Minutes:
The Assistant Director, Growth and Enterprise, presented the report with data updated to September 2024.
Areas highlighted within the report included:
· Place Development Investment area growth plans in Redcar, East Cleveland, and Greater Eston.
· Westgate and Challoner Street application was deferred following conversations with local tenants and businesses during a positive meeting. Comms were scheduled to go out.
· Summary of progress of Levelling Up Partnership projects. Officers met with Government, and it would be business as usual for LUP and there was a hope that would also be the case for other Levelling Up funds.
· The Care Leavers Housing, Family Hubs, and Residential Care Homes Levelling Up Partnership projects were planned with a view to reducing the council’s costs. A consultation regarding suitable locations for Care Leavers Housing was ongoing with location based on need.
· Planning & Development data showing planning application performance metrics with an explanation as to percentage targets and the number of housing completions in Q1. Performance has reduced over time owing to resource implications.
· Housing is outperforming the rest of the Tees Valley.
· Business engagement activities including the nature of support being provided to Anglo American employees.
· Current challenges for business engagement such as accessing UKSPF funding and future of Teesworks.
· Adult Learning Service Ofsted action plan shared.
As part of the ensuing discussion the following questions/comments were made:
· A member asked about the proof of funding for the Coatham Arena Development. Officers advised that planning permission need sot granted by January 2027 and a submission made by November 2024. A full business case must also be presented to council.
· A member reiterated the need to better signpost Changing Places. Officers advised that Beach Base toilets were open when the facility was open, and the operator took on facilities management. Officers will find out when facilities at Tuned In are open.
· A member asked whether there was a timeframe for completion of the Bakehouse Square works. Officers advised that it had been agreed by all parties that the work was not completed to an acceptable standard so the cobbles would be replaced, and the timescale was to be confirmed. Lessons had been learned and would be acted upon going forward. The site had not been returned to the council.
· A member iterated that it was important for the council to get the comms right so that residents are fully updated and aware that the council was not to blame. Officers advised that the contractor was a quality provider with a history of works completed that had been properly tendered for.
· A member stated that the locations of Care Leavers Housing would need to be well communicated so that residents were fully informed.
· A member asked what the new government’s approach to housing was expected to be. Officers advised that a consultation was in progress and the local plan would need to be revisited once the government’s position was clear, law was in place, and regulations defined.
· Chair advised that the Ofsted Task and Finish group was focussed on the issues to improve processes and ensure no repeat.
RESOLVED that the information in the report be noted.
Supporting documents: