Agenda and minutes

To consider any announcements by the Mayor in accordance with Council Procedure Rule 3(2)(ii).

The Mayor welcomed Councillor Harper to the Chamber for his first Council meeting as the newly elected Member for Kilnhurst and Swinton East following the recent By Election. The Mayor stated that he had been extremely busy since the last Council meeting and a list of all of his engagements could be found at Appendix A to the Mayor’s Letter.

To receive the apologies of any Member who is unable to attend the meeting.

Resolved:- That apologies for absence be received from Councillors Barker, Barley, Baum-Dixon, Castledine-Dack, Hall, Havard, Roche and Whomersley.

To receive the record of proceedings of the ordinary meeting of the Council held on 4 October, 2023, and to approve the accuracy thereof.

Resolved:-  That the minutes of the meeting of Council held on 4th October, 2023, be approved for signature by the Mayor, subject to a clerical correction to include Councillor Foster in the list of apologies.

Mover: - Councillor Read                        Seconder: - Councillor Allen

To report on any petitions received by the Council received by the Council and receive statements in support of petitions in accordance with Petitions Scheme and Council Procedure Rule 13.

There were no petitions presented at the meeting.

To invite Councillors to declare any disclosable pecuniary interests or personal interests they may have in any matter which is to be considered at this meeting, to confirm the nature of those interests and whether they intend to leave the meeting for the consideration of the item.

The following declarations of interest was made:

To receive questions from members of the public who may wish to ask a general question of the Mayor, Cabinet Member or the Chairman of a Committee in accordance with Council Procedure Rule 12.

There were four public questions submitted in accordance with Council Procedure Rule 12:

1.    Dr .Umamah Yusufi:

We welcome the condemnation of antisemitism in the motion by the Conservative Councillors, but where is the condemnation of rising Islamophobia given its ugly history in Rotherham? What action will the Council take to unify our fractured community, especially in the wake of inflammatory and divisive comments - inciting hate against overwhelmingly peaceful protestors - propagated by Conservative leadership in recent weeks?

Councillor Alam thanked Dr. U. Yusufi for the question and confirmed that the motion proposed today by Conservative Councillors was to be debated later on the agenda and certain political parties would want to ensure that all racial and religious discrimination was being called out. Just as it could not be right for Jewish residents to suffer as a result of the actions of a foreign government, so too it would not be right for Muslims to face Islamophobia either. Both those twin evils must be called out.

The comments made by the previous Home Secretary recently have certainly not been helpful. Despite being sacked, she did not apologise. Members of her own party, such as Baroness Warsi, have criticised her comments.

The Council will continue championing inclusion and supporting the Police in their work to tackle hate crimes, along with Community Safety Partnership to try to bring justice to those people who were victims, but also to increase understanding and adopt a restorative approach that helped to genuinely change attitudes and bring longer term solutions.

Councillor Alam also worked with faith leaders from all the different communities across Rotherham and was pleased to say that everyone was calling for calm and solidarity.

In her supplementary question, Dr. U. Yusufi raised concerns about how the protests in support of a ceasefire had been characterised by the media and Government. She asked Councillor Alam to clarify whether the Government will be asked to clarify or retract its comments regarding them being hate marches and inciteful of hate when they have been overwhelmingly peaceful and calling for peace in Palestine?

Councillor Alam confirmed that he had sat on the South Yorkshire Independent Police Protest Panel since 2016 and confirmed that the marches have been peaceful. It had only been certain members of the Conservative Government that had tried to demonise the Muslim community. Councillor Alam stated that the comments made by the previous Home Secretary did aggravate the right wing which caused issues. It was confirmed that under legislation, protests could not be banned unless there was a threat to life. Councillor Alam called on the Conservative Members present and the Government to take some responsibility. It was not illegal to protest or fly the Palestinian flag.

2.    Dr. Mehnaz Yusufi:

I wholeheartedly support Rotherham’s dedication to safeguarding children and celebrating the world's first Children's Capital of Culture. I am deeply anguished and haunted by the murder of innocent, beautiful and blameless Palestinian children. I urge our Council to write to the  ...  view the full minutes text for item 49.

Should it be necessary, in the opinion of the Mayor, to consider excluding the press and public from the meeting in relation to any items of urgent business on the grounds that private information is likely to be divulged.

There were no such items that required the exclusion of the press and public from this meeting.

To receive a statement from the Leader of the Council in accordance with Council Procedure Rule 9.

The Leader presented his statement and started by welcoming Councillor Harper to the Council. The Leader then raised the flooding incident that had taken place in Catcliffe, Treeton and other areas across the Borough in October 2023. 180 homes had been affected and funds of around £170,000 had been administered in support of those households. The Leader praised the exceptional response of the staff which had been huge in the immediate aftermath. The Leader stated that, even with the exceptional levels of rainfall, the flooding should not have been as extensive as it was if it should have happened at all. Over the coming months it would be important to understand the facts and influences on that to come to the right conclusions for the future.

To conclude, the Leader confirmed that Thurcroft Library had now been officially opened. This was the latest stage in the investment in libraries across the Borough.

Questions on the statement where then invited. Councillor Adam Carter started by offering his congratulation to Councillor Harper on behalf of the Liberal Democrat group. He also agreed with the Leader that the flooding in Catcliffe and Treeton should not have happened, at least to the extent that it did.

Councillor Bennett-Sylvester welcomed Councillor Harper and also passed on his thanks to the officers involved with the communication of information in relation to the floods. He asked the Leader if there had been an increase in demand for temporary accommodation and if, therefore, there was a need for additional accommodation across the Borough? If there were additional pressures, how long were these expected to continue?

