Issue - meetings

(Copy herewith)

RESOLVED:

2.1            That Cabinet noted the contents of the report and noted that future reports will set out the actions being taken by Corporate Management Board (CMB) to address issues arising.

2.2            That Cabinet noted the amendments to the general fund capital programme as set out at paragraph 3.5.1.

2.3            That Cabinet approved a £2.4m virement within the HRA capital programme as set out at paragraph 3.6.2.

Councillor Eldred as the relevant Cabinet Member outlined the report forecasting an overspend of £887k.  There had been serious issues with temporary accommodation, but it was hoped that this situation would improve over the next year.  Money was available in reserves if needed.

Councillor Larratt referred to Item 3.5.1 on page 24 and questioned why £1.165m was being invested in the North West Relief Road when the scheme did not have full agreement.  He considered that building on the track-bed of a railway line which was being considered for re-opening was a waste of taxpayers’ money.  The Leader pointed out that there was a need to keep up the supply of housing.  However, the relief from the road would be temporary and delivery of the Northern Orbital Road was the long-term objective.  In the short-term, meetings were being held with Northamptonshire County Council and a formal response to the questions of the roundabout and traffic was being sought.

Councillor Larratt noted that at the West Northamptonshire Joint Planning and Infrastructure Board meeting there had been confusion over the vision for the Northern Orbital Road.  He asked that future consideration be given to defining this.  The Head of Planning stated that he was meeting with the officer drafting the Northamptonshire Strategic Infrastructure Plan next week, and would make the Council’s aspirations clear.

RESOLVED:

2.1            That Cabinet noted the contents of the report and noted that future reports will set out the actions being taken by Corporate Management Board (CMB) to address issues arising.

2.2            That Cabinet noted the amendments to the general fund capital programme as set out at paragraph 3.5.1.

2.3            That Cabinet approved a £2.4m virement within the HRA capital programme as set out at paragraph 3.6.2.