To consider the Economy and Place Directorate Plan 2024-25 Quarter One Performance Update.

Consideration was given to the Economy and Place Directorate Plan 2024-25, Quarter 1, performance update.

It was reported that that all (11) actions were currently ongoing and on track to be completed by the target date.

The Chair then opened the meeting to comments and questions from the Committee. 

During the discussion the following points were raised:

• In response to queries, the Head of Planning Services agreed to circulate an update regarding the development of Warwick Mill, Middleton to Ward Councillors.  The Managing Director, Rochdale Development Agency reported that scaffolding was currently in place and investigative works were being undertaken to consider options for the building.
• Members’ attention was drawn to actions being taken in response to the housing emergency. It was explained that a B&B Elimination Plan had been agreed, and it was a corporate priority to reduce the use of bed and breakfast for statutory homeless households and the length of stay exceeding six weeks.
• An update was sought in relation to the regeneration of Middleton Town Centre, and concerns were raised regarding the increasing number of empty shops in the high-street and the declining condition of the public realm.  It was requested the Council provide some communication to Middleton residents to allay frustrations.  It was suggested a press release be published in relation to the appointment of a new Town Centre Manager for Middleton.
• Concern was raised regarding the use of micro-asphalt to repair potholes and resurface roads.  In response, it was explained that pothole repairs were carried out in accordance with the Council’s adopted policy, and any variation to practice would need to be agreed by the Council.  The Assistant Director, Place encouraged councillors to report details of any particular areas of concern.
• In response to a question regarding the Council’s Planning Enforcement Team, the Head of Planning Services explained there were currently two permanent officers and two agency officers in post.  The department had been unable to fill the two agency posts due to the lack of applicants.  Work was underway to ensure the service remained sustainable and a backlog of enforcement cases did not build up. 
• The Committee commended the Council’s work to deliver the inclusive play parks project across the Borough.  It was asked if the park in Nixon Street, Rochdale would be designed to be inclusive for all children.  The Assistant Director, Place agreed to circulate further details to the Committee.
• It was noted there was currently a vacancy on the Rochdale Development Agency Board, and it was suggested the Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Housing be appointed to the post.
• Concerns were raised in relation to Rochdale Boroughwide Housing environmental management, including lawn mowing, litter picking, and maintenance of open spaces.  It was requested the relevant Director be asked to attend a future scrutiny committee meeting.
• It was noted that work with the Greater Manchester Combined Authority to prepare an Early Evening Economy Strategy was underway and due to be completed by the end of July 2024.  The Chair requested that a copy of the Strategy be circulated to the Committee.

·         Members commended proposals to reduce digital inequalities by providing free broadband to deprived neighbourhoods. It was reported that 4000 households were currently accessing free WiFi and the Council was awaiting confirmation from Rochdale Boroughwide Housing regarding a commitment to support with installation to expand the network and roll out the offer to other areas across the Borough.

·         In relation to the development and implement of a Fly Tipping Strategy – it was reported that the first phase of the Strategy had been concluded following extensive work with a member working group. The Council was currently implementing recommendations, including a restructure to form an ‘Environmental Quality Team’. It was explained that a report would be submitted to Cabinet in September 2024.

·         Additional information was sought regarding the next steps and implications of the Places for Everyone plan.  The Head of Planning Services advised that an all Member briefing would be arranged in the forthcoming months.  

·         In relation to the work underway with key strategic housing partners to increase the delivery of affordable homes across the Borough – it was queried what the term ‘affordable’ meant.  The Assistant Director, Place agreed to circulate an information briefing note to the Committee explaining the ‘affordable homes’ and ‘affordable rent’ categories and criteria.

Resolved –

1. That the Economy and Place Directorate Plan 2024-25: Quarter 1 Performance Update be noted.

2. That the Assistant Director, Place be requested to circulate to the Committee the following:

·         A briefing note explaining affordable homes and affordable rent categories and criteria.

·         Information regarding the design of the play park in Nixon Street, Rochdale.

·         A copy of the Early Evening Economy Strategy.

3. That the Head of Planning Services be requested to circulate to the Committee an update in relation to the Warwick Mill, Middleton development.

4. That the Senior Governance and Committee Officer be requested to invite the Rochdale Borough Housing Director responsible for environmental management to a future Committee meeting.