Agenda item
QUESTIONS TO THE LEADER, LEAD MEMBERS, CHAIRS OF COMMITTEES AND REPORTS FROM THE CHAIRS OF THE COMMITTEES, AND QUESTIONS ON THE CHAIRS REPORTS
8a) Question to the Leader of the Council, Councillor Sarah Nelmes from Councillor Keith Martin
During July's Full Council, a member of the Liberal Democrat Administration held up a Conservative Party leaflet, recently delivered to residents in Mill End and Maple Cross. Full Council was told that the leaflet contained misleading information about a local planning matter. This was not challenged by that group during Full Council. Three Rivers Officers deemed this matter sufficiently serious to write to a member of the local Conservative Party, stating that the misleading information should be withdrawn, and that no such repetition - misleading residents - should occur. The Conservative Party has made no such withdrawal or correction. Are the actions of the local Conservative Group, firstly in misleading the public and then doing nothing to correct the record, acceptable?
Written response:
Delivering misleading information to residents can neither be justified or excused. The same goes for taking no action to inform every household that received the newsletter, that they had been misled. What is appalling is that the author of these publications has not even bothered to reply to senior council officers and as recently as the 2nd October issued further misleading inaccurate and untruthful leaflets.
8b) Question to the Leader of the Council, Councillor Sarah Nelmes from Councillor Ciaran Reed
Despite being the ward member for Chorleywood North & Sarratt and being instrumental in the process to obtain new Community Infrastructure Levy funding for the King George V Playground in Sarratt, I was not allowed to contribute to the Three Rivers District Council press release. When I asked officers about not including my comments, I was told that Three Rivers District Council’s communications were decided by the Leader of the Council, in consultation with officers. I was also told that there was no clear policy on when ward members are or are not included in press releases. Will Three Rivers District Council look at producing such a policy and providing a clear set of criteria, rather than just the whims of the political Leader of the Council, to ensure that Council communications are not an arm of the Lib Dem campaign?
Written response:
Council Policy, in common with most Councils, state that press releases contain quotes from either the Lead Member, the Council Leader, or both. Other figures - including representatives of partner organisations - may also be included in draft releases when considered appropriate by communications officers, with the agreement of the Lead Member and Leader. Exception to this approach is made during the pre-election period, when no reference is made to individual politicians or groups in press releases. During this period senior officers are featured.
I would also point out that the Lead Member for Infrastructure was instrumental in ensuring that the monies were allocated for this site and ensuring that the monies were released for work to start this Summer rather than to wait for this Council meeting.
8c) Question to the Leader of the Council, Councillor Sarah Nelmes from Councillor from Councillor Reena Ranger
Three Rivers District Council was the very last principal authority in Hertfordshire to record and livestream its meetings. However, unlike other councils, the static camera does not capture all members in the room, or pan to or zoom in on those speaking. Could Three Rivers District Council resolve this to promote engagement and meet accessibility needs for our residents?
Written response:
The decision to use static rather than tracking cameras was made by Members at the Policy & Resources Committee meeting on 19 July 2021. You were present at that meeting, and this was agreed by all councillors. the voting being unanimous.
8d) Question to the Leader of the Council, Councillor Sarah Nelmes from Councillor Stephen King
How much has this authority spent on communications with the public (including salaries and on-costs) in the last two financial years?
Written response:
Communications Expenditure
2021-22 financial year £246,000
2022-23 financial year £318,000
The council’s communications team was restructured in 2022 and expanded to include digital services and Watersmeet marketing resulting in some movement of salaries. One post in 2022-23 was funded through grant funding at a value of £41,000 included in the figures above. The figures also include the cost of the council’s website, online services platform, social media management and district notice boards maintenance.
8e) Question to the Lead Member for Public Services, Councillor Paul Rainbow from Councillor Narinder Sian
A public consultation was carried out, in July 2022, on the views of the parking which were brought in during 2020 in Croxley Green. We still do not have the feedback and actions to the public, when will this be available?
Written response:
Further consideration of this parking scheme was delayed following changes to the Red House pub visitor parking and a request for short term visitor parking in the vicinity. The schemes were combined, and the final stages of statutory consultation were completed in September 2023. The results of this final consultation are now being reviewed by our parking enforcement provider (Hertsmere BC) with a final decision due and implementation later this year.
8f) Question to the Lead Member for Public Services, Councillor Paul Rainbow from Councillor Chris Mitchell
A public consultation was held this year on the short term parking that serves the shops at the end of Frankland Road and on the Watford road, and further notices were put up in August. Please can you state when the new proposal will be put in place.
Written response:
This request for short term visitor parking in the vicinity of the local shops/businesses in this part of Croxley Green followed changes to the Red House pub visitor parking. Three Rivers DC consulted on proposals for changes to parking in the area and have combined further work on the Traffic Regulation Order with the Croxley Green review. The final stages of statutory consultation were completed in September 2023. The results of this final consultation are now being reviewed by our parking enforcement provider (Hertsmere BC) with a final decision due implementation as soon as possible.
8g) Question to the Lead Member for Public Services, Councillor Paul Rainbow from Councillor Chris Mitchell
Please can you update the council on progress to install the EV charging points in the car parks as agreed last year. As you know the charging points in the Community Way car park in Croxley Green have been out of action for some years now, and there is nowhere in Croxley Green for public charging at present.
Written response:
Officers continue to pursue Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure in Council car parks in our key town centres. Officers are speaking with specialist Officers and operators and continue to explore external funding opportunities. A specification document has been drafted with details to be finalised shortly. A final decision on locations, numbers of chargers and costs is still awaited.
The Community Way car park charges were not installed by this council and the providers are no longer operating. The car park is has been assessed to provide a new EV charging points and I have discussed with officers but the location suggested might remover too many other car parking bays. So, I have asked for a different location to be invested. The key to any installation location however is having a suitable high voltage cable to enable a fast chargers point. Once we are in position to finalise plans I will be discussion with ward members for the car parks we intend to have instated in this financial year.
8h) Question to the Lead Member for Public Services, Councillor Paul Rainbow from Councillor Narinder Sian
Following on from my question at the July Full council meeting on the implementation of the Beryl bikes cycle scheme in the district. Could the lead provide an update on the progress being made. A project plan for the feasibility study component would be useful.
