Decisions

The Cabinet RESOLVED to note the Leader’s Scheme of Delegation for the 2024-25 Municipal Year.

The Head of Secondary Achievement and Wellbeing provided the Cabinet with the Annual Report of the RCT SACRE and SAC for the academic year 2022-2023.

 

The Cabinet Member for Education, Inclusion and Welsh Language took the opportunity to thank officers for preparing the informative report and placed on record his thanks to Members of the SACRE Group. The Cabinet Member commented that the report provided Members with information in respect of the various changes regarding the statutory responsibilities in the area and wider curriculum.

 

The Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure, as a Member of the SACRE Group, was pleased to note the positive work delivered by schools as part of the curriculum and the valuable partnership work. The Cabinet Member also praised the work with the Central South Consortium, who were keen to engage with schools to provide materials.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To note the content of the Annual Report 2022-2023.

 

The Service Director of Democratic Services and Communication provided the Cabinet with the Annual Report of the Climate Change Cabinet Sub-Committee for the Municipal Year 2023-2024.

 

The Service Director reminded Members of the changes to the Committee’s Terms of Reference and noted that it was a decision-making body, taking forward decisions in respect of the importance climate agenda. The Director spoke of the high-level reports considered by the Sub-Committee during the year, including updates in respect of the climate change specific performance information.

 

In the absence of the Chair of the Sub-Committee, the Vice-Chair and Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure took the opportunity to extend her thanks to officers and Members for their contributions during the Municipal Year and noted the positive work of the Committee. The Cabinet Member commented that in her opinion, a key area of work from the year was the visit to the two living landscape sites with young people to hear their views. The Cabinet Member added that the visit also highlighted the cross-working relationships between the Council.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To note the content of the report attached as Appendix 1.

 

The Service Director of Finance and Improvement Services provided the Cabinet with an overview of the Council’s performance, both from a financial and operational perspective, for the financial year ended 31st March 2024.

 

Members were informed that the Quarter 4 revenue budget position was a nil variance overall, following the drawdown of one-off earmarked reserves to fund additional in-year budget pressures, this being in line with Performance Report updates reported during the year. With specific regard to the additional in-year pressures, these were in respect of increased costs for social care services, reflecting the level of demand for services and the complexity and specialist nature of care required, along with continuing high inflation that resulted in cost pressures on home to school transport contract costs and foods costs within the Council’s Catering Service.

 

The Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care commended the work of finance officers for providing a financial position in extremely challenging times.

 

The Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure took the opportunity to thank officers for the positive work going on throughout the County Borough, which had been reflected in the report.

 

The Leader echoed the comments of the Cabinet Members and commented on the scale of the Capital Programme, which had increased compared to that of a decade ago. The Leader spoke of positive investment in infrastructure, extra-care, schools, road schemes and drainage works.

 

The Leader spoke of the difficulty in managing revenue budgets but praised service areas for their work. The Leader advised that the next financial year would likely be even more challenging due to the size of the budget gap and spoke of the difficult and unpopular decisions, which the Cabinet were faced with to ensure the Council delivers a balanced budget, which they are legally obliged to. The Leader concluded by commending the officers in Rhondda Cynon Taf for ensuring the Council does not have huge overspends to date and hoped that this would continue to be the case in the future.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To note and agree the General Fund revenue outturn position of the Council as at the 31st March 2024 (Section 2 of the Executive Summary).

2.    To approve the virements listed in Sections 2a - e of the Executive Summary that exceed the £0.100M threshold as per the Council's Financial Procedure Rules.

3.    To note the capital outturn position of the Council as at the 31st March 2024 (Sections 3a – e of the Executive Summary).

4.    To note the details of the Treasury Management Prudential Indicators as at the 31st March 2024 (Section 3f of the Executive Summary); and

5.    To note the year-end position regarding progress against agreed Corporate Plan priorities (Sections 5 a – c of the Executive Summary) that includes updates in respect of the Council’s work to deliver its Climate Change ambitions.

 

The Director of Prosperity and Development provided details of the potential for the development of a Business Improvement District (BID) in Tonypandy with the support of funding from Welsh Government.

 

Following the completion of a feasibility study between October - December 2023, the Director sought endorsement for further funding from Welsh Government for the purpose of pursuing the next stages of BID Development: - Development, Campaign and Ballot.

 

The Cabinet Member for Prosperity and Development spoke positive of the report before Members and advised that the majority of Traders he’d spoken to in Tonypandy were in favour of the proposals. The Cabinet Member was sure it would be another successful BID, following the examples of Pontypridd, Aberdare and Treorchy town centres.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To note the results of the feasibility study summarised in section 7 of the report which concludes that Tonypandy could benefit from BID development which would be similar to the BID operating in Treorchy;

2.    To support moving to the next stages of development for the establishment of a potential BID in Tonypandy as set out in Paragraphs 7.5 and 7.6 of the report; and

3.    To make an application to the Welsh Government Transforming Towns Fund for funding to carry out Development, Campaign and Ballot stages of BID development in Tonypandy town centre. 

 

The Director of Prosperity and Development provided Cabinet with an update on the development of regeneration proposals for the former Marks and Spencer/Dorothy Perkins site at 97-102 Taff Street, Pontypridd.

 

The Director sought to outline the proposed funding, procurement and engagement strategies relevant to the project and provided an overview of the necessary next steps.

 

Members’ attention was drawn to the proposals attached at Appendix 1 to the report. The Director proposed that the development would seek to create a new high-quality public realm that provides a clear and legible route from the top of the town through to a much more inviting access to Ynysangharad War Memorial Park and National Lido.

 

He continued, proposing that the integration of soft landscaping would serve to ‘green’ the high street, whilst the creation of a new riverside plaza would re-orientate the high street, for the first time in over 100 years, to the river and surrounding natural landscape.

 

The Cabinet Member for Prosperity and Development was supportive of the proposals before Members and praised the multi-level design, easy disabled access for the site and flood mitigations. The Cabinet Member spoke positive of the idea to involve the construction experts from the former bingo hall site, which had provided a coherent connection between the two sites located at the bottom area of Pontypridd.

 

The Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care echoed the positive comments and was pleased to note the Council’s investment in its major town centres and tourist areas.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    That the most recent redevelopment proposals for the site are considered and supported; and

2.    That associated funding, procurement, and engagement strategies outlined in the report are considered and endorsed, and Officers are authorised to progress their implementation.

 

The Director of Education and Inclusion Services presented the report, which sought formal approval to begin the relevant and required statutory school organisation consultation to establish a new Welsh medium primary school for 3 to 11 year olds as part of the Llanilid housing development and the proposed change of language medium of Dolau Primary School from dual language to English medium.

 

It was proposed that the new Welsh medium primary school would have a capacity for 480 statutory school (reception to year six) age pupils plus 60 for nursery age pupils, with Dolau Primary School becoming an English medium primary school at the same time, with an increased capacity of 488 plus 63 nursery places.

 

The Cabinet Member for Education, Inclusion and Welsh Language took the opportunity to thank the Director for the report. The Cabinet Member acknowledged that it was the duty of the Local Authority to assess areas of demand for school places and noted that there had been significant growth within the south of the County in recent decades with the Llanillid development requiring further school places.

 

The Cabinet Member was in support of consulting upon the proposals and commented that they would positively support the Council in meeting its ambitious WESP targets. In terms of funding, the Cabinet Member was pleased to note that the capital costs would be met by a mixture of funding from CIL payments and Welsh Government.

 

With the agreement of the Chair, Non-Committee Member, County Borough Councillor K Morgan addressed the Cabinet in respect of the item.

 

In response to the comments made by the Non-Committee Member in respect of the potential for Scrutiny involvement, the Service Director of Democratic Services and Communication advised that although the school reorganisation code prescribes limited opportunity for Members to influence the approach, there would be an opportunity for scrutiny involvement during the proposed consultation period. As such, the Cabinet agreed to include the Education and Inclusion Scrutiny Committee as part of the process.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To note the content of the report;

2.    To give formal approval to begin the relevant and required statutory school organisation consultation to:

-       establish a new Welsh medium primary school for 3 to 11 year olds as part of the Llanilid housing development. It is proposed that the new Welsh medium primary school will have a capacity for 480 statutory school age pupils plus 60 for nursery age pupils; and

-       make a regulated alteration to change the language medium of Dolau Primary School from dual language to English medium. Providing a capacity for 488 statutory school age pupils plus 63 nursery places.

3.    To give formal approval to report back to Cabinet to consider the Consultation Report and determine whether to publish the Consultation Report and approve the publication of the proposal in the form of a Statutory Notice.

4.    To give delegated authority to the Director of Education and Inclusion Services to make any minor changes required to the draft Consultation Document (attached at Appendix A to the report) prior to its publication and the statutory school organisation consultation commencing.

 

 

The Head of Revenues and Benefits provided Cabinet with an update regarding the discretionary powers that the Council has to charge higher amounts of Council Tax (a premium) on certain properties as provided for by the Housing (Wales) Act 2014, which it has been using since 1st April 2023.

 

Despite the introduction of the premium in April 2023, it was noted that there had only been a modest reduction in the number of long-term empty properties and there remained over 1,500 long-term empty properties across Rhondda Cynon Taf.

 

Having regard to the discretionary powers, Cabinet were asked to consider a formal period of consultation on a proposal to amend the level of premium from 1st April 2025.  It was proposed that the prospect of paying a higher level of premium on the council tax bill may encourage more property owners to bring their empty homes back into use in a timelier manner.

 

The Cabinet Member for Prosperity and Development was in support of the recommendations contained within the report and was of the view that the proposal would further build upon the positive work of the Council to bring back empty properties back into use. The Cabinet Member added that the CPO would be useful tool going forward.

 

With the agreement of the Chair, Non-Committee Member, County Borough Councillor A Rogers addressed the Cabinet on this item.

 

In response to the comments made by the Non-Committee Member, the officer clarified that in such cases whereby the property owner has passed away and the property is passed onto family owners, the property would be exempt until probate is granted and for six months thereafter. It was explained that if a property is unfurnished, it could be granted for a further six-month exemption; and if the property is for sale, it could be subject to exception from the premium for a year to allow it to be marketed.

 

The Deputy Chief Executive and Group Director of Finance, Digital and Frontline Services added that Cabinet were being asked to initiate a formal public consultation and emphasised that the Council would write to homeowners who would likely be impacted by the premium.

 

The Cabinet Member for Prosperity and Development commented that the year exemption following probate was reasonable and moved the recommendations contained within the report.

 

Following discussion, Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.             To note the details of the discretionary powers relating to Council Tax Premiums as outlined in the report;

2.             To initiate a consultation exercise on the proposed use of these powers in respect of long-term empty properties as set out in Section 7 and on the option of further intervention through the use of a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO); and

3.             That a report, including the results of the consultation exercise, be presented to Cabinet to consider and determine the proposed way forward which they would recommend to full Council as appropriate.

 

Note: Non-Committee Member, County Borough Councillor K Morgan declared a personal and prejudicial interest in respect of this item of business and left the meeting whilst it was discussed and voted upon.

The Service Director of Democratic Services and Communication presented, for Cabinet Members’ comment and approval, an update on the Cabinet Work Programme on the proposed list of matters requiring consideration by Cabinet over the 2024-25 Municipal Year.

 

The Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care thanked the Director for the report and was content with the content of the Cabinet Work Programme, noting its flexibility.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To approve the Work Programme for the 2024-2025 Municipal Year (with appropriate amendment where necessary) and receive a further update on a 3 monthly basis.

 

The Temporary Head of Streetcare outlined the proposed standardisation for the collection of residual waste from households and the collection frequency of residual waste from premises that fall under the Workplace Recycling Regulations 2024. Further changes were also proposed to the collection of green waste during winter months, as well as a commitment to an ongoing review of the Council’s Waste Management Strategy.

 

It was noted that, at the current time, the collection of residual household waste across RCT was undertaken via wheelie bin collections in the Cynon and Taf areas, and via black bag only collections in the Rhondda. These collection arrangements pre-date the inception of Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council.

 

Members’ attention was drawn to section 4 of the report, which detailed the anticipated benefits of standardising the Council’s waste collection arrangements across the County Borough. Officers proposed that the change would see significant benefits to the appearance of the County Borough, improved safety for pedestrians and provide a faster, more efficient waste collection service. It was explained that analysis of black bags presented and collected at the kerbside show an increase in recycling performance and participation, compared to wheelie bins, as the Council strives to meet the Welsh Government’s statutory recycling target of 70%. Furthermore, it was anticipated that the proposals would result in financial savings over the medium-term, for example, in the overall processing costs of waste and reduced costs of collection. 

 

The Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure firstly thanked officers for providing Cabinet with a detailed report, which contained a clear rationale for presenting the proposals. The Cabinet Member provided assurance that the Cabinet had considered the correspondence they had received to-date and the petitions which had formally been shared with them.

 

In terms of the proposals, the Cabinet Member noted that if agreed, the only change for residents would be that they would need to place their black bags at the collection point on their normal collection day as opposed to their wheelie bins.However, it was recognised that the proposal had raised a number of concerns with residents that needed to be addressed in advance of any Cabinet decisions being made.

 

The Cabinet Member continued, noting that during her time as an Elected Member, she had received concerns raised by residents about the impact large wheelie bins have on the footpath, causing hazards and obstructions in some areas. The Cabinet Member also noted that she had always been aware of the inconsistency of service across the three former authority areas.

 

In terms of data, the Cabinet Member noted that it clearly evidenced that there was a direct connectionbetween the better recycling performance in the Rhondda and waste collection arrangements operated there. The Cabinet Member acknowledged that officers were continually charged with identifying how to operate services more cost efficiently and recognised that the standardisation of collection arrangements would not only deliver financial savings but would also support a quicker transition to a greener fleet and reduce the capital cost of future fleet renewal.

 

The Cabinet Member recognised that many concerns had been raised, and that it was clear that many residents in Taff and Cynon value the current arrangement. However, it was stressed that if the proposals were to be approved by Cabinet, the wheelie bins would not be taken away and there would be no service removed from residents, but instead, a proposed change in how waste is presented for collection at the kerbside every three weeks.

 

The Cabinet Member noted that the Council offered an assisted waste collection service to support residents with physical difficulties in carrying their recycling or waste to their bin collection point, and asked officers to confirm that the provision would continue for residents who require support under the new proposals. The officer confirmed that if a resident was currently receiving the assisted collection service, they would continue to do so under the new proposals.

 

The Leader spoke of concerns and questions raised by residents and advised that he had been able to respond and reassure some, where there had been a misconception that the proposal was to remove the use of the wheelie bin altogether. The Leader spoke of an area in own ward with terraced streets, whereby complaints had been made by members of the public from time to time and enforcement action had to be taken to remove obstructions from the highway.

 

The Leader queried the financial efficiencies of the proposal, which several residents had requested further information on. The Deputy Chief Executive and Group Director of Finance, Digital and Frontline Services advised that, if approved, there would be annual revenue savings from a combination of processing costs and reduced collection costs, coupled with the avoidance of fines. The Deputy Chief Executive added that the model financial implications would amount to cost avoidance and cost reductions of just under £1M.

 

The Leader clarified that the cost avoidance was linked to every 1% that the Council fails to hit in recycling targets, which results in a £130,000 fine to the Local Authority, to which the Deputy Chief Executive confirmed.

 

In terms of the recycling of food waste in particular, the Leader sought further information on the data in respect of rates of recycling in the Rhondda in comparison to the Cynon and Taf areas. The Temporary Head of Streetcare advised that the data indicated that non-wheelie bin areas have around 30% more recycling tonnage than a wheelie bin area, resulting in approximately 20% recycling rate difference. 

 

The Leader sought confirmation that it was primarily the food waste in the Rhondda which was left out of the black bag waste and noted that it could be because the residents do not want their black bag waste to be targeted by animals. The officer reiterated that there was a much higher tonnage of food waste recycled in the Rhondda compared to the Cynon and Taf areas.

 

With the agreement of the Leader, the following Non-Committee Members addressed the Cabinet:

-       County Borough Councillor K Morgan;

-       County Borough Councillor C Lisles;

-       County Borough Councillor W Jones; and

-       County Borough Councillor SJ Davies.

 

The Director of Highways, Streetcare and Transportation Services sought to dispel concerns made by some of the Non-Committee Members and explained that as a resident of the Rhondda himself, the system was effective with no evidence of an increase in vermin or seagulls etc. The Director stated that residents would be able to keep their wheelie bins to store the bags until the day of collection; and that weekly food waste, nappies and green waste recycling was offered so that biodegradable material should be minimal in black bags. The Director noted that the environment was changing, along with legislation, which meant there was a need to adapt certain processes which may have worked years ago. The Director explained that, in line with new legislation, there was a requirement for the Council to be effective and efficient and it was stressed that with the proposals before Members, there would be no changes to service apart from the bag being placed outside of the bin for collection.

 

The Temporary Head of Streetcare also sought to assure Members that assisted collection requests would be continue to be addressed on an individual basis and that officers were confident in their resources to action them.

 

The Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care stated that as a Rhondda resident, some of the concerns expressed had never been experienced by him, having operated with the arrangement for many years and sought to assure residents that when black bags are presented for collection, the arrangement works well, despite the challenging topography and narrow terraced streets of the Rhondda.

 

The Cabinet Member advised that the arrangement ensures that the footway is immediately cleared after the refuse collectors have attended; and was confident that the arrangement was the key reason as to why Rhondda residents lead the way in recycling participation.

 

The Cabinet Member for Prosperity and Development echoed previous comments and commented that as a Rhondda resident, he simply did not experience many of the concerns raised and sought to provide assurance that, if each resident takes responsibility for their waste, recycles, and uses schemes such as food waste, nappies and green waste, the concerns being expressed would not materialise. The Cabinet Member added that the proposal was about standardising, to ensure improved recycling and the delivery of important efficiency savings, whilst getting bins off the streets.

 

The Leader sought further clarity on how the information would be communicated to residents, if approved by Cabinet. The Temporary Head of Streetcare advised that residents in the Cynon and Taf areas of the County Borough would be written to before any changes are implemented. Within the letter would be an easy-to-follow guide, which would outline the new arrangements. In terms of communicating the ongoing monitoring of the arrangements, if approved, Cabinet were assured that they would be regularly informed of the progress and that collection statistics were collated on a weekly basis.

 

The Service Director of Democratic Services and Communication added that his team have a strong track record of delivering effective campaigns when working with the service previously, that have supported residents with changes. The Service Director advised that there would be a strong social media presence to help answer any questions that the residents may have.

 

The Cabinet Member for Education, Inclusion and Welsh Language noted that as a resident of the Cynon valley, he had found the debate useful and in particular, the assurance given from his colleagues in the Rhondda that the process has worked for many decades.

 

The Cabinet Member acknowledged the rationale behind the proposals and the importance of delivering financial savings during such a time. It was also acknowledged that the Council is a strong recycling performer and the importance of maintain that position, as part of the commitment to reducing climate change and living sustainably.

 

The Cabinet Member spoke of two reoccurring questions asked by his residents; one of which was in relation to the reasoning behind the lack of consultation and the second was how the proposed change deals with missed refuse collections. In relation to the Cabinet Member’s first question on consultation, the Director advised that there was sufficient data to inform the proposals and emphasised that if approved, it would be a material change.

 

In response to the Cabinet Member’s question in respect to missed refuse collections, the officer advised that the service holds a large amount of data and the analysis had evidenced that the overall missed collection rate was a small fraction of 1% of all collections. Moreover, it was explained that the majority of missed collections were due to the difficulty of manoeuvring large bins between vehicles. As such, the officer envisioned that by collecting black bags only, there would be fewer missed collections.

 

The Leader added that in such events, where refuse vehicles were unable to collect due to parked vehicles, the Council were currently unable to use smaller vehicles to retrieve the missed collections due to manual handling/lifting reasons and the waste being in bins. The Leader explained that, if approved, smaller, alternative Council vehicles would be able to retrieve the waste as the operatives would be able to lift the black bags into the back of the vehicle. The Leader questioned if there would be a method of monitoring this to ensure that certain areas which had experienced missed collections, are receiving a more efficient collection service, should the changes be approved, to which the Director confirmed the data would be utilised going forward.

 

The Cabinet Member for Public Health and Communities echoed the comments of the Cabinet Members for Rhondda wards and agreed that the proposed arrangements work. The Cabinet Member saw no reason as to why the service could not also have a valuable function across Cynon and Taff and was therefore in support of the recommendations contained within the report.

 

The Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure thanked officers for addressing the questions and concerns raised by Members on behalf of their residents. The Cabinet Member felt assured by the residents of the Rhondda and also those in the Cynon and Taf areas who already place black bags out for collection, that the proposal worked.

 

The Cabinet Member was content to support the recommendations contained within the report, on the basis that assurances can be given that Council Officers would continue to provide assisted collections/additional bag allowances to those who require it; that environmental implications are carefully monitored and managed by Council officers with regular updates to Members; that the Council ensures there are clear communication messages with residents in the lead up to any changes; and the Council listens to any concerns raised during the implementation to mitigate any issues that arise.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

 

1.    To proceed with the following proposed changes:

 

-       To standardise the collection method of residual household waste in the Cynon and Taf areas, in line with the method of the Rhondda, moving from wheelie bin collections to kerbside collections of standard size black bags only. As part of these proposals, residents have the option to retain their wheelie bins to store residual waste bags, with a maximum of 3 black bags to be placed out for collection at the kerbside every 3 weeks, as per the current allowance.

-       To amend the frequency of refuse collections from premises that fall under the Workplace Recycling Regulations 2024, (e.g., Schools, Commercial premises etc.), across Rhondda Cynon Taf to a 3-weekly collection cycle.

-       To adjust the current winter green waste booking service to improve operational efficiency.

 

2.    That Officers keep the Council’s Waste Management Strategy under review, thereby providing an opportunity to consider and implement future changes and innovations to the Council’s refuse and recycling collection services to assist in ensuring legislative compliance, improvements in recycling performance, achieving operational efficiencies and potential financial savings, as well as helping to reduce our carbon footprint.

       i.          To note the content of the report.

 

       i.          To note the content of the update report.

 

      ii.          To consider whether further information is required.

 

    iii.          To temporarily close the Hawthorn Swimming Pool from the 2^nd August to 12^th August to ensure the safe operation of the Park and Ride facility at Hawthorn High School

       i.          To note the content of the update report;

 

      ii.          To approve the proposed construction programme and associated phased restrictions on use of park areas in the lead up to and following the RCT National Eisteddfod being held between the 3^rd and 10^th August.

 

N.B with the permission of the Chair, County Borough Councillor K Johnson addressed the Committee, in his capacity as the Event Director of the Pontypridd parkrun.

The Welsh Language Services Manager provided the Welsh Language Cabinet Sub-Committee witha copyof theDraft Welsh LanguageStandards AnnualReport 2023 – 2024.

 

Members’ attention was drawn to the draft report, which was attached at Appendix 1. The report covered the eighth full year of the implementation of the standards from 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024 and it was noted that a final report must bepublished onthe Council’swebsite andmade availablein eachof the Council’s offices that are open to the public no later than 30 June2024.

 

The officer referred Members to section 5 of the report, which detailed the current position, and it was noted that despite the financial pressures facing the Council and resulting service changes, therehad beencontinual successes in Welsh language compliance. It was also pleasing to note that feedback from the Welsh Language Commissioner during the Council’s annual meeting with their Standards Setting and Compliance Officer held in Quarter 3 2023-2024, continued to be very positive in respect of the progress made in Rhondda Cynon Taf.

 

The officer referred Members to section 5.4 of the report, which detailed the following areas for improvement:

·       The continuing need to increase the number of Welsh speaking staff;

·       Effective monitoring of any mitigating actions noted in any statutory Welsh Language Impact Assessments;

·       Effective scrutiny of the partnership elements of the 5 Year Strategy for the Promotion of the Welsh Language; and

·       Continuous training and awareness regarding Welsh Language Standards.

 

The Chair spoke positive of the Annual Report and commented that it evidenced compliance across the Council. The Chair was particularly pleased to note that 552 staff had undertaken the Bitesize sessions and that 94 members of staff, including Elected Members had begun learning the language with the support of the Council’s Tutor. The Chair noted the areas for improvement and that there were challenges around recruitment but praised the Council for its innovative strategy with developments such as the Welsh Language Guaranteed Interview Scheme.  

 

The Deputy Leader was pleased to note the content of the report and the Council’s compliance with the Welsh Language Standards and suggested that it would be beneficial for the Overview and Scrutiny to have sight of it. In terms of the complaints identified in section 14 of the draft Annual Report, the Deputy Leader was satisfied that the issues could be easily rectified. The Deputy Leader echoed the Chair’s comments in relation to the positive take up of Bitesize sessions by staff and Members of the Council and advised that she would also be taking part to improve her language skills in readiness for the Eisteddfod.

                         

The Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Corporate Services was pleased with the content of the Annual Report and added that the Welsh Language was now embedded across the Council’s new Corporate Plan.

 

The Sub-Committee RESOLVED:

1.             To note the content of the draft report;

2.             To approve the draft report in order for a final version to be published on Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council’s website, and approve the distribution of the final report to eachof theauthority’s officesthat areopen tothe publicby nolater than 30 June 2024; and

3.             To approvearrangements forpublicising thefact thatthe final annual reporthas been published.

 

The Director of Public Health, Protection and Community Services provided an update to Members on progress made against actions within the Welsh Language Promotion Strategy 2022-2027.

 

The Arts Service, Libraries and One4All Service, and the RCT Together Community Development Team had made progress in support of the delivery of the Welsh Language Promotion Strategy through their provision of information and advice, engagement and participation, and programmes and projects and Members attention was drawn to section 5 of the report, which detailed the key highlights.

 

The Chair thanked the Director for the positive report and noted that it had captured areas in which the public regularly frequent, and thus was pleased to note the opportunities for the public to learn the Welsh Language in the community.

