Agenda and minutes

Venue: Council Chamber, Trafford Town Hall, Talbot Road, Stretford

Contact: Ian Cockill  Democratic Services Officer

Media

Items
No. Item

19.

Minutes pdf icon PDF 232 KB

To approve as a correct record the Minutes of the Annual Meeting of the Council held on 22 May 2019, for signature by the Mayor as Chair of the Council.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

That the Minutes of the Annual Meeting of the Council held on 22 May 2019, be approved as a correct record and signed by the Chair.

 

20.

Announcements

To receive any announcements from the Mayor, Leader of the Council, Members of the Executive, Chairs of Scrutiny Committees and the Head of Paid Service.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

(a)        Her Majesty the Queen’s Birthday Honours

 

The Mayor took the opportunity to recognise those citizens and persons connected with Trafford who had recently been named in Her Majesty the Queen's Birthday Honours List, namely:

 

Mr. David Gill of Bowdon awarded the citation of Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE) for services to football;

 

Mr. Stuart Marks of Altrincham awarded the CBE for voluntary political service;

 

Mr. Richard Wayne Vince of Bowdon awarded the CBE for services to Her Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service in Greater Manchester;

 

Mr. Darryl Mark Lee of Altrincham awarded the citation of Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to charity and the Jewish community in Manchester;

 

Mr. Christie Darren Spurling of Sale awarded the MBE for services to young people in Greater Manchester; and

 

Mr. Anthony Frederick Charles Collier of Timperley awarded the British Empire Medal for services to Charity, Fundraising and the community in Cheshire.

 

On behalf of the Council, the Mayor had written to convey congratulations for their achievements and richly deserved recognition.

 

(b)        Congratulations

 

The Council joined with the Mayor in congratulating Councillor Morgan on his recent marriage to husband Chris.

21.

Questions By Members pdf icon PDF 155 KB

This is an opportunity for Members of Council to ask the Mayor, Members of the Executive or the Chairs of any Committee or Sub-Committee a question on notice under Procedure Rule 10.2.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

The Mayor reported that 7 questions had been received under Procedure Rule 10.2.

 

(a)    Councillor Bunting asked the following question for which he had given notice:

 

“I have recently had concerns raised by a Trafford resident that the care package for her adult son was delayed due to lack of action by Trafford. The resident complained about “a lack of clear communication and some very mixed messages given, which has left both me and my son upset and confused.” Given the recent Ofsted Report into children’s social care, will the Labour Administration state what it is doing to ensure adult social care does suffer the same fate?”

 

For reasons of confidentially, Councillor Harding, the Executive Member for Adult Services, indicated that as the Member would be aware, it was not appropriate to discuss individual cases in a public forum and sought to address the wider point stating that a very skilled and dedicated team were set key priorities to deliver improved outcomes for Trafford residents. The Executive Member thanked all the staff that work across Adult Social Care (ASC) in Trafford for rising to the challenge of ensuring the care the Council offered was safe, of high quality and accessible.

 

In her first year as Executive Member, improving quality was set as a priority as there was a significant issue with some of the homes that cared for the most vulnerable people. As a result of intense and focussed work, quality of care homes had improved by 18% in the past 12 months but there was still much more to be done.

 

Councillor Harding and the previous shadow portfolio holder both recognised that ASC was a cross party area of work and had worked closely together in this area, particularly on the Council’s response to the Green paper. ASC was the Council’s biggest spend area and potential risk and having made herself available to Health Scrutiny Committee, Councillor Harding would also welcome questions about the work she was taking forward in this area.

 

Welcoming Councillor Bunting’s interest and suggesting that he may want to support her as she lobbied central Government to ensure that the Council received what was necessary to care for Trafford residents, at a time in their lives when they might need support, the Executive Member indicated that she was happy to share any planned areas of work with the Shadow Member for ASC.

 

Councillor Bunting asked as a supplementary question whether the Executive Member could write to all Councillors detailing the actions to ensure ASC remains robust. In response and further to the offer to share information with the Shadow Executive Member, Councillor Harding was happy to share this with all Members.

 

(b)    Councillor Boyes asked the following question, the first of three questions for which he had given notice:

 

“The 2018 Labour Group Manifesto suggested that there was to be a Borough wide Road Safety Survey. Please could the Executive Member for Environment, Air Quality and Climate Change indicate whether this survey  ...  view the full minutes text for item 21.

22.

Membership of Committees and Outside Bodies

To note the following changes to the list of appointments, as agreed by the Chief Executive under delegated authority:

 

(a)        Licensing Committee

 

With effect from 14 June 2019, Councillor Mrs. Churchill was appointed as a replacement for Councillor Mrs. Haddad and Councillor Myers was appointed to the vacant position on the Committee.

 

(b)        Health and Social Care Joint Commissioning Board

 

With effect from 17 June 2019, Councillor Jane Slater was appointed as a replacement for Councillor Dr. Serena Carr and Councillor Andrew Western was appointed as a replacement for Councillor Akilah Akinola, as substitute.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

RESOLVED: That the Council notes the following changes to the list of appointments, as agreed by the Chief Executive under delegated authority:

 

(a)        Licensing Committee

 

With effect from 14 June 2019, Councillor Mrs. Churchill was appointed as a replacement for Councillor Mrs. Haddad and Councillor Myers was appointed to the vacant position on the Committee.

 

(b)        Health and Social Care Joint Commissioning Board

 

With effect from 17 June 2019, Councillor Jane Slater was appointed as a replacement for Councillor Dr. Serena Carr and Councillor Andrew Western was appointed as the substitute member, as a replacement for Councillor Akilah Akinola.