Councillor Griffin stated that houses in his Ward of Whiston had also been flooded and he asked the Leader if he agreed that such homeowners should be provided with complete and accurate information about the steps that were being taken to reduce that risk and if so, would the Leader agree that it was unhelpful for a Member of Parliament to communicate with residents in a way that was partial, incomplete and inaccurate?

Councillor Ball welcomed Councillor Harper. Councillor Ball also informed the Chamber that there had been three deaths in three weeks on roads in the Borough. He offered his thoughts to the families of those involved and praised the work of the emergency services. Councillor Ball questioned why there was no longer a Cabinet Member who was dedicated 100% to transport following a rise in concerns?

Councillor Mills asked a question in relation to the flooding and why some residents in Ravenfield were denied access to sandbags?

In response to the questions, the Leader agreed with Councillor A. Carter that they were of one mind when it came to the prioritises in relation to the flooding.

In response to Councillor Bennett-Sylvester’s question, the Leader confirmed that the communications team were represented in the room and his thanks was noted. A written response would be provided in relation to the numbers in temporary accommodation.

The Leader noted Councillor Griffin’s concerns in relation  ...  view the full minutes text for item 51.

To note the minutes of the Cabinet Meeting held on 18 September and 16 October, 2023.

Councillor Ball asked the following questions on the Cabinet Minutes:

1.      In relation to Minute No. 46 of Cabinet held on 18th September, 2023, Councillor Ball asked for an update in relation to the selection of Labour candidates for the 2024 local elections. He asked if the Leader could confirm if there were sitting Councillors, some of whom were Chairs etc., not able to sit again as Labour Councillors and if so what new information had come forward to deselect these Councillors and what confidence did it give to the residents of Rotherham that this was happening?

2.      In relation to Minute No. 65 of Cabinet held on 16th October, 2023, Councillor Ball stated that a group campaigning about cemeteries had been promised monthly meetings. He asked if this would be extended to all of the Borough as he understood that most local cemeteries were having issues and would welcome the chance to have monthly meetings to look at their problems?

3.      In relation to Minute No. 72 of Cabinet held on 16th October, 2023, Councillor Ball stated that every one of the fast charges that he had visited in the last month in Rotherham had either been vandalised or not working. In the Climate Working Group he had said that these would not be viable for Rotherham and that a forecourt way of doing things would provide jobs and would be better to provide security to these points. What had been done about this to save the taxpayers of Rotherham money and would the Leader pause the Cabinet decision for the electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure in Rotherham whilst this matter is looked in to? Councillor Ball also asked what had happened to the Climate Working Group; had it been disbanded?
 

4.      In relation to Minute No. 76 of Cabinet held on 16th October, 2023, Councillor Ball stated that it was good to see houses being built that catered for all in terms of accessibility. He asked the Leader whether he agreed that this should be the standard for any new housing being built in the Borough and for it not to be dismissed like in the case of the Planning Chair who informed him that it would cost too much and that developers would not do, casting out those who were disabled and needed these types of houses?

Councillor Tinsley asked:

1.      Are there any up-to-date figures on the number of inspections that have taken place in relation to selective licensing and was the Council sending out letters to properties to highlight ways to report any issues they might have with houses in selective licensing areas? 

In relation to the first question asked for Councillor Ball, the Leader stated that announcements on the selection of Labour candidates for the May 2024 local elections would be made in due course and he would not speculate on those processes.

In relation to the second question from Councillor Ball, the Leader stated that Councillor Ball had misunderstood and there were no monthly  ...  view the full minutes text for item 52.

To consider the recommendations from Cabinet regarding the Polling Districts and Polling Places Review 2023 Final Proposals.

Consideration was given to the report which had been presented to the Cabinet on 20th November, 2023. The report detailed the responses and final proposals following the Polling Districts and Polling Places Review 2023 that had been undertaken between 2nd October and 30th October, 2023. The Cabinet had agreed the timetable for the review in September 2023 as per Minute No. 55. 20 responses had been received commenting on 27 polling districts. A summary of the responses and the Returning Officer’s comments were provided in Appendix 3 to the Cabinet report.

As a result of the representations made during the consultation, the final proposals contained 4changes in addition to the initial proposals:-

a)         Brinsworth Ward: It is proposed to amend the polling district boundary between BWD and BWC to move Nos. 69 to 83 Whitehill Lane and 4 properties on Orchard Way from polling district BWD to BWC.

b)         Brinsworth Ward: It is proposed to move the polling district boundary between BWD and BWB to move Nos. 58 to 68 Brinsworth Lane from BWD to BWB.

c)          Brinsworth Ward: It is proposed to move the polling district boundary between BWD and BWE to move No. 56 Brinsworth Lane from BWD to BWE.

d)         Greasbrough Ward: It is proposed that Greasbrough Library is designated the polling place for GRA polling district, instead of Greasbrough Primary School.

Further details of the final proposals and the polling place scheme were set out in Appendix 2 to the Cabinet report.

Resolved:- 

1.    That the submissions made in respect of the review of polling districts and polling places for the Borough of Rotherham be noted.

2.    That the adoption of the polling district boundaries outlined in Appendices 2 and 5 of the Report to Cabinet be approved.

3.    That the final proposals for polling places as detailed in Appendix 2 of the Cabinet report be approved.

4.    That the Electoral Registration Officer be requested to make the necessary amendments to the polling districts to take effect from publication of the revised register on 1st December, 2023.

5.    That the Electoral Registration Officer be requested to make the necessary amendments to the RVB and RVD polling district boundaries to take effect from publication of the revised register following the next UK Parliamentary General Election.

6.    That the power to designate polling places in accordance with section 18B of the Representation of the People Act 1983 be agreed and continue to be delegated to the Chief Executive.