 

The Chair was pleased to note that since 1 April 2022 to end of March 2024, over 400 applications for grants of between £1,000 to £200,000 had been received by the Community Development Team for their Community Grant programme; and that eight projects, specifically targeting Welsh Language use opportunities, had been approved. The Chair emphasised the importance of working with the community and community groups such as Menter Iaith, of whom all share the same ambitions.

 

The Deputy Leader echoed the Chair’s positive comments in relation to the work of the Arts Service, Libraries and One4All Service and the Community Development Team. The Deputy was particularly pleased to note that a new Steering Group, led by Pontypridd Town Council and community organisations and supported by the RCT Together Community Development Team, had been established in Pontypridd with a focus on tracking and developing Welsh language activities.

 

Referring to section 5.3.1, the Deputy Leader sought clarification on how many of the 400 grants received had been approved during the period 1April 2022 to end of March 2024. Officers advised that a vast amount of grants were awarded to applications across RCT, which had met the priorities of the Community Grant Programme and that the exact number would be circulated to Members following the meeting.

 

The Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Corporate Services took the opportunity to commend the libraries for the array of work undertaken to promote the language; such as Welsh Language stories and craft sessions, as well as a variety of Welsh language activities offered by external partners.

 

The Sub-Committee RESOLVED:

1.    To consider the information within the report.

 

 

The Director of Public Health, Protections and Community Services provided a further update to the Sub-Committee in relation to the infrastructure, transport and traffic, and spatial planning for the RCT National Eisteddfod of Wales 2024. 

 

Members were advised of a number of changes to the spatial plan previously reported to Committee in March 2024 and the Director advised that such changes mainly reflected the evolving needs of the National Eisteddfod (NE) customers with the aim of providing them with a greater overall experience.

 

The Committee heard updates in respect of a

·       new plan for the Maes in YWMP,

·       main site for the caravan park off Berw Road, Pontypridd,

·        the current review of the proposed location for Maes B,

·       Hawthorn High School Park and Ride,

·       update to the use of the University of South Wales Treforest Campus

·       controlled access to Taff Street and Gas Road Car Park.

 

The Director advised of the ongoing engagement in respect of these issues with relevant stakeholders and community groups to ensure the smooth running of the event.

 

The Director continued the update by providing detail on traffic and transport work to help ensure the smooth running of the event. Members were informed that a traffic management consultant had been appointed to work with all partners to devise a traffic management plan.

 

The Chair thanked the Director for the comprehensive report and spoke of the moving picture of the spatial plan and the need for fluidity due to the sheer logistics of the event.  The Chair referenced the unique setting of the Eisteddfod in a Town centre environment and the challenges associated with such a setting compared to a usual rural settings for the event.  The Chair commented on the importance of ensuring that the Eisteddfod was a safe environment and experience for all and thanked the Director and the Chair of the National Eisteddfod for the amount of work that was taking place behind the scenes to ensure a successful and safe Eisteddfod for RCT.

 

The Leader commented on the update and reference the loss of the parking arrangements with the University but noted the University hosting the Fringe as an alternative which was a positive update.  The Leader spoke of the detailed and comprehensive work being undertaken.

 

Discussions ensued in respect of parking arrangements in Hawthorn High School and the Director spoke of the traffic management plans in place and the contingency plans being explored.

 

It was RESOLVED:

       i.          To note the content of the update report

The Head of Community and Welsh Language Services provided Members with an overview of the report before them, which provided an update on the work currently being undertaken in collaboration with National Eisteddfod officers in preparation for the 2024 Eisteddfod in Rhondda Cynon Taf.

 

Members were provided with details of recent meetings taken forward to launch and promote the Eisteddfod coming to Rhondda Cynon Taf in 2024, which included local drop in sessions and business drop in sessions and Members were advised of the positive responses received to both events.

 

Details of the planned programme for the Eisteddfod to attend all secondary schools was also advised upon as well as the launch of a schools art project and resulting show case event. 

 

The Sub Committee welcomed the update in relation to the considerations for accessibility for residents of the County Borough to attend the Eisteddfod, including the subsidised access, work with veterans and the receipt of Welsh Government funding to support access to the event.

 

The Head of Service continued to advise upon the fundraising elements associated with the Eisteddfod and reminded Members of the funding model in place which requires operating costs of the festival to be raised by community fundraising activities in the host local authority area.  It was recognised that there was already lots of effort being made by the National Eisteddfod, local communities supported by local members, voluntary groups, to fundraise across the County Borough and the officer advised that there had been a noticeable increase in the funds raised over the past couple of months, now totalling in excess of £185,000.

 

The Head of Community and Welsh Language Services concluded the report by providing details on the legacy aims of the Eisteddfod and Members were advised that interest in learning to speak Welsh from residents, businesses, Council staff and Members continues to increase and specific activities, sessions and resources will be developed and made available in the run up to the event, which will continue to be maintained and built upon as part of RCT’s legacy aims.

 

The Chair thanked the Head of Service for the report and referenced the notable excitement building across the County Borough with less than 100 days until the event and also referenced the detailed work taking place across communities to make the Eisteddfod a success.

 

The Chair referenced the support from local businesses and welcomed the announcement in respect of the funding support from Welsh Government which would assist in the accessibility aims for local residents and recognised groups.

 

The Deputy Leader commented on the positive momentum gathering for the event and the work taking place with schools across the County Borough.  Reference was made to the funding and the Deputy Leader thanked the local communities for their ongoing efforts and Welsh Government for their welcomed funding support.

 

The Chief Executive of the National Eisteddfod of Wales thanked Members for their comments and also spoke of the encouraging work taking place with the fundraising for the event.

 

Following discussions it was RESOLVED:

       i.          To note the content of the report.

 

The Head of Early Help provided the Cabinet with an overview of the transformation that is planned in relation to the Information, Advice, and Assistance (IAA) Service and sought agreement to approve and adopt the proposed IAA Review Strategy referred to in the report as ‘Right Help, Right Time, and Right Place’.

 

The Leader referred to the previous report considered by Cabinet in respect of the Rhondda Cynon Taf Health Determinants Research Collaboration (Minute No. 135) and commented that the understanding of community needs would be vital in the future to inform a number of strategies and how the Council responds to pressures.

 

The Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care was in support of the aims to provide better services for families and improved outcomes for children. The Cabinet Member noted that despite an increase in demands and workload, along with budget pressures, the Information, Advice and Assistance Service continued to ensure needs are dealt with efficiently and as effectively as possible. The Cabinet Member was confident that the ‘Right Help, Right Time, and Right Place’ strategy would prove to be the right course of action for the future and moved the recommendations contained within the report.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To consider the information contained within the report; and

2.    To agree to adopt the ‘Right Help, Right Time, Right Place’ Strategy, and its implementation plan, noting its ambition to deliver sustainable better access to the right help for vulnerable families whose needs are predicted to continue to increase.

 

The Director of Public Health, Protection and Community Services updated the Cabinet on the award of funding to establish the Rhondda Cynon Taf Health Determinants Research Collaboration (RCT HDRC) and to seek approval of the aims and objectives of RCT HDRC from 2024-2028.

 

The Cabinet Member for Public Health and Communities was in support of the recommendations contained within the report; and referring to the ambitions over the next five years, which were detailed in section 4.3.2 of the report, the Cabinet Member acknowledged the amount of work required to deliver a healthier environment for the benefit of the residents.

 

The Cabinet Member was pleased to note that the focus would be to reduce health inequalities and improve the health of residents in RCT, whilst focussing on the areas exacerbated by the pandemic and the ongoing cost of living crisis.

 

The Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care echoed earlier comments and endorsed the recommendations contained within the report.

 

The Deputy Leader praised the ambitions of the new collaboration and stated that it would take some time to determine the full repercussions of the pandemic on the community.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To acknowledge the award of £5 million to the Council from the National Institute of Health and Care Research (NIHR) to establish the RCT HDRC;

2.    To endorse the role of the Council in leading a new collaboration with Wales Centre for Public Policy, Cardiff University, Cwm Taf University Health Board, Interlink RCT and Public Health Wales which seeks to tackle the wider determinants of health to reduce health inequalities and improve the health of residents in RCT; and

3.    To approve the aims and objectives of RCT HDRC and delegate responsibility for overseeing delivery of the programme by the collaboration and achievement of the outcomes of RCT HDRC to the Director - Public Health, Protection and Community Services.

 

The Chief Executive presented the report, which sought Cabinet approval to establish the Business in the Community and Rhondda Cynon Taf Place Partnership.

 

Business in the Community (BITC) was described as the UK’s largest and most influential responsible business network dedicated to building a fairer and greener world together. BITC is supported by His Majesty the King. BITC aim to inspire and challenge purposeful leaders to take practical action to mobilise their collective strength as a force for good in society.

 

The Leader was in support of the recommendations contained within the report.

 

The Deputy leader emphasised the importance of building community resilience and spoke of the recent financial hardships experienced by all.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To approve the participation of the Council in the creation of the Business in the Community and Rhondda Cynon Taf Place Partnership; and

2.    To approve the allocation of resources identified in section 8 of the report.

 

The Graduate Officer for Participation provided Cabinet with information on the development of a draft Corporate Parenting Pledge for Rhondda Cynon Taf that supports implementation of Welsh Government’s Corporate Parenting Charter – “A Promise from Wales.”

 

The Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care and Chair of the Corporate Parenting Board endorsed the Corporate Parenting Pledge for RCT and was delighted to note that the Council and Welsh Government enshrine the values and principles which support and promote the care and wellbeing of care experienced young people and care leavers.

 

The Cabinet Member spoke of the Charter for Wales and its key principles such as equality, togetherness, support, ambition, health, eradicating stigma, providing a stable home environment and a good education. The Cabinet Member added that there was no greater investment than supporting children and young people into adulthood.

 

The Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Corporate Services was happy to support the recommendations contained within the report and spoke positive of the Council’s strong record of commitment to children and young people.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To consider the information contained within the report;

2.    To approve the draft Corporate Parenting Pledge for Rhondda Cynon Taf,detailed within appendix 2 of the report;

3.    To sign ‘the pledge’ and adopt the Welsh Government’s Corporate Parenting Charter: “A Promise from Wales.”;

4.    To delegate responsibility to the Council’s Corporate Parenting Board with leading and monitoring success and commitment to the Corporate Parenting Charter; and

5.    To reflect the delegation to the Corporate Parenting Board within the Leader’s Scheme of Delegation.

 

The Director of Adult Services provided the Cabinet with a new six-year draft Adult Social Care Strategy (2024/30) that sets out our vision and priorities until 2030 and seek approval to undertake a targeted consultation.

 

The Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care praised the contents of the Strategy and its aim to outline a positive pathway for the future of adult social care in RCT, which seeks to deliver respect and dignity for those with care and support needs, their families and carers. The Cabinet Member emphasised the importance of the Strategy and explained that its priorities were fashioned against the legacy of the pandemic and at a time of increased budget constraints.

 

The Deputy Leader agreed with earlier comments and stated that the pandemic had unfortunately isolated some of the more mature residents within the community and that it was important to respond to the change in demands of a new generation.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To consider the information contained within the report and reviews the contents of the new six-year draft Adult Social Care Strategy (2024/30);

2.    To agree to undertake an 8 week targeted consultation to seek the views of residents, partners and other key stakeholders, on the future strategy, vision and priorities for adult social care in Rhondda Cynon Taf as set out in Appendix 1 to the report; and

3.    To receive a further report detailing the outcome of the proposed targeted consultation prior to any final decision being made in relation to the future strategy for adult social care in Rhondda Cynon Taf.

 

The Director for Education and Inclusion Services advised Members of the outcome of the recent publication of a Statutory Notice in respect of the proposal to close Rhigos Primary School with pupils transferring to Hirwaun Primary School by no later than September 2024.

 

The Director informed the Cabinet that the Statutory Notice had been published on the 26^th January 2024, which triggered the commencement of the objection period. This ran until the 23^rd February 2024. During the objection period, a total of 1,440 objections were received by the closing date of the 23^rd February 2024, which consisted of:

·        54 written objections;

·        Two petitions signed by 951 and 65 respondents, respectively; and

·        1,384 respondents individually signed pre-written objections co-ordinated by the ‘Save Rhigos Primary School’ action committee.

In addition, 55 of the responses received during the consultation period which ran between 2^nd October 2023 and 17^th November 2023, were requested to be treated as objections. All of which had been made available to Cabinet Members.

 

With the agreement of the Leader, the following Non-Committee Member was

granted permission to address the Cabinet:

-       County Borough Councillor A Rogers

 

With the agreement of the Leader, the following members of the public were granted permission to address the Cabinet:

-       Ms M Evans

-       Mr J Morris

-

The Cabinet Member for Education, Youth Participation and Welsh Language acknowledged that the matter before the Cabinet was emotive within the community and took the opportunity to reassure the speakers that the cabinet have reflected upon that and studied all responses in depth.

 

The Cabinet Member noted the Council’s statutory duty to keep surplus places under review and the sustainability of schools moving forward to ensure resources are used most effectively to provide young people with the best education within the best settings.

 

The Cabinet Member noted that there had been a steady decline in the number of pupils joining Rhigos Primary School and that there had been a further decline since the commencement of the consultation period in relation to the proposal. The Cabinet Member felt that this identified a clear trend, which had brought into question the sustainability of the school. The Cabinet Member spoke of the nearby Hirwaun Primary School and its 21^st Century, first class facilities, including ALN provision and compliance with the Equality Act 2010, thereby ensuring that no pupil, staff member, parent / carer or member of the wider community is prevented from fully accessing the whole extent of the facilities. The Cabinet Member was also rreassured that Home to School transport would be made available to all pupils and reassured by Estyn’s views contained within the appendix to the report. As such, the Cabinet Member was therefore content with the decision.

 

The Deputy Leader questioned how many pupils currently attend the breakfast club, to which the Director informed the Cabinet that there were 13.

 

The Deputy Leader also noted that there had been a further decline in pupil numbers at the school since the commencement of the consultation period in relation to the proposal. The Deputy Leader was of the view that the information contained within the report was factual and that the views of the Scrutiny Committee were balanced.

 

The Deputy Leader acknowledged the importance of schools within the community and spoke of the previous closure of a school within her own ward. The Deputy emphasised that, despite concerns raised by the community, the transition of pupils to a nearby school was seamless and the children adapted and went on to thrive. The Deputy recognised that the proposal was emotive to the community but was content with its reasoning and was therefore in support of the recommendations contained within the report.

 

Referring to the projections contained within the September 2023 Cabinet report, the Leader noted that the decline in pupils at the school was currently faster than previously suggested and sought assurance that officers were confident with the future projected trends that had been referenced. The Director advised the Cabinet that projections were based on live birth data provided by the Local Health Board and taken account of the existing children placed there. It was recognised that the numbers can fluctuate depending on factors such as families moving in and out of the area, but the Director explained that in the main, the projections were accurate with an approximate 1% variation across RCT in terms of pupil numbers.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1. To note the content of the report;

2. To note the information contained within the Objection Report, attached as

Appendix A to the Cabinet Report, which includes a summary of correspondence received; and

3. To implement the proposal with no amendments.

 

It was RESOLVED: “That the press and public be excluded from the meeting under Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act (as amended) for the following items of business on the grounds that it involves the likely disclosure of the exempt information as defined in paragraph 14 of Part 4 of the Schedule 12A of the Act”.

 

 

The Service Director of Democratic Services and Communication presented, for Cabinet Members’ comment and approval, an update on the Cabinet Work Programme on the proposed list of matters requiring consideration by Cabinet over the remainder of the 2023-2024 Municipal Year.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To approve the Work Programme for the 2023-2024 Municipal Year (with appropriate amendment where necessary) and receive a further update on a 3 monthly basis.

 

 

The Service Director of 21St Century Schools and Transformation provided the Cabinet with details of the capital works for approval for 2024/25 as part of the Council’s three-year Capital Programme.

 

The Cabinet Member for Education, Youth Participation and Welsh Language welcomed the £6.3M commitment as part of the Capital Programme and emphasised that this had been a strategic decision of the Cabinet to support the schools. The Cabinet Member noted that the report referred to ‘minor works’ but emphasised that the difference the works make to the schools were not minor, but instead contribute to the very best learning environment for young people within the County Borough. The Cabinet Member also spoke of the positive relationship established between the Local Authority and the school leaders, which was appreciated by schools.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To approve the Education Capital Programme priority schemes for 2024/25 as outlined in Appendices 1-9 of the report and approve scheme commencement.

 

The Director of Highways, Streetcare and Transportation Services reported the results of the public consultation exercise initiated by Cabinet, together with updated Equality and Welsh Language impact assessments in relation to a proposed new Home to School Transport Policy to assist Cabinet in its determination of whether or not it wished to progress with implementation of a new Home to School Transport Policy.

 

The Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure firstly took the opportunity to thank officers for providing the Cabinet with the correspondence and responses to the consultation; and to thank the contribution of residents, reflected in the report with 2858 valued responses.

 

The Cabinet Member noted that for over 10 years, the Council had provided discretionary transport for more learners than almost every other Welsh Council’s Home to School transport operations; and that the Council had consistently gone above and beyond its legal requirement, as set out by Welsh Government, in delivering free transport to its pupils.

The Cabinet Member continued and stated that, as a result of significant underfunding from the UK Government and a budget gap of £85M over the next three years, Cabinet must consider the proposals put forward by Officers that review where the service goes beyond the statutory requirement and how savings can be made. Prior to concluding, the Cabinet Member emphasised that rising costs had made the Council’s current Home to School Transport policy unsustainable and acknowledged the reason for the report being brought for Cabinet’s consideration.

In terms of the significant rise in Home to School Transport costs, the Leader added that it had increased from £8M in 2015 to over £15M in recent years.

The Leader reiterated the Cabinet Member’s comments in respect of the Council going above and beyond in comparison to other Local Authorities and explained that if the Cabinet were to agree to the recommendations contained within the officer’s report, the Council would still be providing one of the most generous Home to School Transport policies in Wales, with a large number of individuals benefiting from discretionary transport. The Leader stated that there were 18 other Local Authorities which had either made significant changes or had not provided the discretionary element for years.

The Leader stressed that this was a decision the Cabinet did not take lightly but that every option must be considered as part of the budget setting process, due to the extraordinary financial challenges as a result of low funding from central government and the continued pressures on social care.

The Deputy Leader firstly took the opportunity to thank the Overview & Scrutiny Committee for its valuable comments and feedback and noted the letter produced as part of the papers before Members.

The Deputy Leader recognised the concerns expressed by residents through the consultation process and echoed the Leader’s comments that Members faced a difficult decision, but one which was deemed necessary given the current financial circumstances.

Referring to the consultation feedback and comments made during the Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting, the Deputy noted that there were some concerns raised about safety and asked if officers could confirm that all routes would be reviewed and re-assessed, where appropriate, prior to eligibility confirmation; and if a route was not deemed to be safe, then pupils who are affected would retain free transport to school. The Deputy Leader spoke of a specific route in her ward, Rhydyfelin to Garth Olwg, and explained that officers had been helpful in addressing the concerns and questions raised by residents within the boundary.

 

The Deputy Leader also sought reassurance as to what impact, if any, the recent publication from Welsh Government regarding the review of the Learner Travel Measure would have upon the proposals recommended to Cabinet for consideration.

 

In respect of the Equality Impact Assessment, the Deputy Leader felt that it was a comprehensive assessment and emphasised the importance of having due regard to the relevant legislation and socio-economic impacts. It was noted that the Impact Assessment highlighted some negative impacts, if the proposal were to go ahead but that it set out a range of mitigating actions as to how any impacts should be monitored following implementation and actioned including considering alternative options as put forward by consultees and set out in section 14 of the report.

 

The Cabinet Member for Education, Youth Participation and Welsh Language commented that there was naturally a concern about how the proposals would impact the attendances at schools. In terms of how the Council were seeking to tackle low attendance levels, the Cabinet Member spoke of the significant investment in recent years into a number of support services such as the Attendance and Wellbeing Service and the Resilient Families Service and also the introduction of Family Engagement Officers. The Cabinet Member noted from the report that there was an increased likelihood of a pupil not attending school if they are in receipt of home to school transport.

 

The Cabinet Member then sought to address another key point raised from the consultation, which was the potential impact on the Welsh language. The Cabinet Member spoke of the significant steps taken as a Local Authority to promote access to Welsh medium education through an extremely ambitious WESP and expansive Capital Programme investment into new Welsh medium school builds and refurbishments; in addition to the Council’s efforts to reach Welsh Government’s ambition of 1M Welsh speakers by 2050.

 

With the agreement of the Leader, the following County Borough Councillors were granted permission to address the Cabinet in respect of the item:

•       County Borough Councillor K Morgan;

•       County Borough Councillor L Tomkinson;

•       County Borough Councillor C Preddy;

•       County Borough Councillor K Johnson;

•       County Borough Councillor G Stacey:

•       County Borough Councillor S Emanuel: and

•       County Borough Councillor C Lisles.

 

N.B The Leader noted that a petition had been circulated and received by the Cabinet prior to the meeting.

 

In response to comments made, the Leader stated that lobbying Welsh Government in relation to the Public Service Vehicles Accessibility Regulations, was not an option as it was not a devolved matter. In terms of building new schools and access to schools, the Leader noted that there were 116 schools in the County, which was a lot more than many other Local Authorities.

 

Officers were then provided with an opportunity to respond to the questions and queries raised so far in the discussion. The Director of Highways, Streetcare and Transportation Services noted that a common point raised was in relation to routes and explained that each route is assessed against the Learner Travel Operational Guidance 2014 criteria outlined within the report and thus deemed ‘available’ or ‘unavailable’. Referring to the route mentioned by the Deputy Leader, the Director advised that despite perception, the route had been assessed in 2018 and was deemed available. The Director assured Members that, where applicable, routes would be reassessed to ensure the criteria is met.

 

In terms of the review of the Learner Travel Measure, the Director advised that it was concluded that there should be no immediate amendment to the legislation which underpins the learner travel in Wales and it had been acknowledged that the costs for the Local Authorities current statutory responsibilities had increased significantly with no aspect of this changing. The Director advised that, although the final amendments had not been made, the review makes several recommendations to improve the consistency, quality and safety of Learner Travel provision across Wales but assured the Cabinet that none of the recommendations had impact on the recommendations contained within the report before them.

 

In terms of the Director’s comments in respect of the routes, the Leader added that Cabinet were being asked to make a policy decision and that the assessment of the routes would then be undertaken independently. In terms of the anticipated savings relating to the proposal, the Leader advised that figures were based upon current figures, rather than future forecasting figures to enable the most accurate projection; and explained that a definite figure would not be available until the routes had been independently checked and verified. The Leader acknowledged that the saving could be more than anticipated due to inflationary transport costs over the coming years year or that it could be less in the event that some of the walking routes are deemed unavailable.

 

The Service Director of Finance and Improvement Services echoed the Leader’s comments and assured Members that in terms of the costing,  officers would take into consideration the impact of any changes to routes, current contracts in terms of costing and inflation impacts. The Service Director advised that the any changes would be built into the Council’s medium-term financial planning to inform future budget setting processes and stated that any decision would not have an impact of the Council’s 2024-2025 Revenue Budget.

 

The Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Corporate Services thanked the Overview and Scrutiny Committee for its feedback and noted the comments made by Members in respect of the climate change agenda. The Cabinet Member stated that from a carbon reduction perspective, there would be benefit in reducing the number of vehicles on the road.  The Cabinet Member referred to Sections 18.6 to 18.8 within the report, which outlined that the majority of existing vehicles used for home to school transport were far from environmentally friendly and were some of the most polluting vehicles on the Council’s highways. The Cabinet Member noted the potential impact of private vehicle usage increasing but explained that modelling this was not feasible or a prudent use of officer time.

 

The Leader added that it would be impossible to determine the impact in terms of private vehicle usage as individuals may choose to walk, cycle, car share or use public transport, if available.

 

The Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care acknowledged that any decision would bring consequences and impact on families; and echoed the Leader’s earlier comments that it was a position the Cabinet did not want to be in. The Cabinet Member stated that due to the position the Council was in, as a result of funding pressures, all departments had been asked to identify potential savings, which can lead to some difficult decisions having to be made.

 

The Cabinet Member for Development and Prosperity advised that in his own ward, parents had taken it upon themselves to organise their own bus company and agreed that it would be impossible to determine impact on private vehicle usage. Taking into account the comments from the consultation exercise and from Scrutiny Members, the Cabinet Member was of the view that Section 14.2 of the report would be the most balanced in terms of achieving savings whilst reducing potential impacts. This option would be to maintain the Council’s current discretionary distance criteria of providing transport for all primary schools, (English, Welsh, and Faith). Transport whilst provision to all secondary schools and colleges (English, Welsh, and Faith) would change to move in line with the relevant statutory distance criteria as set out in the Measure. The Cabinet Member noted that, if agreed, it would still see RCT offering a more generous eligibility than 18 of the 22 Councils in Wales.

 

The Leader noted that 1 in 5 Councils in England had suggested they would have financial difficulty in the next year with potential section 114 Notices being issued; and explained that in order to make up the funding through Council Tax, the Council would need an additional 8%+ in Council Tax. The Leader noted that Members of the opposition did not provide an alternative budget for consideration and voted against a rise in Council Tax.

 

The Cabinet Member for Public Health and Communities agreed with Councillor S Emanuel’s point about capitalising on the benefits of the new South Wales Metro and working with Transport for Wales to mitigate some of the impacts on secondary school age children in Treorchy and Treherbert, in particular.

 

The Leader added that, if any changes were agreed, he would discuss with Transport for Wales whether there would be opportunities in terms of bus or metro travel to mitigate impacts, where possible. However, the Leader reminded the Cabinet that any decision made today must be based upon the facts before them and not on the assumption that such mitigations would be made in the future.