23.

Revised Corporate Leadership Structure and Re-alignment of Portfolios pdf icon PDF 286 KB

To consider a report of the Chief Executive, following a referral by Employment Committee on 1 July 2019.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

Further to a referral from the Employment Committee on 1 July 2019, the Chief Executive submitted a report setting out proposals for a revised Corporate Leadership structure to further secure the safe and effective leadership of the Council following the permanent appointment to the Chief Executive post in February 2019.

 

The Council’s Constitution required appointments to Corporate Director posts to be made by an Appointments Panel, which was drawn from members across the Council and that salary and benefits packages totalling in excess of £100,000 to be approved by the Council.

 

The report outlined the rationale for the proposed changes, including remuneration levels, summarised them accordingly and sought Council approval and/or noting of the changes, as appropriate.

 

It was moved and seconded that the recommendations set out in the report be approved.

 

Following a debate on the matter the Motion was put to the vote and declared carried.

 

RESOLVED:

 

(1)        That the Council notes:

 

(a)        that the joint post of Corporate Director Commissioning has been disestablished following the conclusion of the fixed term arrangement;

 

(b)        the proposed establishment of a redesigned joint post of Director of Integrated Health and Social Care Strategy for a three year period with a remuneration level equivalent to NHS Very Senior Manager terms £62,316 (0.6 FTE pro-rata) funded jointly by NHS Trafford Clinical Commissioning Group and Trafford Council;

 

(c)        the internal ring-fence appointment of the postholder of the former Corporate Director Commissioning role, to the redesigned Director of Integrated Health and Social Care Strategy post on the terms outlined to secure the continuation of the transformation and reform responsibilities in the health and social care field;

 

(d)        the current temporary arrangements in place for the Corporate Director of Children’s Services pending the external recruitment process;

 

(e)        the proposed Member led internal recruitment process for the statutory role of Corporate Director of Adults and Wellbeing to be ring-fenced to the current interim postholder, and the proposed external advertisement and Member led recruitment process for the Corporate Director of Children and Families;

 

(f)          the revised salary level for the Director of Public Health proposed at £95,000 and the external Member led recruitment process with Public Health England that includes consideration of the current interim postholder; and

 

(g)        the reporting re-alignment of the Director of Public Health and function to the Corporate Director Adult Services and Wellbeing.

 

(2)        That the salary for the Interim Corporate Director of Children’s Services (£1104 day rate) for a six month period, which is likely to exceed £100,000, be approved.

 

(3)        That the proposed revised salary levels for Corporate Director Adults and Wellbeing post (£116,745) and Corporate Director Children and Families post (£125,000), consistent with revised portfolios and market value, be approved.

 

(4)        That the establishment of a new Corporate Leadership Team Structure, as set out in Appendix 2 to the report, be approved.

24.

Association of Greater Manchester Authorities Constitution pdf icon PDF 165 KB

To consider AGMA’s revised Constitution, referred to the Greater Manchester constituent authorities for agreement.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

The Corporate Director of Governance and Community Strategy submitted a report advising the Council that the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities (AGMA) Executive Board had agreed a number of amendments to the AGMA constitution following a review by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) Monitoring Officer.

 

RESOLVED:

 

(1)        That the Council notes that the AGMA Executive Board and GMCA have agreed the amendments to the AGMA Constitution.

 

(2)        That the revised AGMA Constitution be approved by the Council.

 

(3)        That the Council’s GMCA substitute member, Councillor Hynes, be appointed as the substitute member for the AGMA Executive Board.

25.

Accounts and Audit Committee Annual Report to Council 2018/19 pdf icon PDF 448 KB

To note a report of the 2018/19 Chair and Vice-Chair presented to the Accounts and Audit Committee on 19 June 2019.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

The Chair and Vice-Chair of the Accounts and Audit Committee for 2018/19 submitted to the Council a report setting out the Committee’s Annual Report for 2018/19. The Annual Report which had been presented to the Accounts and Audit Committee on 19 June 2019 summarised the work undertaken by the Committee during the year and its impact and also provided assurance to the Council on the fulfilment of the Committee’s responsibilities.

 

RESOLVED: That the report be noted.

26.

Annual Scrutiny Report 2018/19 pdf icon PDF 319 KB

To note a joint report of the Chairs of Scrutiny Committee, Health Scrutiny Committee and Children and Young People’s Scrutiny Committee, following a referral by Scrutiny Committee on 3 July 2019.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

Further to a referral by Scrutiny Committee on 3 July 2019, the Chairs of the Council’s three Scrutiny Committees, Scrutiny, Health Scrutiny and Children and Young People’s Scrutiny, submitted a joint report presenting the annual report to the Council on the previous year’s work and each Committee’s work programme for the year ahead.

 

RESOLVED: That the report be noted.

27.

Year End Corporate Report on Health and Safety - 1 April 2018 to 31 March 2019 pdf icon PDF 429 KB

To note a report of the Executive Member for Finance and Investment following a referral by Employment Committee on 1 July 2019.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

Further to a referral by Employment Committee on 1 July 2019, the Executive Member for Finance and Investment submitted a report providing information on council wide health and safety performance and trends in workplace accidents. The report also provided a summary of other key developments in health and safety for the period 1 April 2018 to 31 March 2019.

 

RESOLVED: That the report be noted.

28.

Motion Submitted by the Labour Group - Public Health

 

The Public Health Grant funds vital services and functions that prevent ill health and contribute to the future sustainability of the NHS. Local authorities are responsible for delivering most of these services, but their ability to do so is compromised by public health baseline funding reductions and the broader funding climate.