Mover: Councillor Read                Seconder: Councillor Allen

To consider the recommendation from Cabinet regarding the transfer of Police and Crime Commissioner functions to the South Yorkshire Mayor from May 2024.

Further to Minute No. 95 of the meeting of the Cabinet held on 20th November, 2023, consideration was given to the report which detailed how the Government was proposing to make an Order that would provide for the Mayor of South Yorkshire to exercise the functions of the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) in relation to South Yorkshire with effect from May 2024.

The text of the draft Order had not been finalised or provided, but was likely to include the following:-

1.      Provide for all functions presently exercised by the PCC to be functions exercisable by the Mayor for South Yorkshire with effect from the [ ] May 2024.

2.      Transfer all property, rights, liabilities of the PCC to the MCA, with future decisions on such matters being vested in the Mayor.

3.      Provide for the continuity of the operation by substituting the MCA for the PCC in any legislation/instruments/contracts etc.

4.      Deal with financial year end issues.

5.      Reduce the current Mayoral term in order to align the Mayoral and PCC election cycles from May 2024.

During the meeting it was confirmed that 4 out of the 5 other local authorities in South Yorkshire had already given their consent. This meant that the decision made by Rotherham Council would not change the outcome, but the Leader thought it important that the Council as a whole voted on the matter.

Resolved:- 

1.    That the draft Order to provide for the Mayor of South Yorkshire to exercise the functions of the Police and Crime Commissioner receive consent.

Mover: - Councillor Read                         Seconder: -  Councillor Allen

To consider the recommendation from Cabinet regarding the Gambling Act 2005 Statement of Licensing Policy.

Further to Minute No. 92 of the Cabinet meeting held on 20th November, 2023, consideration was given to the report which outlined the review process and presented an unamended but reviewed Gambling Act 2005 Statement of Policy. The Policy had been adopted in 2020 and was required by law to be reviewed every 3 years. The review process, which included a period of public consultation that commenced in July 2023, had concluded and the outcome of the review consultation had informed a finalised Statement of Licensing Policy.

The current Policy had been reviewed by Licensing Officers and it had been determined that it complied with all relevant requirements and therefore required no amendment. The final unamended version of the Policy was now brought before Council for adoption. The proposed Policy was attached to the report as Appendix 1 to the Cabinet report.

Councillor Ellis, in her role as Chair of the Licensing Board, confirmed that the Board fully supported the recommendation to adopt the Gambling Act 2005 Statement of Licensing Policy 2023.

During the meeting, Councillor Ball asked if 100% of premises had disabled access. Councillor Lelliott confirmed that this was her understanding, but she would raise the question with officers and provide a written response.

Resolved:

1.    That Council formally adopt the proposed Gambling Act 2005 Statement of Licensing Policy 2023 (attached as Appendix 1.)

Mover:- Councillor Lelliott             Seconder:- Councillor Ellis

To consider the recommendation from Cabinet regarding their response to the scrutiny review recommendations on the impact of selective licensing.

Further to Minute No. 94 of the Cabinet meeting held on 20th November, 2023, consideration was given to the report which outlined the response of the Cabinet to the recommendations made by Scrutiny following their review on the impact of Selective Licensing.

On 18 September 2023 Cabinet received a report titled ‘Scrutiny Review Recommendations – Impact of Selective Licensing.’ The report gave a detailed account of the current scheme outlining its strengths and weaknesses. The report identified 4 key risk factors to the success of the scheme:

1.      pandemic-related delays,

2.      a shortage of experienced inspectors,

3.      a rising cost of living

4.      complexity of measuring impact on deprivation

The review had produced 8 recommendations which had all been accepted by Cabinet:

a)      That re-inspection be prioritised for landlords whose properties have required action previously.

b)      Consideration be given as to how the Council may support retention of experienced inspectors already in the Council’s employment.

c)      That consideration be given to incentivising responsible landlords, and, where there is a proven track record, empowering landlords to self-assess, provided that the service can still obtain assurances that decent standards are maintained.

d)      That consideration be given to managing expectations around Selective Licensing as a measure focused on the health of residents, rather than aesthetics or regeneration.

e)      That consideration be given to how uptake of the cost-of-living support offer among families in Selective Licensing areas may be further promoted and monitored, with a view to identifying gaps and promoting financial inclusion.

f)       Given the complexity of measuring impact on deprivation and difficulty in improving relative levels of deprivation, that consideration be given to how internal measures may better reflect the real impact of the scheme.

g)      That a joined-up approach be sought with relevant Council strategies and services, with partner and voluntary sector organisations and with resident-led initiatives prior to any future Selective Licensing declaration.

h)      That engagement with landlords and with tenants be considered alongside any response to the above recommendations, and that the response to the above recommendations be subject to the learning derived from continued engagement with landlords and tenants.

An update in relation to proposed actions was provided at paragraph 2.1 of the Cabinet report. During the meeting, the Deputy Leader advised that 5 of the recommendations were in progress and the other 3 would be considered as part of any future schemes.

During the meeting, the Deputy Leader gave her thanks to the Members of Scrutiny who had carried out the review.

A number of Opposition Members indicated that they would be voting against the recommendation. They felt that the recommendations did not help resolve the issues identified with Selective Licensing areas and further work was required. The Chair of the Improving Places Select Commission stated that work would continue on the matter.

Councillor Tinsley asked for an update on the number of inspection that were taking place. The Deputy Leader confirmed that a written response would be provided.

Resolved:

1.    That Council note Cabinet’s response to  ...  view the full minutes text for item 56.

To consider the recommendation from Cabinet regarding their response to the scrutiny review recommendations on modern slavery.

Further to Minute No. 73 of the Cabinet meeting held on 16th October, 2023, consideration was given to the report which outlined the response of Cabinet to the recommendations made by Scrutiny following their review on modern slavery. The spotlight review took place on 1st November, 2022. The methodology and invited witnesses were detailed in Section 2.2 of the report submitted to Cabinet in October 2023.

