The Cabinet of Uttlesford Council met on Thursday, 13 June 2024, to discuss various significant issues, including the Climate and Biodiversity Action Plan, amendments to the Council's Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy, and the procurement of housing repairs and maintenance from 2025. Key decisions were made on these topics, reflecting the council's ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability, housing quality, and effective service delivery.

Climate and Biodiversity Action Plan

Councillor Neil Reeve presented the updated Climate Change Action Plan for April 2024 to March 2025, highlighting achievements over the past year, such as the establishment of the Co-Wheels car club and securing a DEFRA grant. The plan outlines key programme priorities, activities, and measures of success for the coming year. Councillor Reeve proposed approval of the recommendations, which was seconded by the Leader. The Cabinet resolved to note the achievements and progress made, and approved the updated action plan.

Amendments to the Council's Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy

The Environmental Health Manager (Protection) presented amendments to the Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy, originally approved in November 2019. The amendments reflect changes in legislation, including the introduction of civil penalties. Councillor Alex Coote commended the report and proposed approval, which was seconded by Councillor Martin Sutton. The Cabinet resolved to enable officers to discharge their duties under various regulations, including the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 and the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations 2015 and 2022.

Procurement of Housing Repairs, Maintenance and Capital Improvements Provision from 2025

Councillor Coote presented the report on the procurement of housing repairs, maintenance, and capital improvements from 2025. Following the decision not to continue with the Joint Venture arrangement with Uttlesford Norse Services Ltd (UNSL), the recommended option was a mixed economy model involving different providers. This approach aims to tailor long-term service arrangements per workstream and build relationships with providers to control costs and achieve social investment. The Cabinet approved the mixed economy operating model and delegated authority to develop detailed service specifications and manage the procurement process.

Empty Homes Policy

The Environmental Health Manager (Protection) also presented the Empty Homes Policy, which aligns with the Council’s Housing Strategy 2021-2026. The policy aims to bring empty homes back into use, reflecting both local and national perspectives. Councillor Coote proposed approval, seconded by Councillor Sutton, and the Cabinet resolved to approve the policy document.

Designation of Debden Neighbourhood Plan Area

Councillor John Evans presented the report on the Designation of the Debden Neighbourhood Plan Area. The council is obliged to designate the area in accordance with The Neighbourhood Planning (General) Regulations (Amended 2015 and 2016). The Cabinet resolved to designate the Parish of Debden as a Neighbourhood Development Plan Area.

Corporate Core Indicators - Target Setting 2024/25

The Leader presented the report on Corporate Core Indicator targets for 2024/25, which set out targets for all Corporate Core Indicators to be monitored and reported during the performance year. The Cabinet approved the targets as set out in the report and Appendix A.

Strategic Grants - Asylum Seeker and Refugee

Councillor Sutton presented the report on Strategic Grants for Ukrainians and Asylum Seekers, proposing a strategic grants process to support the integration of refugees into the community. The Cabinet resolved to launch the strategic grants process and extend the individual grants fund to asylum-seeking communities.

Housing Support under the Homes for Ukraine Scheme

Councillor Reeve recused himself from the meeting due to a non-registrable interest. Councillor Sutton presented the report on the Housing Support Offer for Ukrainians, proposing a rent assist offer to support Ukrainian guests moving into private rental properties. The Cabinet approved the proposal.

Car Park Update

The Leader presented the report on the Car Park Update. The owners of the Rose and Crown car park requested an end to the current management arrangement, and Waitrose requested changes to the flat rate Sunday tariff at Fairycroft car park. The Cabinet approved the amended tariffs for Sundays and Bank Holidays in Fairycroft Car Park.

Debt Refinancing Opportunity

The Strategic Director of Finance, Commercialisation and Financial Services presented a report on a debt refinancing opportunity. Although the decision was within his delegated powers, he brought the report to members for information and comment. The report was noted by the Cabinet.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the printed minutes of the meeting.