Written response:
The Lead Member and Officers met with Watford BC Members and Officers in late July 2023 to discuss the opportunities for the extension of the Beryl Bike scheme into Three Rivers DC. A proposal from Beryl Bikes with locations and any costs is still awaited. Once we have these we can progress further. I have asked officers to chase for them.
8i) Question to the Lead Member for Public Services, Councillor Paul Rainbow from Councillor Philip Hearn
When the public is next consulted on the Local Cycling & Walking Infrastructure Plan proposals, will Three Rivers District Council commit to writing by letter to all affected households to make them aware of the proposals and how they can have their say?
Written response:
It was confirmed at the last Full Council the public consultation in Three Rivers on the LCWIP was conducted in the same way as previous LCWIPs, promoted by Herts County Council, with the only difference being the layout of the mapping. All LCWIP consultations have been conducted online and publicised via posters, members and social media with some public engagement where possible and appropriate. If further consultation on the Plan or specific proposals are required Officers will consider the method of consultation necessary but given the Council’s move to an online consultation platform ‘Have Your Say’ and the volume and associated costs of letter drops consultation by letter is not expected until we get in to detailed scheme designs which may or may not require Traffic Orders, HCC have confirmed this their approach.
8j) Question to the Lead Member for Public Services, Councillor Paul Rainbow from Councillor Philip Hearn
When can the public expect to hear the outcome of the Local Cycling & Walking Infrastructure Plan consultation?
Written response:
In late July 2023 the Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP) public consultation closed. There were over 1000 responses in addition to online map comments. As this is a County Lead Scheme and any final proposals that has to be signed off by the Herts County Councils Highways and Transport Panel, the responses are all currently being reviewed by Hertfordshire County Council prior to any further discussion with Three Rivers DC or any decisions. Due to the volume of responses, it is not anticipated there will be any further update until early 2024. Once further information is available it will be shared with Members and stakeholders.
8k) Question to the Lead Member for Public Services, Councillor Paul Rainbow from Councillor Reena Ranger
District and borough councils have the power to designate areas where no vehicle engine idling should take place and impose fines on people idling their engines in those areas. Will Three Rivers District Council designate areas outside schools as “no idling zones” and use its officers to enforce them?
Written response:
As previously advised at Full Council the Council may apply for designation under The Road Traffic (Vehicle Emissions) (Fixed Penalty) (England) Regulations 2002. However, specific criteria needs to be met. The Council has an Air Quality Management Area so meets the first criteria for designation. However, part of the application for designation would include the submission of evidence to demonstrate that there is a problem locally. There is no current available evidence detailing there is specific problem outside schools in Three Rivers DC. On any designation consideration would also need to be given to how the regulations would be enforced and resourced appropriately.
Notwithstanding the above, idling engines is recognised as a common problem around schools everywhere and the Council are tackling idling engines through behaviour change campaigns with the support of HCC and other organisations including the local schools.
8l) Question to the Lead Member for Public Services, Councillor Paul Rainbow from Councillor Debbie Morris
Residents of The Woods in Moor Park & Eastbury have made complaints to Three Rivers District Council over many months this year about the difficulties they’re having in driving safely out of their driveways. The problem is their sight lines, which are significantly compromised by lawful parking close to the driveway entrances. To redress this, parking restrictions need to be extended each side of the driveways. Officers have advised that no new parking schemes can be considered for the time being, nor are likely to be until 2024 owing to a lack of staff resources. Assuming that the Lead Member agrees that residents’ and their visitors’ safety should not continually be put at risk, what is he going to do about the situation?
Written response:
In the continued absence of a Senior Transport Officer, or alternative Officer, new parking schemes are not currently being pursued. However, Officers are aware of the concerns about parking in this area and the request has been added to the Parking Management Programme request list where it will be assessed against a list of criteria to determine if it is prioritised in the future. However, whilst the Local Authority has powers to implement parking schemes to manage the demands of parking on the highway it does not have the authority to introduce safety schemes. Only Herts County Council can undertake road safety schemes and as this is being raised as a safety issue the Councillor could raise with her County Councillor, Councillor Renna Ranger who has a £90,000 local budget that can go towards such projects .
8m) Question to the Lead Member for Public Services, Councillor Paul Rainbow from Councillor Debbie Morris
Three Rivers District Council residents are struggling – and on some occasions, find it impossible – to park at the Aquadrome on sunny weekends and public holidays or after extended periods of heavy rainfall, when large areas are flooded. As our residents pay for this popular facility, they should be able to access it. What does Three Rivers District Council propose doing to address these problems?
Written response:
The Aquadrome is well located for access by public transport and active modes of travel and where possible residents are encouraged to access the site by sustainable modes.
The Aquadrome is part of a flood plain and flooding of the site is a naturally occurring event providing natural flood protection for the wider area, the healthy functioning of the river ecosystems, and helps sustain the high biological diversity present at this nature reserve. Flooding is closely monitored and areas of the Aquadrome, including parts of the car park, are closed to the public in the event of any risk to public safety.
As part of the recently approved Aquadrome Management Plan a review of the car park provision will be undertaken which will include capacity and consideration of local flooding issues.
8n) Question to the Lead Member for Public Services, Councillor Paul Rainbow from Councillor Andrea Fraser
What is Three Rivers District Council doing to make the payment machines in the Rose Garden car park easier to use for residents and visitors, we receive many complaints about how long it takes to be able to operate the machine and it is not clear to residents if the transaction has been successful?
Written response:
New parking machines were introduced into the Council’s car parks in December 2022. There are improvements compared to the previous machines particularly in terms of the ticketless technology. It does take a couple of minutes for the machines to update the car registration details and a screen displaying confirmation of ‘issue/purchase’, with a paper receipt being available if required. However, these machines and the technology are no different to the parking machines in some of the adjacent Councils car parks. Officers have received few complaints since the new machines were installed. There are no plans to change the machines.
8o) Question to the Lead Member for Public Services, Councillor Paul Rainbow from Councillor Joan King
When are the double yellow lines, which the Labour Group has consistently pushed for and secured funding for, going to be installed at the junctions of Oxhey Drive and side roads?
Written response:
This parking scheme forms part of a wider Local Improvement Scheme, the final statutory consultation of which was completed in August 2023. The works have been ordered and it is expected implementation will be during October 2023.
