised that some markets elsewhere in the
country had performed well when accommodated in a central location within a town and
advised that they would be prepared to consider the principle of moving further.
Comment was made that they didn’t believe Tucker Street would be suitable as it would
be difficult for some traders to gain “profile or visibility”, but more favourable comments
were made about the potential of the southern end of High Street to accommodate the
market. Other traders asked if the market could be accommodated in the areas of onstreet parking on Hamilton Road and Church Street, ie the principal road through the
town, similar to Watton market; thereby giving the market maximum visibility.
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8th December 2014
Cabinet
4.0
Responses to the consultation
4.1
At the end of the consultation on 7th November the Council had received over 400
completed consultation questionnaires – including 71 completed on-line on the Council’s
website; 58 hard copy questionnaires returned to the Council and 288 completed
questionnaires collected by local taxi drivers and delivered in bulk to the Council. The
taxi drivers also delivered a 448 signature petition to the Council objecting to the
proposal to relocate the market to High Street / Tucker Street. Initial review of the
returned questionnaires identified some differences in the profile of the responses
completed online and returned directly to the Council, compared to those collected by
the taxi drivers and each group of completed questionnaires has been analysed
separately, as detailed further below:-
4.2
Questionnaires completed on-line on the Council’s website – 71 responses with headline
results as follows: 43.66% (31) of respondents were regular visitors to Cromer market;
56.34% (40) did not visit the market
 41% (29) of respondents supported Council’s proposals to relocate the
market to the town centre, against 59% (42) who did not
 56% (40) of respondents did not support proposal to relocate the taxi rank
from Tucker Street;
 66% (44) of respondents were shoppers, 12% (8) taxi drivers / operators,
12% (8) were local residents of Tucker Street / High Street; 9% (6) were
other town centre businesses
Free comments made with these questionnaire returns were that Tucker Street was too narrow
to accommodate the market, that it was too cold and windy in winter and that there were
no toilets for market traders and that the taxi rank should remain in Tucker Street.
4.3
58 hard copies of the questionnaire were completed with headline results as follows: 39.66% (23) of respondents were regular visitors to Cromer market;
60.34% (35) did not visit the market
 38% (22) of respondents supported Council’s proposals to relocate the
market to the town centre, against 62% (36) who did not
 32.76% (19) of respondents did not support proposal to relocate the taxi
rank from Tucker Street; whilst a similar number 32.76% (19) supported
the relocation of the taxi rank to Cadogan Road; 18.97% (11) supported
relocation of taxi rank to Bond Street and 15.52% (9) supported the taxi
rank being relocated to Bond Street and Cadogan Road
 36.84% (21) of respondents were residents of Tucker Street, High Street,
Brook Street or Jetty Street; 33.33% (19) of respondents were shoppers,
12.28% (7) were residents of Bond Street or Cadogan Road; 12.28% (8)
were businesses on Tucker Street / High Street / Bond Street / Cadogan
Road
Free comments made with these questionnaire returns were similar to the above, but with less
support being expressed for the taxi rank remaining in Tucker Street, with issues raised
over noise and congestion in Brook Street and Tucker Street, possibly reflecting the
higher number of responses from residents of these streets.
4.4
288 copies of the questionnaire were collected by local taxi drivers from customers and
town centre retailers and delivered to the Council offices on the final day of the
consultation period. These were almost all expressing objection to the proposal to
relocate the market, but for completeness the results of these questionnaires are as
follows:71
8th December 2014
Cabinet
 60.42%% (174) of respondents were regular visitors to Cromer market;
39.58% (114) did not visit the market
 93.75% (270) of respondents did not support the Council’s proposals to
relocate the market to the town centre, against 6.25% (18) who did
 Over 96% (279) respondents answered questions 3, 4, 5 and 6 in a
similar way – ie objecting to the proposal to relocate the market to Tucker
/ High Street; stating that they wished to see the taxi rank retained in
Tucker Street on a permanent basis.
 80.14% (230) of respondents were shoppers or visitor to Cromer town
centre; 11.15% (32) were businesses operating from the town centre;
3.83% (11) were taxi drivers / operators; with the balance being local
residents of Tucker Street, High Street, Bond Street, Cadogan Road (12)
or market traders (3).
Whilst the Council welcomes public comment on its proposals, caution must be exercised in
assessing the objectivity and robustness of the responses of questionnaires which were
completed and delivered to the council by a group which has a vested interest in
objecting to the proposal through asking customers to complete questionnaires whilst
being a passenger of a taxi.
4.5
The EDP / North Norfolk News website poll which asked the question “Should Cromer
Market be moved to the town centre?” had received 185 “votes” between 18th
September and 8th October at which time 120 responses (65%) expressed support for
the market moving into the town centre, with 65 responses (35%) being against the
move.
4.6
Cromer Town Council responded to the consultation in an email dated 7th November
following discussion on 6th November stating that they supported the relocation of the
market to the town centre, but not in Tucker Street. No comment was made by the
Town Council as to where the market might be located.
4.7
No response to the consultation has been received from Cromer Chamber of Trade.
4.8
Early comments made during the consultation process supporting the principle of the
market being accommodated in the town centre but identifying possible practical issues
with the market being accommodated in Tucker Street due to the taxi rank, access for
residents etc, saw discussions held between the Council and the owner of Budgens
store who was supportive of the Council’s proposals in wanting to support more
business in the town centre through accommodating the weekly market and other events
in the town centre. These discussions saw the owner of Budgens offering to
accommodate taxi drop off and collections in his car park, accessed off Garden Street.
5.0
Issues raised through the consultation process
5.1
Aside from the objections to the principle of the market being accommodated in the town
centre, particularly because of the impact on the taxi rank, a number of practical issues
have been raised through the consultation process, including:
Access by delivery vehicles to businesses in High Street and coaches accessing
the Hotel de Paris

