Issue - meetings

Report of the Chief Executive

Presented by the Leader

The Leader presented the report to members, highlighting key improvements in performance in respect of empty homes, revenues and benefits, major planning applications and the ICE project.

Councillor R D Bayliss advised that recruitment was ongoing for a financial inclusion officer who would give advice on the universal credit.  He added that this was a temporary grant-aided post.  He assured members that the performance indicators which were amber for his service area were being addressed and were under control.

Councillor T J Pendleton made reference to the additional income from planning applications and highlighted the performance indicator which had slipped to 83%, due to the sheer volume of applications.  He highlighted that the national target was 60% and added that such a minimal slip in performance was phenomenal given the additional income produced.

Councillor N J Rushton expressed concerns about the amount of money set aside for planning appeals.  He asked why this was so high.  He highlighted the savings that would need to be made from frontline services going forward and added that if appeals could be prevented, this would significantly contribute towards this.  Councillors N J Rushton and T J Pendleton commented that the Planning Committee did not always follow officer recommendations.  It was agreed that further information be provided to the Cabinet members on the costs incurred in respect of planning appeals in the last four years.

Councillor A V Smith highlighted the success of the leisure centres in respect of the QUEST award, and the installation of the materials separation technology at the recycling depot which would lead to increased productivity and income. 

It was moved by Councillor R Blunt, seconded by Councillor T Gillard and

RESOLVED THAT:

The quarter one performance report (April - June 2015) be received and noted.

Reason for decision: The report is provided for members to effectively monitor the organisation’s performance.