 

The Cabinet Member for Education, Youth Participation and Welsh Language was in agreement that the preferred option was detailed under section 14.2 of the report, to maintain the Council’s current discretionary distance criteria of providing transport for all primary schools, (English, Welsh, and Faith). Transport provision to all secondary schools and colleges (English, Welsh, and Faith) would change to move in line with the relevant statutory distance criteria as set out in the Measure. The Cabinet Member felt that the option provided some assurance that the effects on Welsh medium education would be mitigated, as far as possible, whilst also recognising that the Cabinet decision could not be based solely on this basis. The Cabinet Member felt that this would be a reasonable approach, based upon the many factors for consideration, and that it should not hinder the ambitions that the Council strives to achieve within its WESP. The Cabinet Member acknowledged that there had been concerns raised around the impact on future parents selecting Welsh medium education, but the Member concluded that the option would mitigate the concerns, minimise the effect on Welsh language learners in particular and would continue to provide the discretionary distance criteria for all primary schools.

 

Referring to comments made by the opposition to maintain the status quo, the Deputy Leader stated that no alternative options to make savings or maintain a balanced budget had been submitted.

 

In terms of safe walking routes, the Deputy Leader was reassured by officers and their professional advice provided based on Welsh Government guidance and took the opportunity to extend her gratitude.

 

The Deputy Leader emphasised that the Council had managed its finances as well as possible, despite outside factors and blamed the UK government for the position in which all Councils had found themselves in.

 

The Deputy Leader was also of the view that 14.2 was the most balanced approach and commented that the Cabinet must take a broad view and examine all of the reasons as to why they must take a decision. The Deputy leader noted that, if agreed, an additional 305 primary school pupils would retain the provision, whilst there would also be a manageable reduction in the savings generated. The Deputy Leader concluded by stating that the Cabinet must take a balanced view upon any proposal and take into consideration a range of factors. As such, the Deputy Leader was satisfied based upon the need to maintain financial stability, taking into consideration the feedback to received, that the option, on balance, would be the correct approach to take.

 

The Leader advised that due regard had been given to all comments made as part of the consultation and by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, as well as the representations made by the speakers at the meeting and the petition received. The Leader also noted that due regard had been given to the comprehensive impact assessments. Although the recommendation had not been formally moved, the Leader acknowledged that the option suggested by Cabinet would reduce the potential savings to the Council but would be a positive step in terms of primary school transport.

 

The Leader echoed the Deputy’s statement and commented that although the decision was not about politics, the economy had crashed and that all public services had been affected by many areas such as energy costs and high inflation as a result of such actions. The Leader stressed that he did not want the Local Authority to be in a position whereby it can only afford to provide statutory provision in its different service areas.

 

The Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure moved the recommendations and specifically the proposal set out in (option 1) 14.2 & 14.3 of the report, which was:

14.2) The first option would be to maintain the Council’s current discretionary distance criteria of providing transport for all primary schools, (English, Welsh, and Faith). Transport provision to all secondary schools and colleges (English, Welsh, and Faith) would change to move in line with the relevant statutory distance criteria as set out in the Measure.

14.3) Whilst the Council would be introducing a change to its secondary school and post-16 eligibility criteria, it would nevertheless continue to provide all other areas of its discretionary transport provision in excess of the current minimum Welsh Government statutory requirement.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To consider the content of the report and outcome of the public consultation, together with the associated Equality and Welsh Language Impact Assessments appended to the report;

2.    To consider, in light of the feedback from the public consultation and analysis of the Equality and Welsh Language Impact Assessments, whether it wishes to amend the proposal as consulted upon, including consideration of alternative options presented within section 14 of the report;

3.    To proceed with implementation of a revised Home to School Transport Policy as follows:

• To maintain the Council’s current discretionary distance criteria of providing Home to School transport for all primary schools (English, Welsh and Faith);

• To change Home to School transport provision to all secondary schools and colleges (English, Welsh and Faith) in line with the relevant statutory distance criteria as set out in the Learner Travel (Wales) Measure 2008;

• To continue to allow a learner to select their nearest suitable school in accordance with choice of English or Welsh Medium language or preferred religious denomination;

• To continue to provide discretionary pre-compulsory school age transport (in line with current discretionary distance criteria) and to provide discretionary post-16 transport (in line with the relevant statutory distance criteria); and

• To continue to provide discretionary Additional Learning Needs transport.

4.    To publish the revised Home to School Transport Policy by 1st October 2024, in accordance with statutory requirements, and for the policy to be implemented for the commencement of the 2025/26 academic year; and

5.    To delegate authority to the Director of Highways, Streetcare and Transportation Services to develop, introduce or amend any operational policies/guidance incidental to the implementation of the revised Home to School Transport Policy.

 

N.B - In terms of comments made by some Elected Members in relation to the conduct of other Elected Members, the Leader advised that the matter would be dealt with outside of the meeting.

 

 

The Director of Highways, Streetcare and Transportation Services set out the detailed capital programme for Highways, Transportation and Strategic Projects.

 

The Leader thanked the Director and noted the expansive capital programme of investment detailed within the report. The Leader was pleased to advise that in addition, notification had been received from Welsh Government of approximately £8M highway funding for larger projects including active travel and road safety; along with approximately £3.5-4M for flood risk management. The Leader was confident that there would be further successful grants through the year, which would be added to the extensive programme.

 

The Cabinet Member for Health & Social Care spoke of the destruction of Storm Dennis within RCT four years ago, which required an unprecedented amount of work to report the Council’s vital infrastructure. The Cabinet Member was of the view that the list of works detailed at Table 5 of the report, was testament to the investment required.

 

The Leader added that it had been four years since the country went into a National lockdown as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic and commended officers for continuing to work on the Storm Dennis infrastructure improvements and repairs through such a difficult period. The Leader commented that due to significant levels of investment and substantial flood risk management funding, the Council would be better placed to face a situation such as Storm Dennis, should it happen again.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To note and approve the Supplementary Capital Programme for Highways, Transportation and Strategic Projects as detailed within the report; and

2.    To note that the current allocations are part of a 3-year capital programme that delegates authority to the Director of Highways, Streetcare and Transportation Services in consultation with the Leader of the Council and the Deputy Chief Executive & Group Director – Finance, Digital & Frontline Services, to extend activity to deliver additional projects during the financial year, where capacity exists for accelerated delivery in accordance with the purpose of the wider programme, or to suspend programmes/projects and reallocate funding to optimise delivery.

 

The Head of Housing Strategy and Investment presented to Cabinet the findings of the Local Housing Market Assessment 2023 – 2028 and sought approval before submitting to Welsh Government and then to publicise the document.

 

The Cabinet Member for Development and Prosperity praised the piece of work, which was based on the outcomes of local data being fed into the Welsh Government modelling programme. The Cabinet Member emphasised the importance of the strategic document, which, in turn, feeds into the Council’s Housing Strategy and the new Local Development Plan preferred strategy, which was currently being consulted upon.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    That Members approve the Local Housing Market Assessment 2023 – 2028 as a key source of evidence to support the delivery of housing policies in the Council’s Corporate Plan, Local Development Plan and Housing Delivery Plan;

2.    That Members approve the Local Housing Market Assessment 2023 – 2028 as a tool to negotiate affordable housing provision on planning applications and to identify how housing need translates to different sizes and types of affordable housing (e.g. social rent and low cost home ownership); and

3.    That Members approve the Local Housing Market Assessment 2022 – 2037 for use to inform funding bids (including Social Housing Grant) and to influence residential development in the County Borough.

 

For information, the Service Director of Democratic Services and Communication provided Cabinet with the feedback and comments of the items that were pre-scrutinised by the Council’s thematic Scrutiny Committee’s following its last Committee cycle.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.   To note the comments and observations of the Scrutiny Committees following pre-scrutiny of the items listed within section 5 of the report.

 

 

The Chief Executive set out a new draft Corporate Plan from 2024/25 – 2029/30. 

 

The Leader took the opportunity to thank officers for the work undertaken to develop the comprehensive draft Corporate Plan. The Leader emphasised the importance of the strategic plan, which is used to shape the Council’s priorities, budget and Capital Programme; and it was acknowledged that a smaller, ‘easy read’ Plan would be developed as a result.

 

The Leader was pleased with the new six-year Plan and explained that there may be additions and changes as and when the Council need to respond to situations.

 

The Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Corporate Services echoed the Leader’s comments and was pleased to note that climate priorities had been embedded throughout the Plan. The Cabinet Member added that the Council’s ambitions outweigh its challenges.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To review the contents of the draft Corporate Plan 2024-30;

2.    To consider the outcome of the consultation and engagement process;

3.    To consider the comments and feedback, following pre-scrutiny by the Council’s Overview & Scrutiny Committee; and

4.    To recommend the draft Corporate Plan to Council for approval at its meeting scheduled for 24^th April 2024.

 

 

The Diversity and Inclusion Manager provided the Cabinet with information on the Council’s Strategic Equality Plan 2024-2028.

 

The Deputy Leader took the opportunity to thank the team for the considerable amount of work involved in producing the Strategic Equality Plan and the Overview and Scrutiny Committee for its comments and feedback, which was attached at Appendix 2 to the report.

 

The Deputy Leader noted that the Plan included all protected characteristics and details in terms of how performance is measured. The Deputy Leader added that the Local Authority had made good progress but that there was room for improvement.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To consider the comments and feedback, following pre-scrutiny by the Council’s Overview & Scrutiny Committee; and

2.    To the content and publication of the Strategic Equality Plan (SEP).

 

The Diversity and Inclusion Manager provided information on the Council’s Annual Equality Report for the year 2022-2023.

 

The Deputy Leader took the opportunity to thank the team for the considerable amount of work involved in producing the Annual Equality Report and was pleased to note that the Council had met the General Equality Duty. The Deputy Leader recognised that equality covers a huge area and has an impact on all the work of the Council.

 

The Deputy Leader also extended her gratitude to the Overview and Scrutiny Committee for its comments and feedback, which was attached at Appendix 2 to the report.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To consider the comments and feedback, following pre-scrutiny by the Council’s Overview & Scrutiny Committee, attached at Appendix 2 to the report; and

2.    To the content and publication of the Annual Equality Report.

 

The Head of Arts, Culture and Library Services provided the Cabinet with information in relation to the Council’s continued commitment to being an Age-Friendly Community and its proposed application to become a member of the World Health Organisations Global Network of Age-Friendly Cities and Communities.

 

The Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care thanked the officer for the report and commented that it evidenced the Council’s continued commitment to becoming an age-friendly community. The Cabinet Member spoke of the vision of the Council, which was to ensure RCT is a great place to grow older and that older residents feel heard, valued and informed.

 

As the Older People’s Champion, the Cabinet Member was pleased to support the Council submitting an application to become a member of the World Health Organisations Global Network of Age-Friendly Cities and Communities.

 

The Deputy Leader echoed the Cabinet Member’s comments and was pleased to support the recommendations contained within the report.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To consider the information within the report and approve the submission of an application to become a member of the World Health Organisations Global Network of Age-Friendly Cities and Communities.

 

The Service Director of Finance and Improvement Services provided the Cabinet with an overview of the Council’s performance, both from a financial and operational perspective, based on the first nine months of this financial year (to the 31st December 2023).

 

The Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Corporate Services recognised the difficult environment which services were operating in; and the cost pressures across the Council, impacted by increased demand and higher level of inflation. However, the Cabinet Member remained reassured by the robust service management arrangements and proactive work across services to address the challenges. The Cabinet Member was particularly pleased to note the significant Capital Programme expenditure, which demonstrated a sustained year on year investment across the Council’s assets and infrastructure.

 

The Leader spoke of the almost £2.5M projected overspend, which was largely down to the £2.7M overspend within social services. The Leader advised that this was an area of huge pressure in almost all Local Authorities and explained that the statutory demands must be met, despite financial pressures.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

 

Revenue

1.    To note and agree the General Fund revenue outturn position of the Council as at the 31st December 2023 (Section 2 of the Executive Summary);

2.    To request that Cabinet approve the virements listed in Sections 2a - e of the Executive Summary that exceed the £0.100M threshold as per the Council's Financial Procedure Rules;

Capital

3.    To note the capital outturn position of the Council as at the 31st December 2023 (Sections 3a – e of the Executive Summary);

4.    To note the details of the Treasury Management Prudential Indicators as at the 31st December 2023 (Section 3f of the Executive Summary); and

Corporate Plan Priorities

5.    To note the Quarter 3 progress updates for the Council’s Corporate Plan priorities (Sections 5 a – c of the Executive Summary) that include updates in respect of the Council’s on-going work to deliver its Climate Change ambitions.

 

 

The Monitoring Officer for the Cardiff Capital Region City Deal presented the report and draft constitution to Members to provide them an opportunity for pre-decision scrutiny of the draft Constitution of the South East Wales Corporate Joint Committee (SEWCJC) prior to consideration by SEWCJC on 18 March 2024. If the arrangements are approved, Regional Cabinet will be asked to formally transfer responsibility for City Deal to the CJC with effective date of 00:01 hours on 1 April 2024

 

Committee Members welcomed the comprehensive report and acknowledged the complexity that the draft CJC Constitution is a significant document, which requires a significant amount of work and effort to produce and acknowledged that there would be a period of transition from the 1^st April whilst the CCRCD “lifts and shifts” to the new CJC model.

 

Members of the Committee welcomed the opportunity to support the transition process and recommended that the JOSC review the constitution periodically as a living, working document to ensure it remains relevant and fit for purpose.

 

The JOSC noted that whilst the CJC is a statutory body, established by legislation, they considered whether there needs to be a specific reference made, that any “winding up” mechanism, would require primary or secondary legislation. 

 

Members acknowledged that the Corporate Joint Committee will continue to be known as the Cardiff Capital Region to continue to build on established reputation, however, a Member considered for the Local Authorities that sit outside of Cardiff, the name Cardiff Capital Region can have a negative reputation amongst residents, with common misconception that funds are being sent to and used only for the benefit of Cardiff.  The Committee therefore recommended that the reference to Cardiff not specifically be referenced to ensure it is reflective of its regional nature.

 

Members of the Committee were reassured that from April, the Corporate Joint Committee will have a published Work Programme improving transparency and accountability, but also to support the JOSC in determining items for their own Work Programme, particularly in identifying matters for pre-scrutiny. 

 

A number of Members emphasised the importance of pre-decision scrutiny to allow for thorough evaluation of options before key decisions are made.  Members therefore recommended that this is explicitly mentioned in the constitution under the role and responsibilities of the JOSC in addition to ensuring there is a clear definition between the role of the Governance and Audit Committee and the JOSC to give a good framework for Members to have a clear understanding of their role. 

 

Whilst Members acknowledged that Budget reporting for the CJC will sit within the Terms of Reference of the Governance and Audit Committee, as a Joint Overview and Scrutiny Committee they felt this should also be considered within their Annual Work Programme.  Members therefore also recommended that there is greater clarity on the role of the deputy members on the JOSC. 

 

Under Article 4.2, referring the Policy Framework, Members were reassured by the Director to hear that whilst Climate Change is not a Statutory Policy duty this is currently under discussion with Welsh Government colleagues to add this as a core statutory duty to address the current Climate crisis.

 

When considering the criteria for a Key Decision, Members reflected that “significant effects” account for where there is an effect on two or more Local Authority areas.  Members recommended amending to include “or a Broad Regional Strategic Impact” as some decisions could sit within one Local Authority area but have a Broad regional impact, Aberthaw Power Station as one example.

 

To ensure equality and a responsibility to those Members and Officers who may have illnesses such as diabetes, Members recommended including a meeting break clause under the Corporate Joint Committee Procedure Rules noting that good meeting practice is a 15 minute break every 90 minutes with an adjournment after 3 hours. Members also recommended having reference to Welsh Government’s Race Equality Action Plan throughout the constitution

 

Following consideration of the item it was RESOLVED to:

 

(1)      Review and consider the draft Constitution of the South East Wales Corporate Joint Committee.

 

(2)      Consider and determine any other matters that members may wish to scrutinise over the coming period.

 

 

The Head of Sports, Leisure and Parks provided Members with an update in relation to the infrastructure and spatial planning for The RCT National Eisteddfod of Wales 2024. 

 

Members were advised that under the direction of a Council Senior Leadership Oversight Board, two Workstream groups, made up of RCT officers and partners, have been established to work directly with the National Eisteddfod to deliver the comprehensive infrastructure and community engagement aspects of the Eisteddfod, which is to be held in Ynysangharad Park on the 3^rd August for 5 days. 

 

The Committee were informed that the Infrastructure Group meets monthly to discuss:

 

•         Highway/Traffic Infrastructure.

•         Transport.

•         Car Parks/Park and Ride.

•         Hospitality.

•         Camping, Tourism.

•         Licensing.

•         Town Centre liaison.

 

The Officer provided Members with further detail in relation to each of the above mentioned aspects, providing current position statements. 

 

Such information included the positioning of the main Eisteddfod Site (Ynysangharad War Memorial Park, Maes B (the National Eisteddfod Youth Fringe Festival - Pontypridd High School Fields) and key park and ride sites such as Hawthorn School site.  For Committee awareness, other non-council locations that are subject to separate private agreements between the National Eisteddfod and the relevant third party were also highlighted within the meeting, which included:

•         Private Land off Berw Road (Caravan and Camping Site)

•         The Muni (Performance and Competition Venue)

•         YMa (Performance and Rehearsal venue)

•         University of South Wales Sites at Glyntaff and Treforest

(Trader   and Staff parking, Park and Ride and Accommodation Offer)

 

Due to the location of the event, and the good public transport links available the RCT Eisteddfod will therefore promote a greener travel message to visitors, and a number of initiatives to promote use of the train network and wider park and ride facilities will be in place.

 

Reference was made to the Pontypridd Spatial Plan and the Officer provided detail of the phased release of parts of the Park in the lead up to the event to provide minimum disruption to service users.

 

 

It was confirmed that the arrangements put in place for the National Eisteddfod would be subject to further scrutiny and approval in due course by the Event Safety Advisory Group (ESAG).

 

The Leader of the Council spoke of the localised disruption that would be witnessed by the event, however spoke of the longer term benefits that would also be witnessed through the hosting of this National Event, commenting on the positive historical and economic impact for the whole of the County Borough.  The Leader referenced the positive engagement with Traders within the Town Centre and surrounding areas, although noted the traffic implications. The Leader commented on the importance to emphasise the use of public transport to access the event, although advised of the ongoing work with highways and traffic control.

 

The Deputy Leader reiterated the positive impact that the event would bring to the County Borough and referenced her disappointment to the negative comments that had been received by some.  The Deputy Leader reaffirmed the focus on hosting the event with minimum disruption to service users and residents in the lead up to the event.

 

The Director for Public Health and Protection and Eisteddfod Lead Officer thanked Members for the positive comments and spoke of the lengthy discussions and work taken forward to date to establish the current position in partnership with the Eisteddfod.  The Officer spoke of the challenges faced, as this was not a typical Eisteddfod location and how these had been overcome.  The officer confirmed that the Committee would be provided with regular updates on the developments taken forward.

 

The Eisteddfod spoke of the importance of partnership working and the role all have to play in the success of the Eisteddfod, with the Eisteddfod, the Council and wider ranging stakeholders such as business community.  The Officer gave thanks for the continued support provided by the Council and also reiterated the need for the Eisteddfod to be sustainable and inclusive. 

 

The Chair thanked all for the work undertaken and the exciting opportunities that lay ahead, commenting on the opportunity to illustrate to other Local Authorities how a Town Centre setting could host such a National Event.

 

Following discussions it was RESOLVED:

 

       i.          To note the content of the report.

      ii.          To approve the use of Council owned (or controlled) land identified in the Infrastructure Plan for use by the National Eisteddfod and delegate authority to the Director of Public Health, Protection and Community Services and the Director of Corporate Estates to ensure appropriate agreements are in place to secure the same.

 

(N.B Due to the need to progress the work needed to be undertaken to deliver on the National Eisteddfod of Wales, including confirmation of infrastructures and spatial planning to ensure appropriate agreements are in place, the Service Director, Democratic Services and Communications confirmed that the decision would be exempt from call in subject to the approval of the Presiding Officer.)

The Head of Community and Welsh Language Services provided Members with an update on the Community Engagement being taken forward by Council Officers in collaboration with National Eisteddfod officers in preparation for the 2024 Eisteddfod in Rhondda Cynon Taf.

 

Members were advised of the significant progress made to date, with preparation work undertaken with the Eisteddfod’s National Lottery Heritage Fund community engagement project, which was continuing to be delivered successfully, providing opportunities to engage with a small number of targeted groups to inform and pilot a new approach to National Eisteddfod engagement in Rhondda Cynon Taf.

 

Two Committees have been established which are seen as the driving force that brings people from across the County together and as a committed group of volunteers, they work closely with the Eisteddfod team, local communities and the Council to organise awareness-raising and fundraising events. Details of the fund-raising Committees were also provided to Members.

 

The Head of Community and Welsh Language Services continued to advise of the Community Engagement and events established to date.  The Officer also stressed the Key messages that the National Eisteddfod needed to be inclusive for everyone in Rhondda Cynon Taf, and the importance of ensuring that people understand there is something for everyone at the National Eisteddfod and that it is not just for people who can speak Welsh.

 

The Committee were advised that Council Officers in partnership with Eisteddfod Officers, have developed a school strategy, highlighting opportunities for Welsh and English medium schools to engage with Eisteddfod preparations. The strategy continues to be developed as new opportunities become available, which in turn will be shared with all primary and secondary schools.

 

The Officer informed Members that Council Officers working with key partners such as Menter Iaith, Helo Blod (Welsh Gov) and Town Centre BIDS, have begun work developing a business toolkit. Included in the toolkit will be further information about the Eisteddfod, resources from Helo Blod and a pamphlet to help local businesses and town users to develop their conversational Welsh skills.

 

It was confirmed that the National Eisteddfod is a charitable organisation and its funding model requires that a contribution to the operating costs of the festival is raised by community fundraising activities in the host local authority area. Members learnt that there is already lots of effort being made by the National Eisteddfod, local communities supported by local members, voluntary groups, to fundraise across the County Borough.

 

The Officer concluded her report by commenting on the National Eisteddfod’s aims in relation to legacy for Rhondda Cynon Taf, which focused on aspects such promotion and increase in the Welsh language and an increase and interest in local culture and heritage.

The Chair thanked the Officer for the report and the work and efforts taken forward to date in respect of the community engagement, with local communities taking forward a sense of ownership in respect of the event.  The Chair commented on the opportunities for all with this National event, commenting on the opportunities for businesses, schools, young people and residents across the County Borough and the need to ensure that the event is as inclusive as possible for all.  The importance of the Legacy was also referenced by the Chair, who spoke of the aspirations to increase the use of the Welsh language within the County Borough.

 

It was RESOLVED:

 

       i.          To note the content of the report.

The Service Director of 21st Century Schools and Transformation provided the Sub-Committee with an overview of progress in the launch and delivery of the RCT Schools Eco Award (Bronze Award), where participating schools are positively contributing to the Council’s Climate Change Strategy.

 

The Chair thanked the Service Director for the report and took the opportunity to speak of previous visits to schools, whereby pupils were engaged and knowledgeable about climate change.

 

The Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure praised the work of the schools and suggested that the Cabinet be invited to future visits alongside the Chair and the Cabinet Member for Education, Youth Participation and Welsh Language. The Cabinet Member was pleased to note that contractors were fully on board with the work of the schools to successfully achieve the Bronze Award.

 

The Cabinet Member for Development and Prosperity acknowledged the huge appetite of all schools for climate change and eco-friendly projects. In relation to the previous report, the Cabinet Member spoke of the use of school pantries run by students to support families with food inflation and the cost-of-living crisis.

 

The Service Director responded to the comments and welcomed Members to visit School Council meetings for the young people to have the opportunity to share their good work in respect of the tackling climate change agenda. The Service Director advised that she would organise future visits.

 

Referring to the comments made about school pantries, the Service Director spoke of the passion in schools to eliminate food waste and the different practices in place to meet those targets, such as recycling food.

 

The Sub-Committee RESOLVED:

1.    To consider the information contained within the report; and

2.    To note any considerations that could be implemented in the Silver Award which will be launched at the beginning of the next academic year (2024/2025).

The Community Programmes Manager provided the Sub-Committee with information on the work undertaken since 2020 in relation to Sustainable Food Places and the planned programme of work for 2024-25.

 

Members’ attention was drawn to sections 6 and 7 of the report, which detailed the significant progress, milestones, and impact of the Sustainable Food Places work.

 

Following RCT Food Partnership’s achievement of the Sustainable Food Places Bronze, the officer informed the Sub-Committee that the next development phase would concentrate effort towards achieving the Silver Award, with the intention to devise a strategy to support future developments longer term.

 

The Chair thanked the officer for the comprehensive report and praised RCT service areas for their close partnership working. The Chair spoke of the RCT Food partnership, which was awarded the Sustainable Food Places Bronze Award on 8th November 2023, the joint-third (alongside Carmarthenshire County Council) Welsh Local Authority to receive the award since the framework was initiated in 2015. The Chair noted that the partnership was a passionate mix of members from community groups, public bodies and food businesses from all around the County and commented on how professionally it was run.

 

The Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure congratulated the team on achieving the Bronze Award and was also pleased to note the partnership work to benefit communities. The Cabinet Member raised concerns in respect of out-of-date food and queried if there was capacity for the Food Co-Ordinator to offer support to smaller foodbanks in terms of stock rotation and the prevention, where possible, of out-of-date food. The officer stated that he would be happy to have a conversation with foodbanks to offer further support as the Cabinet Member suggested. Members were also informed of an active offer through the Community Development Team to provide community training, which could be used to offer a training package alongside the community groups in relation to stock rotation opportunities.

 

The Cabinet Member for Development and Prosperity spoke of the position many found themselves in as a result of the pandemic and praised the vast amount of partnership work undertaken by the Council, businesses, community groups and foodbanks to provide support to those who need it most. The Cabinet Member suggested that the Council promote the work further on its website and the officer explained that a new website was in progress, along with a Community Development quarterly newsletter.

 

The Sub-Committee RESOLVED:

1.    To consider the progress reported, the planned expenditure, and how this contributes to the broader objectives of theCouncils Tackling Climate Change Strategy 2022-2025:‘Think Climate RCT’

 

 

The Director of Corporate Estates and the Head of Energy and Carbon Reduction provided the Climate Change Cabinet Sub-Committee with details of the work underway on the development of renewable energy projects and certain other Carbon Reduction related issues. 

 

The following projects were highlighted to Members, outlining the successes and future works required with key updates being provided from the contents of the report:

-          6MW Solar Farm Installation;

-          Hydro Electricity Prospects;

-          Carbon Reduction Programme;

-          Geo-Thermal Technology;

-          Amgen Developments (Nant y Gwyddon wind turbine and Bryn Pica site); and

-          Local Area Energy Plan (or LAEP).

The Chair spoke positive of the vast amount of work put into each project listed in the report before Members, which would make a significant contribution to the Council achieving its Carbon targets.

 

The Cabinet Member for Development and Prosperity echoed the Chair’s comments, noting the various projects underway and in the pipeline.

 

The Cabinet Member noted from the report that the Council was previously successful in obtaining two grid connections from NG in pursuit of its aspirations to generate renewable energy, the first option for 4.2MW at 11kV and a second for 6MW at 33kV; and that discussions had been underway, for some time, with several developers who have plans to construct wind turbines on land adjoining to that owned by the Council. The Cabinet Member sought further information on the viability of the connections. The Head of Energy and Carbon Reduction advised that the 4.2MW connection in Abergoki had weight loss charges that meant that the project was not viable to the Council and as such, the offer was novated to a ‘national’ developer to enable them to realise the full potential of their adjacent site. The officer advised that the Council had a guaranteed 2.5% stake in the project, with the option of buying back into the scheme in the future. In respect of the 6MW connection and the significant increase in the latest estimate applied by NGED, the officer informed the Sub-Committee that this was a result of cost of living and inflationary pressures in the market. Due to the considerable increase in cost, the potential viability of the project would need to be reassessed and as such, early discussions were underway with a local company looking to develop a windfarm adjacent to the site to establish if there were any partnership opportunities.

 

The Director added that a lot of due diligence and feasibility studies are put into each project, but unfortunately, it sometimes gets to the point where the Council must look at alternative options with the grid connection. The Director explained that the grid connection is applied for as a starting point to ensure a concept could work, but that there is a long waiting list of up to five years for spare capacity. The Director assured the Sub-Committee that the Council would make best use of the grid connections secured with the various projects.

 

The Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure was pleased to note the exciting and innovative projects listed within section 5 of the report and queried if it would be possible to link with schools and community groups to involve young people in some of the projects going forward. The Service Director of 21st Century Schools and Transformation echoed the Cabinet Member’s comment and advised that schools would welcome involvement, particularly with the hydro projects. The officer advised that secondary schools would be particularly active in such projects and that STEM is part of the new curriculum for Wales.

 

One Member questioned where, if any, the spare grid capacity in RCT was located, to which the Director confirmed there was none available. It was explained that the Council could currently only apply and get confirmation of anything under 1MW, which was where the smaller scale hydro schemes were of benefit.

 

The Member also questioned if the solar farm in Tyla Garw, Pontyclun had been included in RCT’s offset of carbon. The Director informed the Member that Tyla Garw might be accounted for as part of the Local Area Energy Plan for the County Borough rather than the Council.

 

The Sub-Committee RESOLVED:

1.    To note the contents of the update report as part of the ongoing work of the Climate Change Cabinet Sub-Committee; and

2.    To agree to receive further reports during 2024 and 2025, providing updates on progress within key areas.

 

The Head of Procurement provided Members with an update on the Council’s compliance with the Environmental Protection (Single-use Plastic Products) (Wales) Act 2023.

 

Members were provided with information in respect of the Environmental Protection (Single-use Plastic Products) (Wales) Act 2023, which became law in Wales during 2023. The Act makes it a criminal offence to supply or offer to supply (including for free) certain single-use plastic products to consumers in Wales. It was explained that the law bans the sale or supply of certain single-use plastic products in Wales, unless an exemption applies (details of the exemptions are provided with the Statutory Guidance supporting the Act). Any organisation that does not comply with the Act will be committing a criminal offence and will be subject to a financial penalty.

 

The officer assured the Sub-Committee that all items listed within ‘Phase 1’ of the legislation were removed during 2020 and that exceptions were in place such as plastic straws, but the criteria adhered to the Act. The officer continued, explaining that over and above those items listed in ‘Phase 1’ of the Act, the Council had endeavoured to remove as many single use items (not just plastic) from its services as possible.

 

The Chair thanked the officer for the report and was pleased to note that the Council was well prepared and would not be impacted by the introduction of the ban on products due to work already undertaken by the Procurement Service over the past three years.

 

The Cabinet Member for Development and Prosperity praised the officers for being a step ahead and undertaking such importance work prior to the establishment of the Environmental Protection (Single-use Plastic Products) (Wales) Act 2023 became law in Wales during 2023.

 

The Cabinet Member noted from the report that the Facilities Cleaning Service had trialled the use of disposable pods, as an alternative to the 750ml single-use plastic cleaning bottles and asked for further detail on the outcome of the trial. The officer explained that by using the disposable pods, the Council were cutting down on the use of large plastic bottles. The officer advised that the way of working had quickly been implemented by staff and that the positive feedback was being used as part of the tender.

 

The Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure thanked the officers for their work and felt that the work would evidence to young people that the Council were leading by example.

 

The Sub-Committee RESOLVED:

1. To review the content of the report and be satisfied that the Council complies with the Act;

2. To note the Council’s upcoming work to ensure compliance with future phases of the legislation; and

3. To note the work that is progressing to reduce other single-use items that are not specifically listed within the Act.

 

For information, the Service Director of Democratic Services and Communication provided Cabinet with the feedback and comments of the items that were pre-scrutinised by the Council’s thematic Scrutiny Committee’s following its last Committee cycle.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.   To note the comments and observations of the Scrutiny Committees following pre-scrutiny of the items listed within section 5 of the report.

 

The Chief Executive presented the report, which sought Cabinet approval of the revised Corporate Safeguarding Policy.

 

The Leader emphasised the importance of the document and was happy to agree to the recommendations contained within the report.

 

The Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care took thanked the Chief Executive for the all-encompassing policy document and also took the opportunity to thank the Council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee, which undertook pre-scrutiny to of the arrangements at its meeting on the 29th January 2024.

 

The Cabinet Member emphasised the importance of safeguarding both children and adults from harm and neglect and welcomed the recommendations before Members.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To note the information contained in the report;

2.    To note the feedback provided by the Overview & Scrutiny Committee which met on 29^th January 2024; and

3.    To approve the new Corporate Safeguarding Policy, presented at Appendix I to the report.

 

The Director of Legal and Democratic Services provided Cabinet with the report, which enabled them to review the Council’s use of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 (as amended) (RIPA) for the period 1^st January to 31^st December 2023; and the Council’s use of the Acquisition of Communications Data under the Investigatory Powers Act 2016 (IPA) for the same period.

 

The Deputy Leader noted that the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 covered a wide range of Council services, including the licensing regime. The Deputy Leader emphasised the importance of using the powers in an appropriate manner and was satisfied from the update that it had been.

 

In terms of the increase in social media monitoring, the Deputy Leader felt that this was indicative of how individuals lead their lives.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To note the content of the report; and

2.   To acknowledge that investigatory powers in respect of covert surveillance and acquisition of communications data have been used in an appropriate manner that is consistent with the Council’s RIPA and IPA policies during the period 1^st January – 31^st December 2023.

 

 

The Head of Revenue and Benefits provided Cabinet with details of the Welsh Government Non-Domestic Rates (NDR) – Retail, Leisure and Hospitality Rate Relief (RLH) Scheme for 2024/25; details of the Council’s local business rate reduction scheme; and details of new Non-Domestic Rate reliefs available to qualifying business rate payers from 1^st April 2024.

 

The Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Corporate Services welcomed the recommendations contained within the report, recognising the pledge to businesses within the Council’s Corporate Plan. The Cabinet Member commented that the adoption of Welsh Government’s RLH Scheme and the local discretionary scheme would further provide much needed financial support for businesses throughout RCT.

 

The Leader was pleased to note that the local business rate relief scheme would continue to provide financial support for the smaller town centre businesses and explained that RCT were one of the only Local Authorities in Wales to establish such a scheme.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.             To note the details of the Welsh Government (WG) RLH Scheme and formally adopt the scheme for the year 2024/25;

2.             To note the continuation of the proposed local Business Rate Reduction Scheme for 2024/25; and

3.             To note the new Non-Domestic Rate reliefs available to qualifying business rate payers from 1^st April 2024.

 

The Deputy Chief Executive and Group Director of Finance, Digital and Frontline Services provided Cabinet with a proposed three year capital programme for 2024/25 to 2026/27 that if acceptable, would be presented to Council for approval.

 

The Leader thanked the Deputy Chief Executive for presenting the report.

 

The Leader referenced the additional £19.292M of substantial funding listed in Section 6.2 of the report and explained that the investment priorities are linked to either the Council’s Corporate Plan or the Cabinet’s manifesto commitments. The Leader clarified that the figure was in addition to the wider capital programme, which included millions of pounds of investment for regeneration, housing grants and schools etc. The Leader added that, if successful, the pending bids that had been submitted to Welsh Government would be added to the Capital Programme.

 

The Leader drew attention to the investment in the Coed Ely Solar Farm, which would allow the Council to generate its own renewable energy and reduce future energy costs; and the Hawthorn Hockey Pitch, which had been a previous commitment.

 

The Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Corporate Services praised the Southern Gateway development at Pontypridd and commented that it would make a positive difference within the town centre by enabling footfall for businesses from the North to the South.

 

The Deputy Leader, as the Armed Forces Champion, took the opportunity to thank the Leader for the support given to the families of veterans. The Deputy Leader spoke of the inclusion of £100,000 towards the digitalisation of war memorials, which was the first project of its kind in the Country and would involve schools, groups and communities. The Deputy Leader recognised that she was one of the only Armed Forces Champions with a working budget and stated that it was greatly appreciated by the armed forces community.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To propose the attached three-year capital programme at Appendix A of the report to Council on 6^th March 2024 which includes:

 -       A proposed allocation of resources as detailed in paragraph 5 of the attached report;

-       Proposed investment priorities as detailed in paragraph 6.2 of the attached report;

-    The Council’s core capital programme;

-       The Council’s total capital programme including additional non core   funding.

 

2.    To authorise the Deputy Chief Executive & Group Director – Finance, Digital & Frontline Services to amend the level of Council Resources required to fund the Core Three Year Capital Programme as shown at Appendix 2 of the report as a consequence of any change to the Council’s capital resource levels announced in the Final Local Government Settlement.

 

The Deputy Chief Executive and Group Director of Finance, Digital and Frontline Services provided Cabinet with the opportunity to consider and amend as necessary the draft budget strategy which they would wish to recommend to Council.

 

The Leader thanked the Deputy Chief Executive for the report.

 

Although the Leader welcomed the additional £25M for Local Governments in Wales, he explained that English councils needed an additional £1.5B for pressures but only £600M was announced and of the £600M, just £500M of that was new money. Consequently, only £25M was given to Wales.

 

The Leader admitted that of all the years he had been in his role, this had been the most challenging budget gap faced due to pay pressures, service pressures and inflation; and at a time where there is no increase in RSG funding. The Leader was of the view that the proposed 2024/25 Revenue Budget was the best it could be in such a challenging time and noted that it was favourable in comparison to other Local Authorities, where Council Tax rises were in the range of 7/8% with some over 10%.

 

The Leader noted that the proposed council tax rise for RCT was 4.9% but moved that it be amended to 4.99% and explained that the additional 0.9% would help with public transport pressures.

 

The Leader referred to the base budget increase for schools, which was 6.4% and proposed that a further £500,000 of additional one-off funding is allocated to Schools, which would help with the costs faced by schools.

 

The Deputy Leader was in support of the Leader’s amendments to the recommendations contained within the report. The Deputy Leader praised the sound financial management of the Council which had enabled the proposal of one of the lowest council tax rises in Wales. Referring to the consultation responses, the Deputy Leader felt that the dire financial position of local authorities had been recognised amongst the communities.

 

The Deputy Leader stated that the Local Authority has no remit over the presets of the Community Councils but advised that the Council had been approached by several of the community councils to look at join working arrangements, which could be beneficial in the future.

 

The Cabinet Member for Development and Prosperity wished to place on record his thanks to the Senior Finance Officers for bringing forward a positive budget proposal; and welcomed the additional one-off payment towards schools.

 

The Cabinet Member for Education, Youth Participation and Welsh Language echoed previous comments and was supportive of the Leader’s additional recommendation in relation to support for schools. The Cabinet Member stated that as a Cabinet, Members has always sought to financially protect schools, where possible. The Cabinet Member felt that this would further support schools, along with the Local Authority’s commitment to fund the increase in pay costs, which had not been funded by Welsh Government.

 

Upon concluding his comments, the Cabinet Member took the opportunity to thank the School Leaders and recognised that it was a particularly challenging time for schools.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.     To the Budget Strategy which they wish to recommend to Council on the 6th March 2024;

2.     To amend the proposed Council Tax increase for 2024/25 to 4.99% to support public transport provision and determine that this level forms part of the Cabinet’s Budget Strategy to be presented to Council on 6th March 2024; 

3.     To allocate £500,000 of additional one-off funding to Schools and determine that this forms part of the Cabinet’s Budget Strategy to be presented to Council on 6th March 2024; and

4.     That the Deputy Chief Executive and Group Director of Finance, Digital and Frontline Services be authorised to amend the final budget consequential to the receipt of the Final Settlement as set out in Section 4 of the report.

 

For information, the Service Director of Democratic Services and Communication provided Cabinet with the feedback and comments of the items that were pre-scrutinised by the Council’s thematic Scrutiny Committee’s following its last Committee cycle.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.   To note the comments and observations of the Scrutiny Committees following pre-scrutiny of the items listed within section 5 of the report.

 

The Head of Flood Risk Management and Strategic Projects advised members on the outcome of the statutory public consultation on the revised Local Flood Risk Management Strategy (LFRMS) and Action Plan (formerly known as a Flood Risk Management Plan), as required under Section 10 of the Flood and Water Management Act (FWMA) 2010.

 

The Leader acknowledged that a huge amount of work had been put into developing the revised strategy and action plan. The Leader commended the detailed plan and advised that it would put the Local Authority in a good position going forward with regards to future bids and capital funding from Welsh Government. However, the Leader explained that the plan clearly demonstrated that RCT is at the highest risk of surface flooding in Wales and as such, there was a need to continue to invest in flood resilience and to work with households and businesses.

 

The Director of Highways, Streetcare and Transportation Services wished to place on record his thanks to the team for the work undertaken in producing the documents before Members. The Director commented that he felt the investment had started to pay dividends and that the team were undertaking a risk based approach.

 

The Deputy Leader took the opportunity to thank the Service Director of Democratic Services and Communication for the letter to Cabinet, which outlined the comments of the Council’s Climate Change, Frontline Services and Prosperity Scrutiny Committee following consideration of the Authority’s Revised Local Flood Risk Management Strategy and Action Plan at its meeting held on 18^th January 2024. The Deputy Leader also extended her gratitude to the officers for their work in putting together the revised strategy and action plan before Members.

 

The Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure welcomed the report and the comments made by the Scrutiny Committee. The Cabinet Member agreed that a glossary of terms and abbreviations would be beneficial going forward.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To note the results and the review of the statutory public consultation on the draft LFRMS and Action Plan, which was presented to the Climate Change, Frontline Services & Prosperity Scrutiny Committee on 22^nd November 2023 as per the programme of work which was agreed by Cabinet on 15^th May 2023;

2.    To note the feedback from the Climate and Frontline Services Committee which met on 18th January 2024, which will be provided by the Service Director of Democratic Services and Communication;

3.    That the Local Flood Risk Management Strategy and Action Plan is adopted by the Authority; and

4.    That the Local Flood Risk Management Strategy, and accompanying environmental assessment, are submitted to the Welsh Government for Ministerial approval.

 

The Director of Education and Inclusion Services advised Cabinet on the outcome of the recent consultation in respect of a proposal to introduce a charge for the additional childcare element, which is available prior to the commencement of free breakfast club provision in primary and special schools in Rhondda Cynon Taf, noting eligible Free School Meal (eFSM) pupils would be exempt from any charge.

 

The Cabinet Member for Education, Youth Participation and Welsh Language thanked the officers for the report and thanked the respondents to the consultation.

 

The Cabinet Member recognised that the Cabinet were considering the proposal because of the significant financial challenges faced by the Council. The Cabinet Member noted that the proposals before the Committee would maintain access to a free breakfast for all pupils; and that any additional income to be generated would be ring fenced and reinvested back into school budgets as part of the Council’s proposed 2024/25 Revenue Budget Strategy.

The Cabinet Member was pleased to note that eFSM pupils would be exempt from the proposed charge and emphasised that the most vulnerable in the community would be protected if Cabinet were to agree to the recommendations. The Cabinet Member also welcomed the recommendation in response to the consultation to agree a further category of concession whereby parents/carers would only pay for the first two children of primary age, living in the same household, accessing the provision.

In respect of the consultation responses, the Cabinet Member noted the strong feedback in respect of many parents/carers’ circumstances, whereby they may wish to access the childcare element, pre-the school day, for part of the working week only. The Cabinet Member questioned if it would be feasible to introduce a second option as part of the proposal, which would be a second charge for up to three days only. The Cabinet Member sought advice from the Director and if feasible, stated that he would be minded to propose an addition is made to recommendation 2.2, subject to comments of other Cabinet Members. The Director echoed the Cabinet Member’s comment that this was an emerging theme from the consultation responses and advised that the suggestion could be explored if Members were in agreement.  

The Deputy Leader took the opportunity to thank the Overview & Scrutiny Committee for its comments and feedback in respect of the proposals. In terms of the consultation, the Deputy Leader recognised the concerns expressed by parents through the consultation process, in respect of the additional financial cost that the proposal would introduce. The Deputy Leader explained that this was an area of support provided above what was originally intended, when free school breakfasts were introduced, and an area where a charge is already applied by a number of Local Authorities. It was noted that other Local Authorities, due to the decrease in Public Sector funding, were also currently consulting upon such proposals. The Deputy Leader was of the view that in comparison to the charges for child care, the cost proposed was reasonable.

 

The Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure acknowledged the difficult decision faced by the Cabinet but stated that it was necessary in the current financial circumstances. The Cabinet Member questioned how the Council would ensure consistency as part of any implementation and access to the same level, or time, or childcare for the £1 charge.

The Director advised that officers would work with schools and partners due to the variations within the current breakfast clubs offer, in terms of the start and finish times. The Director recognised that, if approved by Cabinet, the offer would need to be equitable across the system.

The Leader commented that the consultation had demonstrated that the price cap for the first two children of primary age, living in the same household, accessing the provision, was the correct way forward. Similarly, the Leader noted that those eligible for FSM under the old criteria would be exempt from the charge was also welcomed in the consultation.  

In terms of the amendment to recommendation 2.2 as proposed by the Cabinet Member for Education, Youth Participation and Welsh Language, the Leader was in support of a two-tiered charging system and suggested an option for parents/carers to access the provision for up to three days per week only at a term time fee of £40. The Leader acknowledged that it would be too difficult to offer a daily charge but felt the two-tiered approach would be fairer in response to the consultation feedback.

Members were content with the amendment to recommendation 2.2 of the report and the Service Director of Democratic Services and Communication confirmed the following wording:

-       2.2 - To the preferred fee of £1 per day, rounded down to £60 per term, for the additional childcare element, which is available prior to the commencement of free breakfast club provision, to be implemented from the start of the spring term 2024 or as soon as is practicable thereafter; and to confirm the ability to access this provision for up to three days per week only, at a term time fee of £40.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To note the information contained within the attached Consultation Report, which includes feedback received from the online surveys, emails and letters, the minutes of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee on 13^th December 2023 and the frequently asked questions posted on the Council’s website;

2.    To the preferred fee of £1 per day, rounded down to £60 per term, for the additional childcare element, which is available prior to the commencement of free breakfast club provision, to be implemented from the start of the spring term 2024 or as soon as is practicable thereafter; and to confirm the ability to access this provision for up to three days per week only, at a term time fee of £40;

3.    That eFSM pupils should be exempt from the proposed charge and agree a further category of concession whereby parents/carers would only pay for the first two children of primary age, living in the same household, accessing the provision; 

4.    That the additional income to be generated is ring fenced and reinvested back into school budgets as part of the Council’s proposed 2024/25 Revenue Budget Strategy; and

5.    To delegate authority to the Director of Education and Inclusion Services to undertake and conclude the necessary actions to implement the decision of Cabinet.

 

The Director of Prosperity and Development sought approval to amend the criteria and financial thresholds of the Welsh Church Act Fund in order to ensure a greater positive impact for local communities and maximise take up of the Fund.

 

The Cabinet Member for Development and Prosperity spoke positive of the content of the report and of having the opportunity to revise the current threshold. The Cabinet Member acknowledged that the fund already provided support to many local community groups and was of the view that the proposals would build upon that support, by making it more flexible.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To the revised criteria outlined in paragraphs 7.2 – 7.4 of the report for formal consultation with Bridgend and Merthyr Councils; and

2.    That subject to no objections from Bridgend and Merthyr Councils, the new arrangements are implemented.

 

The Director of Education and Inclusion Services advised Members of the outcome of the recent publication of a Statutory Notice in respect of the proposal to open a new 3 to 19 special school in Rhondda Cynon Taf (RCT) and introduce catchment areas for all 3 to 19 special schools across RCT.

 

The Cabinet Member for Education, Youth Participation and Welsh Language was pleased to note that there were no objections to the proposed new 3 to 19 special school and the introduction of catchment areas for all 3 to 19 special schools across RCT.

 

The Cabinet Member acknowledged the acute pressures faced by the Local Authority with regard to special school placements and welcomed the proposals before Members. The Cabinet Member concluded by stating that he looked forward to receiving a future Treasury Management report to the Council and the outcome of the bid for Welsh Government funding.

 

The Deputy Leader echoed the Cabinet Member’s comments and welcomed the next steps in the process.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.  To note that no objections or comments were received in response to the publication of the Statutory Notice to progress the proposal;

2.    To implement the proposal with no amendments; and

3.    That an update to the Council’s borrowing envelope is included in a future Treasury Management report to Council when costs are known and Welsh Government funding is secured.

 

 

The Service Director of Finance and Improvement Services set out:

·       The proposed revisions to Council fees and charges levels for the 2024/25 financial year to be consulted on as part of phase 2 of the 2024/25 budget consultation process (with the proposed revisions to be effective from 1^st April 2024 or as soon as is practicable thereafter);

·       Details of fees and charges decisions previously approved and to be included in the 2024/25 proposed Budget Strategy; and 

·       A proposed update to the Council’s Street Trade License Scheme and proposed arrangements around the implementation of future changes to the maximum level of weekly charge for non-residential care services, as determined by Welsh Government.

 

The Leader thanked the Service Director for the report and commented that the proposed fees and charges detailed before the Committee were relatively fair. The Leader explained that in some areas, they had sought to ensure the full cost was not passed on. As an example, the Leader noted that the approximate 14% general increase in food costs would see the current cost of school dinners increase by around 30-35p, but the proposed increase was 15p. In respect of car parking costs, the Leader advised that there had been lobbying from the public for the Council to introduce card payments, but in order to balance the cost of the new offer, a small increase of 10p had been proposed. In relation the proposed 25p Lido booking fee, the Leader advised that with each booking, there is a transactional fee for the Council but when thousands of individuals book and fail to attend, the Council were incurring a charge. The Leader advised that the 25p fee would offset the charge going forward.

 

The Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Corporate Services was pleased to note that 82.3% of respondents to phase one of the consultation were in agreement with the approach the Council takes to introducing fees. The Cabinet Member was pleased with the balanced approach to fees and charges, which she was of the view, took into consideration the financial situation of residents.  

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1. To consider proposed revisions to Council fees and charges for the 2024/25 financial year along with new proposed charges;

2.    For the fees and charges proposals (as set out at paragraphs 5.3.1 to 5.3.21 of the report) to be consulted on through phase 2 of the Council’s 2024/25 Budget Consultation process and reported back to Cabinet for consideration as part of formulating a recommended Budget Strategy for 2024/25;

3.    To note the fees and charges decisions previously approved and to be included in the 2024/25 proposed Budget Strategy (paragraph 5.10 / Table 2 of the report);

4.    To note the proposed update to the Council’s Street Trade License Scheme to be considered by the Council’s Licensing Committee on 30^th January 2024 and, subject to the Committee’s approval, for the estimated additional income generated to be incorporated within the Council’s proposed 2024/25 Revenue Budget Strategy; and

5.    To note Welsh Government’s responsibility in setting the maximum level of weekly charge for non-residential care services and approve that future revisions to maximum weekly charge levels are implemented by the Council in line with Welsh Government guidance.

 

The Deputy Chief Executive and Group Director of Finance, Digital and Frontline Services provided Cabinet with information in respect of the 2024/25 local government settlement and the outcomes of the budget consultation phase 1 exercise, to assist with its deliberations in formulating the revenue budget strategy for the financial year 2024/25, which it will recommend to Council, for approval.

 

The Leader thanked the Group Director for the report and admitted that the budget round has been the most difficult since he had been Council Leader in terms of pressures on services, high utility costs and cost of living pressures. The Leader felt that the budget proposed to Members was reasonable given the aforementioned difficulties faced by both the Council and households. It was noted that all statutory services had been maintained, and in many cases, well above the provision.

 

Whilst acknowledging that a rise in council tax was not ideal, the Leader was of the view that the proposal was reasonable in order to maintain valuable social care and education provision within the Borough.

 

The Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Corporate Services echoed the Leader’s comments and felt that the consultation had highlighted that the majority of the public recognised the financial pressures placed upon the Council.

 

The Deputy Leader took the opportunity to thank the consultation respondents and noted that 75.6% agreed to protecting services at current levels with a reasonable increase in council tax. The Deputy Leader also noted the proposed council tax increase would still make RCT one of the lowest in Wales.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.  To note that the procedures relating to revenue budget construction, the budget consultation process, and reporting to Council, are set out in the “Budget and Policy Framework” within the Council’s Constitution;

2.    To note and consider the outcomes of the budget consultation phase 1 process;

3.    To review and consider the draft 2024/25 Revenue Budget Strategy;

4.    To consider and determine the level of Council Tax increase for 2024/25 which it would wish to build into the strategy to form the basis upon which a second phase of consultation will take place;

5.    The draft timetable for setting the 2024/25 revenue budget as set out at Appendix A2 of the report;

6.    To receive feedback from the second phase of budget consultation in order to consider and determine the final budget strategy for submission to Council; and

7.    That the Council continues to support the medium term financial strategy aimed at maximising ongoing efficiency in service delivery, targeted service transformation and other changes that maintain the financial integrity of the Council whilst still aiming as much as possible to protect jobs and key services.

 

The Director of Corporate Estates and the Head of Carbon Reduction Officer presented the report to Members and provided an update on progress made in the field of Electric Vehicle Charging, within Council Assets, in working towards to the Council’s publicly stated EV charging goals. The Director also provided Members with a Power Point presentation in respect of EV Charging points throughout the County Borough.

 

The Chair praised the amount of data in the report and noted that some EV Charging points are used very little and that data can help us with the roll out of EV Charging and knowing where to go with it.

 

Discussions ensued and a Member noted how good it was to see the amount of EV Charging coverage throughout RCT. The Member queried if EV Charging will be put in the Coed Ely Solar Farm once its up and running and also asked if we have mapping of third party providers. The Director of Corporate Estates acknowledged that there are gaps in Coed Ely but advised Members that the team are already working on this. The Director advised that there is a Zap Map available and that’s a map all third party providers are on. You can also use the Zap map to check if the EV Charging points are functioning. RCT’s data in respect of EV Charging is also uploaded to the Zap Map. Another Member queried if it would be possible in future meetings to have a breakdown of EV Charging and usage. The Head of Carbon Reduction confirmed that we have this data already and when it goes public we will have public data as well. With regards to the CCR Transport Authority, the Head of Carbon Reduction has confirmed that he has asked for data but that it has not been forthcoming as yet. The Chair advised that if this remains the case, we could write to them as a Committee asking for that data.

 

Following discussion, Members AGREED:

 

To note the contents of this report, and an accompanying presentation, as part of the ongoing work in response to the Council’s EV charging ambitions set by the Climate Change Strategy and the EV Charging Strategy and Implementation Plan; and

2.    To receive further report(s) to provide updates on progress as/when deemed appropriate.

 

The Head of Energy Carbon Reduction presented his report to Members and provided a further update to Members with regards to the work underway in the development of a ‘Land Based Solar Farm’, to be located on Council owned land located at Coed Ely, on an 84-acre 'terraced' former colliery site, near Tonyrefail. The facility will, when constructed, be an asset owned by Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council.

 

Discussions ensued and a Member praised the report and noted how user friendly it was. The Member also congratulated Officer on getting the grant funding.

 

Following discussion, Members AGREED:

 

1.     To note the contents of this report as part of the ongoing work in response to our climate change ambitions and agree to the further progress of the project proposals, in line with the contents of this report.

 

2.     To receive further report(s) to provide updates on progress as/when deemed appropriate.

 

The Performance Manager presented the ‘Think Climate RCT: The Council’s Tackling Climate Change Strategy 2022-2025’ Quarter 2 to Members.

 

The Chair welcomed the report and noted that it was very positive to see more about procurement. The Chair referenced the School Eco Awards and queried how many schools have applied to have their Bronze award. The Performance Manager confirmed that to date there are currently 19 schools already signed up. The Chair was pleased to hear this and emphasised the importance of involving our school children. The Vice Chair also praised this work and thanked the Officers for such a detailed report.

 

Discussions continued and praised the work behind the scenes. The Member referenced page 14 and queried if there had been any funding update on the phase two innovation project from Cwm Taf Morgannwg. The Member also welcomed the amount of people who are coming forward to obtain grants to improve their properties and commented that this was inspiring to see. The Performance Manager noted that further detail on the grants funding will be included in the Quarter three update after Christmas.   

 

Following discussion, Members RESOLVED: :

 

1. To consider the information contained within the report;

2.    To take a view on the potential areas for further consideration as part of the Sub Committee’s Work Programme; and

3.    To note the work to progress and further embed the Council’s response to Climate Change into the business of the Council as part of the development of the Council’s new Corporate Plan.

 

 

The Principal Carbon Reduction Officer presented the report to Members and provided an update to the Climate Change Cabinet Sub-Committee with regards to the Welsh Public Sector Net Zero Carbon (NZC) Reporting Scheme and Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s submission under that regime for the Financial Year 2022/23.

 

The Chair praised the report and noted how pleased she was to see that we keep 23% of our supply chain. The Chair welcomed questions from Members.

 

Discussions ensued and a Member referred to 5.8 and noted that we can’t use some of the data o offset our carbon emissions. The Member queried why this was the case. The Principal Carbon Reduction Officer advised that the reporting mechanism was established by the Welsh Government and they feel that we already benefit from any new electricity that we generate so that using it to offset our carbon emissions would be a double benefit. There are discussions going on between Welsh Government and Scheme Participants to recognise a new way of marking the renewable energy that we generate. The Chair asked for any updates on this to be fed back to the Committee.

 

Discussions continued and a Member praised that there has been an overall reduction across the Board. The Member noted how much hard work has gone on in the background in respect of our supply chain and informing suppliers how to reduce their carbon footprint and in turn to reduce our own carbon footprint. The Member praised the Officers for this hard work. The Chair advised Members that she has met with individual staff and apprentices/grafuates on the team and that they will be invited to a future meeting date and advised that she has personally thanked the team.

 

Another Member praised the report and noted that the service changes made by Cabinet over the years has shown that it can be joined up with decarbonisation.

 

Following discussion, it was AGREED:

 

1. To note the contents of this report as part of the ongoing work under the remit of the Climate Change Cabinet Sub Committee;

2.    To publish the data on the Council’s Carbon Footprint Dashboard; and

3.    To receive further reports providing additional updates on progress as / when deemed appropriate.

 

The Director of Social Services made recommendations with regards to the future delivery of the Council’s day services for older people.

 

The Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care thanked the Director for the comprehensive report and thanked the Community Services Scrutiny Committee for its observations and comments.

 

The Cabinet Member took the opportunity to emphasise that there was a strong rationale behind the proposed changes and stated that the proposals would deliver positive benefits for service users. The Cabinet Member noted that most clients were not from the locality of individual locations.

 

Prior to speaker submissions, the Deputy Leader took the opportunity to speak of a recent visit undertaken by herself and the Leader to Cwrt yr Orsaf Extra Care in Pontypridd, following concerns raised. The Deputy Leader spoke positive of her visit and the vast amount of modernised facilities available to service users, such as a large restaurant, beauty salon, cinema room and large garden. Furthermore, the Deputy Leader spoke of the wider facilities in Pontypridd, available to users, such as Ynysangharad Park.

 

With the agreement of the Leader, the following Non-Committee Member was granted permission to address the Cabinet:

·       County Borough Councillor D Grehan

 

With the agreement of the Leader, the following Trade Union representative was granted permission to address the Cabinet:

·       Mr C Jones – GMB

 

Note: Prior to the meeting, correspondence from GMB was circulated to Cabinet Members for consideration by the Service Director of Democratic Services and Communication.

 

The Leader thanked the speakers for their contributions. In terms of concerns raised around the shared access to some of the facilities, the Leader spoke positive of the large space and advised that there were also dedicated rooms available to clients. In terms of the facilities, the Leader confirmed that the design meets the specification for the type of facility and explained that it was designed to be a shared use for clients within the facility and to provide other clients with support. The Leader took on board the concerns of the Trade Union representative and commented that he would be happy to meet outside of the meeting to discuss matters further.

 

The Director of Social Services advised that Practice Solutions were initially commissioned to undertake a review of the day services and residential model and it was recommended that a new service model is implemented. The Director acknowledged that positive comments were made in respect of Tonyrefail but circumstances had changed since 2019. The Director spoke of the pandemic but also recognised that facilities had since been developed at Cwrt yr Orsaf; and was of the view that it would meet the needs of the service users of Tonyrefail.

 

In terms of concerns around the space available, the Director spoke of the importance of socialisation and integration of individuals and advised that the facility would provide them with the opportunity to integrate with other individuals, often with the same level of needs. 

 

In terms of concerns raised around the wet room facilities, the Director advised that within Cwrt Yr Orsaf, there was a dedicated ceiling hoist available, which was not available at the Tonyrefail facility. The Director advised that the addition would support individuals with higher accessibility demands. It was acknowledged that there were fewer toilet facilities within Cwrt Yr Orsaf, but based on the needs of individuals, the Director was confident the facility would meet the needs. The Director emphasised the importance of ensuring dignity and care for all service users of the facility.

 

In terms of concerns raised in respect of the elevator, the Director did not believe this to be a barrier for the service users and felt that the suitability of the building was fit for purpose.

 

In terms of concerns raised in respect of transport, the Director noted that approximately 42% of individuals would benefit in terms of travel time. The Director assured Members that all routes would be considered to ensure individuals spend as little time on public transport as possible but recognised that many individuals enjoy the journey.

 

The Leader clarified that although 42% of individuals would have a shorter journey as a result of the proposals, the journeys would be significantly shorter, whereas for those individuals with longer journeys as a result of the proposals, the journeys would not be significantly longer in time. The Leader felt that in terms of transport, the proposals were on balance.

 

The Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care thanked all participants for their comments. The Cabinet Member acknowledged that since the pandemic, there had been a decline in use of traditional services and believed that the modern settings would provide greater opportunities for service users, with no loss of service provision. The Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care felt that the proposals before Members would assist in tackling loneliness and better support the health and wellbeing of individuals.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.   To consider the information provided in this report, the Equality Impact Assessment (including Socio-Economic Duty) and Welsh Language Impact Assessment;

2.   To approve that Trecynon Day Centre and Cwmni Dda Day Centre are combined by March 2024, and future provision is provided from Cwmni Dda as set out in paragraph 5.2 of the report; and

3.    To approve that the day service provision provided from Tonyrefail Day Centre is transferred on a phased basis to Cwrt yr Orsaf Extra Care in Pontypridd by March 2024 as set out in paragraph 5.6 of the report.

 

The Service Director of Democratic Services and Communication provided Cabinet with the feedback and comments of the items that were pre-scrutinised by the Council’s thematic Scrutiny Committee’s following its last Committee cycle.

 

The Service Director drew Members’ attention to section 5 of the report, which outlined the following items that had been pre-scrutinised in line with the Committee’s Terms of reference:

·       Proposal to declare a new additional Licensing Scheme for Houses in Multiple Occupation in 2024 – Community Services Scrutiny Committee; and

·       Day Services for Older People - Community Services Scrutiny Committee.

 

The Deputy Leader took the opportunity to thank the Scrutiny Committee for the comments and observations and welcomed the constructive engagement of Scrutiny Members towards the next two items of business.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To note the comments and observations of the Scrutiny Committees following pre-scrutiny of the items listed within section 5 of the report.

The Head of Service for Public Protection and Regulatory Services presented the report to Cabinet on the effectiveness of the 2019 Additional Licensing Scheme for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and propose the Council declare a New Additional Licensing Scheme for HMOs from April 2024, in accordance with the provisions of the Housing Act 2004.

 

The Cabinet Member for Public Health and Communities took the opportunity to thank officers for the comprehensive report; and noted the successful implementation of two recommendations made during the last review to review the administration scheme and to speed up the application process; both of which, work to create a more efficient licensing system.

 

The Cabinet Member was confident that over the years, the additional licensing scheme in addition to the mandatory licensing scheme had worked proactively to regulate Houses in Multiple Occupation in Rhondda Cynon Taf and had been vital in ensuring ensure residents are safe and to minimise the impact of shared houses. The Cabinet Member also noted that the Schemes allow the Council to work with landlords and to use action when necessary for those who are non-compliant.

 

The Cabinet Member thanked the Community Services Scrutiny Committee for its involvement and agreed with its recommendation to include an additional fire safety condition to be in line with the Building Safety Act 2022.

 

The Deputy Leader echoed the Cabinet Member’s comments and was supportive of the proposal. The Deputy Leader welcomed further communication with the University, to ensure the wellbeing of the young people using HMO’s for educational purposes.  

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To note the findings of the Evaluation of the 2019 Additional HMO Licensing Scheme in Rhondda Cynon Taf and the feedback from the Community Services Scrutiny Committee held on 21^st November 2023;

2.    To approve the declaration of a New Additional Licensing Scheme for HMOs in Rhondda Cynon Taf, to come into force when the current scheme ends on 31st March 2024 and instruct officers to make the necessary arrangements in accordance with the provisions of the Housing Act 2004;

3.    To approve the continued inclusion of all types of HMO within the scope of the new 2024 Scheme;

4.    To approve the standard licensing conditions to be placed on all HMO licences granted by the Council under both the Mandatory Licensing Scheme, and the new Additional Licensing Scheme from April 2024 (in addition to any bespoke conditions relevant to individual licences); and

5.    To approve the proposed fee structure as detailed in Appendix 4 of the report.

 

The Director of Education and Inclusion Services advised Members of the outcome of the recent consultation in respect of the proposal to close Rhigos Primary School with pupils transferring to Hirwaun Primary School by no later than September 2024.

The Cabinet Member for Education, Youth Participation and Welsh Language took the opportunity to thank those who had responded to the consultation process, particularly the young people. The Cabinet Member provided assurance that all submissions had been reviewed by the Committee in detail. It was acknowledged that from the responses received, there was an evident passion from the community of Rhigos for the future of its young people. The Cabinet Member concluded his initial submission by stating that the passion for the best educational outcomes, prospects and facilities was shared by the Cabinet.

The Cabinet Member noted from the report that it had been identified that it would be challenging to deliver the new curriculum for Wales from the current building and asked the Director to provide further clarity in that respect. The Director advised that Hirwaun Primary School was a 21^st Century School, meaning the learning environment had been developed fit for the 21^st Century Learning in terms of digital and technology requirements. It was added that the school also has design features including outdoor areas for structured learning; and that it includes a large space which enables school staff to use flexibly.

The Cabinet Member then sought confirmation in respect of the rural status of the school. The Director informed the Cabinet that the Welsh Government School Organisation Code 2018 contains a list of rural schools and specifies that the National Statistics Urban Rural Classification has been used as the basis of the designation of rural schools. The Director confirmed that there were no schools within RCT on the list of rural schools as there are no schools that meet the specific classifications. The Director explained that although the Office of National Statistics lists both Hirwaun and Rhigos as rural classification, neither meet the specified criteria to be contained within the above-mentioned list.

The Leader acknowledged the responses stating that Rhigos is good school with positive outcomes but spoke of the fundamental issue, which was the decline in pupil numbers and questioned how robust the data is. Referring to a consultation response, the Leader questioned whether there had been a decline in pupil numbers at the school since the start of the consultation and whether that could be attributed to the uncertainty of the school and the proposal before Members. The Director advised that at the start of the consultation there were 57 pupils at the school and that since this time, the number of statutory pupils had since reduced from 51 to 49. The Director explained that the change was due to pupils moving to the Welsh Medium school in Penderyn. In terms of how numbers are projected, the Director advised that it had been calculated in accordance with the guidance issued by Welsh Government and were based on live birth data for the area. The Director advised that estimated projections indicated that there would only be 37 pupils of statutory school age at Rhigos Primary School in 2027-28, although it was acknowledged that this was an estimation and that families move in and out of the locality.

The Deputy Leader took the opportunity to thank the Scrutiny Committee for the valuable contribution. The Deputy noted and sympathised with the concerns raised from the consultation and acknowledged that with change comes worry. The Deputy Leader spoke of a similar change in her ward and acknowledged that concerns were raised by parents and care givers but spoke of the hard work of officers and the governing body to ensure the best provision is available for the young people.

The Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Corporate Services noted that the Scrutiny Committee queried the future use of the building and asked if the commented had been addressed, should the proposals be supported. The Director advised that considerations would need to be consulted upon separately but that the Council could work with the community to identify any viable and sustainable options for community groups and to identify and potentially apply for funding. To date, no representations had been made from the community in respect of the future use of the building.

The Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure noted from the consultation responses and from the Scrutiny discussions that the potential carbon footprint impact and the use of Home-to-school transport by parents had been raised as a point of concern. The Cabinet Member queried whether the carbon footprint had been considered, particularly in respect of the fact that Hirwaun is a new 21^st Century School. The Director confirmed that the modern building design and fabric at Hirwaun Primary School had an EPC rating of A and had been built to be more energy efficient, which would have a positive impact on the overall running cost of the school. The Director added that Hirwaun Primary School also had EV charging facilities on site, which would contribute to the delivery of the Council’s climate commitments. The Director advised that Rhigos Primary School, due to its age, had not been built to be energy efficient.

The Cabinet Member for Public Health and Communities questioned what support would be provided for transition if the proposals were to progress. The Director acknowledged that the proposals were incredibly emotive from a children and young people, staff and community perspective. The Director assured the Cabinet that a seamless transition would be a priority, should the proposals be agreed and stated that officers had a lot of experience in effective transition. It was explained that for the most vulnerable of learners, a child centred approach would be adopted to ensure all needs are met. All learners would experience extensive transition activities and events such as stem projects, sporting projects and musical projects to strengthen opportunities for social interaction and for developing relationships and partnerships. The Director stated that minimising the risk of anxiety for children transferring would be imperative.

With the agreement of the Leader, the following Non-Committee Members were granted permission to address the Cabinet:

·       County Borough Councillor A Rogers

·       County Borough Councillor K Morgan

 

With the agreement of the Leader, the following member of the public was granted permission to address the Cabinet:

·       Ms M Evans – Chair of Governors

 

The Cabinet Member for Education, Youth Participation and Welsh Language thanked the Non-Committee Members and Chair of Governors for their submissions at the meeting. Following consideration of the comments at the meeting and upon reflection of the consultation responses received, the Cabinet Member was of the view that the proposals before Members was of the best interest for the pupils. Referring to the projected decline in numbers at Rhigos Primary School, the Cabinet Member questioned the future viability of the school and spoke of its ageing setting. The Cabinet Member was encouraged by Estyn’s consultation response which acknowledged the Local Authority’s rationale behind the proposals; and was also encouraged by the modern facilities and opportunities offered at Hirwaun Primary School for pupils to benefit from. As such, the Cabinet Member was in support of the recommendations contained within the report.

 

Following consideration of all evidence and contributions, the Cabinet Member for Development and Prosperity was in agreement that to progress with the proposals would be the right way forward.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To note the content of the report;

2.    To note the information contained within the attached Consultation Report, attached as Appendix A to this Cabinet Report, which includes a summary of correspondence received during the consultation, including the full response from Estyn, feedback received from the online survey, and notes of the meetings held;

3.    To note the feedback from Education and Inclusion Scrutiny Committee which met on 14^th December 2023 provided by the Service Director of Democratic Services and Communication; and

4.    To progress the proposals to the next stage of the consultation process by issuing an appropriate Statutory Notice which will trigger the start of the Objection Period.

 

Note: Prior to the meeting, a letter was circulated to Cabinet Members from the Service Director of Democratic Services and Communication on behalf of the Education and Inclusion Scrutiny Committee who met on 14^th December 2023 to undertake pre-scrutiny the Cabinet report.

 

The Head of Inclusion Services advised Cabinet Members of the outcome of the publication of the Statutory Notices in respect of the proposal to realign Learning Support Class (LSC) provision within Rhondda Cynon Taf (RCT).

 

The Cabinet Member for Education, Youth Participation and Welsh Language took the opportunity to thank those who had responded to the consultation. The Cabinet Member commented that the proposal before Members would help the Local Authority meet its statutory duty under new legislation from Welsh Government and recognised that it was an area that had seen a significant increase in demand and complexity.

 

The Cabinet Member stressed that the proposals would not equate to a reduction in service but would instead have an additional circa £424,000 of investment into the service. However, the Cabinet Member recognised that a small number of pupils would be affected by the changes, if agreed.

 

The Cabinet Member voiced his support for the proposals and welcomed the establishment of the two Welsh Medium Primary phased learning support classes at the new Welsh Medium School in Rhydyfelin for pupils with additional learning needs; and felt that this would further enhance choice for parents and guardians.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To consider the information contained within the report and the Objection Report in Appendix 1, which includes details of objections received during the Statutory Notice period, and the comments given in response to the objections.

 

2.    To implement the proposals as published in the Statutory Notices which includes:

 

Proposal 1: Relocation of the Observation and Assessment LSC at Penrhiwceiber Primary School to Abercynon Community Primary School taking effect from September 2024.

 

Proposal 2: Transfer the LSC for pupils in years 3-6 with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) at Abercynon Community Primary School to create a through provision in the Primary Phase at Perthcelyn Primary School taking effect from September 2024.

 

Proposal 3: Establish one Early years Assessment and Intervention LSC for pupils under statutory school age with significant presenting needs at Abercynon Community Primary School taking effect from April 2024.

 

Proposal 4: Establish two Welsh medium Primary Phase LSCs at the new Welsh medium primary school in Rhydyfelin (YGG Awel Taf) for pupils with significant ALN taking effect from September 2024.

 

Proposal 5: Establish one LSC for pupils in years 7-11 with ASD at the new 3-16 school on the Hawthorn Primary/High School site (Ysgol Afon Wen) taking effect from September 2024.

 

3.    To the publication of the relevant Decision Notices in respect of any proposals taken forward as required by the School Organisation Code.

 

 

The Service Director of Prosperity and Development updated Members on the response to the formal consultation exercise undertaken on the draft Aberdare Town Centre Strategy as agreed by Cabinet on 28^th June 2023 and to highlight the changes made to the document in light of the responses received. The report also sought approval from Cabinet to formally adopt the Strategy.

 

The Cabinet Member for Development and Prosperity commented that the process undertaken was a positive example of pre-engagement and thanked the officers for their commitment. The Cabinet Member welcomed the proposals and was pleased to note that the majority of respondents were in favour of the plans for the Aberdate town centre.

 

The Deputy Leader was also in support of the recommendations contained within the report and was pleased to note that the document would strengthen following the robust consultation process.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To consider the findings from the formal consultation exercise undertaken in respect of the draft Aberdare Town Centre Strategy and supporting documents;

2.    To review and approve the range of revisions made to the Strategy following completion of the formal consultation;

3.    To approve the final Aberdare Town Centre Strategy and support the development of projects under the ‘investment themes’ included in the Strategy.

 

The Service Director of Finance and Improvement Services set out the Council’s updated Risk Management Strategy for Cabinet Member consideration.

 

The Service Director assured the Cabinet that the Council’s Risk Management Strategy is kept under regular review, with the latest update agreed by the Council’s Cabinet in July 2022, as endorsed by the Governance and Audit Committee.

 

The Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Corporate Services welcomed the endorsement of the Risk Management Strategy by the Governance and Audit Committee.

 

The Cabinet Member was satisfied that the Strategy before Members ensures that the Council’s risk management arrangements continue to be fit for purpose. The Cabinet Member spoke positive of the toolkit, which had been devised to assist managers when undertaking risk management and had proven to be an asset.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To approve the Council’s updated Risk Management Strategy, as endorsed by the Governance and Audit Committee at its meeting on 12th October 2023.

 

The Service Director of Democratic Services and Communication presented, for Cabinet Members’ comment and approval, an update on the Cabinet Work Programme on the proposed list of matters requiring consideration by Cabinet over the 2023-2024 Municipal Year.

 

The Deputy Leader thanked the Director for the report and was content with the content of the Cabinet Work Programme, noting its flexibility.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To approve the Work Programme for the 2023-2024 Municipal Year (with appropriate amendment where necessary) and receive a further update on a 3 monthly basis.

The Temporary Head of Street care Services provided Members with an overview of his report, whereby appraising Members of the planned tree maintenance within Ynysangharad War Memorial Park over the winter months.

 

Members were advised that the planned maintenance would ensure the effective management of the tree stock within Ynysangharad War Memorial Park and to minimise the risk to the public from tree safety issues, whilst maintaining a healthy and sustainable tree stock to help retain the value of the amenity.

 

It was noted that the trees are an important feature in the park and Members were reassured that no unnecessary work is undertaken. Therefore, trees are only removed if they are dangerous, diseased or already dead.

 

Members were referred to the appendix to the report which provided detail of the trees identified for removal and the reasons for such removal.

 

Members were advised that in addition to the proposed maintenance works, additional trees are planted throughout RCT annually, for the benefit of all and as part of the Council’s climate change initiative to enhance, replenish and increase tree stocks as assets for carbon sequestration and sustainable development.

 

Before concluding his report, the Officer informed Members that as a result of a tree being lost as part of the Eisteddfod plans, a new tree would be planted as part of the annual maintenance programme. It was confirmed that Trustees would be consulted on its exact location within the park prior to the tree being planted.

 

The Chair thanked the officer for the report and spoke of the importance of the trees for the benefit of all who frequented the park and agreed with the need to ensure the maintenance of the trees. The Chair welcomed the replanting of trees as advised upon and the opportunity to plant a further tree in respect of the Eisteddfod and sought reassurance that the trustees of the park would be consulted on the location of the tree, and also suggested a commemorative plaque sit alongside to acknowledge RCT hosting the 2024 Eisteddfod.

 

Member of the Committee spoke of the importance of the maintenance plan and communicating such works with the public, to prevent any miscommunication.  Members spoke of the use of social media to portray these important messages. The Director commented on the importance of communication and spoke of the unplanned work needed following severe weather, and again the importance of communicating such work at such times.

 

A query was raised in respect of the Lime Tree Avenue and the officer advised of the prudent timing to excavate and move back the trees to ensure successful replanting and regrowth.

 

Following discussions, it was RESOLVED:

                           i.          To note the content of the report and to approve the recommended programme of tree maintenance work to be scheduled to take place between November 2023 and February 2024.

 

 

The Head of Revenue and Benefits presented the report to Cabinet which sets the Council Tax Base for the financial year 2024/25.  The Officer advised that the gross Council Tax Base calculated for 2024/25 is £81,950.53.  It is proposed that the collection rate is estimated to be 97.25%. This produces a net Council Tax Base of £79,696.89.  This means that for every £1 levied in Council Tax next year, a sum of £79,697 will be generated to meet the budget requirement of the Council.

 

The Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Corporate Services welcomed the report and stated that the proposals are in line with the Corporate plan and are a statutory requirement. 

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED to:

 

1. That in accordance with the Local Authorities (Calculation of Council Tax Base) (Wales) Regulations 1995 as amended, the amount calculated by the Council as its net tax base for the financial year 2024/25, shall be £79,696.89.
2. That for each defined community area of the County Borough, the 2024/25 tax base for Council Tax setting purposes, shall be as set out at Appendix 1.

 

The Director Social Services presented the report to Members the final draft of the Director of Social Services Annual Report for 2022/23 for approval prior to its publication.  The report set out how the Council's Social Services performed last year, highlighting the direction and priorities the Council has set for the year ahead.

 

The Cabinet Member Health and Social Care thanked officers for the comprehensive and excellent report which demonstrates the Councils commitment to the delivery of Social Services to our most vulnerable residents.  He continued that the report highlights the tremendous breadth of work delivered by the committed hard working staff and demonstrates the Council’s accountability to those in community to those who rely on the Authority for vital support.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED to approve the Director of Social Services Annual Report for 2022/23 (Appendix 1).

The Service Director Democratic Services and Communications presented the report to Cabinet which detailed the pre-scrutiny undertaken by the Council’s thematic Scrutiny Committees, namely the Director Social Services Annual report which was part of today’s Cabinet agenda.  

 

The Cabinet Member Health and Social Care was supportive of the recommendations outlined within the report and took the opportunity to thank the Community Services Scrutiny Committee for its valuable contribution

The Cabinet RESOLVED to note the comments and observations of the Scrutiny Committees following pre-scrutiny of the item listed within section 5 of the report.

The Director Finance and Digital Services presented an update on the operational decisions and base budget reduction measures which have been identified and the consequential financial implications which can now be factored into the Council’s Budget and Medium Term Financial Plan. 

 

The Director continued that the report set out a number of early budget reduction measures and budget updates amounting to £9.086M to be factored into the budget requirement and draft budget strategy for 2024/25.  The report also sets out the timetable for the agreement of the 2024/25 Revenue Budget Strategy, Council Tax Setting and the 3-year Capital Programme.

 

The Leader stated that the proposals do not address the entire budget gap but this emphasises the scale of the measures the Authority are facing.  He added that the Authority will continue to take decisions to ensure a balanced budget is maintained whilst remaining as efficient as possible and ensuring the impact on communities is kept to a minimum. He reassured that the report proposes minimal operational changes which take into account demand led by evidence and that minor adjustments are proposed to minimise impact on users.

 

The Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Corporate Services commented that a proactive approach previously adopted by this Council has stood the authority in good stead in challenging times we have faced previously.  She added that we need to continue to make decisions in a timely manner to ensure successful delivery of Council services in the future

 

With the agreement of the Leader, Non-Committee Member County Borough Councillor K Morgan was granted permission to address the Cabinet.

 

The Leader responded to comments raised and stated that the proposals relate to non-pay areas of the local authority, and do not allow for an inflation uplift. He stated that Trade Unions have been engaged in advance and service staff have been engaged to inform the reports before Members in terms of service usage.  He reminded Cabinet that the council will work together with managers to ensure effective services continue to be delivered.  He concluded that the proposals will be reported to Scrutiny prior to presentation to full Council to agree.  

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED to:

 

1. Note the operational changes and base budget reduction measures / updates which have been identified by the Senior Leadership Team and which can now be factored into next year’s budget and the Medium Term Financial Plan; and

Note the 2024/25 budget and Council Tax setting timetable as attached at Appendix 2 to the report

The Director Social Services presented the report which informs the Cabinet of the outcome of the consultation on the proposed co-produced Day Services Strategy and operating model for people with a learning disability. It also sets out recommendations regarding the next steps for the remodelling of the Council’s day services in line with the Day Service Strategy and operating model.

 

The Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care stated as part of a review to improve social care the proposals will enhance the provision for people with learning disabilities and their families by promoting independence and using local facilities. He added the proposals are based on comprehensive consultation process and emphasised the level of care will not change, but will provide opportunities to avoid isolation, improve independence, assist in a choice of accommodation and gain paid employment.

 

The Leader confirmed that a consultation will be undertaken to work with staff, service users and Trade Unions to support the changes outlined.  He concluded that any savings made as part of this change will be reinvested back in to social services

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED to:

 

1.    Consider the feedback to the consultation on the proposed co-produced Day Services Strategy and operating model for people with a learning disability and the information provided in this report, the Equality Impact Assessment (including Socio-Economic Duty) and Welsh Language Impact Assessment.

2.    Subject to 1 above, approves the implementation of the proposed co-produced Day Services Strategy and operating model for people with a learning disability as consulted upon, including the proposed commissioning intentions and market developments as part of the planned learning disability transformation programme.

3.    Subject to 2 above, approves the remodelling of the Council’s day service provision to a new East and West structure, including smaller community-based groups to ensure that services are delivered in a way that achieves the best possible individual outcomes for people, based on need and demand, whilst making the best use of Council resources.

4.    Subject to 2 above, approves the permanent decommissioning of Treforest Learning Curve which has been closed since February 2020, due to significant damage sustained by Storm Dennis.

Subject to 2 above, approves a co-produced review of the Council’s work-based projects to explore alternative care and support options for individuals who access them with commissioned third sector and supported living providers, and supported employment agencies and employers to better meet their personal outcomes while being more cost effective.

The Director of Highways, Street care and Transportation presented the report which sought Cabinet’s approval to initiate a consultation with interested parties and relevant stakeholders in respect of a proposed new Home to School Transport Policy. 

 

The Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure stated that for almost 10 years, the Council has provided over 9,000 learners with access to free school transport on a discretionary basis going above and beyond the legal requirement set out by Welsh Government.  She continued that the Authority has consistently chosen to do this as we understand the significant impact free school transport has on our community. However, she advised that as a result of significant underfunding from the UK Government and a budget gap of £85m over the next three years, Cabinet must consider proposals put forward by Officers that review where our services go beyond the statutory requirement.  She concluded that this proposal, if approved by Cabinet, will seek consultation with parents/ carers to discuss the service changes put forward and discussion will be welcomed with those who are impacted.

 

The Leader stated that the proposals set out by Officers would bring the provision for mainstream primary, secondary and college pupils in line with the statutory distance requirements set out by Welsh Government and deliver savings of £2.5m in a full year. Even after these proposals thousands of learners would be provided with Home to School Transport.

In response to a question by a Member, the Director of Education and Inclusion confirmed that no changes will  be made to those with additional Learning needs and transport will continue to be provided to these pupils.   She added that learners with disabilities may be entitled to assistance with transport from home to school or college setting. 

 

In response to a question around how future consultation will be undertaken with parents / carers the Service Director Democratic Services and Communications confirmed that six week consultation will take place with opportunities for the public to participate online and open access meetings convened to allow for the public to engage face to face with the Council

 

With the agreement of the Leader the following Non-Committee Members were granted permission to address the Cabinet.

 

• County Borough Councillor K Johnson
• County Borough Councillor K Morgan

 

In response to the Members comments, the Leader commented that officers have for many years worked on route maximisation, and ensured that regular engagement is undertaken with schools and with regular cross directorate planning taking place to offset costs, however, the Council has seen over a £4m increase in the last two years and will continue to grow.  The Leader add that most other Local Authorities are already doing this, and whilst this is not a decision we wanted to take, but due to the financial challenges ahead for the Authority we could not avoid this option any longer. He confirmed that school attendance will be taken into account during the consultation phase and the Authority also has school engagement officers to work with families to ensure attendance is maintained.

 

Cabinet RESOLVED to:

 

1. Consider the information in the report in respect of the Council’s current Home to School Transport Policy and a proposal to introduce a revised policy, together with the associated impact assessments appended to the report;
2. Initiate a consultation with interested parties and relevant stakeholders in respect of a proposed new Home to School Transport Policy, namely providing mainstream English, Welsh and Faith primary school, secondary school and college transport in line with relevant statutory distance criteria, which would be implemented from the start of the 2025/2026 academic year;
3. Note that under the proposed Home to School Transport Policy the discretionary elements of:

 

·       Allowing a learner to select their nearest suitable school in accordance with choice of English or Welsh Medium language or preferred religious denomination would continue; and

·       providing pre-compulsory school age transport and post-16 transport would continue;

 

4. Note that under the proposed Home to School Transport Policy the discretionary elements of Additional Learning Needs transport would not change; and

Subject to paragraph 2 above, agrees to receive a further report detailing the results and feedback from the consultation process, updated Equality and Welsh Language Impact Assessments and any necessary further information in order for Cabinet to determine whether and, if so, how it wishes to progress with the proposed new Home to School Transport Policy.

The Director Education and Inclusion Services presented the report to seek permission to consult on the introduction of a charge for the additional childcare element, which is available prior to the commencement of free breakfast club provision in primary and special schools in Rhondda Cynon Taf, noting eligible Free School Meal (eFSM) pupils would be exempt from any charge. In addition, Members were advised that the proposal would generate additional income, which would be ring fenced and reinvested back into school budgets.

 

The Cabinet Memberfor Education, Youth Participation and Welsh Language stated that the Council recognises the significant value breakfast club provisions hold in our community. He continued there is however a need for the Council to review areas where we provide a service above and beyond what we are funded to provide.  He continued that all 92 primary schools and 3 special schools across the County Borough provide a free breakfast club and all pupils, from nursery to year six are eligible and welcome to attend.  The Cabinet Member reiterated that the free breakfast service will in no waybe impacted or reduced by the proposals put forward by Officers.  The proposal to introduce a £1 daily childcare fee being would only be introduced to parents/carers who make use of the extra childcare provision offered BEFORE the breakfast club begins from 8- 8:30am.  He welcomed that the proposal is for any potential income generated from this proposal to be re-invested into schools funding, to offset cost pressures. 

The Leader advised that the Council’s three-year budget gap is currently estimated to be £85.4m, and this includes a £35m gap for 2024/25.  These proposals could generate an estimated annual income in a full year of £495 with no change in the level of service provided to those in need of Free School Breakfasts. He welcomed furtherdiscussion through the consultation process proposed.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED to:

 

 

1.    Consider the contents of this report together with associated impact assessments;   

2.    Agrees to initiate a consultation with service users, key stakeholders and prospective service users on the proposal to charge a fee for the additional childcare element which is available prior to the commencement of free breakfast club provision;

3.    Agrees that eFSM pupils should be exempt from the proposed charge and that views be sought through the consultation process on whether consideration should be given to any further categories of concession (such as a capped charge for parents/carers with more than one child making use of the provision); and

4.    Subject to 2.2 above, agrees to receive a further report summarising the results and feedback from the consultation process, together with updated impact assessments, to determine whether Cabinet wishes to proceed with the proposal or not, and if so, how.

 

The Director Of Highways, Street care And Transportation Services presented the report which set out the supplementary capital programme for Highways, Transportation and Strategic Projects.  The report set out a number of proposals for improvements to be delivered in improving the Council’s Highways Infrastructure as well as funding allocated to improve drainage works and structures.

 

The Leader supported the recommendations in the report which set out a number of investments in key services and projects which are in line with the manifesto commitments and the corporate plan with over  £5m investment proposed in structures, roads and drainage throughout the Borough

 

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED to:

 

1.    Approve the Supplementary Capital Programme for Highways, Transportation and Strategic Projects as detailed within this report.

 

Agree that the current allocations form part of a 3-year capital programme and delegate authority to the Director of Highways, Streetcare and Transportation Services, in consultation with the Leader of the Council and the Deputy Chief Executive and Group Director of Finance, Digital and Frontline Services, to extend activity to deliver additional projects during the financial year. Furthermore, where capacity exists to accelerate delivery in accordance with the purpose of the wider programme, or to suspend programmes/projects and reallocate funding to optimise delivery.

The Service Director Finance and Performance presented the report to Cabinet which provided an overview of the Council’s performance, both from a financial and operational perspective, based on the first six months of the financial year (to the 30th September 2023).

 

The Cabinet Member Climate Change and Corporate Services thanked the Service Director for the report which provides a comprehensive overview of the significant cost pressures on frontline services. She advised that she is assured that work is underway to bring projected overspend in line with budget by year end and progress is being made to deliver the Corporate Plan priorities.  

 

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED to:

 

Revenue

 

1.    Note and agree the General Fund revenue outturn position of the Council as at the 30th September 2023 (Section 2 of the Executive Summary).

2.     Request that Cabinet approve the virements listed in Sections 2a - e of the Executive Summary that exceed the £0.100M threshold as per the Council's Financial Procedure Rules.

 

Capital

 

3.    Note the capital outturn position of the Council as at the 30th September 2023 (Sections 3a – e of the Executive Summary).

4.    Note the details of the Treasury Management Prudential Indicators as at the 30th September 2023 (Section 3f of the Executive Summary).

 

Corporate Plan Priorities

 

5.     Note the Quarter 2 progress updates for the Council’s Corporate Plan priorities (Sections 5 a – c of the Executive Summary) that include updates in respect of the Council’s on-going work to deliver its Climate Change ambitions.

 

The Service Director Democratic Services and Communications presented report is to provide Cabinet with the Annual Report of the Corporate Parenting Board for the Municipal Year 2022/23.

 

The Cabinet Member Health and Social Care thanked officers for the very comprehensive report and to continue to ensure that support is given to our children and young people post Covid-19 pandemic.  The report highlights our dedication to investing and supporting our children and young people he also paid thanks to Members of the Corporate parenting Board for their work.  

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED to note the content of the report.

In accordance with the Council’s Code of Conduct, the following declarations were made pertaining to the agenda:

·       The Cabinet Member for Health & Social Care declared a personal interest in respect of Item 3 (Future Commissioning of Domiciliary Home Care): “My younger sister has worked in long term home care for many years”;

·       The Cabinet Member for Development and Prosperity declared the a personal interest in respect of Item 12 (Update Report on Empty Homes Strategy): “I am a recipient of an Empty Property Grant”;

·       The Director of Highways, Streetcare and Transportation Services declared a personal and pecuniary interest in respect of Item 17 (Cynon Valley Waste Disposal Company Limited and Amgen Rhondda Limited Annual General Meeting): “I am a Director of Amgen and will leave the meeting when the item is discussed and voted upon.”; and

·       The Service Director of Finance and Improvement Services declared a personal and pecuniary interest in respect of Item 17: “I am a Director of Amgen and will leave the meeting when the item is discussed and voted upon.”

It was RESOLVED: “That the press and public be excluded from the meeting under Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act (as amended) for the following items of business on the grounds that it involves the likely disclosure of the exempt information as defined in paragraph 14 of Part 4 of the Schedule 12A of the Act”.

 

The Service Director of Democratic Services and Communication provided Cabinet with the feedback and comments of the items that were pre-scrutinised by the Council’s thematic Scrutiny Committee’s following the last Committee cycle.

 

During the cycle, the following reports were pre-scrutinised and the key comments and observations were noted in Section 5 of the report:

·       Proposals to develop a new School in Rhondda Cynon Taf;

·       Representations, Compliments and Complaints Procedures Annual Report – 2022/23; and

·       Community Infrastructure Levy Annual Monitoring Report.

 

The Service Director noted that, in respect of the Community Infrastructure Levy Annual Monitoring Report which had been pre-scrutinised by the Climate Change, Frontline Services & Prosperity Scrutiny Committee at its meeting held on 18^th October 2023, comments had been circulated to Cabinet Members.

 

The Cabinet Member for Education, Youth Participation and Welsh Language took the opportunity to thank the Scrutiny Committees for their respective work.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To note the comments and observations of the Scrutiny Committees following pre-scrutiny of the items listed within section 5 of the report.

 

The Director of Social Services presented the report to Cabinet, which proposed recommendations with regards to the commissioning of domiciliary home care services.

 

The Leader thanked the Director for the report and advised that in advance of the proposals being presented, he had met with officers several times and also with Trade Unions to discuss the proposals contained within the report and to gain a further understanding of TUPE arrangements and the potential impact on staff and individuals.

 

The Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care stated that the officer proposals before Members sought to respond to increasing demand for long-term home care and would address issues of capacity experienced by all providers. The Cabinet Member stated that the revised approach aimed to achieve a sustainable model that in no way reduces the availability of the service, but would, instead, enable long-term commissioning arrangements to be improved, enhancing the experience of service users and home care workers.

 

The Cabinet Member commented that through the new approach, the Council would continue to support people to be as independent as possible by continuing to provide an in-house reablement and intermediate care service.

 

The Cabinet Member noted that the Council currently delivered just a small proportion of the long-term home care provision in Rhondda Cynon Taf, and the changes would see the remaining ten-percent transfer to external providers. It was added that reablement and intermediate care services through the Council’s ‘Support@Home’ Service would continue to be provided by the Council.

 

The Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure advised of questions received from residents in respect of the impact the proposals could have on those individuals who need more complex care. The Cabinet Member spoke of the concern that the independent sector would not support such individuals and questioned whether the independent sector, which currently provide most of the support, include supporting the most complex of care needs to ensure independence for those individuals is maintained in their own homes.

 

The Director of Social Services advised the Cabinet Member that most of the long-term home care services were already delivered by existing independent sector providers. The Director acknowledged the concerns of residents but emphasised that the independent sector providers can and do successfully support many individuals with complex needs.

 

The Cabinet Member also sought assurance that the independent sector have access to the same level of training as Council staff. The Director confirmed that independent providers can and do access the same training and development through the Regional Workforce Development Partnership, which was hosted by the Council.

 

In respect of the query highlighted with training and development, the Leader further questioned whether the independent providers access the training available and the Director confirmed that regional workforce meetings take place on a quarterly basis, whereby performance is monitored in respect of both in-house training attendance and equally, the independent sector.

 

The Cabinet Member for Development and Prosperity questioned whether it would be possible for independent providers to be mandated to both recognise Trade Unions and encourage staff membership, if the proposal were to be approved. The Cabinet Member questioned whether the current independent providers recognise Trade Unions and whether it could be built into the wider retender process going forward, if supported. The Director of Human Resources advised that in terms of the requirement, it could be included within the tender documentation but not necessarily, legally enforced. The Director added that, to the best of his knowledge, the independent sector already work alongside Trade Unions so did not anticipate any issues with the Cabinet Member’s suggestions.

 

The Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Corporate Services noted that the financial implications from the proposal would be built into the Medium-Term Financial Plan and requested further information.

 

The Service Director of Finance and Improvement Services noted that the report set out the hourly rate differential between the independent sector and the in-house service; and emphasised that this was based on current rates enforced. It was explained that, whilst multiplying the differential by the number of hours currently provided by the internal service was straight forward and amounted to around £1.5M, it needed to be considered in the broader context of:

·       The retender exercise, market forces and how the independent sector responds;

·       The new geographically zoned arrangements being offered to the market; and

·       The fact that tenderers would be instructed to accept the requirements of TUPE and continued Local Government Pension Scheme membership for transferring staff. 

 

The Service Director continued and explained that the above-mentioned ‘unknowns’ make it difficult to project with certainty the financial implications, albeit the proposal as packaged does provide the market with a more efficient operating model to tender for. The Service Director concluded by explaining to Cabinet Members that a more cost-effective service was expected, this being set against the £35M budget gap faced by the Council for next financial year.

 

The Cabinet Member for Public Health & Communities acknowledged the concern amongst the workforce in respect of the proposals. The Cabinet Member noted that, if approved, eligible staff would transfer through TUPE and questioned whether the existing terms of conditions would be protected and whether access to the Local Government Pension Scheme would be maintained.

The Director of Human Resources confirmed that TUPE would protect staff’s existing terms and conditions of employment. In respect of the Local Government Pension Scheme, the Director advised that whilst TUPE regulations do not state access to the Local Government Pension Scheme, the Council would follow the current Welsh Government’s guidance on TUPE, which stipulates that Local Authorities include access to the Local Government Pension Scheme. Therefore, if approved, the Council would include the requirement within any tender documentation which would mean that staff would continue to have access to the scheme.

 

The Leader questioned whether the pension would be protected in the same way as the Council’s pension scheme and sought assurance that there would be no risk of this being changed in the future. The Director advised that individuals would have ‘admitted body’ status into the RCT pension fund and would have the option to transfer their current RCT service into the new pension fund. The Director advised that as far as he was aware, once admitted body status is achieved, there would be no risk of this being changed in the future but that he would clarify this with the Council’s pension section.*

 

The Leader questioned whether this could be stipulated within the contract monitoring to ensure individual’s pensions aren’t adversely affected. The Director of Social Services confirmed that it could be ensured, through the Council’s in-house contract monitoring service, that any providers are compliant with tender specification and contract specification.

 

The Cabinet Member for Education, Youth Participation and Welsh Language noted that concerns had been expressed that the proposals would affect the Council’s ability to safely respond and manage any future social care crisis.

 

The Director of Social Services advised that he had confidence that the market would be able to meet any future service pressures. The Director explained that during times of increased pressure, the Council already work with the independent sector to meet demand based on assessed need and risk. It was noted that whilst it was proposed that the Council transfers the remaining 10% of its in-house long-term home care services to commissioned independent sector providers, the Council would not be depleting the overall capacity of long-term home care provision. The Director felt that making the proposed changes would result in increased capacity that would help to better deal with increase demand pressures in the future.

 

The Cabinet Member for Development and Prosperity spoke of the current financial climate and the situation which required Members to make difficult decisions, which includes ensuring the delivery of services is as effective and efficient as possible. The Cabinet Member stated that the level of care provided in communities should be the key consideration and that the report before Members proposes that the Council continues to deliver all reablement and intermediate care in-house.

 

With the agreement of the Leader, the following Non-Committee Members were granted permission to address the Cabinet:

·       County Borough Councillor K. Morgan

·       County Borough Councillor C. Lisles

 

With the agreement of the Leader, the following Trade Union representatives were granted permission to address the Cabinet:

·       Mr P Crews (Unison)

·       Mr G Morgans (GMB)

 

N.B- Following the contributions of the speakers listed above, the Leader was handed a petition in respect of the matter.

 

In response to the comments made by Non-Committee Members and Trade Union representatives, the Director of Social Services advised that, to his knowledge, the Council had not stopped providing in-house packages of care and that he would investigate the matter. In terms of communication and information sharing, the Director stated that, given the size of the workforce, it was extremely difficult to ensure staff receive the information first-hand and at one time but, in this case, staff had been contacted through the mobile app and email; and confirmed that service users had been contacted later that day. Despite this, the Director acknowledged that some service users were aware before some staff members.

 

*Following clarification of the Leader’s question in respect of whether the pension would be protected in the same way as the Council’s pension scheme, the Director of Human Resources advised that as part of the admitted body status, a Pension Fund Admission Agreement would be put in place. It was explained that the agreement is a legal binding triparty document between the Provider, the Council and the Pension Fund.  As such, between this and the TUPE wording, which would be included within the Tender documentation, the Provider would not be permitted to withdraw for the Fund so staff would remain in the Local Government Pension Scheme.

 

The Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care acknowledged the difficult decision before Members. However, the Cabinet Member noted that, if approved, the local authority would continue to deliver all reablement and intermediate care in-house; would make the sector more resilient; and by providing the service in more co-ordinated way, should improve staff recruitment and retention. The Cabinet Member was satisfied by the advice received by officers at the meeting and felt that the plans would have no impact upon the level of care in the community.

 

The Chief Executive took the opportunity to summarise comments to assist the Cabinet in its deliberation. The Chief Executive reiterated that the Director of Social Services was advising Cabinet that, in recommissioning its long-term support, the Council would move to a more efficient model that secures the provision for the most vulnerable residents going forward. The Chief Executive clarified that the proposal was primarily a recommissioning exercise for long-term care and support across the County Borough and stated that it was incumbent on the Director of Social Services to review the operating model at such times, to ensure that it is fit for purpose. The Chief Executive continued and explained that the proposal would move to a new operating model for care and support, which includes the small, but nonetheless valuable, in-house provision. The Chief Executive clarified that, if approved, the move would shift to an outcome-based model and would introduce a geographical zoning proposal to maximise efficiency and in doing so, increase much needed capacity in the sector. The Chief Executive assured the Cabinet that if approved, the staff affected would have full protection through TUPE and would continue to access the Local Government Pension Scheme. The Chief Executive emphasised that the proposals before Cabinet Members would not reduce or cut domiciliary care services but would protect the service through a more resilient service model, during the challenging financial climate.

 

The Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure recognised that the proposed changed would cause anxiety amongst staff but hoped that the reassurance provided by officers at the meeting would alleviate the concerns to a degree. The Cabinet Member was satisfied, based upon the information contained within the report and the responses of officers, that the proposal would have no impact on the care provided.