8p) Question to the Lead Member for Public Services, Councillor Paul Rainbow from Councillor Stephen Cox
When the Lead Member came to South Oxhey in July to have his picture taken by a bus shelter, he was unsured had been installed when questioned, that I asked for at a stop I had arranged to get installed and by parking bays that had already been in use for three months thanks to Labour councillors’ pressure, did he also avail himself of the opportunity to look at the state of the refuse bins at Erskine House, Filton House and Forfar House?
Written response:
I have not as yet visited the locations but I am fully aware of the issues. The Council continues to work with Thrive Homes, who are the Management Company responsible for these locations, to assist them in implementing measures that will help to ensure that the area remains clear of waste and litter. From the Councils perspective this has included increasing the frequency of bin collections, returning to collections when they could not be undertaken due to access issues relating to parked cars and communicating with residents regarding responsible disposal and storage of their waste. All complaints received are passed to Thrive Homes and the Councils Enforcement Officers monitor their response and update me regularly on this matter. Whilst this is a matter for Thrive to own and resolve, the Council is committed to working in partnership with Thrive to ensure our residents have the environment they deserve.
8q) Question to the Lead Member for Economic Development and Planning Policy, Councillor Stephen Giles-Medhurst from Councillor Chris Lloyd
Please could the lead member update us on the Watford Croxley link work, that might improve sustainably and public transport ?
Written response:
Following the cancellation of the Metropolitan Line Extension project Hertfordshire County Council, in conjunction with Watford BC and Three Rivers DC and other major stakeholders are looking at alternative use of the disused railway line between Watford and Croxley. Consultants were commissioned to undertake a feasibility study and develop proposals for innovative options suitable for the disused railway corridor. The first stage of this study was completed earlier this year. A further piece of feasibility work has now been commissioned with one of the consultants, Atkins. This report will develop further design concepts of a series of public transport and active travel transport options prior to a Strategic Outline Business Case being prepared. This report is in its final stages and is due to be presented as a formal document later this year.
8r) Question to the Lead Member for Economic Development and Planning Policy, Councillor Stephen Giles-Medhurst from Councillor Keith Martin
Our roads are an absolutely vital, integral part of the infrastructure of Three Rivers. All residents, businesses and not-for-profit organisations rely on our roads. Would the Lead Member for Infrastructure therefore like to comment on the increasing number of complaints we all receive in respect of the unrepaired potholes blighting our roads?
Written response:
With a 400% increase insurance claims this year and over 1,600 pothole in Herts it’s a dreadful state of affairs. I also know residents have found it hard to get such claims agreed as the county council relies on not all potholes being reported or they do not warrant action is intervention because its “not deep enough” so residents and traders are faced with further costs in a cost of living crises for the failures if the County Council.
In February, the County Council rejected proposals to increase invention levels and funding for potholes and this we are now all suffering.
8s) Question to the Lead Member for Economic Development and Planning Policy, Councillor Stephen Giles-Medhurst from Councillor Keith Martin
Would the Lead Member for Infrastructure agree with me that the decision of the Secretary of State to approve the planning permission previously granted by this Council for the expansion of Leavesden Studios, which will generate up to 4,000 local jobs and significantly boost economic growth in our area, along with the dedication of land to improve biodiversity, is excellent, positive news? Could the Lead Member detail the key benefits of this expansion?
Written response:
TRDC granted planning permission for expansion of Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden (WBSL) in February 2023 and this decision was fully supported by the Secretary of State. There are a number of benefits, economic and environmental, namely:
· The approved expansion will require in excess of £250 million in infrastructure investment between late 2022 and the end of the 2026. It is estimated that the opening of the additional sound stages would attract an additional £208 million in annual film and TV production at WBSL and raise the total annual level of film and TV production at WBSL to £613.8 million.
· The full implementation of the Masterplan will add 1,625 FTEs (full time equivalent jobs) of employment and £85.7 million in GVA (gross value added) to the local economy by 2027. As a result, by 2027 WBSL’s annual contribution to the local economy will increase to 5,891 FTE and £360.9 million GVA.
· An Employment and Skills Plan will be delivered through the S106 Agreement in order to ensure that local recruitment and training initiatives are carried out both during the construction phase of the development and the long-term operation of the Studios.
· The Lower Field will be maintained in perpetuity as an accessible green space for ecological and environmental benefits and the proposed development will deliver a BNG of 12.65% (habitat units) and 51.90% (hedgerow units) which would be in accordance with Environment Act when it becomes law.
· The proposed solar PV will generate over 1,600,000kWh per year. Whilst the primary purpose is to power the Studios, any surplus will be exported to the wider electricity network for public use. As a result of the extent of PV proposed, all electricity used on application site will come from 100% renewable energy. The development is estimated to demonstrate an 86% reduction in overall regulated carbon emissions which is significantly above both the current 5% policy threshold and draft future guidance of 20%. Over 1000 tonnes of regulated CO2 will be saved across WBSL site every year.
8t) Question to the Lead Member for Economic Development and Planning Policy, Councillor Stephen Giles-Medhurst from Councillor Philip Hearn
Why is the proposal for 190 homes on Chorleywood Station car park included in the consultation on the new Local Plan when the single-track entrance way cannot be widened due to precious protected grassland on Chorleywood Common?
Written response:
The Council wishes to maximise the amount of development on brownfield land so as to avoid having to build more homes on our precious Green Belt. The Regulation 18 consultation stage is still the information gathering stage of Local Plan preparation and none of the sites included in the Local Plan Regulation 18 Part Four consultation are yet being agreed for allocation. We are asking for residents, businesses, land owners and other stakeholders for their views on the sites included in the consultation, and indeed on the sites not being proposed for potential allocation. The responses received through this consultation will be considered alongside the responses to previous consultations prior to the Council preparing its Regulation 19 draft Local Plan.
8u) Question to the Lead Member for Economic Development and Planning Policy, Councillor Stephen Giles-Medhurst from Councillor Andrea Fraser
What steps have Three Rivers District Council taken to ‘activate’ Rickmansworth High Street following the prohibition of motor vehicles?
Written response:
In response to the temporary closure of the High Street to motor vehicles, the Council has sought to encourage alternative uses of the High Street. Officers supported the Community Council in securing external funding to commence the monthly market and other events including providing project support. Officers have highlighted opportunities in the High Street with press releases/news items and worked with external organisations to identify opportunities for the High Street, this includes recent Herts Growth Board funding. Pavement licences under the temporary pavement licence process continue to attract no fee (the Council has waived the £100 fee per application) and Officers continue to review High Street infrastructure such as the improvements to car parks (new lighting, disabled access ramp) and cycle storage.
