Agenda item

Report of the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member, Finance and Transformation is attached.

A report from Councillor Thorpe, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Transformation, was circulated ahead of the meeting. Councillor Thorpe was invited to present a brief overview, highlighting the Council’s Q1 performance. The report demonstrated strong alignment with corporate performance indicators, particularly those linked to core priorities such as reducing inequalities and promoting inclusive growth. Councillor Thorpe noted that delivery across services had been substantial, with minimal slippage, and that councillors had been actively engaged in key areas.

He drew attention to the significant progress made in Children’s Services, where all areas previously rated as “Requires Improvement” had shown advancement. Notably, leadership had moved from “Inadequate” to “Good,” reflecting the impact of targeted improvement efforts. Financial transformation was reported to be on track, with the implementation of zero-based budgeting progressing well, although there were some delays in specific areas such as the MAP programme. Councillor Thorpe also mentioned ongoing efforts to secure a permanent site for the PRU, with alternative locations currently being explored.

During the discussion, several councillors raised questions. Councillor Moss queried the reduction in HMOs from 80 to 10, referencing page 26 of the report. Councillor Thorpe and Robert Summerfield responded, explaining that the decline was reflective of market conditions and the high cost of construction. They noted that developments with fewer than 10 units often fall below the threshold for affordable housing contributions, although the number of affordable homes built is expected to increase in 2023–24. The Brownfield Housing Fund and Homes England grants were acknowledged as helpful, but insufficient to fully offset rising construction costs. Developments in Radcliffe and Seedfield were cited as examples of ongoing work, with support from GMCA and other partners.

Councillor Rydeheard asked about the Milltown Street bridge, which was destroyed in 2015, and whether there were plans for its reconstruction. Robert Summerfield advised that a response would be sought from Highways, and Neil Long would provide an update. Councillor Rydeheard also raised questions about the Elton and Walshaw sites, which were addressed by Councillor Birchmore.

On housing delivery, Councillor Birchmore referred to page 13 and asked about the timeline for the housing register delivery pipeline. Kate Waterhouse responded that the Homeless Strategy outlines a delivery period of approximately 18 months.

Councillor Moss raised a question regarding EHCPs, noting that while the number of new plans issued within 12 months had decreased, the number of children with EHCPs in schools had increased. Councillor Thorpe explained that this reflected a more realistic and targeted approach, with improved assessments and robust input from educational psychologists. He acknowledged that while fewer plans were being issued, those who needed them were receiving appropriate support, and the right to appeal remained in place. Councillor Marsden expressed concern about a potential backlog and questioned whether the reduced issuance might be due to increased stringency. Councillor Thorpe responded that the process had become more objective and rigorous, and that previous practices may have been overly generous. Councillor Marsden asked whether this could leave the Council open to scrutiny, and accepted the premise of a more balanced approach.

Councillor Pilkington commented on the evolving landscape, suggesting that some parents view EHCPs as a “silver bullet.” He asked whether the work of Children’s Services and strategic partnerships with schools could help mitigate pressures. Councillor Thorpe agreed, highlighting the importance of the graduated approach within schools, which enables early interventions and support without necessarily requiring formal plans. He emphasised that while partnerships are critical, they do not replace the need for appropriate interventions where necessary.

Councillor Rydeheard asked for clarification on the risks addressed in the Fishpool local transport strategy. A full written response will be provided.

The committee held a general discussion on the growing pressures around homelessness in Bury. Councillor Moss raised concerns about the increasing difficulty residents face in securing accommodation, which Councillor Thorpe attributed to limited funding and broader systemic challenges. The issue was described as serious and worsening.

Councillor Birchmore asked whether the Council tracks homelessness caused by Section 21 evictions, and Kate Waterhouse agreed to explore whether this data could be reported. Councillor Rahimov inquired about seasonal patterns in homelessness, and Kate noted that rough sleepers often return in late summer, particularly around August, in anticipation of colder weather.

The conversation reflected a shared concern about the scale and complexity of homelessness locally, with members seeking greater clarity on data and trends to inform future scrutiny and policy responses.

Councillor Vernon asked how the significant financial gap would affect the Council’s performance going forward. Councillor Thorpe explained that the Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) requires the Council to find savings to ensure financial stability over the coming years. He acknowledged that this would impact delivery, as not all areas of the plan may be completed.

Councillor Vernon asked about the current stage of financial planning, and Councillor Thorpe expressed confidence in the re-profiling of the capital programme, noting that many initiatives are already underway. He added that economic forecasts would continue to influence future decisions.

It Was Agreed that:

·         The Report be noted

·         The Committee confirmed that scrutiny of the report had taken place and that Cabinet would be informed accordingly at the meeting scheduled for the following evening.