 

In 2018/19 and again in 2019/20 every local authority has had less to spend on public health than the year before. Taking funds away from prevention is a false economy. Without proper investment in public health people suffer, demand on local health services increases and the economy suffers. Poor public health costs local businesses heavily through sick days and lost productivity. Unless we restore public health funding, our health and care system will remain locked in a ‘treatment’ approach, which is neither economically viable nor protects the health of residents.

 

The Government is looking to phase out the Public Health Grant nationally by 2020/21, as is already the case across Greater Manchester. Thereafter, they plan to fund public health via business rates retention. Whatever the model, it is vital that local authorities have enough funding to deliver the functions and services they need to provide. Deprived areas often suffer the worst health outcomes, so it is also vital that areas with the greatest need receive sufficient funding to meet their local challenges.

 

This Council notes that around four in ten cancers are preventable, largely through avoidable risk factors, such as stopping smoking, keeping a healthy weight and cutting back on alcohol. Smoking accounts for 80,000 early deaths every year and remains the largest preventable cause of cancer in the world. Smoking-related ill health costs local authorities £760 million every year in social care costs. Additionally, obesity and alcohol account for 30,000 and 7,000 early deaths each year respectively. All three increase the risk of: cancer, diabetes, lung and heart conditions, poor mental health and create a subsequent burden on health and social care.

 

This Council believes that the impact of reduction to baseline funding to public health on our communities is becoming difficult to ignore. This case becomes more pressing given the Government’s consideration of a 10-year plan for the NHS. For this reason, we support Cancer Research UK’s call for increased and sustainable public health funding. This Council calls on the Government to deliver increased investment in public health and to support a sustainable health and social care system by taking a ‘prevention first’ approach. Trafford Council recognises and values the role of Public Health and will lobby Central Government to support and properly fund public health initiatives - to prevent ill-health, reduce inequalities and support a health and social care system that is fit for the future.

 

Additional documents:

Minutes:

It was moved and seconded that:

 

“The Public Health Grant funds vital services and functions that prevent ill health and contribute to the future sustainability of the NHS. Local authorities are responsible for delivering most of these services, but their ability to do so is compromised by public health baseline funding reductions and the broader funding climate.

 

In 2018/19 and again in 2019/20 every local authority has had less to spend on public health than the year before. Taking funds away from prevention is a false economy. Without proper investment in public health people suffer, demand on local health services increases and the economy suffers. Poor public health costs local businesses heavily through sick days and lost productivity. Unless we restore public health funding, our health and care system will remain locked in a ‘treatment’ approach, which is neither economically viable nor protects the health of residents.

 

The Government is looking to phase out the Public Health Grant nationally by 2020/21, as is already the case across Greater Manchester. Thereafter, they plan to fund public health via business rates retention. Whatever the model, it is vital that local authorities have enough funding to deliver the functions and services they need to provide. Deprived areas often suffer the worst health outcomes, so it is also vital that areas with the greatest need receive sufficient funding to meet their local challenges.

 

This Council notes that around four in ten cancers are preventable, largely through avoidable risk factors, such as stopping smoking, keeping a healthy weight and cutting back on alcohol. Smoking accounts for 80,000 early deaths every year and remains the largest preventable cause of cancer in the world. Smoking-related ill health costs local authorities £760 million every year in social care costs. Additionally, obesity and alcohol account for 30,000 and 7,000 early deaths each year respectively. All three increase the risk of: cancer, diabetes, lung and heart conditions, poor mental health and create a subsequent burden on health and social care.

 

This Council believes that the impact of reduction to baseline funding to public health on our communities is becoming difficult to ignore. This case becomes more pressing given the Government’s consideration of a 10-year plan for the NHS. For this reason, we support Cancer Research UK’s call for increased and sustainable public health funding. This Council calls on the Government to deliver increased investment in public health and to support a sustainable health and social care system by taking a ‘prevention first’ approach. Trafford Council recognises and values the role of Public Health and will lobby Central Government to support and properly fund public health initiatives - to prevent ill-health, reduce inequalities and support a health and social care system that is fit for the future.”

 

Following a debate on the matter, the Motion was put to the vote and declared.

 

RESOLVED: That the Public Health Grant funds vital services and functions that prevent ill health and contribute to the future sustainability of the NHS. Local authorities are responsible  ...  view the full minutes text for item 28.

29.

Motion Submitted by the Labour Group - Unite Construction Charter

 

This Council supports the Unite Construction Charter as set out below and authorises the Leader of the Council to sign this Charter on behalf of Trafford Metropolitan Borough Council.

 

As a Local Authority we are responsible for the procurement of a multitude of construction projects. It is therefore appropriate that we as a responsible client enter into this agreement and commit to working with the appropriate trade unions, in order to achieve the highest standards in respect of; direct employment status, health & safety, standard of work, apprenticeship training and the implementation of appropriate nationally agreed terms and conditions of employment. The following shall be a requirement for all contractors and their supply chain engaged by this Authority: -

 

1.   All parties recognise that the highest level of compliance with current HMRC regulations must be achieved where public funds are utilised. It is therefore a contractual requirement that all operatives are directly employed on a PAYE basis under a contract of employment. Furthermore the use of intermediary pay roll company will be prohibited on all contracts.

 

2.   Health and Safety of workers on all of our construction projects is paramount. It is therefore a requirement that all contractors rigorously implement and adhere to our minimum standards for health and safety, as set out in our procurement documents. In addition we require all contractors to provide quality welfare facilities fit for purpose in accordance with the Construction Design and Management Regulation of 2015.

 

3.   It is a recognised fact that the presence of trade union safety representatives significantly improves safety in the workplace. Contractors and their supply chain are required to work collaboratively with the appropriate trade unions to identify and implement reasonable real-world initiatives.

 

4.   The Authority requires all projects to be completed to the highest standard, so as to meet the aspirations of the residents of this Authority. In order to achieve this it is recognised that it is necessary that all workers are competent and have the appropriate level of skill to carry out the work they are employed to do. To assist in the achievement of this goal the Authority's contractors and their supply chain will ensure they retain documented evidence that all workers are competent to carry out the work they have been employed to do. They will ensure that such evidence is retained in a way as to allow the Authority or its nominee's to audit the documentation. Possession of the recognised industry skills / grade card such as JIB (Joint Industry Board) or CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) will be considered acceptable evidence

 

5.   The Authority is mindful of the industry skills shortage and the need to address this through appropriate apprenticeships, including adult training in up skilling. The Authority's contractors and supply chain will in consultation with the Authority and other interested parties develop and implement a programme that addresses the skills shortage and provides training opportunities to local residents.

 

6.   The Authority recognises the right of all construction workers to be employed under  ...  view the full agenda text for item 29.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

(Note: The time being 8.25 p.m., the Mayor indicated that speeches made by Members moving and seconding a Motion or any amendment would be limited to a maximum of two minutes per speaker and that all other all speeches would be limited to a maximum of one minute per speaker.)

 

(Note: By virtue of their membership of Unite the Union, the following Councillors declared a personal interest in this matter and remained in the meeting, namely, Councillors Acton, Akinola, Bennett, Carter, Cordingley, Jarman, Longden, Minnis, Thompson, Andrew Western and Williams.)

 

It was moved and seconded that:

 

“This Council supports the Unite Construction Charter as set out below and authorises the Leader of the Council to sign this Charter on behalf of Trafford Metropolitan Borough Council.

 

As a Local Authority we are responsible for the procurement of a multitude of construction projects. It is therefore appropriate that we as a responsible client enter into this agreement and commit to working with the appropriate trade unions, in order to achieve the highest standards in respect of; direct employment status, health & safety, standard of work, apprenticeship training and the implementation of appropriate nationally agreed terms and conditions of employment. The following shall be a requirement for all contractors and their supply chain engaged by this Authority: -

 

1.   All parties recognise that the highest level of compliance with current HMRC regulations must be achieved where public funds are utilised. It is therefore a contractual requirement that all operatives are directly employed on a PAYE basis under a contract of employment. Furthermore the use of intermediary pay roll company will be prohibited on all contracts.

 

2.   Health and Safety of workers on all of our construction projects is paramount. It is therefore a requirement that all contractors rigorously implement and adhere to our minimum standards for health and safety, as set out in our procurement documents. In addition we require all contractors to provide quality welfare facilities fit for purpose in accordance with the Construction Design and Management Regulation of 2015.

 

3.   It is a recognised fact that the presence of trade union safety representatives significantly improves safety in the workplace. Contractors and their supply chain are required to work collaboratively with the appropriate trade unions to identify and implement reasonable real-world initiatives.

 

4.   The Authority requires all projects to be completed to the highest standard, so as to meet the aspirations of the residents of this Authority. In order to achieve this it is recognised that it is necessary that all workers are competent and have the appropriate level of skill to carry out the work they are employed to do. To assist in the achievement of this goal the Authority's contractors and their supply chain will ensure they retain documented evidence that all workers are competent to carry out the work they have been employed to do. They will ensure that such evidence is retained in a way as to allow the Authority or its nominee's to audit the documentation. Possession  ...  view the full minutes text for item 29.

30.

Motion Submitted by the Liberal Democrats Group - Air Quality Monitoring

 

This Council notes:

 

-          The rising risk posed to all Trafford Residents caused by Air Pollution in and around the borough

-          The additional risk posed to Children and the Elderly

-          The growing amount of research - including retrospective cohort study carried out by researchers from Kings College, The University of London, Imperial College London and others - which strongly links rising air pollution to an increase in cases and severity of Dementia and Alzheimer’s

 

This Council resolves to undertake a full review of air quality monitoring in Trafford, which will include:

 

-          Drafting proposals for additional monitoring sites as well as the inclusion of PM 2.5 monitors

-          Exploring supplementary monitoring measures such as increased use of diffusion tubes and the use of mobile air monitors

-          A report on quality control and data analysis

 

This Council also resolves to:

 

-          Open up the council’s air quality data to the public at every opportunity, including the provision of new ‘land use regression maps’ so that new pollutants can be identified and monitoring provisions can be reviewed over time

-          Work with all stake holders to encourage the use of electric vehicles and increase the number of electric charging points across the borough

-          Introduce signage around level crossings and schools advising motorists to switch off their engines where appropriate

-          Ensure that future planning developments incorporate pollutant absorbent vegetation such as new trees and ‘Green Walls’ to help reduce resident exposure

-          Install feeder pillars, or other forms of connectivity, to the electricity grid as an alternative source of power to enable rides and traders using diesel generators in areas of our town centres with high pedestrian footfall to use alternative cleaner sources of power

-          Instruct the license committee to consider clean sources of power when granting licensing

 

This Council asks the Leader of the Council to write to the Mayor of Greater Manchester as well as the leaders of neighbouring local authorities encouraging them to adopt the above measures and encouraging cooperation across the region.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

It was moved and seconded that:

 

This Council notes:

 

-          The rising risk posed to all Trafford Residents caused by Air Pollution in and around the borough

-          The additional risk posed to Children and the Elderly

-          The growing amount of research - including retrospective cohort study carried out by researchers from Kings College, the University of London, Imperial College London and others - which strongly links rising air pollution to an increase in cases and severity of Dementia and Alzheimer’s

 

This Council resolves to undertake a full review of air quality monitoring in Trafford, which will include:

 

-          Drafting proposals for additional monitoring sites as well as the inclusion of PM 2.5 monitors

-          Exploring supplementary monitoring measures such as increased use of diffusion tubes and the use of mobile air monitors

-          A report on quality control and data analysis

 

This Council also resolves to:

 

-          Open up the council’s air quality data to the public at every opportunity, including the provision of new ‘land use regression maps’ so that new pollutants can be identified and monitoring provisions can be reviewed over time

-          Work with all stake holders to encourage the use of electric vehicles and increase the number of electric charging points across the borough

-          Introduce signage around level crossings and schools advising motorists to switch off their engines where appropriate

-          Ensure that future planning developments incorporate pollutant absorbent vegetation such as new trees and ‘Green Walls’ to help reduce resident exposure

-          Install feeder pillars, or other forms of connectivity, to the electricity grid as an alternative source of power to enable rides and traders using diesel generators in areas of our town centres with high pedestrian footfall to use alternative cleaner sources of power

-          Instruct the license committee to consider clean sources of power when granting licensing

 

This Council asks the Leader of the Council to write to the Mayor of Greater Manchester as well as the leaders of neighbouring local authorities encouraging them to adopt the above measures and encouraging cooperation across the region.

 

It was moved and seconded as an amendment that:

 

 “The Motion be accepted subject to the following insertions:

 

  (1) after “and severity of Dementia and Alzheimer’s” insert:

 

-     The importance of maintaining our green open spaces

 

          (2) after “This Council also resolves to:” insert:

 

-     Maintain and protect the full current Trafford Green belt and oppose the current Greater Manchester Spatial Framework (GMSF) proposals”

 

In accordance with Procedure Rule 15.1 ‘Motion to rescind a previous decision made at a Council meeting within the past six months’ the amendment was challenged on a point of order that notice of the proposed motion had not been signed by at least 16 Members. It was considered that approval would thereby constitute a Motion that would be contrary to the Council decision of 20 March 2019 relating to the Greater Manchester Spatial Framework (Minute No. 81 refers) and accordingly the amendment was ruled as invalid.  ...  view the full minutes text for item 30.

31.

Motion Submitted by the Labour Group - Green New Deal

 

The Council notes:

 

?         Its declaration of a ‘climate emergency’ and commitment to adopt radical measures to combat climate change supported by the provision of Carbon Neutrality training to council members and staff.

?         To prevent the worst effects of climate change, we must keep global temperature rises below 1.5°C.  Over 1°C of warming has taken place since the start of the industrial revolution causing huge environmental damage, with populations in the Global South suffering the most. Tackling climate change is thus indivisible from social, racial and economic justice.

?         The Conservative Government is supporting the fracking industry and has cut support for renewable, environmentally clean technologies.

?         In light of this it is important Government, as well as Local Government and GM Combined Authority plays its full part in achieving carbon neutrality as soon as possible and no later than the GM target of 2038.

 

The Council thereforecalls on the Government, as a matter of urgency, to adopt the following Green New Deal: a state-led programme of investment and regulation for the decarbonisation and transformation of our economy that reduces inequality and pursues efforts to keep global average temperature rises below 1.5°C.

 

This should include: 

 

?         Commitment to zero carbon emissions by 2038, as the 2050 target recently agreed in Parliament is too late to prevent the 1.5°C in global temperature.

?         Rapidly phasing out all fossil fuels.

?         Large-scale investment in renewables.

?         A just transition to well-paid, unionised, green jobs available for all.

?         A green industrial revolution expanding public, democratic ownership as far as necessary for the transformation.

?         Green public integrated transport that connects Britain.

?         Supporting developing countries’ climate transitions by increasing transfers of finance, technology and capacity.

?         Assuring everyone’s basic rights through the provision of universal services.

?         Welcoming climate refugees while taking measures against the displacement of peoples from their country of origin due to climate change.

?         Supporting existing and emerging companies specialising in neutralising existing levels of carbon.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

(Note: The time being 9.02 p.m., the Mayor indicated that all speeches would now be limited to a maximum of one minute per speaker.)

 

It was moved and seconded that:

 

The Council notes:

 

?          Its declaration of a ‘climate emergency’ and commitment to adopt radical measures to combat climate change supported by the provision of Carbon Neutrality training to council members and staff.

?          To prevent the worst effects of climate change, we must keep global temperature rises below 1.5°C. Over 1°C of warming has taken place since the start of the industrial revolution causing huge environmental damage, with populations in the Global South suffering the most. Tackling climate change is thus indivisible from social, racial and economic justice.

?          The Conservative Government is supporting the fracking industry and has cut support for renewable, environmentally clean technologies.

?          In light of this it is important Government, as well as Local Government and GM Combined Authority plays its full part in achieving carbon neutrality as soon as possible and no later than the GM target of 2038.

 

The Council therefore calls on the Government, as a matter of urgency, to adopt the following Green New Deal: a state-led programme of investment and regulation for the decarbonisation and transformation of our economy that reduces inequality and pursues efforts to keep global average temperature rises below 1.5°C.

 

This should include: 

 

?          Commitment to zero carbon emissions by 2038, as the 2050 target recently agreed in Parliament is too late to prevent the 1.5°C in global temperature.

?          Rapidly phasing out all fossil fuels.

?          Large-scale investment in renewables.

?          A just transition to well-paid, unionised, green jobs available for all.

?          A green industrial revolution expanding public, democratic ownership as far as necessary for the transformation.

?          Green public integrated transport that connects Britain.

?          Supporting developing countries’ climate transitions by increasing transfers of finance, technology and capacity.

?          Assuring everyone’s basic rights through the provision of universal services.

?          Welcoming climate refugees while taking measures against the displacement of peoples from their country of origin due to climate change.

?          Supporting existing and emerging companies specialising in neutralising existing levels of carbon.”

 

It was moved and seconded as an amendment that:

“The Council notes:

·          Its declaration of a ‘climate emergency’ and commitment to adopt radical measures to combat climate change supported by the provision of Carbon Literacy training to council members and staff.

·          To prevent the worst effects of climate change, we must keep global temperature rises below 1.5°C.  Over 1°C of warming has taken place since the start of the industrial revolution causing huge environmental damage, with populations in the Global South suffering the most. Tackling climate change is thus indivisible from social, racial and economic justice.

·          The Conservative Government is supporting the fracking industry, committed to airport expansion, and has cut support for renewable, environmentally clean technologies.

·          In light of this it is important Government, as well as Local Government and GM Combined Authority plays its full part in achieving carbon neutrality as soon as possible, preferably significantly before the GM  ...  view the full minutes text for item 31.

32.

Motion Submitted by the Green Party Group - Increasing Urban Street Trees

 

This Council believes:

 

That the City of Trees i-Tree survey of 2018 declared that Greater Manchester’s 11.3 million trees provide an annual environmental and economic benefit of £33 million which benefits Trafford. Trafford’s streets currently number 18,000 trees but a net increase of 20% - approx. 3,600 – will increase biodiversity, bring environmental benefits and wellbeing to residents.

 

This Council notes:

 

?     Trees are still the cheapest way to absorb and sequester carbon from the atmosphere which contributes to limiting the harmful effects of climate change.

?    Trees remove pollutants from the air which improves air quality. There’s up to a 60% reduction in street level particulates they reduce ozone, nitrogen oxides, sulphur dioxides, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide.

?     Trees create ecosystems that provide increased biodiversity for many animals.

?    Trees help control intense rain run-off and help to improve water quality and reduce flooding.

?    Trees have many benefits for residents: they provide a proven sense of wellbeing.

 

Trafford Council resolves to:

 

?       Undertake a year-long audit to identify suitable locations in urban areas to increase tree coverage and undertake resident consultation and report to Executive by July 2020.

?       Set ambitious targets to increase our urban street trees and TMBC to consider the Government’s Urban Tree Challenge Fund to assist this [1].

?       Ensure that tree coverage is consistent across the borough and consider nearby green spaces where a lack of suitable streets exist.

?       Seek out partnerships with the Woodland Trust, City of Trees and the Forestry Commission to fully move to UK-sourced trees that are disease-free and fully traceable.

?       Increase native varieties of small, medium and large sized trees and match these to local conditions.

?       Further promote the Adopt-a-Tree scheme to residents, community groups and schools.

?       Become a member of the Champion Trees Register [2] to celebrate our outstanding trees.

 

1.   https://www.gov.uk/guidance/urban-tree-challenge-fund 

2.   https://www.treeregister.org/aboutus.shtml 

 

Additional documents:

Minutes:

It was moved and seconded that:

 

“This Council believes:

 

That the City of Trees i-Tree survey of 2018 declared that Greater Manchester’s 11.3 million trees provide an annual environmental and economic benefit of £33 million which benefits Trafford. Trafford’s streets currently number 18,000 trees but a net increase of 20% - approx. 3,600 - will increase biodiversity, bring environmental benefits and wellbeing to residents.

 

This Council notes:

 

?     Trees are still the cheapest way to absorb and sequester carbon from the atmosphere which contributes to limiting the harmful effects of climate change.

?    Trees remove pollutants from the air which improves air quality. There’s up to a 60% reduction in street level particulates they reduce ozone, nitrogen oxides, sulphur dioxides, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide.

?     Trees create ecosystems that provide increased biodiversity for many animals.

?    Trees help control intense rain run-off and help to improve water quality and reduce flooding.

?    Trees have many benefits for residents: they provide a proven sense of wellbeing.

 

Trafford Council resolves to:

 

?     Undertake a year-long audit to identify suitable locations in urban areas to increase tree coverage and undertake resident consultation and report to Executive by July 2020.

?     Set ambitious targets to increase our urban street trees and TMBC to consider the Government’s Urban Tree Challenge Fund to assist this [1].

?       Ensure that tree coverage is consistent across the borough and consider nearby green spaces where a lack of suitable streets exist.

?       Seek out partnerships with the Woodland Trust, City of Trees and the Forestry Commission to fully move to UK-sourced trees that are disease-free and fully traceable.

?       Increase native varieties of small, medium and large sized trees and match these to local conditions.

?       Further promote the Adopt-a-Tree scheme to residents, community groups and schools.

?       Become a member of the Champion Trees Register [2] to celebrate our outstanding trees.”

 

It was moved and seconded as an amendment that:

 

“The Motion be accepted, subject to the deletion of:

 

-          Seek out partnerships with the Woodland Trust, City of Trees and the Forestry Commission to fully move to UK-sourced trees that are disease-free and fully traceable.”

 

Following a debate on the matter, the amendment was put to the vote and declared carried. The Substantive Motion was then put to the vote and declared carried.

 

RESOLVED: That this Council believes:

 

That the City of Trees i-Tree survey of 2018 declared that Greater Manchester’s 11.3 million trees provide an annual environmental and economic benefit of £33 million which benefits Trafford. Trafford’s streets currently number 18,000 trees but a net increase of 20% - approx. 3,600 - will increase biodiversity, bring environmental benefits and wellbeing to residents.

 

This Council notes:

 

?     Trees are still the cheapest way to absorb and sequester carbon from the atmosphere which contributes to limiting the harmful effects of climate change.

?    Trees remove pollutants from the air which improves air quality. There’s up to a 60% reduction in street level particulates they reduce ozone, nitrogen oxides, sulphur dioxides, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide.

?     Trees create ecosystems  ...  view the full minutes text for item 32.

33.

Motion Submitted by the Green Party Group - Reduce Grass Cutting to Increase Biodiversity in Parks and Roadsides

 

This Council notes:

 

Scientists have reported that our planet faces a biodiversity crisis that is threatening the planets eco-system and we need to reverse that decline [1]. This council can be proactive by reducing grass verge maintenance which will encourage habitat for insects and wildlife. By reducing maintenance on verges, parkland and other areas this council can also reduce costs: Dorset Council has saved £93,000, Burnley estimates £50,000 [2] and Rochdale Council plans £40,000 worth of savings. Over 80 per cent (81%) of the public back calls for councils to help Britain’s under-threat bees by cutting areas of grass less often states a YouGov poll for Friends of the Earth and Buglife [3].

 

This Council believes:

 

?     That planting more wildflowers and other bee friendly plants in their local parks and community spaces will increase biodiversity.

?     Allowing some areas to remain uncut can help Trafford provide corridors for wildlife to thrive which in turn creates increased wellbeing for residents [4].

?     Allowing grassland and strips to remain unmown longer can save costs [5].

 

This Council resolves to:

 

?       To undertake a year-long audit of roadside verges with the aim to reduce grass-cutting and develop a management policy to improve biodiversity, grassland and save on maintenance costs – highway safety must remain paramount.

?       Develop a wildflower planting scheme like Rotherham’s ‘River of Flowers’ and over the next year and identify suitable areas such as roundabouts and central reservations [6]

?       Report to Executive by July 2020 with a report based on the roadside audit and a borough-wide consultation with residents.

?       Aim to increase grassland areas within parks across the borough by reducing mowing regimes with consultation with Friend Groups and local residents [5]

?       Write to the Mayor of Greater Manchester to highlight this green initiative.

 

1. https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2019/feb/10/plummeting-insect-numbers-threaten-collapse-of-nature  

2. https://friendsoftheearth.uk/bees/ask-your-council-introduce-pollinator-action-plan?fbclid=IwAR1MfUXLOUdF7_R3ld_NeW0GPO0Lr65qYmu4Bca9mPl7vzlN4k5aQHqwxqw  

3. https://friendsoftheearth.uk/bees/huge-public-backing-councils-reduce-grasscutting-help-save-our-bees  

4.https://www.rewildingbritain.org.uk/assets/uploads/Rewilding%20and%20Climate%20Breakdown%20-%20a%20report%20by%20Rewilding%20Britain.pdf

5. http://www.sussex.ac.uk/broadcast/read/26417  

6.https://www.rotherham.gov.uk/info/200083/roads_highways_and_pavements/793/grass_and_verges_maintenance_schedule/2  

Additional documents:

Minutes:

It was moved and seconded that:

 

This Council notes:

 

Scientists have reported that our planet faces a biodiversity crisis that is threatening the planets eco-system and we need to reverse that decline [1]. This Council can be proactive by reducing grass verge maintenance which will encourage habitat for insects and wildlife. By reducing maintenance on verges, parkland and other areas this Council can also reduce costs: Dorset Council has saved £93,000, Burnley estimates £50,000 [2] and Rochdale Council plans £40,000 worth of savings. Over 80 per cent (81%) of the public back calls for councils to help Britain’s under-threat bees by cutting areas of grass less often states a YouGov poll for Friends of the Earth and Buglife [3].

 

This Council believes:

 

?     That planting more wildflowers and other bee friendly plants in their local parks and community spaces will increase biodiversity.

?     Allowing some areas to remain uncut can help Trafford provide corridors for wildlife to thrive which in turn creates increased wellbeing for residents [4].

?     Allowing grassland and strips to remain unmown longer can save costs [5].

 

This Council resolves to:

 

?       To undertake a year-long audit of roadside verges with the aim to reduce grass-cutting and develop a management policy to improve biodiversity, grassland and save on maintenance costs – highway safety must remain paramount.

?       Develop a wildflower planting scheme like Rotherham’s ‘River of Flowers’ and over the next year identify suitable areas such as roundabouts and central reservations [6]

?       Report to Executive by July 2020 with a report based on the roadside audit and a borough-wide consultation with residents.

?       Aim to increase grassland areas within parks across the borough by reducing mowing regimes with consultation with Friend Groups and local residents [5]

?       Write to the Mayor of Greater Manchester to highlight this green initiative.”

 

It was moved and seconded as an amendment that:

 

“The Motion be accepted subject to the slight revision of the proposed resolutions as follows:

 

This Council resolves to:

 

?       To undertake a year-long audit of roadside verges with the aim to reduce grass-cutting and develop a management policy to improve biodiversity, grassland and save on maintenance costs – highway safety must remain paramount.