8v) Question to the Lead Member for Economic Development and Planning Policy, Councillor Stephen Giles-Medhurst from Councillor Andrea Fraser
How does this council plan to spend CIL receipts from developments in Rickmansworth in the next year?
Written response:
The Council will review, assess and respond and bring to Committee to any bids for CIL monies but none are outstanding or pending for Rickmansworth at this stage or across the District. The application process is now twice a year with the next opportunity to submit applications on 1 January 2024. Strategic CIL monies held by the Council are not allocated to specific areas, the monies received can be spent anywhere in the District provided a strategic infrastructure project meets the CIL regulations and local requirements.
With regard to the parish/unparished funds, any levy received for Batchworth Community Council or Rickmansworth Unparished area is spent within that parish. There are currently no pending CIL applications for those areas. The application process is the same as the strategic fund process.
However, you will be aware that the last Council agreed to spend a large amount of CIL money on towards a new bridge at the Aquadrome and also bid for government funding to ensure it would be wider than present.
8w) Question to the Lead Member for Economic Development and Planning Policy, Councillor Stephen Giles-Medhurst from Councillor Oliver Cooper
Northwood HQ and the Ministry of Defence objected to the planning application to build 29 flats opposite Northwood HQ (22/1875/OUT). In approving that application, Three Rivers District Council concluded that there was “no evidence” it would harm security, and appeared to reduce the weight of the Ministry of Defence’s objection because it understandably did not want to publicly detail the security risk to Northwood HQ. The decision notice appears to not yet to be issued, and so it can still be called in. Will this council proactively ask the MoD and DLUHC if they wish to call in the application and not issue the decision notice unless and until they confirm they do not wish to?
Written response:
Northwood Headquarters (NHQ) did submit an objection to planning permission 22/1875/OUT, citing their general concern of overwatch and line of site into the main entry point from the development. Their objection was taken very seriously, and the Case Officer met with representatives from NHQ to discuss their concerns. The committee report presented to Members of the Planning Committee sets out in detail as to why the scheme was considered acceptable in respect of the security concerns raised. During the April Planning Committee, the Case Officer advised members that they could seek a ‘call in’ from the SOS if they remained concerned. As a result, the agreed resolution was to approve Outline Planning Permission subject to a Section 106 Agreement and on the basis that the SOS do not seek to “call in” the application on security grounds with a timescale to be agreed and circulated to members for agreement after the meeting.
Following the April Planning Committee, the Case Officer circulated emails to members of the said committee advising that a timescale up to Friday 26 May would be provided for the SOS to call-in the application. On 30 May, the Case Officer confirmed that the Head of Establishment at NHQ did not wish for the SOS to call-in the application as they were unable to provide any further security justification. Consequently, the Council has already offered the MOD to call in the application.
Due to on-going discussions with regards to the Section 106 Agreement pertaining to securing an affordable housing review mechanism, the application has not been formally approved. It is anticipated that agreement will be reached shortly.
8x) Question to the Lead Member for Economic Development and Planning Policy, Councillor Stephen Giles-Medhurst, from Councillor Stephen Cox
Why and will the Lead Member apologise for it, did this council use a Liberal Democrat Party photograph on a press release regarding the Green Belt, rather than a politically neutral one?
Written response:
A photograph of the Lead member and the Vice Chair of the Local Plan Sub Committee was indeed used regarding a Green Belt Press Release but neither they nor indeed the photo mentioned were Liberal Democrats, and the Press Release was as is required non-political but the decision of the Council.
8y) Question to the Lead Member for Housing, Public Health and Wellbeing, Councillor Andrew Scarth from Councillor Chris Mitchell
The application for the Local Authority Housing fund was agreed at the February council meeting. Please can you update members on progress with this and any future potential acquisitions following on from the Sarratt property agreed in September P&R meeting.
Written response:
As Councillors will be aware the Council is pursuing two routes to deliver the homes required under the LAHF. The first route is the proposed redevelopment of 4no. garage sites in 3no. locations across the District namely: 2no. sites at Pollards in Maple Cross; 1no. in Queens Drive in Mill End and 1no. in Jacketts Field in Abbots Langley. It is intended the redevelopment will provide 22no. of the 24no. homes required under the LAHF scheme.
Officers have been working incredibly closely with colleagues at Watford Community Housing to bring forward the development sites. At the time of writing Planning applications have been submitted for the sites at Pollards & Queens Drive. Officers are in discussions over some issues before submitting the site at Jacketts Field.
With respect to the remaining 2no. units to be provided, Officers obtained approval to submit an offer to acquire a property in Sarratt and that is proceeding as necessary, a further review of available and suitable properties on the market is being undertaken to acquire the final unit.
8z) Question to the Lead Member for Housing, Public Health and Wellbeing, Councillor Andrew Scarth from Councillor Reena Ranger
The Three Rivers District Council-owned Eastbury Recreation Ground has tennis courts and football goalposts, and hosts community events. Will the Lead Member ensure that a defibrillator is installed in the vicinity so that should the need arise, one will be available?
Written response:
Officers are currently working with Batchworth Community Council on the installation of a defibrillator within the vicinity of the site.
8aa) Question to the Lead Member for Housing, Public Health and Wellbeing, Councillor Andrew Scarth from Councillor Reena Ranger
Following the introduction of ULEZ, many residents in Moor Park & Eastbury may need to pay a charge to visit their doctor or dentist. Will the Lead Member make representations to the Hertfordshire & West Essex and North West London Integrated Care Boards stating that the boundaries caused by ULEZ may lead to health inequalities and lack of access to medical provision for the residents of Moor Park & Eastbury?
Written response:
The Strategy and Partnerships Team are in touch with GP’s and Pharmacies in Northwood, Hillingdon & no concerns have been raised from staff in relation to patients stating ULEZ is a barrier to them accessing health services. Discussions will continue in case a problem arises in colder months.
Three Rivers District Council are part of the Watford and Three Rivers Locality Board and meets monthly with a range of health professionals and teams. ULEZ will be raised at the next meeting and any concerns will be escalated through Locality Board procedures to the Integrated Care Board.
8bb) Question to the Lead Member for Housing, Public Health and Wellbeing, Councillor Andrew Scarth from Councillor Joan King
How many reports have the Environmental Health Department received of mould in residential properties the last year district wide, detailed by ward and precisely what action was taken upon each report?
Written response:
Officers in Residential Environmental Health have opened 19 investigations following reports of excessive damp and mould in residential properties, for the period of September 2022 to September 2023. This has been broken down into the Ward these properties were located and the outcome of these investigations below:
|
Ward |
Number of Complaints |
Outcome |
|
Chorleywood/Maple Cross |
2 |
Case 1 - Remedial works completed by landlord. Case 2 – Investigation ongoing. |
|
Dickinsons |
1 |
Investigation ongoing. |
|
Gade Valley |
3 |
Case 1 - Remedial works completed by landlord. Case 2 – Remedial works completed by landlord. Case 3 – Investigation ongoing. |
|
Moor Park & Eastbury |
2 |
Case 1 – Directed to contact landlord to request remedial works. Case 2 – Remedial works completed by landlord. |
|
South Oxhey |
3 |
Case 1 – Extensive works required. Tenant provided with managed move by landlord. Case 2 – Investigation ongoing. Case 3 - Remedial works completed by landlord. |
|
Durrants |
1 |
Investigation closed following no further contact from customer. |
|
Leavesden |
2 |
Case 1 – Insufficient information provided to progress. Case 2 – Inspection conducted by Officer from EH. No further action taken, and advice given. |
|
Carpenders Park |
1 |
Extensive works required. Tenant provided with managed move by landlord. |
|
Chorleywood North & Sarratt |
1 |
Inspection arranged by EH Officer, however, not attended by customer. Case closed due to no further contact. |
|
Penn & Mill End |
2 |
Case 1 – Advice given to resident. No further action. Case 2 – Investigation ongoing. |
|
Oxhey Hall & Hayling |
1 |
Investigation ongoing. |
It is important to note that the number of investigations conducted by Officers is not a true reflection of the total number of complaints the Council have received from residents regarding excessive damp and mould within their properties. On first receipt of a complaint about excessive damp and mould within a property, Officers will request the complainant provide evidence that this issue has been raised with their landlord in a formal capacity but and following this issue being raised with their landlord, no action has been taken.
This evidence must be provided to the Council to ensure that the landlord of the property has been given a sufficient opportunity to resolve the issue amicably with their tenant. If this evidence is provided, the Council will write to the landlord in an attempt to resolve the issue on an informal basis, however, if this is not achieved, the Council have a range of enforcement powers that are available to them to ensure that remedial works are completed.
Registered Providers have a responsibility to keep their properties in a safe, secure, and good condition. Should a complaint about excessive damp and mould in a property be received from a tenant of a Registered Provider within the District, Officers will contact that Registered Provider on an informal basis, to ensure that they are fulfilling this responsibility to their tenants.
8cc) Question to the Lead Member for Leisure, Councillor Chris Lloyd from Councillor Keith Martin
A combination of new and improved facilities at South Oxhey Playing Fields have been warmly welcomed by the residents of South Oxhey, Oxhey Hall and the wider community. Does Councillor Lloyd agree with me that Officers have done an outstanding job in using CIL money and Lawn Tennis Association funding to provide excellent facilities for Three Rivers residents?
Written response:
Yes, I fully agree. We now have two fully refurbished multi-use outdoors. Officers did a brilliant job in obtaining funding from the Lawn Tennis Association, which has been used to supplement CIL money. The outdoor gym is already attracting regular users, as is the dog agility area. The first organised event in the skate park took place in mid-August and another has been held since.
8dd) Question to the Lead Member for Leisure, Councillor Chris Lloyd from Councillor Chris Mitchell
The question on why Three Rivers have not provided a public toilet in the Barton way recreation ground has been asked by the public many times. Can this be given some serious thought and if not why not.
Written response:
The only public conveniences operated by the Council are the toilets at Rickmansworth Aquadrome. Some local organisations have volunteered to allow the public to use their facilities during their normal opening hours. In Croxley Green, this is the Fox and Hounds situated on New Road and includes disabled facilities. More information is available on the Council website: https://www.threerivers.gov.uk/services/community-and-living/community-toilets
8ee) Question to the Lead Member for Leisure, Councillor Chris Lloyd from Councillor Abbas Merali
Padel tennis is one of the fastest growing sports in the UK. The Lawn Tennis Association are providing grants to develop facilities. What are Three Rivers District Council’s plans to incorporate padel as part of their leisure provision?
Written response:
There is currently no budget and consequently no plans to incorporate padel tennis facilities as part of the Councils leisure provision. Such facilities which would cost in the region of £75k each and although it is fast growing in popularity nationally, it is still quite niche. Officers will continue to monitor any local demand for the sport and identify any opportunities to incorporate it into the existing programme where external funding becomes available.
The Council has excellent working relationships with the Lawn Tennis Association and has had great success in securing grants from them under the Parks Tennis Investment programme to develop facilities in the district. In the past year this has seen the LTA invest £5,500 at Denham Way and £51,667.95 at South Oxhey to support the larger Council leisure improvement projects at those locations. Officers have spoken with the Lawn Tennis Association who have confirmed that the Parks Tennis Investment Programme does not include padel tennis. The only other funding the LTA have available is the "quick access loans" scheme which would not be suitable for this purpose.
8ff) Question to the Lead Member for Leisure, Councillor Chris Lloyd from Councillor Andrea Fraser
What measures are being taken to prevent flooding of the Aquadrome lakes and car park over the upcoming autumn/winter months?
Written response:
The Aquadrome is part of a flood plain and flooding of the site is a naturally occurring event providing natural flood protection for the wider area, the healthy functioning of the river ecosystems, and helps to sustain the high biological diversity present at this nature reserve. Flooding is closely monitored and areas of the Aquadrome, including parts of the car park, are closed to the public in the event of any risk to public safety.
As part of the recently approved Aquadrome Management Plan a hydrological survey will be undertaken in order to more fully understand the movement of water across the site. The management plan implementation also include a review of the car park provision which will include consideration of local flooding issues.
8gg) Question to the Lead Member for Leisure, Councillor Chris Lloyd from Councillor Stephen King
I welcome the new leisure facilities at the South Oxhey Playing Fields and congratulate the officers on their hard work in achieving this. Can the Lead Member advise when the pathway suitable for disabled into and within the entrance of the dog training area which the Labour Group requested and is necessary will be in installed?
Written response:
Thank you for your positive feedback on the new leisure facilities at South Oxhey Playing Fields. An accessible route from the main pathway into the dog training area is currently being investigated by Officers, including identifying costs and a suitable budget for the work.
8hh) Question to the Lead Member for Leisure, Councillor Chris Lloyd from Councillor Stephen King
Can the Lead Member confirm that the storm gullies in Oxhey Wood between Jubilee Close and Abraham Close are in full working condition, cleared and will perform the function they are designed for this winter?
Written response:
As is usual at this time of the year the Councils Grounds team are currently in the process of inspecting and clearing gullies across the district ahead of the winter period. This includes those in Oxhey Wood.
8ii) Question to the Lead Member for Sustainability and Climate, Councillor Jon Tankard from Councillor Chris Mitchell
Please can you update the council on progress with the insulation programme for housing so far this year.
Written response:
TRDC have continued to progress a range of initiatives aimed at advancing domestic retrofit in the District this year, including delivering Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) Wave 1 and Wave 2 projects, our ECO4 project with E.ON, and Fast Followers projects.
· SHDF Wave 1 – this project partnered with Thrive Homes, Watford Community Housing (WCH), and Watford Borough Council is due to complete at the end of October 2023. By the end of the scheme, 139 socially rented homes (82 owned by Thrive in Three Rivers, and 57 owned by WCH in Watford) should have been improved to an EPC C rating primarily through the installation of external wall insulation. The exact outcomes of the project will only be known after the end of October 2023 when all homes have had a post-installation survey and the measures installed have been lodged with Trustmark.
· SHDF Wave 2 – this project partnered with Thrive Homes is expected to run until March 2025, and aims to improve approximately 155 solid-wall properties (of which approximately 121 will be Thrive socially-rented homes, and the remainder “private infill” properties subject to their eligibility) with external wall insulation, to improve the homes to an EPC C rating.
Thrive are currently procuring a managing agent for the scheme, and surveys to 83 Thrive homes have been completed so far.
· ECO4– After a period of targeted marketing earlier this year, our ECO4 project partnered with E.ON has focused on supporting residents who have applied to the scheme through the customer journey. So far, we have had 82 residents apply to E.ON’s scheme, and of those 54 are at the pre-qualification or survey stage, and approximately 20 applications have been approved for installation.
· Fast Followers projects – we are currently working with the National Energy Foundation to establish a “Retrofit One Stop Shop” service as a pilot, funded by the Fast Followers grant from Innovate UK. This pilot service will launch later this year and aims to expand uptake of retrofit among “able to pay” residents excluded from current grant funding schemes by offering residents independent, bespoke advice and support to help them plan, procure, finance, and deliver high quality retrofit to their homes, with a particular focus on residents living in “hard to treat” properties that face greater obstacles to retrofit.
· Using Fast Followers funding, we are also working with Grand Union Community Energy to bring Transition Streets to Three Rivers.
Under Transition Streets, small groups of neighbours meet over a few months to complete a free programme of seven short, home-based workshops covering key topics to save money and cut carbon emissions, and our Transition Streets pilot will have a particular emphasis on reducing energy use at home and retrofitting to improve energy efficiency. Residents participating in the pilot Transition Streets projects will benefit from a (basic) free thermal imaging survey of their home to identify areas of heat loss.
We are currently looking for households that wish to participate in Transition Streets.
The Greater South East Net Zero Hub have been overseeing a LAD3/Sustainable Warmth scheme across the region on behalf of Local Authorities, as the Hub received the grant funding directly from central Government. Latest available figures indicate that approximately 32 fully-funded energy saving measures have been installed to homes in Three Rivers since the scheme started in October 2022.
8jj) Question to the Lead Member for Sustainability and Climate, Councillor Jon Tankard from Councillor Narinder Sian
Could the lead provide an update on the grassland management plan. Would be useful to know what progress has been made against the 50% target previously set together with an update on the procurement of equipment and appointment of contractors.
Written response:
On the 15 March 2023, Officers presented a report outlining recommendations for the 2023 Alternative Grass Management (AGM) regime.
Within the report found at: https://www.threerivers.gov.uk/meetings/leisure-environment-and-community-committee-15-march-2023 (item 10) at point 4.70, it estimated that 85% of available grass would be managed for the benefit of biodiversity. An update on this percentage will be provided at the end of the financial year in the Members Information Bulletin following the completion of the grass cutting season, as outlined in the committee approved plan.
Machinery required by the Grounds Maintenance team to support the implementation of the AGM has been purchased and used during the 2023 grass cutting season. In addition, a multi-year contract has been awarded to a local contractor to undertake the first Hay Meadow Cut and Lift.
8kk) Question to the Lead Member for Sustainability and Climate, Councillor Jon Tankard from Councillor David Coltman
What is Three Rivers District Council going to do about the awful fly-tipping problem at Delta Gain?
Written response:
Delta Gains is the responsibility of the Management Company, Orbit Facilities Management (OFM) and not the Council. The bins are situated in the open, in a public throughfare and therefore are open to abuse from members of the public and anyone who wishes to dispose of waste. Council officers recently attended to empty the bins and found them to be filled with rubble and builders’ waste. As a consequence, the crew were therefore unable to empty the bins as to do so would have caused damage to the Councils refuse vehicle. This was reported and following discussions with Cllr Coltman and a representative from OFM the bins were cleared by the management company.
Council officers have advised the responsible Management Company OFM that they should re-site the bins so as to not be accessible to the general public and a meeting is being arranged between TRDC staff and OFM to look at options. Officers will continue to support where possible.
8ll) Question to the Lead Member for Community Partnerships, Councillor Steve Drury from Councillor Ciaran Reed
Residents of Chestnut Avenue in Chorleywood petitioned Three Rivers District Council earlier this year about having CCTV installed at the end of the road, given concerns about crime. The Lead Member has responded negatively to their petition, citing the cost of purchasing a new camera. At the Climate Change, Leisure, & Communities Committee meeting (which the Lead Member did not attend), we were told that Three Rivers District Council has cameras as a part of the Community Safety Partnership Board that can be moved. Will Three Rivers District Council consider recommending to the Community Safety Partnership Board moving one of these, even temporarily, to Chestnut Avenue?
Written response:
Burglary and vehicle crime is a key priority for our Community Safety Partnership. Although CCTV provides a good deterrent, there are also other proactive crime prevention tools. Whilst we understand the concerns for the area and road unfortunately, we are not in a position to purchase additional cameras as this cost exceeds budget and resource for CCTV which is already at its limit.
The Community Safety Partnership have 6 moveable cameras in the district. To request a camera to be moved a sponsor on the Community Safety Board would need to be found and then the request submitted to the board. Requests are assessed against the need/priority of locations. This option has been given to residents. To date, the local residents have not been in contact to request a sponsor is found or to submit a request. Three Rivers District Council could consider being the sponsor should the residents wish to explore this option.
Other options given to the residents includes looking at independent installation of the CCTV camera on private property ensuring the appropriate ICO compliant signage. We can also provide some more general Community Safety advice which would include things like personal ring doorbells with camera around property, signing up to neighbourhood watch or developing a street watch group, there are also private security options we are aware of in that area that they could look at being part of, surveillance signage possible, dash cams on cars.
We continue to work hard with the Police and other partners to address Community safety and reduce crime in Three Rivers providing a number of initiatives, projects and support for the community.
8mm) Question to the Lead Member for Community Partnerships, Councillor Steve Drury from Councillor Andrea Fraser
What is Three Rivers District Council doing to address the stencilled graffiti appearing all over Rickmansworth?
Written response:
Environmental Protection Officers record instances of graffiti where they are reported, found and where this is on the Councils assets or land it is cleared swiftly. Where it is not on Council property it is reported to the relevant authority, where this is known. There are however significant issues is locating correct contact details for companies that own the utility boxes. As well as BT and Virgin, there are now stickers for 02 and Orange. Officer make every effort to report through the relevant websites and customer service centre but there is no designed facility to report graffiti. In addition, it is unfortunate but owners of the street furniture do not see the removal of graffiti as a priority and therefore it can be left for 6-12 months.
8nn) Question to the Lead Member for Resources, Councillor Keith Martin from Councillor Chris Mitchell
At the last full Council meeting a question was asked by Councillor Rainbow to the lead member on whether or not the Red Cross building in Croxley Green is dilapidated. Cllr Martin replied to say that this was not and if it was Three Rivers would set out a notice to the leaseholder to identify what works was required. However, in the latest “Focus” liberal democrat newsletter it states “TRDC is finalising plans to demolish the Dilapidated building”. Which is true, and if it is delipidated why have you not issued the notice you described.
Written response:
Officers’ opinion is that the premises are not in a state of dilapidation and remain in sufficient repair as to not require intervention from the Landlord under the terms of the Lease.
The use of the phrase ‘dilapidated’ is a subjective term but applied in the context of the Lease and the repairing obligations, such a threshold has not been reached where it would be appropriate to take any action.
8oo) Question to the Lead Member for Resources, Councillor Keith Martin from Councillor Abbas Merali
After only four months of the year, Three Rivers District Council is projected to overspend its budget by over 12%. What has Three Rivers District Council learned from their budgeting process and how can we be confident that the budget will not need to be revised further for the rest of the year?
Written response:
The Council holds a general fund balance and Economic Impact Reserve to manage cost pressures or shortfalls in income that emerge after the budget is set. These reserves will be appropriately utilised during 2023/24 alongside taking action to reduce the forecast overspend. The overspend has primarily arisen due to risks around inflation (contracts and pay) and the global economy (cost of recycling gate fees) materialising during the year. When setting the budget, we always ensure that known pressures are funded through additional income or when necessary, reducing spend and the MTFP for 2023/24 to 2025/26 included planned service efficiencies of £0.796m. When considering financial risks, a balance must always be struck between finding additional savings to fund possible financial pressures and accepting a level of financial risk that can be managed by reserves if the risks materialise.
We will continue to plan prudently, using reserves to manage risks that emerge during the financial year, whilst also ensuring that general balances remain above our risk assessed level.
8pp) Question to the Lead Member for Resources, Councillor Keith Martin from Councillor Andrea Fraser
Three Rivers District Council currently has unused office space available at Three Rivers House. Would they consider allowing Batchworth Community Council or other institutions in the community to use some of this space this rent-free or at a peppercorn rent until a tenant is found?
Written response:
As Members will be aware the ground floor of Three Rivers House is currently being marketed for letting, with some tentative enquiries being explored. It may be possible to consider ‘meanwhile uses’ in limited circumstances providing that such uses are compatible with the Council’s use of the building and cover the costs of occupation, e.g. Business Rates, facilities management & utility costs. Any such occupation would have to be able to be terminated quickly in the event of securing a commercial tenant and allow continued effective marketing of the space.
8qq) Question to the Lead Member for Resources, Councillor Keith Martin from Councillor Oliver Cooper
On 18th October 2022, Cllr Martin told Councillor Fraser that he thought it was a good idea for Three Rivers District Council to publish all Freedom of Information requests that it had received and responses it has given, as many councils have and as the Information Commissioner’s Office recommends. A supplementary response resiled on this and said that it would cost too much. What price would Three Rivers District Council be willing to pay for this additional transparency?
Written response:
8rr) Question to the Lead Member for Resources, Councillor Keith Martin from Councillor Stephen Cox
What precisely has this council done to monitor that the Leaseholder has not breached any repairing obligations at the Pavilion in Green Lane (including dates, times and results of inspections) and does Legal Counsel remain of the opinion that the premises remain compliant with the lease in its entirety?
Written response:
There is no formal inspection timetable, unless or until a ‘Lease event’ should arise, for example a rent review, lease renewal, etc. The Pavilion is a long-leasehold premises with a considerable term remaining, the frequency of formal inspections is limited. However, Officers are very familiar with the premises and undertake regular visits & observations. The Lease does set out the responsibilities that the Tenant has in order to maintain the premises in “…good and substantial repair and condition…”. When issues do arise, either via Officer observations or from Member & resident reports, they are investigated, and appropriate action is taken.
Discussion of possible breaches of tenant covenants and/or service of a section 146 Notice and the chances of successfully forfeiting the lease should remain commercially confidential and legally privileged, and such privilege would be waived if this question were fully answered in open session.
Minutes:
Full Council noted the responses provided to questions received by the Leader, Lead Members, Chairs of Committee and reports from the Chairs of Committees.
In response to a Supplementary Question from Councillor Ciaran Reed, Councillor Sarah Nelmes, confirmed that it was standard Council practice for any press releases to be fronted by the appropriate Lead Member. Notwithstanding this, the contribution made by Councillor Reed towards securing Community Infrastructure Levy funding to improve the King George V Playground in Sarratt was acknowledged.