 

The Leader noted that a small number of staff would not be eligible for TUPE and suggested that an additional recommendation be added to ensure that no compulsory redundancies are taken forward through the implementation of these proposals. The Director of Human Resources confirmed this and explained that any individuals identified as ineligible would be provided with options such as redeployment and voluntary early redundancy.

 

Prior to any decision being made by the Cabinet, the Leader emphasised the importance of referencing the three points made by Members at the meeting in respect of the protection of membership for staff within the Local Government Pension Scheme, the recognition of Trade Unions to be factored in and that no compulsory redundancies are to be taken forward. As such, the Service Director of Democratic Services and Communication put forward the following additional recommendations for Member consideration:

 

2.5      The protection of membership for staff within the Local Government Pension Scheme to be factored into the procurement process to be taken forward;

2.6      The recognition of Trade Unions to be factored into the procurement process to be taken forward; and

2.7      That no compulsory redundancies are taken forward through the implementation of these proposals.

 

Members were content with the assurances and additional recommendations proposed by the Leader.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

 

1.  To consider the information provided in this report, the Equality Impact Assessment (including Socio-Economic Duty) and Welsh Language Impact Assessment;

2.    To approve that all reablement and intermediate care services continue to be delivered by the Council’s in-house ‘Support@Home’ Service as set out in paragraph 5.1 of the report;

3.    To approve that all long-term home care is commissioned from external home care providers as part of a full retender of the current framework contract and a new contract awarded from 1^st October 2024 as set out in paragraph 5.2 of the report;

4.    To approve the retender of the long-term home care on the basis of outcomes to be achieved and organised within specified geographical zoned areas as set out in paragraph 5.6 of the report; and

5.    That the Director of Social Services is delegated authority, in conjunction with the Portfolio Holder, to award contracts following completion of the retender process and to make all necessary arrangements for the subsequent transfer.

 

In addition to the above-mentioned recommendations (2.1 to 2.5) as contained within the report, the Cabinet RESOLVED:

6.   The protection of membership for staff within the Local Government Pension Scheme to be factored into the procurement process to be taken forward;

7.   The recognition of Trade Unions to be factored into the procurement process to be taken forward; and

8.   That no compulsory redundancies are taken forward through the implementation of these proposals

The Director of Prosperity and Development sought Cabinet’s approval in respect of the contents of the CIL Annual Monitoring Report and the proposed changes to the Regulation 123 List and advised Cabinet of the pre scrutiny by the Climate Change, Frontline Services and Prosperity Scrutiny Committee in respect of the Community Infrastructure Levy. 

 

The Cabinet Member for Development and Prosperity was content with the recommendations contained within the report. The Cabinet Member noted the considerations of Scrutiny Committee and looked forward to receiving feedback from the Community Councils.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To approve the CIL Annual Monitoring Report;

2.    To approve the Regulation 123 List (Appendix B) for publication on the Council website for a period of 28 days and consultation as set out in paragraph 5.6 of the report; and

3.    To approve the subsequent adoption of the Regulation 123 List if no adverse comments are received.

 

N.B- Following the conclusion of this item, the Cabinet pause for a short break.

 

The Service Director of Democratic Services and Communication informed the Cabinet of the proposed approach to resident engagement and consultation in respect of the 2024/25 budget setting process.

 

The Leader advised that next year’s budget would likely be the most challenging for RCT since his time as Leader of the Council; and it was emphasised that public engagement would be vital. The Leader stated that unless UK Government announce additional funding in their Autumn budget, the consequences to Wales and its Local Authorities would be very difficult. The Leader advised that, following a survey, across England, there would potentially be at least 26 Local Authorities issuing 114 notices in the next year; and that although RCT were a long way away from issuing a notice, the careful management of the budget and resources would be key.

 

The Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Corporate Services added that it would likely be a year which requires an honest conversation with residents in respect of the huge challenge faced by the Council.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To support the further continuation of the approach to the Council’s budget consultation introduced in recent years, utilising the Council’s Let’s Talk Engagement website, as well as community face-to-face engagement. As part of the suggested approach, we will continue to provide alternative means of engagement for those having reduced or no access to the Internet and those who prefer to engage through traditional methods;

2.    To support the Council’s statutory requirements regarding consultation on the Council Tax Reduction Scheme and Council Tax levels and that these will be met via the proposed approach;

3.    To support the launch of a phase 1 budget consultation during the Autumn of 2023, in advance of the Welsh Government provisional budget settlement timescales, currently expected around mid-December; and

4.   To authorise the Service Director – Democratic Services & Communications to plan in detail the necessary timeline for engagement, in consultation with the appropriate Cabinet Member & Deputy Chief Executive and Group Director for Finance, Digital and Frontline Services.

 

The Service Director of Digital and ICT provided Cabinet with an overview of the operation and effectiveness of the Council’s Customer Feedback Scheme (CFS) between1^st April 2022 and 31^st March 2023. 

 

The Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Corporate Services emphasised the importance of customer feedback and was pleased to note that 95% of complaints had been dealt with at stage 1. The Cabinet Member recognised that the team were always looking for new ways to capture information and noted that the ‘You Said, We Did’ service was going from strength to strength.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To note the content of the report, the Customer Feedback Scheme (CFS) Annual Report for 2022/23 and the work undertaken by the Customer Feedback, Engagement and Complaints Team.

 

The Director of Education and Inclusion Services advised Cabinet of the outcome of the recent consultation in respect of the proposal to open a new 3 to 19 special school in Rhondda Cynon Taf (RCT) and introduce catchment areas for all 3 to 19 special schools across RCT, these are:

·       Park Lane Special School;

·       Ysgol Hen Felin; and

·       Ysgol Ty Coch.

 

Members’ attention was drawn to Appendix A of the report, which detailed the outcome of the consultation.

 

The Director informed Members that the documents noted 38% were against the proposals, but that it should read 37%. The Director advised that, overall, the consultation responses were positive with 56.5% in favour of the proposals and emphasised that some of the parents/carers appeared to have misunderstood the proposals, which was illustrated in Section 5 of the consultation document. It was therefore emphasised that as a result of the proposals, there would be no school closures and that the children in existing placements would remain in their current schools.

 

The Cabinet Member for Education, Youth Participation and Welsh Language thanked officers for undertaking the consultation and thanked individuals for their responses. The Cabinet Member was content that officers had been able to answer and address any points raised through the consultation including those of Estyn.

 

The Cabinet Member was content that the proposal to develop a new special school was the right step forward and would build capacity in an area of increased demand for the future. The Cabinet Member emphasised that pupils already attending special schools within RCT would not be required to move schools and that, if approved, new catchments would be put in place for future arrangements.

 

The Leader was in favour of the proposals and commented that the special school would be a huge investment, which was desperately needed.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.     To note the content of the report;

2.     To note the information contained within the Consultation Report, which includes a summary of correspondence received during the consultation, including the full response from Estyn, feedback received from the online survey, and notes of the meetings held; and

3.     To progress the proposals to the next stage of the consultation process by issuing an appropriate Statutory Notice which will trigger the start of the Objection Period. 

 

The Director of Prosperity and Development provided the Cabinet with an overview of the proposed Private Rented Sector Strategy 2023 -2026 and seek approval for it to be implemented.

 

The Cabinet Member for Development and Prosperity spoke positive of the work undertaken in respect of the private rented sector with RCT landlords; and noted that RCT had been proactive with providing advice with legislation requirements and guidance. The Cabinet Member added his thanks to officers and advised that he had received compliments on their behalf.

 

The Cabinet Member for Public Health and Communities echoed the comments and was in support of the recommendations contained within the report.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To approve the proposed Private Rented Sector Strategy 2023-2026 which supports the delivery of a private rented sector that offers safe, affordable accommodation, that is well managed and of a good standard, creating accessible and sustainable tenancies.

 

 

The Director of Social Services presented Cabinet with the 2022/23 Annual Cwm Taf Morgannwg Safeguarding Board Report.

 

The Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care recognised the importance of the report, which seeks to ensure individual of all ages are protected; and provides prevention of harm and abuse. The Cabinet Member noted that the Cwm Taf Morgannwg Safeguarding Board has a statutory duty to provide an annual report which outlines its priorities.

 

The Cabinet Member noted the greater need and focus to improve approaches to public sector concerns and stated that all partnership agencies have their part to play.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To note and endorse the content of the 2022/23 Annual Cwm Taf Morgannwg Safeguarding Board Report.

 

The Director of Legal and Democratic Services advised Cabinet of the publication of the Public Services Ombudsman for Wales’ (‘PSOW’) Annual Report and Annual Letter to this Council for 2022-2023.

 

The Cabinet Member for Education, Youth Participation and Welsh Language thanked the Director for the report and stated that the report allows Cabinet Members to accurately review and monitor how the Council is managing the feedback it receives. The Cabinet Member was pleased to note that, given the size of the Local Authority, a small number of complaints had been made and a small number had been referred to the Ombudsman.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To consider and note the 2022-2023 Public Services Ombudsman for Wales’ Annual Report and Annual Letter to this Council.

 

 

The Director of Social Services presented Cabinet with the report, which made recommendations with regards to the commissioning of Supported Living Services for people with a learning disability.

 

The Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care commented that the Council has substantial experience and a good track record of commissioning Supported Living Services from external providers. It was noted that with the current 10-year contract due to end this year, the retendering process was already underway, to start the new contract from April 2024.

 

The Cabinet Member continued and noted that the proposed changes would transfer the small percentage of Supported Living Services currently provided in-house to the external market, which already provides around 90% of the service. The Cabinet Member acknowledged officers’ advice, which was that the changes would ensure best value and future sustainability of the service, without reducing its availability to help people who rely upon it. The Cabinet Member emphasised the importance of this in the context of the significant budget gap, the rising cost pressures, and the rising demand within the service.

 

The Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure questioned how the Council would engage with the individuals affected, including service users, their families, and staff members.

 

The Director of Social Services advised that, if agreed, the Council would provide regular engagement and communication with all affected individuals to ensure that they are kept fully informed of the process and timescales for service transfer. This would include sharing information, including easy read format, and holding meetings supported by social work staff and advocates, such as Cwm Taf People First and DEWIS Centre for Independent Living and in the case of staff, Trade Unions. It was added that, following the procurement process and contract award, the Council would engage with all affected individuals to address any anxiety they may have about the change of provider. There would also be opportunities to meet with the new providers to discuss any concerns.

 

The Cabinet Member for Public Health & Communities acknowledged the concern amongst the workforce in respect of the proposals and questioned whether the same reassurance could be provided as per the last item of the agenda (Minute No. 53), in respect of what TUPE means, and the protection it affords. The Cabinet Member also asked if the same assurance could also be provided in respect of job protection as a result of the changes, if agreed.

 

Alongside the Cabinet Member’s suggestion, the Leader asked if the same assurance could be provided as the last item of business (Minute No. 53) in respect of no compulsory redundancies.

 

The Director of Human Resources confirmed that the same protection would be applied in terms of TUPE and staff’s membership within the Local Government Pension Scheme. The Director advised the from an initial review, it was anticipated that all staff would be eligible for TUPE but should that not be the case, no compulsory redundancies would be undertaken as part of the process and that staff would be provided with options such as redeployment and voluntary early redundancy.

 

The Leader sought clarification that the three providers that would be tendering were not private sector companies and were not for profit, to which the Director confirmed.

 

Similarly, to the last item of business, the Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Corporate Services noted that the financial implications from the proposal would be built into the Medium-Term Financial Plan and requested further information.

 

The Service Director of Finance and Improvement Services advised that the report highlighted the current hourly rate differential between the independent sector and the in-house service, and when applied to the number of hours currently provided by the internal service, this equates to an estimated saving of around £650k per year.

 

The Service Director advised that the estimated saving would come with a number of caveats and that it needed to be considered in the broader context of the points made in the previous item in terms of:

·       The retender exercise, market forces and how the independent sector responds;

·       The fact that tenderers would be instructed by the Council to accept the requirements of TUPE and continued Local Government Pension Scheme membership for transferring staff; and

·       With specific regard to support living, each scheme is driven by differing complexities of need, with this informing the number of hours required.

 

The Service Director continued and explained that the above-mentioned ‘unknowns’ make it difficult to project with certainty the financial implications, but it was expected that the proposal, alongside the re-tender process underway with the independent sector for existing contracts, would provide opportunity for a more cost-effective service, this being set against the £35M budget gap faced by the Council for next financial year.

 

The Cabinet Member for Education, Youth Participation and Welsh Language questioned whether the services users and their families would see change in the small number of settings the Council currently provides.

 

The Director of Social Services assured the Cabinet that the proposal, if agreed, would involve no change to an affected individual’s home or to the level of care and support they receive. It was explained that TUPE would also mean that eligible staff employed in the remaining 9 in-house supported living homes would transfer to the new commissioned providers. As such, this would help to maintain stability for the individual and continuity of staff support around the provision of activities and their care and support during any transition.

 

The Director noted that people with a learning disability had been involved in the development of the new contract documentation and the evaluation methodology, which would help to ensure that the right person-centred service is being commissioned, which is more consistent and equitable across Rhondda Cynon Taf.

 

The Leader sought clarification that that the individuals at the properties have their own tenancies to which the Director confirmed. The Director advised that as part of the proposal, the tenancy arrangements would not change for the individuals, only the care provider as part of a procurement exercise.

 

With the agreement of the Leader, Non-Committee Member, County Borough Councillor K. Morgan was granted permission to address the Cabinet.

 

Similarly, to the last item of business, prior to any decision being made by the Cabinet, the Leader emphasised the importance of referencing the three points made by Members at the meeting in respect of the protection of membership for staff within the Local Government Pension Scheme, the recognition of Trade Unions to be factored in and that no compulsory redundancies are to be taken forward. As such, the Service Director of Democratic Services and Communication put forward the following additional recommendations for Member consideration:

 

2.4      The protection of membership for staff within the Local Government Pension Scheme to be factored into the procurement process to be taken forward;

2.5      The recognition of Trade Unions to be factored into the procurement process to be taken forward; and

2.6      That no compulsory redundancies are taken forward through the implementation of these proposals.

 

Members were satisfied with the information contained within the report, the responses of officers and the additional recommendations proposed by the Leader.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To consider the information provided in this report, the Equality Impact Assessment (including Socio-Economic Duty) and Welsh Language Impact Assessment;

2.    To approve the transfer of the Council’s remaining nine Supported Living Services for people with a learning disability to specialist providers through the retender of the Council’s current Supported Living contract and commence from April 2024; and

3.    That the Director of Social Services is delegated with the authority, in conjunction with the Portfolio Holder, to award contracts following completion of the retender process and to make all necessary arrangements for the subsequent transfer.

 

In addition to the above-mentioned recommendations (2.1 to 2.3) as contained within the report, the Cabinet RESOLVED:

4.       The protection of membership for staff within the Local Government Pension Scheme to be factored into the procurement process to be taken forward;

5.       The recognition of Trade Unions to be factored into the procurement process to be taken forward; and

6.       That no compulsory redundancies are taken forward through the implementation of these proposals. 

 

The Director of Prosperity and Development provided the Cabinet with an update on the progress being made in bringing empty homes back into use in line with the RCT Empty Homes Strategy (2022-2025).

 

The Cabinet Member for Development and Prosperity spoke of the success of the programme in getting homes back on the market or into meaningful use. The Cabinet Member was pleased to note that, to date, just under 700 properties had been brought back into use and was happy to move the recommendations contained within the report.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To consider the information contained within the report and note the positive progress made to date in bringing empty homes back into use in line with the RCT Empty Homes Strategy (2022 – 2025).

 

The Director of Social Services provided Cabinet with an overview of the operation and effectiveness of the Council’s statutory Social Services complaints procedure between1^st April 2022 and 31^st March 2023. 

 

The Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care thanked the Director for the report and stated that both complaints and compliments are valuable feedback, which drives service improvement and planning. The Cabinet Member added that it was reassuring for staff to receive compliments for all their hard work and dedication.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.   To note the content of this report and the Social Services Annual Representations and Complaints report for 2022/23; and

2.    To note the work undertaken by the Customer Feedback, Engagement and Complaints Team.

 

The Service Manager for Welsh Language Services presented the report, which sought approval from the Welsh Language Cabinet Sub-committee for Human Resources staff and Welsh Language Services staff to start work on drafting an achievable and reasonable guaranteed interview scheme for Welsh-speakers Level 3 and above if they meet the vacancy essential criteria.

 

The Service Manager noted that the introduction of a guaranteed interview scheme was noted as an action in the Council’s statutory 5-year strategy for promoting the Welsh language and its supporting action plan, as agreed by the Sub-Committee at meetings held on 25 October 2022 and 9 May 2023 respectively.

 

The Service Manager advised that the introduction of a Guaranteed Interview Scheme would strengthen the Council’s position regarding the statutory requirements regarding the Welsh language and delivery of services through the medium of Welsh and lower the risk with regards to any potential litigation. In addition, the scheme would also benefit the Council as an employer through a potential wider selection of candidates who meet the essential criteria.

 

The Service Manager emphasised that, if approved by the Sub-Committee, the guaranteed interview scheme would only provide the guarantee of an interview to those who meet the essential criteria set out in any job pack; and would not guarantee employment, as selection procedures would ensure the best candidate for the job is appointed.

 

The Chair thanked the officer for the comprehensive presentation and was in favour of the recommendations contained within the report. The Chair spoke of the importance of broadening the Welsh Language skills amongst staff across a wide range of departments to enhance the services provided by the Local Authority. The Chair spoke positive of the opportunity to review the scheme following a 12-month period.

 

The Deputy Leader was also supportive of the recommendations and praised the Local Authority for introducing such an initiative. The Deputy Leader compared to the proposed initiative to the positive scheme introduced by RCT for veterans.

 

The Deputy Leader sought further information from the Director of Human Resources as to what an ‘achievable and reasonable guaranteed interview scheme for Welsh-speakers Level 3 and above’ would entail; and questioned if there would be an opportunity for the Sub-Committee to have sight of the final policy. The Director assured the Sub-Committee that the scheme would be fit for purpose and would seek to achieve the Council’s longer-term objectives in relation to the Welsh Language 5 Year Strategy and Workforce Planning Strategy. The Director noted that the Trade Unions would be involved as part of the process and confirmed that the Sub-Committee could have sight of the final draft of the policy.

 

The Chair agreed with the comments of the Deputy Leader and confirmed that he would be content with arranging an additional meeting of the Sub-Committee in advance of the meeting scheduled for May 2024, for Members to consider the draft policy.

 

The Welsh Language Cabinet Sub-Committee RESOLVED:

1.    To delegate to the Director of Human Resources and Welsh Language Service’s Manager authority to draft an achievable and reasonable guaranteed interview scheme for Welsh-speakers Level 3 and above, subject to applicants meeting the vacancy essential criteria, in line with an agreed action noted in the Council’s statutory strategy for the promotion of the Welsh language;

2.    To delegate implementation decision to Service Directors for HR, PHP and Community Services, in consultation with the relevant Cabinet Members for Human Resources and Welsh Language Service;

3.    That once the scheme is operational, to include a strapline on job advertisements highlighting the guaranteed interview scheme; and

4.    That once the scheme has been operational for a period of 12 months, a review is undertaken to measure the scheme’s success.

 

The Senior Executive and Regulatory Business Officer provided Members with the proposed list of matters requiring consideration by the Welsh Language Cabinet Sub-Committee during the 2023-24 Municipal Year.

 

Members’ attention was drawn to Appendix 1 of the report, which detailed the key reports for consideration during the Municipal Year. Furthermore, it was advised that to monitor the promotion of the Welsh Language across Council services, the Sub-Committee would receive information updates, when applicable, from various service areas.

 

It was proposed that the Welsh Language Cabinet Sub-Committee formally meet on two occasions during the 2023-2024 Municipal Year, with further meetings convened when deemed appropriate, at the request of the Chair.

 

Members were content with the work programme and acknowledged that its content was flexible and could change to reflect business needs.

 

The Welsh Language Cabinet Sub-Committee RESOLVED:

1.    To approve the Welsh Language Cabinet Sub-Committee Work Programme for the 2023-2024 Municipal Year.

The Performance Manager presented the ‘Think Climate RCT: The Council’s Tackling Climate Change Strategy 2022-2025’ to Members.

 

The Chair welcomed the report in this format and commented that she liked the hyperlinks contained within the report. The Chair noted that because procurement lays such a large part of the Council’s  Carbon Reduction then she would like to see more about procurement in the quarterly reports.

 

Discussions ensued and a Member noted that the report fits in well with the Council’s Corporate Plan and that the report highlights how much work is being done in the background by the Council to hit their targets. The Member referred to the Electric Vehicle report that is due to come to the Sub Committee in December and queried whether we could invite the National Grid to attend the meeting to see what their plans are for the future. The Chair agreed that this was a good suggestion and the Director of Corporate Estates agreed to liaise with the National Grid to arrange a suitable time.

 

Discussions continued and another Member welcomed the report and commented that it was useful to have all the information in one place and that this a useful tool for the public. Another Member agreed and welcomed this format going forward. In respect of the National Grid, a Member suggested that the Chair has a pre meeting with Officers prior to the December meeting to ascertain what the key issues are so that the necessary challenge can be provided to the National Grid.

 

Following discussion, Members RESOLVED:

 

1.     To consider the information contained within the report;

2.     To invite the National Grid to attend a subsequent meeting of the Committee as part of the Sub Committee’s Work Programme; and

3.     To note the potential to further embed the Council’s response to Climate Change into the business of the Council as part of the development of the Council’s new Corporate Plan.

 

The Director of Prosperity & Development presented the ‘Nature on your Doorstep’ to Members in order to Members on local places for nature grant funded works undertaken in 22/23 and planned for 24/25.

 

Discussions ensued and the Chair welcomed the report and noted that Cabinet Members previously met the Apprentices, however, the Chair suggested that it would be a good opportunity for Cabinet Members to meet with the Apprentices again on a site visit. Another Member agreed and noted that the Committee previously met the graduates and that it would be useful for the Committee to meet with the Apprentices.

 

Discussions continued and a Member noted that we have fantastic nature sites across the County Borough. The Member referred to the Carnetown    ponds and noted how pleased he was to see this on the list and once that area has been assessed, the Member requested if Officers could provide an update that could be shared with the community. Officers agreed to get back to Members as the area develops.

 

A Member praised the Council’s work with graduates and Apprentices and noted that this will play a huge part in our planning and development and praised such a detailed report.

 

Following discussion, Members RESOLVED:

 

1.     To consider the progress reported, the planned expenditure and how this contributes to the broader objective of developing a Living Landscape project across RCT;

2.     To arrange a site meeting for the Committee to meet with the new Biodiversity Apprentices

 

The Service Director, Democratic Services and Communications presented the Climate Change Cabinet Sub Committee Work Programme 2023-24 to Members.

 

The Chair empasised that Members were very keen on attending site visits. A Member confirmed that they welcomed the suggestion of site visits throuoght the County Borough.

 

Following discussion, Members RESOLVED:

 

1.     To approve the Climate Change Cabinet Sub-Committee Work Programme for the 2023-2024 Municipal Year, as attached as Appendix 1;

 

2.     To agree to undertake site visits during the Municipal Year to the proposed list of locations:

·       Launch of School Eco Awards;

·       Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Awel Taf, Rhydyfelin;

·       Soaring Supersaurus,Penrhys;

·       Canolfan Calon Taf; and

·       Welcome to our Woods –Crop Cycle

 

3.     To receive a future report of the Chair with the findings from each of the site visits.

 

The Head of Inclusion Services advised the Cabinet of the outcome of the recent consultation in respect of the proposal to realign the mainstream Learning Support Class (LSC) provision within Rhondda Cynon Taf (RCT).

 

The Cabinet Member for Education, Youth Participation & Welsh Language firstly took the opportunity to thank all those who engaged with the consultation process. The Cabinet Member spoke of the increased pressure, in terms of the number of children and young people additional learning needs support and felt that the report clearly demonstrated the Cabinet’s willingness to invest in the provision. The Cabinet Member was in favour of the proposals and commented that the proposal to transfer the LSC for pupils in Years 3-6 with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) at Abercynon Community Primary School to create a through provision in the Primary Phase at Perthcelyn Primary School would be beneficial in the long-term. In respect of the proposal to establish two Welsh medium primary phase LSCs at the new Welsh medium primary school in Rhydyfelin for pupils with significant ALN, the Cabinet Member felt it was positive and would give further choice to families, whilst supporting National legislation.

 

Referring to the consultation responses, the Leader clarified that the proposals before Members were not about cost savings, and that if agreed, it would be an increase of £400,000 a year in costs.

 

The Leader questioned what support would be available to the children and families, in terms of transitional arrangements, should the Cabinet agree the recommendations. The officer acknowledged that there would be a small number of pupils impacted by the proposals and that families were rightfully concerned about the prospect. It was explained that transitions had been done successfully in the past and a key factor in respect of the proposals was that staff would be moving with the children, which would maintain a degree of consistency. If the parents decided not to move their children to Perthcelyn, the pupils would be supported in mainstream with a specialist ASD and additional non-teaching support, where necessary. The Director added that further discussions with families would take place to ensure all individual’s needs are met and to reduce parental concerns.

 

The Deputy Leader was in support of the proposals and took the opportunity to thank the Education and Inclusion Scrutiny Committee for its constructive comments.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To note the information contained within the consultation report, which includes a summary of items of correspondence received during the consultation exercise and notes of the various meetings held;

2.    To progress the following proposals to realign the mainstream Learning Support Class (LSC) provision within Rhondda Cynon Taf (RCT) by issuing the appropriate statutory notices:

·       Proposal 1 (amended): To relocate the Observation and Assessment LSC at Penrhiwceiber Primary School to Abercynon Community Primary School taking effect from September 2024. (Amended from April 2024).