There were 9 recommendations which had all been accepted by Cabinet:

a)      That the Safer Rotherham Partnership (SRP) consider rolling out a targeted learning and development offer/campaign to raise awareness of modern slavery, how to spot the signs and risks and how to raise concerns and make referrals:

·        To front line staff across agencies.

·        To Elected Members.

·        To the public and targeted business such as letting agencies (commercial and residential)

b)      That the SRP considers mapping the local modern slavery landscape to identify high risk industries and ‘hot spots.’

c)      That consideration be given to establishing an RMBC internal governance group, including representation from services who may encounter modern slavery (e.g., Procurement, Licensing, Environmental Health, Trading Standards, Housing, Neighbourhoods and Social Care.)

d)      That consideration is given to how young adults at risk of experiencing modern slavery are safeguarded during the transition from Children to Adult Services and are age assessed appropriately.

e)      That consideration is given to developing referral pathways to ensure that modern slavery victims (both adult and child) have access to appropriate support (housing, advocacy, mental health) on a timely basis.

f)       That consideration is given to re-launching the Strategic Partnership Information Sharing Group at the earliest opportunity to improve the way that agencies can share data and intelligence, including examining how IT systems can work better together.

g)      That consideration is given to widening the levels of investigation and auditing of contracts procured by the Council to focus on the ‘layers’ of sub-contractors, including binding specifications to audit or ‘dip-sample’ contracts along the supply chain.

h)      That consideration is given to how the Procurement Team can engage with the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) supply chain advisor to improve processes, joint working, and awareness.

i)        That consideration be given to allow victim advocates to make recommendations to Housing Assessment Panels on behalf of victims of modern slavery.

A table containing the actions associated with these recommendations was set out at section 1.4 of the Cabinet report.

Resolved:

1.    That Council note Cabinet’s response to the recommendations as summarised in the Cabinet’s Response to the Scrutiny review – Modern Slavery at Appendix 1.

Mover:- Councillor Alam               Seconder:- Councillor Cusworth

To consider the report and recommendations from the Independent Remuneration Panel.

Consideration was given to the report which set out the recommendations from the Independent Remuneration Panel on Member Allowances. Section 15 of the Local Authorities (Members Allowances) (England) Regulations 2001 on Members’ Allowances set out the requirement to have an Independent Remuneration Panel to consider any changes or amendments to the Members’ Allowances Scheme every four years. To comply with the legislation to undertake the required review, the Council had to appoint a panel to conduct the review.

The panel comprised of:

·       Carrie Sudbury, Chief Executive, Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber of Commerce.

·       Shafiq Hussain, Chief Executive, Voluntary Action Rotherham.

·       Rev Phil Batchford, Vicar of Rotherham and St. Paul’s Masbrough.

It met on 17 and 31 October and 16 November 2023. Members of the Council were given the opportunity to consult with Members of the Panel as part of the review and various Councillors were heard from.

The Member’s Allowance Scheme was last reviewed in April 2015 and agreed by Council in May 2015. The Panel recommended that the amounts agreed at this time remain in place for a period of two years. After this period the basic and special responsibility allowances should be reviewed in line with the Retail Price Index. In July 2017 Council approved a 1.15% reduction in Member’s basic allowances and special responsibility allowances in line with amendments to staff terms and conditions being introduced. Since that time no uplift for inflation had been added meaning that Members Allowances had been static since 2017. In the same period the Bank of England calculator provided that inflation amounts to 27%.

A benchmarking exercise was carried out to compare the allowances of Council’s across Yorkshire. Details of these were included in appendices 2 and 3 to the report.

Following the review, the Panel made the following recommendations:

(i)             The Basic Members’ Allowance (and Allowances for those co-opted) for 2023-24 be increased by 5%.

(ii)            That the Special Responsibility Allowances be increased by 5% for 2023-24.

(iii)          That additional Special Responsibility Allowance (SRA) should only be paid for one special responsibility position.

(iv)          That annual increases in Basic Allowances should be in line with the average Local Government pay awards for staff below Chief Officer level.

(v)           That annual increases in Special Responsibility Allowance should be paid at half (50%) of the average Local Government pay award for staff below Chief Officer level.

(vi)          That travel allowances should be increased in line with staff travel allowances and should change as and when the locally agreed rates change.

(vii)         No Special Responsibility Allowance should be paid for the Deputy Leader of the Opposition

(viii)       Increases in allowances to be effective from 1 April 2023.

During the debate, a number of Councillors indicated that they would not be supporting the recommendations. Councillors Ball and Bacon stated that it was unfair to increase Member’s Allowances and increase Council Tax. Councillor Bennett-Sylvester questioned the suitability of the Panel as to their experience of living on a low income. He also stated that Rotherham Council should  ...  view the full minutes text for item 58.

To receive updates from ward councillors from Brinsworth on the activities supporting Thriving Neighbourhoods across the Borough.

Further to Minute No. 55 of the meeting of the Cabinet held on 19 November 2018, consideration was given to the annual Ward update for Brinsworth as part of the Thriving Neighbourhood Strategy.

An update report had been provided as part of the agenda. However, each Ward Member was invited to speak.

Councillor Charlotte Carter noted:

·       The work done with the local community such as Crafty Talk, a church lunch club and a local history group.

·       The work done with local schools such as environment days, bulb planting, litter picks, supporting an allotment and pond restoration.

·       That over 100 trees had been planted across Brinsworth.

·       The launch of the “Adopt a Tree Scheme” in the Brinsworth. It was hoped this would be reproduced across the borough.