Access to properties in Tucker Street by emergency vehicles

Some concern from established business of increased competition from market
traders operating from the town centre – however the market operates in town
anyway.

Concern over the local environment in High Street / Tucker Street in winter – cold
winds and sea fret.

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8th December 2014
Cabinet
6.0
Options moving forward
6.1
There are a number of options available to the Council following the end of the
consultation and these are considered further below:-
6.2
Do nothing – continue to accommodate the weekly Cromer market in The Meadow Car
Park and leave the taxi rank unaffected in Tucker Street
6.3
Consider accommodating the market in High Street – this would see the market
accommodated in the town centre, but would offer little scope for expansion. This
proposal would have implications for the operation of the taxi rank on a Friday and would
need to be the subject of more detailed proposals and a safety audit to assess whether
access by HGVs and coaches to properties in High Street and the Hotel de Paris could
be accommodated on a Friday during the operation of the market.
6.4
Explore with County Highways whether the Friday market could be accommodated in
the short-stay parking bays in Hamilton Road and Church Street. This would bring the
market into the heart of the town, giving maximum profile to the market. Advice from the
Highways Authority is that detailed comments on this proposal could only be provided
following submission of more formal proposals and carrying out a safety audit of the
proposals.
6.5
Explore with the owner of Budgens whether the weekly market and themed markets
could be accommodated on the Budgens car park. This car park is at the centre of the
town with pedestrian access on to Garden Street, Church Street and High Street
(through the Budgens store), although would not be particularly prominent without
signage.
6.6
Based on the consultation responses received and further brief consideration of each of
the options detailed at paragraphs 6.2 – 6.5 above, it is recommended that the Council
does not proceed with the relocation of the weekly market from The Meadow car park to
a location within Cromer town centre.
7.0
Financial Implications and Risks
7.1
There are no direct financial issues raised by this report.
8.0
Sustainability
8.1
None as a direct consequence of this report.
9.0
Equality and Diversity
9.1
There are no direct equality or diversity issues raised by this report.
10.0
Section 17 Crime and Disorder considerations
10.1
This report does not raise any issues directly relating to Crime and Disorder.
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