30th September 2010 / AGENDA ITEM 11
COMMUTED SUMS SCRUTINY
1.0 Matter for consideration
1.1 That the Committee consider the annual progress report on the implementation of the recommendations that resulted from the Commuted Sums Scrutiny.
2.0 Recommendation(s)
2.1 To note the updated Commuted Sums Action Plan, asking questions in relation to its content and making recommendations as appropriate.
2.2 To consider whether the recommendations have been implemented, as far as possible, and that the Action Plan is now complete.
3.0 Background Information
3.1 The Commuted Sums Scrutiny was undertaken by the Audit Committee and subsequently a number of recommendations were established upon completion of the review. As there recommendations relate to the Blackpool Services Directorate, it is within the Committee’s remit to monitor the progress of implementation.
3.2 An update on the two outstanding recommendations is detailed below.
3.3 Recommendation 7 – the collection of maintenance charges for all residential properties would require a change in policy by the Council, which would require a review of the Supplementary Planning Guidance and a lengthy process of consultation and preparation to justify the change in approach. In light of the wider impending changes, including the introduction of the Community Infrastructure Levy dealing with much wider issues, there is considered no basis to introduce such a change in isolation.
3.4 Recommendation 8 – the issue in terms of extending the period of maintenance for new areas of open space provided from the current ten years in a Leisure Services issue. Although in the current absence of new housing development and new areas of POS being created may not be seen as a pressing priority. No new areas of open space have recently been created. Any future provision of new areas is likely to be able to be delivered on a site-by-site basis, with an increased maintenance requirement, if required by Leisure Services.
3.5 A full copy of the Commuted Sums Action Plan is attached at Appendix 11 (a).
3.6 The Committee is asked to consider whether the recommendations have been implemented and that the Action Plan is now complete.
4.0 Witnesses / representatives
4.1 As requested by the Committee members, the following persons have been invited to attend the meeting to speak on the matter:
· John Blackledge, Assistant Director, Leisure Services
Relevant officer:
John Blackledge, Assistant Director, Leisure Services
Tel: (01523) 478400, email:
Appendices attached:
Appendix 11 (a) – Commuted Sums Scrutiny Action Plan
Background papers:
None.
Websites and e-mail links for further information:
None.
Glossary:
None.