?    Note the Labour administrations plan to develop a wildflower planting scheme like Rotherham’s ‘River of Flowers’ and over the next year identify suitable areas such as roundabouts and central reservations [6]

?    Report to Executive by July 2020 with a report based on the roadside audit and a borough-wide consultation with residents.

?    Note the Labour administrations plans to aim to increase grassland areas within parks across the borough by reducing mowing regimes with consultation with Friend Groups and local residents [5]

?     Ask the Leader, in line with his Green City Region responsibilities, to look at ways of promoting such innovation across the conurbation”

 

(Note: The time being 9.25 p.m., the Mayor announced that he would allow one speaker from each of the political groups to speak to this item.)

 

Following speeches on the matter, the amendment was put to the vote  ...  view the full minutes text for item 33.

34.

Motion Submitted by the Liberal Democrats Group - Empty Homes Premium Scheme

 

This Council notes that:

 

-     Britain faces a shortage of affordable and sustainable housing

-     Current Greater Manchester Spatial Framework proposals to meet demand by building on ‘greenbelt’ land are highly unpopular with residents in Trafford

-     There are currently more than 2,000 unoccupied and substantially unfurnished empty homes in Trafford, many of which have been empty for over two years, some considerably longer. A rise of 16% since 2017.

-     There are currently more than 19,000 unoccupied and substantially unfurnished empty homes across greater Manchester

-     A significant number of these properties – both in Trafford and across the city region – are considered ‘unfit for human habitation’

 

This Council acknowledges the Rating (Property in Common Occupation) and Council Tax (Empty Dwellings) Act 2018 enabling the use of the ‘Empty Homes Premium’ model - as seen in Cheshire East - as an additional means for local authorities to encourage empty homes to be brought back in to use and welcomes the inclusion of a 50% ‘Empty Homes Premium’ in the February 2019 budget.

 

This Council Requires the Executive to raise the ‘Empty Homes Premium’ from 50% to 100% as part of its budget (February 2020) in line with the following timescale:

 

-     As of April 1st 2020 the ‘relevant maximum’ for properties empty over 2 years will be 100%

 

This Council also Requires the Executive to give notice of the following incremental time scale:

 

1.   As of 1st April 2021 the ‘relevant maximum’ for properties empty over 5 years will be 200%

 

2.   As of April 1st 2022 the ‘relevant maximum’ for properties over ten years empty will be 300%

 

This Council requires the Executive to investigate the feasibility of ‘Capped Public Works Loans’ as seen in Cheshire East, to assist with major works and help bring more properties back into use without punishing property owners.

 

This Council Notes the following exemptions:

 

-     Properties requiring major works should receive an extension of up to 12 months before the ‘relevant maximum’ is raised

-     Properties currently in ‘Trust’ or ‘Probate’ should receive an extension of up to 12 months before the ‘relevant maximum is raised

-     Properties left empty by a person who lives in accommodation provided by the Ministry of Defence (for example: service personnel posted away from home)

-     Properties which are part of another property (for example: an annexe)

 

 

This Council Recognises that simply seeking to bring empty housing back into use is not enough to solve Britain’s housing crisis, but is determined to pursue every available option, especially when it is possible to avoid development on ‘Green Belt’ land.

 

This Council requires the Leader of the Council to:

 

-     Write to the Mayor of Greater Manchester and the leaders of all Greater Manchester local authorities urging them to work with Trafford Council to address the housing shortage in our region by supporting the resolutions of this motion

-     Write to the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government urging the Government highlighting the need  ...  view the full agenda text for item 34.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

RESOLVED: That since the time was approaching 9.30 p.m. and the meeting was to be adjourned, the Council agrees to reconvene at the rising of the Extraordinary Meeting of the Council being held at 7.00 p.m. on 23 July 2019 to consider both this and the other remaining item of business, namely Item 10(h) “Motion Submitted by the Conservative Group – Members’ Allowances Increases for Labour Councillors”.

35.

Motion Submitted by the Conservative Group - Members' Allowances Increases for Labour Councillors

This Council condemns the revelation that, on 22 August 2018, the Labour Group via the Leader of the Council wrote to the Corporate Director for Finance and Systems instructing that the voluntary reduction of 1.9% applied to Members Allowances since 2013/14 be reversed.  

 

Council notes:

 

·          This letter was submitted secretly with no public accountability or scrutiny of the change

·          That the change in allowances was subsequently backdated to April 2018

·          That the Labour group also requested this change to be applied to significant Special Responsibility Allowances, to ensure maximum personal financial benefit for Labour members

 

Council finds it abhorrent and hypocritical that this Labour administration has the audacity to talk about austerity whilst at the same time:

 

·          increasing their own allowances, in secret without scrutiny

·          trebling the cost of the Corporate Leadership Team to nearly £1m per annum in the last 10 months 

·          overseeing the deterioration of services in Trafford (see Children’s Services) through poor leadership and management

 

The Council requires every Labour member to return their increased allowance to the taxpayers of Trafford and for members’ allowances to be reset to the levels stipulated in 2015/16 to be consistent for all Members (i.e. 98.1% of present full allowance).

Additional documents:

Minutes:

RESOLVED: That since the time was approaching 9.30 p.m. and the meeting was to be adjourned, the Council agrees to reconvene at the rising of the Extraordinary Meeting of the Council being held at 7.00 p.m. on 23 July 2019 to consider both this and the other remaining item of business, namely Item 10(g) “Motion Submitted by the Liberal Democrats Group – Empty Homes Premium Scheme”.