·       Proposal 2 (amended): To transfer the LSC for pupils in Years 3-6 with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) at Abercynon Community Primary School to create a through provision in the Primary Phase at Perthcelyn Primary School taking effect from September 2024. (Amended from April 2024).

·       Proposal 3: To establish one Early Years Assessment and Intervention LSC for pupils under statutory school age with significant presenting needs at Abercynon Primary School taking effect from April 2024.

·       Proposal 4: To establish two Welsh medium primary phase LSCs at the new Welsh medium primary school in Rhydyfelin for pupils with significant ALN taking effect from September 2024.

·       Proposal 5: To establish one LSC for pupils in years 7-11 with ASD at the new 3-16 school on the Hawthorn Primary/High School site taking effect from September 2024.

 

3.    To note the comments, observations and/or recommendations of the Education and Inclusion Scrutiny Committee, following its pre-scrutiny of the above recommendations at the meeting held on 14th September 2023.

 

.

 

The Service Director of Democratic Services and Communication provided Cabinet with the feedback and comments of the Community Services Scrutiny Committee following its pre scrutiny of the Local Toilet Strategy Review at its meeting on the 10^th July 2023.

 

The Head of Arts, Culture and Libraries then provided the Cabinet with an update on the review of the Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council Local Toilets Strategy from 2019-2023 to 2023-2028. It was explained that the provision of local toilets for public use is not a statutory requirement of local authorities in Wales; and that at a challenging time for local authorities, the strategy aims to mitigate potential impacts by making toilets in more Council facilities available for public use and to work with the private sector to help promote their facilities.

 

The officer informed Members of the progress to date and drew Members’ attention to Section 6 of the report, which detailed two objectives, that had been developed with supporting actions.

 

The Cabinet Member for Public Health & Communities was supportive of the recommendations outlined within the report and took the opportunity to thank the Community Services Scrutiny Committee for its valuable contribution.

 

The Deputy Leader reiterated the thanks to the Scrutiny Committee for its contribution and commented that it would be an opportunity to engage with community councils to add further value to the provision.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To note the comments and observations of the Community Services Scrutiny Committee as advised within section 5 of the report; and

2.    To approve the reviewed Local Toilet Strategy 2023 – 2028 as attached to the report as Appendix A.

 

The Director of Education and Inclusion Services sought formal approval to begin the relevant and required statutory school organisation consultation to close Rhigos Primary School in line with the requirements of the Welsh Government’s School Organisation Code (2nd Edition) (011/2018); and to extend the catchment area of Hirwaun Primary School to incorporate the current catchment area of Rhigos Primary School.

 

With the agreement of the Leader, the following Non-Committee Members were granted permission to address the Cabinet:

·       County Borough Councillor K. Morgan

·       County Borough Councillor A. Rogers

With the agreement of the Leader, the following members of public were granted permission to address the Cabinet:

·       Ms M. Evans

·       Ms S. Oliver

The Leader thanked the Non-Committee Members and members of the public for their contributions. Referring to the table at section 4.5 of the report, the Leader questioned how robust the projections were and how officers had come to their conclusions. The Director advised that accurate live birth data is used from the Local Health Board.

 

The Cabinet Member for Education, Youth Participation & Welsh Language spoke of the Council’s statutory duty to monitor surplus places throughout its schools. The Cabinet Member commented that the projected 33% decrease in numbers of pupils attending the school in the next five years would have a financial impact on the sustainability of the school. That, together with the age of the site, the backlog of repairs required and the site’s incompliance with the Equality Act 2010 gave the Cabinet Member concerns regarding the future viability of the school. The Cabinet Member added that there were excellent facilities within and around Hirwaun Primary school, in terms of outdoor space. As such, the Cabinet Member was in support of commencing a consultation to gain a further insight into the views of residents.

 

The Deputy Leader thanked the speakers for raising key areas for Cabinet’s consideration. The Deputy Leader was in support of commencing a statutory consultation based upon the ageing building and the number of surplus places, which would allow Cabinet, at a future date, the opportunity to balance the views and look thoroughly at the consultation responses.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To note the content of the report;

2.    To give formal approval to commence a statutory consultation with relevant stakeholders on the proposal to close Rhigos Primary School and extend the catchment area of Hirwaun Primary School to incorporate the current catchment area of Rhigos Primary School;

3.    To give formal approval to report back to Cabinet to consider the Consultation Report and determine whether to publish the Consultation Report and approve the publication of the proposal in the form of a Statutory Notice; and

4.    To give delegated authority to the Director of Education and Inclusion Services to make any minor changes required to the draft Consultation Document prior to its publication and the statutory consultation commencing.

 

The Deputy Chief Executive and Group Director of Finance, Digital and Frontline Services set out the position regarding the opportunity for Cabinet to propose to Council to further invest in the Council’s priority areas, aligned to the Corporate Plan, “Making a Difference” 2020 – 2024.

 

The Leader referred to the table at section 4.1 of the report and explained that the areas identified for investment were in line with the Corporate Plan and priorities for residents. The Leader stated that the Council would not be able to bring forward almost three quarter of a million pounds of investment in addition to the £4M agreed for the Local Cost of Living Support Scheme (Minute No. 44), if it wasn’t for the good financial management of the reserve fund.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To review and propose the additional Corporate Plan investment priorities and funding arrangements as set out in the report at Appendix A to Council at its meeting on 20^th September 2023.

 

The Service Director of Finance and Improvement Services provided the Cabinet with an overview of the Council’s performance, both from a financial and operational perspective, based on the first three months of this financial year (to the 30th June 2023).

 

The Deputy Leader thanked the Service Director for the update and was pleased to note the decrease in sickness absence rates. The Deputy Leader advised that she and the Leader engage regularly with the Director of Human Resources and the Trade Union representatives in relation to sickness absence and other staff wellbeing related matters.

 

The Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Corporate Services acknowledged the difficult financial situation in which the Council services continue to operate. The Cabinet Member was pleased with the amount of investment and progress made during quarter 1 and was happy to support the recommendations contained within the report.

 

The Leader noted that the report indicated a potential overspend of approximately £2.5M but emphasised that Local Authorities across the country are significantly overspending due to inflation and social services pressures. The Leader advised that one Local Authority had a projected overspend of £23.8M, which was almost 10 times that of RCT.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

 

Revenue

 

1.    To note and agree the General Fund revenue outturn position of the Council as at the 30th June 2023 (Section 2 of the Executive Summary).

 

2.    To request that Cabinet approve the virements listed in Sections 2a - e of the Executive Summary that exceed the £0.100M threshold as per the Council's Financial Procedure Rules.

 

Capital

 

3.    To note the capital outturn position of the Council as at the 30th June 2023 (Sections 3a – e of the Executive Summary).

 

4.    To note the details of the Treasury Management Prudential Indicators as at the 30th June 2023 (Section 3f of the Executive Summary)

 

Corporate Plan Priorities

 

5.    To note the Quarter 1 progress updates for the Council’s Corporate Plan priorities (Sections 5 a – c of the Executive Summary) that include updates in respect of the Council’s on-going work to deliver its Climate Change ambitions..

 

With the aid of a PowerPoint presentation, the Deputy Chief Executive and Group Director of Finance, Digital and Frontline Services provided the Cabinet with an update on the Medium-Term Financial Plan (MTFP) for 2023/24 to 2026/27, based on current modelling assumptions in advance of formulating the detailed budget strategy proposals for 2024/25 during the autumn. 

 

The Leader thanked the Group Director for the update. The Leader sought to provide clarity on the Council’s use of its reserve fund by explaining that the Capital Programme was four times bigger than a decade ago; that there was significant investment in the modernisation of the social services provision; and that new 21^st Century Schools and other funded projects, such as flood alleviation schemes, require match funding. The Leader stated that the budget would need to be managed year by year based on funding available; and that it was right to use the reserve funding, where possible.

 

The Leader feared that the small service changes, which had previously been made by the Council would not be sustainable in next year’s budget, if UK Government do not release additional funding in the Autumn.

 

The Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Corporate Services commented on her frustration that the Council had to undertake such reviews of services in order to close the budget gap but had every confidence in the Council’s financial team.

 

The Deputy Leader echoed earlier comments and thanked officers for their sound financial management in what was described as ‘dire’ times. The Deputy Leader agreed that ‘invest to save’ was the correct mantra and commented that the Council’s Capital Programme was one to be envied.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To note the current position modelled in respect of the ‘Medium Term Financial Plan 2023/24 to 2026/27’ and receive further updates in the autumn as part of the annual budget setting process; and

2.    To note that the MTFP will be presented to Council in September and will be reviewed by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee in line with their terms of reference alongside our budget consultation arrangements.

 

The Deputy Chief Executive and Group Director of Finance, Digital and Frontline Services provided the Cabinet with details of a further Local Cost of Living Support Scheme (2023).

 

The Leader took the opportunity to thank officers for putting together the substantial package of funding for Members’ consideration, following his request at a full Council meeting. The Leader advised that had the Council delivered Free School Meals during the school summer holidays, it would have cost close to £1M but the package before Members amounted to approximately £4.3M, which was the biggest financial package announced by any Local Authority in South Wales.

 

The Leader spoke of the Community Facilities Energy Support Grant of £540 per organisation, which would financially support not for profit organisations such as churches and community centres, where activities and food banks take place. The Leader explained that such organisations are lifelines for some individuals and that the payment would provide support during winter pressures. The Leader welcomed the short-term package of localised support and hoped that further support would be provided by Welsh Government and/or UK Government.

 

The Deputy Leader was fully supportive of the recommendations and was pleased that the Local Authority were considering the package of support for communities, despite financial pressures.

 

The Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Corporate Services echoed earlier comments and welcomed the package of funding.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To note and agree the detail of the proposed Local Cost of Living Support Scheme (2023); and

2.    To note and agree the implementation arrangements and delegation to the Deputy Chief Executive & Group Director – Finance, Digital & Frontline Services as detailed at section 9 of the report.

 

The Chairman of the meeting, was of the opinion that the report of the Director of Frontline Services be considered, in accordance with the provision of section 100(b)4(B) of the Local Government Act 1972, as a matter of urgency by reason of special circumstance i.e. To enable the immediate implementation of the proposed scheme on the 24th July.

 

The Director of Frontline Services presented the report, which sought Cabinet’s approval to introduce a £1 maximum single bus fare for travel between 24^th July 2023 – 3^rd September 2023 (inclusive), for all journeys that start and terminate within the Rhondda Cynon Taf (RCT) county boundary. This would apply to all operators currently operating a scheduled service. Subject to the continuation of Welsh Government Bus Funding beyond 24^th July 2023. The report sought approval to delegate authority to the Director of Frontline Services to introduce a £1 maximum single bus fare for travel between 1^st December 2023 – 31^st December 2023 (inclusive), for all journeys that start and terminate within the Rhondda Cynon Taf (RCT) county boundary – subject to the outcomes of the School Summer Holidays scheme and available funding, and in liaison with the Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure. Subject to the continuation of Welsh Government Bus Funding beyond 24^th July 2023; andapproval to introduce a 1 year 7-day bus travel pilot scheme for all school and college students that are in receipt of a public bus season ticket to attend school or college between 4^th September 2023 and the end of the respective academic year 2023/24.

 

The Leader was in support of the recommendations contained within the report and took the opportunity to thank officers for the work undertaken to bring forward the positive report. The Leader advised that the scheme would save residents £1.1M and spoke of the previous scheme agreed by Cabinet for March 2023, which increased patronage by 7% the following month. The Leader advised that there had been some anti-social behaviour during the last bus travel scheme and hoped that the £1 maximum single bus fare fee would alleviate that, as well as making the money go further.

 

The Leader reminded Members that he had asked officers at a recent Council meeting to consider potential support packages for residents during the cost-of-living crisis and felt that the scheme before Members would be an additional benefit, which could save some families hundreds of pounds for the remainder of the year.

 

The Cabinet Member for Environment & Leisure endorsed the Leader’s comments and spoke of the success of the previous initiative. The Cabinet Member hoped that the scheme would help families have a more financially viable summer by allowing them to travel across RCT and visit its attractions at an affordable cost; and take some pressure off residents during the Christmas period.

 

The Service Director of Democratic Services and Communication informed Members that the permission of the Presiding Officer would be sought to exempt the matter from call-in, to enable the immediate implementation of the proposed scheme on the 24th July.

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.          To note the contentof the report and approvethe proposals to:

(ii)            Introduce a £1 maximum single bus fare for travel between 24^th July 2023 – 3^rd September 2023 (inclusive), for all journeys that start and terminate within the Rhondda Cynon Taf (RCT) county boundary. Subject to the continuation of Welsh Government Bus Funding beyond 24^th July 2023.

(iii)          Delegate authority to the Director of Frontline Services tointroduce a £1 maximum single bus fare for travel between 1^st December 2023 – 31^st December 2023 (inclusive), for all journeys that start and terminate within the Rhondda Cynon Taf (RCT) county boundary – subject to the outcomes of the School Summer Holidays scheme and available funding, and in liaison with the Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure. Subject to the continuation of Welsh Government Bus Funding beyond 24^th July 2023.

 

(i)             Introduce a 1 year 7-day bus travel pilot scheme for all post-16 school and college students that will be in receipt of a public bus season ticket to attend school or college between 4^th September 2023 and the end of the respective academic year 2023/24.

2. To review the outcomes of the bus travel schemes during the 2023/24 financial year and seek to develop further bus travel initiatives during the 2024/25 financial year, subject to funding.

 

The Service Director of Democratic Services and Communication provided the Cabinet with the feedback and comments of the Education and Inclusion Scrutiny Committee following its pre-scrutiny of Estyn’s report on Education Services in Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council, at its meeting on the 20^th June 2023.

 

The Director of Education and Inclusion Services then provided the Cabinet with an overview of Estyn’s processes and procedures for inspecting a local authority, as well as the strengths and areas for development for the Education Directorate as a result of its most recent inspection by Estyn.

 

The Leader thanked the officers for the update and was encouraged to note that the areas of improvement raised by Estyn, were areas already identified by the Local Authority.

 

The Cabinet Member for Education, Youth Participation and Welsh Language endorsed the Leader’s comments and was pleased to note the positive findings of Estyn’s report. The Cabinet Member took the opportunity to thank the Estyn inspection team for a fair and accurate report; all those who took part in the inspection process and also extended his thanks to the Director and staff for their continued hard work.

 

The Deputy Leader reitterated the above-mentioned comments and took the opportunity to extend her gratitude to the Director and the team.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To note the comments and observations of the Education and Inclusion Scrutiny Committee; and

2.    To endorse Estyn’s report on Education Services in Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council, as attached to the report as Appendix B.

The Director of Legal and Democratic Services sought Members approval in respect of a change to one of the appointed Council officer directors of Amgen Rhondda Limited and Cynon Valley Waste Disposal Company Limited (the ‘Companies’) as a result of the forthcoming retirement of Mr. Roger Waters, Director of Frontline Services and deletion of that post from the Council’s management structure.

 

Cabinet Members were in support of the recommendation contained within the report and took the opportunity to thank the Director of Frontline Services for his excellent work and wish him well in his future endeavours.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    That the appointed Council officer director of Amgen Rhondda Limited and Cynon Valley Waste Disposal Company Limited, which was previously aligned to the post holder of Director of Frontline Services, be realigned to the post holder of Director – Highways, Streetcare & Transportation Services with effect from 1^st September 2023.

 

N.B- Having previously declared a personal and pecuniary interest (Minute No. 25) in respect of this item, the following officers left the meeting, whilst the item was discussed and voted upon:

·       The Service Director of Transportation, Enforcement and Strategic Investment;

·       The Director of Frontline Services; and

·       The Service Director of Finance and Improvement Services.

The Service Director of Transportation, Enforcement and Strategic Investment provided the Cabinet with an update on progress of the Authority’s review of the revised Local Flood Risk Management Strategy (LFRMS) and Action Plan (formerly known as a Flood Risk Management Plan), as required under Section 10 of the Flood and Water Management Act (FWMA) 2010.

 

The Leader thanked the officer for the comprehensive report. The Leader advised that since 2020, the Council had been successful in securing funding to improve flood resilience and that the Strategy would ensure funding is prioritised going forward.

 

The Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care took the opportunity to thank officers for their continuous hard work and spoke of his own experiences during Storm Dennis in 2020. The Cabinet Member spoke of the heart-breaking scenes at Trehafod and Britannia; and of the resilience of those communities affected. The Cabinet Member spoke of residents’ fears of extreme weather events in the future and was pleased to note that the Council was putting measures in place to mitigate the risks.

 

The Deputy Leader echoed previous comments about mitigating the risk, where possible and spoke of a successful flood alleviation scheme in her ward which had given the community a degree of comfort. The Deputy added that it was important for communities to recognise where responsibilities lie in terms of the Council and National Resources Wales and its prevention measures.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To commence formal statutory consultation on the Draft LFRMS and Action Plan and accompanying Environmental assessments (Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) and Habitat Regulations Assessment (HRA)), as per the programme of work which was agreed by Cabinet on 15^th May 2023.

 

The Service Director of Finance and Improvement Services provided the Cabinet with an overview of the Council’s performance, both from a financial and operational perspective, for the financial year ended 31st March 2023.

 

The Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Corporate Services acknowledged that the ongoing cost-of-living crisis had made for a difficult year for both the community and the Council. Despite this, the Cabinet Member was pleased to note the £135M in Capital Investment and the positive progress made against the Council’s Corporate Plan priorities. The Cabinet Member was also pleased with the work of the Council’s Climate Change Cabinet Sub-Committee to deliver the Council’s Climate Change Strategy and the ongoing work to manage and mitigate risks of extreme weather events. The Cabinet Member took the opportunity to thank the Service Director and the team for ensuring robust financial arrangements are in place to ensure continuous service delivery for the residents of RCT.

 

The Deputy Leader was in support of the recommendations contained within the report and noted that the devastating effects of the pandemic and Storm Dennis was still suffered within the County Borough. Despite the financial pressures, the Deputy Leader recognised the strong investment and collaborative work and took the opportunity to thank the Service Director.

 

The Leader extended his thanks to the finance team and spoke of the fine financial management of grant funding. The Leader explained that, as a whole, the Council was successful in securing both capital and revenue grants but spoke of the work behind the scenes to deliver projects in compliance with audit and procurement rules.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To note the context of the Council’s Services continuing to manage the on-going effects of communities recovering from the pandemic and the United Kingdom wide cost-of-living crisis, both of which are contributing to increases in demand for many services and significant inflationary cost pressures.

Revenue

2.    To note and agree the General Fund revenue outturn position of the Council as at the 31st March 2023 (Section 2 of the Executive Summary).

Capital

3.    To note the capital outturn position of the Council as at the 31st March 2023 (Sections 3a – e of the Executive Summary).

4.    To note the details of the Treasury Management Prudential Indicators as at the 31st March 2023 (Section 3f of the Executive Summary).

Corporate Plan Priorities

5.    To note the year-end position regarding progress made against agreed Corporate Plan priorities (Sections 5 a – c of the Executive Summary).

6.    To note the progress update to enhance the Council’s short term and long-term response to extreme weather events (Section 6 of the Executive Summary).

7.    To note the progress update in respect of the Council’s response to tackling Climate Change (Section 7 of the Executive Summary).

 

The Director of Prosperity and Development presented the report, which sought Cabinet approval to progress the CCR Housing Viability Gap Fund on Cwm Coking Works to a stage to enable the draw-down of £8 million of available funding.

 

The Cabinet Member for Development and Prosperity felt that the proposal before Members was a great opportunity for the Council to open a site, which was previously considered unviable as a commercial offering. The Cabinet Member commented that it would remediate a difficult site but would also help towards the Council’s house building targets with a potential of over 600 new homes being constructed.

 

The Leader emphasised that without the capital investment, the site would not be developed and that it had been subject to an appraisal process as part of the CCR Housing Viability Fund.

 

The Deputy Leader referred to concerns expressed in respect of biodiversity at the site and questioned if consideration would be given during the process. The Director assured Members that biodiversity would be a key consideration going forward in terms of the remediation of the site and any future housing development.

 

With the agreement of the Chair, County Borough Councillor R Yeo addressed the Cabinet on this item.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To approve and authorise the Agreement between the developer and RCT to enable the draw-down of £8 million of funding from the CCR Housing Investment Fund.

 

The Director of Prosperity and Development provided the Cabinet with details of a proposal to repurpose the Rock Grounds Buildings in Aberdare into a quality hotel facility with restaurant, bar and spa; and sought approval to commence formal procurement of a development partner to deliver such a scheme.

 

The Cabinet Member for Development and Prosperity voiced his support in respect of the ambitious proposal. The Cabinet Member spoke of the recent Tourism report, which had highlighted a shortage of tourist accommodation in RCT, particularly the upper valley; and of the recent Aberdare Town Centre Strategy, which highlighted the need to increase tourist accommodation to benefit the region, as a whole. The Cabinet Member felt that the proposal before Members, would build upon those needs, whilst bringing a historic building back into use for tourism and for the local population.

 

The Leader was in support of the proposals and commented that it would be pleasing to see investment into the building. The Leader referred to the unique venture, Lanelay Hall, within the South of the Borough, as an example of successful tourist accommodation.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To note the strategic framework provided by the Aberdare Regeneration Strategy, the Council’s Office Accommodation Strategy and the Council’s Tourism Strategy as a basis for redeveloping the Rock Grounds Buildings in Aberdare Town Centre;

 

2.    To consider the draft proposals for the repurposing and refurbishment of the Rock Grounds Buildings, Aberdare into a quality hotel facility with restaurant, bar and spa;

 

3.    To progress to a formal procurement stage to secure a development partner to deliver a hotel on the site subject to future update reports on progress; and

 

4.    To receive a further report following the completion of the procurement stage and identifying any changes to the current ideas for the site following further feasibility work with the agreed development partner.

 

The Director of Education and Inclusion Services provided the Cabinet with information on the Council’s statutory duties to establish a Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) and the constitution of Rhondda Cynon Taf SACRE; and informed Members that the Annual Report of the RCT SACRE for the academic year 2021-2022 was available.

 

The Cabinet Member for Education, Youth Participation and Welsh Language was happy to support the recommendations contained within the report and commented that it was a reflection of the broad remit of the group and the duties of the Local Authority. The Cabinet Member took the opportunity to thank all Members of the SACRE Group for its work during the previous academic year.

 

The Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure, as a Member of the SACRE Group, informed Members that the Group work well together to achieve its goals and that its current aim was to enhance its engagement with young people.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To note the content of the Annual Report 2021-2022.

 

The Service Director of Democratic Services and Communication provided the Cabinet with an update on the proposed list of matters requiring consideration by Cabinet over the 2023-2024 Municipal Year.

 

Members were reminded that the Cabinet work programme was considered by the Overview & Scrutiny 2022-2027 Committee at its meeting on 24th May 2023 to inform the work programmes of the individual Scrutiny Committees. If approved by Cabinet, the Service Director advised that the updated Cabinet Work Programme would be presented to the Overview and Scrutiny Committee as part of its quarterly update.

 

The Deputy Leader noted the amendments cited in the revised programme and was content that Scrutiny Chairs are cited upon such changes and flexibility which is required within their own work programmes to accommodate.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To approve the Work Programme for the 2023-2024 Municipal Year (with appropriate amendment where necessary) and to receive a further update on a 3 monthly basis.

The Director of Education and Inclusion Services provided Cabinet with an update, regarding the submission of the variation to the approved Strategic Outline Programme in accordance with the Welsh Government’s Sustainable Communities for Learning funding; and sought formal approval to begin the relevant and required statutory consultation for the proposal to open a new 3 to 19 special school in RCT. The consultation would also include the introduction of catchment areas for all 3 to 19 special schools across RCT, these are:

·       Park Lane Special School

·       Ysgol Hen Felin

·       Ysgol Ty Coch.

 

The Deputy Leader was in support of the recommendations contained within the report and advised that it had been the Cabinet’s aspiration to develop a new special school within the County Borough for a number of years and that the availability of funding meant those aspirations could be put into fruition.

 

The Deputy Leader welcomed the opportunity to receive the views of parents and caregivers through the statutory consultation process. It was acknowledged that there were significant pressures in terms of the need for an increase in capacity to meet demands.

 

The Leader noted that although this was only the beginning of the process, it was a fundamental proposal and that the views of the community would be sought through the consultation process. The Leader stated that the Council Headquarters in Clydach Vale was the preferred due to its geography, transport links and size.

 

The Leader stated that children in existing schools would not be forced to change schools and that it would be parental choice. However, it was noted that due to the potential introduction of catchment areas for new pupils, there could be situations where siblings would have to go to different schools. As part of the consultation, the Leader requested that officers are mindful of unique individual family circumstances and allow greater flexibility in such situations, where possible.

 

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.    To note the content of the report; and

2.    To give formal approval to commence a statutory consultation with relevant stakeholders on the proposal to:

      i.         Build a new 3 to 19 special school in RCT on a new site.

     ii.         Introduce catchment areas for all 3 to 19 special schools across RCT (as listed in 1.2), to better meet and manage the demand for special school places.

    iii.         Note that children and young people who wish to remain in their existing special school special school placements following the catchment changes can continue to do so. However, all new placements will be informed by the revised catchment areas once the changes are implemented so that learners attend their local special school.

   iv.         Give formal approval to report back to Cabinet to consider the Consultation Report and determine whether to publish the Consultation Report and approve the publication of the proposal in the form of a Statutory Notice.

     v.         Give delegated authority to the Director of Education and Inclusion Services to make any minor changes required to the draft Consultation Document (attached at Appendix A of the report) prior to its publication and the statutory consultation.

 

 

N.B. The Officer report refers to the consultation commencing 3^rd July 2023 – this falls within the call-in period and therefore any consultation cannot start until 4^th July 2023 at the earliest (subject to call-in provisions as noted in section 8 of the decision notice).

 

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