·       The reduction in Anti-Social Behaviour through multi-agency working and securing borough wide funding streams.

·       The new shelter that had been installed on Brinsworth playing fields which had been well utilised.

·       The purchase of new play equipment for Howarth Park.

·       The development of an interactive trail around Brinsworth to encourage families to walk and spend more time outdoors.

·       The work with the Towns and Villages Fund to improve the parking outside of the shops.

Councillor Adam Carter noted:

·       The engagement with school children and community groups.

·       The tree planning.

·       The value of the residents of Brinsworth, particularly the volunteers who helped bring the community together.

·       The improvements in devolving responsibility away from the town hall to ward Councillor and local residents.

·       The tree-whip giveaway.

Both Members placed on record their thanks to the Neighbourhoods Working team.

Resolved:

1.    That the report be noted.

Mover:- Councillor C Carter                    Seconder:- Councillor A Carter

To receive updates from ward councillors from Keppel on the activities supporting Thriving Neighbourhoods across the Borough.

Further to Minute No. 55 of the meeting of the Cabinet held on 19 November 2018, consideration was given to the annual Ward update for Keppel as part of the Thriving Neighbourhood Strategy.

An update report had been provided as part of the agenda. However, each Ward Member was invited to speak.

Councillor Browne noted, in particular, the improvement in safety and appearance of St Johns Green:

·       The rundown quadrangle on Kimberworth Park estate comprised shops, flats, a medical centre, dental centre and church.

·       As there was no Council run facility on the Estate, it was very difficult for the residents to access resources and support.

·       The centre itself was in great disrepair and was a magnet for anti-social behaviour and drug dealing.

·       The plan was to develop a one-stop resource centre in the heart of the community at St John’s Green. An empty commercial unit would be taken over for the benefit of the community.

·       The centre would provide a meeting place for groups and enable residents to access more support and resources from the Council.

·       The plan will involve multi-agency working with a large range of partners such as community groups, the Police, the Council, the NHS etc

·       The funding will come from the Towns and Village Fund, Lottery Funding, SYP grants and other options will be explored with the Council.

Councillor Foster noted:

·       The use of community infrastructure money to improve playground facilities across the ward. Additional external funding would also be used to create a new facility.

·       The work with local schools to improve the local environment, improve biodiversity in schools and raise awareness of climate issues.

·       The work with children on litter.

Councillor Clark noted:

·       The community first approach by the Ward Members.

·       The work to get Thorpe Street one way.

·       That Keppel’s Column would be open again in April 2024.

All Keppel Ward Members wished to place on record their thanks to the Neighbourhoods working team, in particular Nicola Hacking and Shaun Mirfield, along with all those that attend the monthly Community Action Team meetings.

Resolved:

1.    That the report be noted.

Mover:- Councillor Browne           Seconder:- Councillor Foster

To be moved by Councillor A Carter and seconded by Councillor Miro:

This Council notes:

1.    With great regret, the devastating flooding that occurred in Catcliffe and Treeton on 21st October 2023. As a result of the flooding, hundreds of houses were evacuated and extensive damage to property resulted from the ingress of flood waters to domestic properties and local businesses.

2.    That looting of residential properties occurred in Catcliffe during the floods in 2007.

3.    That in the aftermath of the 2007 Catcliffe floods the Council held a public meeting with residents to discuss the evacuation, flood, and subsequent response and receive feedback from residents.

This Council is concerned:

4.    That the Environment Agency did not issue an appropriate warning early enough to reduce the risk to life and enable more motor vehicles and personal possessions to be saved from the flood waters. Water levels were rising for some time before flood defences in Catcliffe were breached.

5.    About the difficulty residents in Catcliffe have reported in obtaining home and motor vehicle insurance, and in some instances where residents have obtained a quotation, it has been unaffordable.

6.    That South Yorkshire Police were actively enforcing the underused Wood Lane bus gate when alternative main routes in Catcliffe and Brinsworth were impassable, when looting of evacuated residential properties was a high risk.

7.    That South Yorkshire Police have not changed their policy on enforcement of the Wood Lane bus gate when they attempted to prioritise enforcement of this during the 2019 flooding crisis that affected residents in the borough.

This Council therefore resolves:

1.      That it has no confidence in the ability of the Environment Agency to provide an adequate response to future flooding in Catcliffe and Treeton to keep residents, homes, and businesses safe.

2.    That the Chief Executive and Council Group Leaders are requested to write to:

a.    The Environment Agency requesting:

                                               i.     A detailed explanation and a commitment to hold an enquiry to determine why a suitable warning was not issued to residents earlier when it was clear that flood waters would imminently breach the flood defences in Catcliffe.

                                              ii.     Significant investment in and improvement of the flood defences of the River Rother at Catcliffe.

                                            iii.     A detailed explanation and a commitment given to residents why active flood management of the River Rother up and down-stream of Catcliffe and Treeton did not appear to take place in the October 2023 flood.

b.    The Chief Constable of South Yorkshire Police and Police and Crime Commissioner:

                                               i.     Expressing regret that the Force focussed on enforcing the bus gate on Wood Lane at a time when alternative main routes in Catcliffe and Brinsworth were impassable and looting of residential properties was a high risk.

                                              ii.     Requesting a commitment to residents that they will not enforce the Wood Lane bus gate when flooding is affecting main routes into and out of Catcliffe, Treeton, and Brinsworth; and ensure that commanding officers are made aware of this commitment.

c.     The Government requesting funding  ...  view the full agenda text for item 61.

It was moved by Councillor A Carter and seconded by Councillor Miro:

This Council notes:

1. With great regret, the devastating flooding that occurred in Catcliffe and Treeton on 21st October 2023. As a result of the flooding, hundreds of houses were evacuated and extensive damage to property resulted from the ingress of flood waters to domestic properties and local businesses.
   
   
2. That looting of residential properties occurred in Catcliffe during the floods in 2007.
   
   
3. That in the aftermath of the 2007 Catcliffe floods the Council held a public meeting with residents to discuss the evacuation, flood, and subsequent response and receive feedback from residents.

This Council is concerned:

4.    That the Environment Agency did not issue an appropriate warning early enough to reduce the risk to life and enable more motor vehicles and personal possessions to be saved from the flood waters. Water levels were rising for some time before flood defences in Catcliffe were breached.

5. About the difficulty residents in Catcliffe have reported in obtaining home and motor vehicle insurance, and in some instances where residents have obtained a quotation, it has been unaffordable.

6. That South Yorkshire Police were actively enforcing the underused Wood Lane bus gate when alternative main routes in Catcliffe and Brinsworth were impassable, when looting of evacuated residential properties was a high risk.

7. That South Yorkshire Police have not changed their policy on enforcement of the Wood Lane bus gate when they attempted to prioritise enforcement of this during the 2019 flooding crisis that affected residents in the borough.

This Council therefore resolves:

1. That it has no confidence in the ability of the Environment Agency to provide an adequate response to future flooding in Catcliffe and Treeton to keep residents, homes, and businesses safe.

2. That the Chief Executive and Council Group Leaders are requested to write to:
   
   

                                               i.     A detailed explanation and a commitment to hold an enquiry to determine why a suitable warning was not issued to residents earlier when it was clear that flood waters would imminently breach the flood defences in Catcliffe.

                                              ii.     Significant investment in and improvement of the flood defences of the River Rother at Catcliffe.

                                            iii.     A detailed explanation and a commitment given to residents why active flood management of the River Rother up and down-stream of Catcliffe and Treeton did not appear to take place in the October 2023 flood.

                                               i.     Expressing regret that the Force focussed on enforcing the bus gate on Wood Lane at a time when alternative main routes in Catcliffe and Brinsworth were impassable and looting of residential properties was a high risk.

                                              ii.     Requesting a commitment to residents that they will not enforce the Wood Lane bus gate when flooding is affecting main routes into and out of Catcliffe, Treeton, and Brinsworth; and ensure that commanding officers are made aware of this commitment.

To be moved by Councillor Jones and seconded by Councillor Elliot.

That this Council notes that:

1.    Since 2016 there have been many complaints to the Environment Agency around the re-permitting of the Grange landfill site at Droppingwell. Despite the valiant efforts of the Droppingwell Action group and the Council, the works carry on, without the proper level of scrutiny and regulation of the Environment agency. This has led to direct complaints to the EA that we believe haven’t been properly investigated.

The Council believes that:

1.    As part of the environmental monitoring of the site, the operator was required to install various monitoring systems. One of these systems was a network of ground water bore holes, that under the European landfill directives, is required to update the condition of the permit. The operator, without any prior knowledge or permission proceeded to drill a bore hole (bh5) on council property. Subsequently on two occasions the borehole was damaged to restore the access track to a useable condition after unpermitted use by a contractor. At no point was anyone made aware of the existence of BH5 and at no point has any formal permission been sort the site the hole on council land.  The test results from BH5 were questioned after test samples were allocated to BH5, even when the hole was not in existence. The investigation by the EA claimed that “the hole had been vandalised.” This claim was totally incorrect, at the point of investigation, only a very small number of people knew of the bore holes existence and certainly didn’t know of its location.

2.    In correspondence with senior officers at the council, the EA have claimed that the siting of BH5 is a matter for the operator to address with RMBC. They also carried onto say that the reinstatement of BH5 was “preferable but not required “as part of the pre-conditions for the sites re opening. Every 6 months the EA must carry out a compliance report, this report matches the sites operation with the conditions of the license. Over the last two years while expressing to the council that the reinstatement wasn’t a “requirement” the CAR report to the operator has expressed the EAs concern that the borehole hadn’t been reinstated and reminded the operator that “until the requirement to re-instate bh5 was undertaken, no waste could be accepted onto site”.

3.    We believe that the communications from the EA to RMBC have been very disingenuous, to try to downplay the requirement for BH5’s re-instatement. We also believe that should the borehole now be re-instated, with its location now public and readily accessible, the possibility of it being in a serviceable condition for any length of time, is highly unlikely. The monitoring of the borehole would also require repeated access on a monthly basis to land that we have now gated off to stop illegal trespass, this would then risk a claim of access in law by the operator, who is already trying to claim a  ...  view the full agenda text for item 62.

It was moved by Councillor Jones and seconded by Councillor Elliott:

That this Council notes that:

1.    Since 2016 there have been many complaints to the Environment Agency around the re-permitting of the Grange landfill site at Droppingwell. Despite the valiant efforts of the Droppingwell Action group and the Council, the works carry on, without the proper level of scrutiny and regulation of the Environment agency. This has led to direct complaints to the EA that we believe haven’t been properly investigated.

The Council believes that:

1.    As part of the environmental monitoring of the site, the operator was required to install various monitoring systems. One of these systems was a network of ground water bore holes, that under the European landfill directives, is required to update the condition of the permit. The operator, without any prior knowledge or permission proceeded to drill a bore hole (bh5) on council property. Subsequently on two occasions the borehole was damaged to restore the access track to a useable condition after unpermitted use by a contractor. At no point was anyone made aware of the existence of BH5 and at no point has any formal permission been sought to site the hole on council land.  The test results from BH5 were questioned after test samples were allocated to BH5, even when the hole was not in existence. The investigation by the EA claimed that “the hole had been vandalised.” This claim was totally incorrect, at the point of investigation, only a very small number of people knew of the bore holes existence and certainly didn’t know of its location.

2.    In correspondence with senior officers at the council, the EA have claimed that the siting of BH5 is a matter for the operator to address with RMBC. They also carried onto say that the reinstatement of BH5 was “preferable but not required “as part of the pre-conditions for the sites re opening. Every 6 months the EA must carry out a compliance report, this report matches the sites operation with the conditions of the license. Over the last two years while expressing to the council that the reinstatement wasn’t a “requirement” the CAR report to the operator has expressed the EAs concern that the borehole hadn’t been reinstated and reminded the operator that “until the requirement to re-instate bh5 was undertaken, no waste could be accepted onto site”.

3.    We believe that the communications from the EA to RMBC have been very disingenuous, to try to downplay the requirement for BH5’s re-instatement. We also believe that should the borehole now be re-instated, with its location now public and readily accessible, the possibility of it being in a serviceable condition for any length of time, is highly unlikely. The monitoring of the borehole would also require repeated access on a monthly basis to land that we have now gated off to stop illegal trespass, this would then risk a claim of access in law by the operator, who is already trying to claim a  ...  view the full minutes text for item 62.

To be moved by Councillor Ball and seconded by Councillor Burnett:

Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council is saddened and disturbed by the terrorist atrocities being committed by the terrorist group Hamas against Israel, as we have seen this has caused horrific devastation and created an escalating humanitarian crisis.

Considering this, Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council resolves to:

1.    Express support to members of our Rotherham community who have been deeply impacted by this conflict.

2.    Condemns the pulling down of the Israeli flag from the Town Hall in which South Yorkshire Police are investigating this incident.

3.    Condemns the rise in anti-Semitic attacks across Rotherham and the South Yorkshire area.

4.    Reiterate our support for Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council's adoption of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's (IHRA) working definition of anti-Semitism.

5.    Call on local media to always refer to Hamas as 'terrorists’ rather than 'militants' for the reasons of factual accuracy and common decency.

6.    Support the local call for humanitarian pauses to allow in aid and help the release of hostages, while underscoring the need to protect both Palestinian and Israeli civilians.

This motion was withdrawn by Councillor Ball.

To be moved by Councillor Tinsley and seconded by Councillor Fisher.

That this Council note that:

1.    Approximately 1200 school children are injured each month in traffic related collisions within a 500m radius of schools. (According to ROSPA) School Crossing Patrol Operatives play a vital role in ensuring children’s safety on route to school. However, the last major change in road safety around schools in the Rotherham Borough was back in 2009, which resulted in the introduction of Traffic Regulation Orders to enforce School Crossings and advisory 20MPH speed limit signs that were fitted near schools more recently.

2.    "School street" schemes, have proven successful in multiple UK authorities, closing roads during drop-off and pick-up times to enhance pupil safety, promote active travel, and improve air quality.

3.    The Council currently work with the Road Safety Partnership to educate School Children and Adults around road dangers and behaviours.

We believe that:

1.    School Crossing Patrol operatives face instances where cars fail to stop. We believe that the Council is seemingly not recording these instances along with prosecuting vehicle owners.

2.    Cars regularly park on School Keep Clear Lines (zig zag) and contraventions are hard to enforce.

3.    Car’s parking on pavements near Schools, impede the view of pedestrians making it hazardous for children and adults to cross safely.

4.    School Street initiatives establish a vehicle free zone near school entrances or gates during School drop-off and pick-up times. By regulating vehicle access on specific School Streets, these initiatives facilitate safe crossings in front of school entrances/gates. These schemes also help to promote walking or cycling to school for both parents and school children, contributing to a decrease in air pollution around Schools.

Therefore this Council resolves to:

1.      Enhance and improve the process and reporting of near miss incidents for Crossing Patrol Operatives. Provide body worn cameras to aid documenting and prosecuting non-compliance of stop signs.

2.    Explore technologies that can aid in enforcing School Crossings (Zig Zag Lines) traffic regulation orders (TROS). Analyse and put into action appropriate parking and road markings around school entrances to guarantee an unobstructed, safe view for pedestrians crossing.

3.    Commit to work with schools and ward councillors within our authority that would benefit from a school street and compile a list of schools where school street trials could be launched as soon as practically possible, once the Council has the relevant powers to enforce them, fast tracking where experimental traffic orders could be used.

4.    Continue to work with all schools in the Rotherham Borough to develop accredited Travel Plans, which will include enforceable No-Idling Zones and “school streets” schemes. Providing a member session to inform members of the support available to Schools.

It was moved by Councillor Tinsley and seconded by Councillor Fisher:

That this Council note that:

1.    Approximately 1200 school children are injured each month in traffic related collisions within a 500m radius of schools. (According to ROSPA) School Crossing Patrol Operatives play a vital role in ensuring children’s safety on route to school. However, the last major change in road safety around schools in the Rotherham Borough was back in 2009, which resulted in the introduction of Traffic Regulation Orders to enforce School Crossings and advisory 20MPH speed limit signs that were fitted near schools more recently.

2.    "School street" schemes, have proven successful in multiple UK authorities, closing roads during drop-off and pick-up times to enhance pupil safety, promote active travel, and improve air quality.

3.    The Council currently work with the Road Safety Partnership to educate School Children and Adults around road dangers and behaviours.

That we believe that:

1.    School Crossing Patrol operatives face instances where cars fail to stop. We believe that the Council is seemingly not recording these instances along with prosecuting vehicle owners.

2.    Cars regularly park on School Keep Clear Lines (zig zag) and contraventions are hard to enforce.

3.    Car’s parking on pavements near Schools, impede the view of pedestrians making it hazardous for children and adults to cross safely.