In response to a Supplementary Question from Councillor Reena Ranger, Councillor Sarah Nelmes clarified that the decision to install static cameras in the Council Chamber rather than tracking cameras had been primarily influenced by cost.
In response to a Supplementary Question from Councillor Narinder Sian, Councillor Paul Rainbow, confirmed that it was expected that the final report on the outcomes of the consultation in respect of the 2020 changes to parking in Croxley Green would be shared with ward councillors imminently. The delays I completing this work were attributed to a combination of resource constraints and a need to comply with Pre-Election Period constraints.
In response to a Supplementary Question from Councillor Chris Mitchell, Councillor Paul Rainbow, confirmed that the imposition of the advertised changes to the short term parking provision in the vicinity of Frankland Road and Watford Road were expected imminently.
In response to a Supplementary Question from Councillor Chris Mitchell, Councillor Paul Rainbow confirmed that the installation of additional electric vehicle charging points across the district would be dependent on the infrastructure provision required.
In response to a Supplementary Question from Councillor Narinder Sian, Councillor Paul Rainbow confirmed that there was evidence to support the demand for the Beryl Bike scheme in the District and Beryl Bikes were looking to expand their Watford Scheme into Three rivers.
In response to a Supplementary Question from Councillor Philip Hearn, Councillor Paul Rainbow confirmed that responsibility for writing to those residents impacted by Highways Order changes lay with Hertfordshire County Council in their capacity as the Highways Authority.
In response to a Supplementary Question from Councillor Philip Hearn, Councillor Paul Rainbow clarified that work on the development of the Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan was being led by Hertfordshire County Council in their capacity as the Highways Authority.
In response to a Supplementary Question from Councillor Reena Ranger, Councillor Paul Rainbow stressed that educating drivers about the impacts of idling car engines was a more effective long term solution than fines. The use of Civic Enforcement Officers to fine drivers would have resource implications.
In response to a Supplementary Question from Councillor Debbie Morris, Councillor Paul Rainbow clarified that any highways safety works were the responsibility of Hertfordshire County Council in their capacity as the Highways Authority.
In response to a Supplementary Question from Councillor Andrea Fraser, Councillor Paul Rainbow acknowledged the popularity of the Aquadrome and the difficulties of parking following periods of heavy rain. It was currently free to park at the Aquadrome and the only way to prioritise local residents would be to introduce parking charges.
In response to a Supplementary Question from Councillor Joan King, Councillor Paul rainbow confirmed that officers would be asked to notify residents when enforcement of the recently installed double yellow lines in the vicinity of Oxhey Drive would begin.
In response to a Supplementary Question from Councillor Stephen Cox, Councillor Paul rainbow agreed to visit the Erskine House, Filton House, Forfar House to view the problems being experienced by residents with the refuse stores.
In response to a Supplementary Question from Councillor Chris Lloyd, Councillor Stephen Giles-Medhurst informed Full Council that the County Council had, that morning, agreed a motion to lobby the Mayor of London for all stations in the Three Rivers area to be incorporated into Zone 6. A presentation on inital plans for the Watford Croxley link would be given to Councillors however it was stressed that for the plans to secure funding from Three Rivers District Council then links must come into Croxley and Three Rivers.
In response to a Supplementary Question from Councillor Keith Martin, Councillor Stephen Giles-Medhurst confirmed that there had been a significant increase in the number of potholes reported to the County Council compared to the same period in the previous year and agreed that more funding needed to be allocated to restoring roads to a suitable condition however resources were limited.
In response to a Supplementary Question from Councillor Keith martin, Councillor Stephen Giles-Medhurst noted that the expansion of the Warner Bros Studios at Leavesdon, was not only good news for residents of Three Rivers District it was also good news for the wider area.
In response to a question from Councillor Philip Heran, Councillor Stephen Giles-Medhurst confirmed that Hertfordshire County Council had not expressed any safety concerns relating to proposals to build 190 homes on Chorleywood Station Car park, as part of the Local Plan Preferred Options. It was noted that sites were not required to provide a parking ratio of one to one if they were in close proximity to good public transport links. Concerns about access routes through protected common land were noted and it was stressed that if a site was found to be unviable following the Regulation 18 Issues and Options Consultation then it would be removed from the Local Plan.
In response to a Supplementary Question from Councillor Andrea Fraser, Councillor Stephen Giles-Medhurst clarified that Rickmansworth High Street was Highways land and as such the District Council was limited in what it could do. Notwithstanding this, funding to support the High Street had been provide to Batchworth Community Council. At a meeting of the High Street Board, on 16th October 2023, it had been agreed that the road would be closed to vehicular traffic between 10am on Saturday and 6am on Monday and the order had been submitted to the County Council for approval.
In response to a Supplementary Question from Councillor Andrea Fraser it was confirmed that all suggestions for the use of Community Infrastructure Levy funding were welcomed.
In response to a Supplementary Question from Councillor Oliver Cooper, Councillor Stephen Giles-Medhurst stated that it would be inappropriate for Members of the Council to directly approach the Defence Infrastructure Organisation over any concerns that they might have over the security implications arising from proposed housing developments in close proximity to the Northwood Headquarters.
In response to a Supplementary Question from Councillor Stephen Cox, Councillors Stephen Giles-Medhurst stated that the photograph recently used in a press release about the Green Belt had been required at short notice and consequently one had been taken by a member of the Liberal Democrats on their personal phone.
In response to a Supplementary Question from Councillor Chris Mitchell it was confirmed that the proposed housing development at Jacketts Field would not be progressed at this time.
In response to a question from Councillor Reena Ranger, Councillor Andrew Scarth confirmed that the Hospital was outside the boundary of London’s recently expanded Ultra Low Emission Zone. A letter had been sent to the Mayor of London expressing concern that the zone’s expansion could impact on local residents ability to access healthcare facilities.
In response to a Supplementary Question from Councillor Joan King, Councillor Andrew Scarth undertook to provide a written response in respect of the actions taken to rehome residents and improve residential properties where damp and mould had been reported to the Council’s Environmental Health Function.
Meeting Concluded
Note: In accordance with Part 4, Rule 1, Paragraph 7 of the Council’s Constitution, the meeting concluded at 10pm. In accordance with Part 4, Rule 6, Paragraph 3 of the Council’s Constitution all remaining items on the agenda fell and were not considered.