4.    School Street initiatives establish a vehicle free zone near school entrances or gates during School drop-off and pick-up times. By regulating vehicle access on specific School Streets, these initiatives facilitate safe crossings in front of school entrances/gates. These schemes also help to promote walking or cycling to school for both parents and school children, contributing to a decrease in air pollution around Schools.

That therefore this Council resolves to:

1.    Enhance and improve the process and reporting of near miss incidents for Crossing Patrol Operatives. Provide body worn cameras to aid documenting and prosecuting non-compliance of stop signs.

2.    Explore technologies that can aid in enforcing School Crossings (Zig Zag Lines) traffic regulation orders (TROS). Analyse and put into action appropriate parking and road markings around school entrances to guarantee an unobstructed, safe view for pedestrians crossing.

3.    Commit to work with schools and ward councillors within our authority that would benefit from a school street and compile a list of schools where school street trials could be launched as soon as practically possible, once the Council has the relevant powers to enforce them, fast tracking where experimental traffic orders could be used.

4.    Continue to work with all schools in the Rotherham Borough to develop accredited Travel Plans, which will include enforceable No-Idling Zones and “school streets” schemes. Providing a member session to inform members of the support available to Schools.

An amendment to the Motion was moved by Councillor Cusworth and seconded by Councillor Wyatt that requested that the Improving Places Select Commission be asked to consider the recommendations as set out in the Notice of Motion. This amendment was accepted by the proposer of the Motion and  ...  view the full minutes text for item 64.

To receive and consider reports, minutes and recommendations of the Audit Committee.

To confirm the minutes as a true record.

Resolved: That the reports, recommendations and minutes of the meetings of the Audit Committee be adopted.

Mover: Councillor Baker-Rogers   Seconder: Councillor Browne

To receive and consider reports, minutes and recommendations of the Health and Wellbeing Board.

To confirm the minutes as a true record.

Resolved: That the reports, recommendations and minutes of the meeting of the Health and Wellbeing Board be adopted.

Mover: Councillor Cusworth         Seconder: Councillor Foster

To receive and consider reports, minutes and recommendations of the Licensing Board, Licensing Board Sub-Committee and Licensing Sub-Committee.

To confirm the minutes as a true record.

Resolved: That the reports, recommendations and minutes of the meeting of the Licensing Board Sub-Committee be adopted.

Mover: Councillor Ellis                  Seconder: Councillor Hughes

To receive and consider reports, minutes and recommendations of the Planning Board.

To confirm the minutes as a true record.

Resolved: That the reports, recommendations and minutes of the meeting of the Planning Board be adopted.

Mover: Councillor Atkin                Seconder: Councillor Bird

To receive and consider reports, minutes and recommendations of the Standards and Ethics Committee.

To confirm the minutes as a true record.

Resolved: That the reports, recommendations and minutes of the meeting of the Standards and Ethics Committee be adopted.

Mover: Councillor Browne            Seconder: Councillor Wilson

To put questions, if any, to the designated Members on the discharge of functions of the South Yorkshire Police and Crime Panel, South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Authority, Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham and Sheffield Combined Authority and South Yorkshire Pensions Authority, in accordance with Council Procedure Rule 11(5).

There were no questions to consider.

To put questions, if any, to Cabinet Members and Committee Chairpersons (or their representatives) under Council Procedure Rules 11(1) and 11(3).

Question 1 – Councillor Wilson:

Could you please provide an estimate of how many jobs are expected to be created as part of the development of the whole Forge Island complex?

Councillor Lelliott responded:

The construction of Forge Island has involved 641 people working on site since work started in October 2022.  On average, there are 140 people working on site on a day-to-day basis. When the destination is opened in Summer next year, based on the square meterage of the facilities, we estimate that a further 100 direct jobs will be created through the operation of the new complex.

Supplementary:

Following the recent decline of the Wilko’s corporation (which had a large depot and head office in Bassetlaw and Worksop, close to Anston and Woodsetts) Councillor Wilson sought assurances that residents in her ward and the wider Rother Valley area would be able to apply for those jobs?

Councillor Lelliott confirmed that the employment opportunities applied across the borough.

Question 2 – Councillor Wilson:

What strategy are you intending to apply to parking at the Forge Island complex, for example should there be an expectation that visitors will be charged to park at the complex?

Councillor Lelliott responded:

The Strategy for parking at Forge Island offers free parking for hotel customers between the hours of 4pm and 10am. In addition, those customers using the cinema will be offered concessionary free parking for a period of up to 3.5 hours. Outside of these concessions car park users will be expected to pay, and while yet to be agreed, the tariffs are expected to be at least in line with the Council’s current core town centre car park tariff.

Supplementary:

Councillor Wilson stated that she still had concerns regarding the timings and asked if she could pick the matter up with Councillor Lelliott outside of the meeting?

Councillor Lelliott agreed to this request.

Question 3 – Councillor A Carter:

Can the Cabinet Member explain why the skips that were provided following the recent flooding in Catcliffe and Treeton were left full over the weekend of 28/29 October, rather than replenished?

Councillor Allen firstly gave her sympathies to all those impacted by the recent flooding.

Councillor Allen responded:

I understand that the skips you refer to were not full at the beginning of that weekend but did fill up over the course of the weekend and were replenished as soon as the supplier was able to do so on the Monday.

Supplementary:

Councillor A Carter stated that the skips were full by 10am on the Saturday and were not replenished quickly enough. He stated that this should have been foreseen. Councillor A Carter also confirmed that some residents felt that, in comparison to 2007, staff were not as proactive in trying to help them move destroyed property into skips.

Councillor Allen stated that she took on board the first comments made. However, she did provide reassurance that Council officers were the first people on the scene on 20 October and they were  ...  view the full minutes text for item 71.

Any other public items which the Mayor determines are urgent.

There were no urgent items to consider.