Issue - meetings

Briefing and answers to questions – Councillor Toni Mallett, Cabinet Member for Planning and Regeneration.

The Committee received the portfolio briefing from the Cabinet Member for Planning and Regeneration, Cllr Mallett, and the advance questions submitted and the written responses supplied. Cllr Mallett reminded the Committee that regeneration extended across the whole Council. The importance of business in the borough was emphasised; Cllr Mallett welcomed the resilience of small local businesses and reported that the Council was involved in directing local businesses to sources of help and advice, although the reduction in area-based grant limited the level of help that could be offered. The Committee heard that the Spurs development would increase jobs, spending power and footfall in the area and would have a beneficial regenerative impact. The Council’s work with Job Centre Plus to engage those with particular difficulties in entering employment had been successful. Despite concerns regarding the impact of cuts, Cllr Mallett reminded that everyone could help the borough by supporting local businesses.

The following was noted, further to supplementary questions:

Re Q1 Marc Dorfman confirmed that the correct unit cost for a sustained employment outcome is £5,000. Cllr Ejiofor would contact Mr Dorfman outside the meeting for clarification on the calculation of the figures.

Re Q2 It was clarified that the North London Pledge was a cross-borough programme, benefiting residents across the Upper Lee Valley area, and not just Haringey. The Committee asked for details on the number of people who had secured jobs as a result of the programme, and it was agreed that this figure would be provided outside of the meeting.

Re Q3 It was clarified that cases of unauthorised conversions were immune from prosecution when an Enforcement Notice had not been served within 4 years of the work being carried out. In response to concerns from the Committee regarding the percentage of cases immune from prosecution, it was agreed that Mr Dorfman would supply comparative information on this.

Re Q4 The Committee emphasised the importance of having accurate figures on the cost of worklessness, and it was requested that this be further looked at, to take into account issues such as benefits, impact on NHS services, retraining costs and reduced spending. Cllr Mallett advised that several of these issues might be picked up as part of the current economic survey of the borough and that this could be looked at further.

Re Q7 It was suggested that Conservation Area appraisals be considered for inclusion as a part of the Build Up scheme.

Re Q8 The Committee requested further information on the neighbourhood health centre aspect of the THFC development. It was reported that in negotiations with THFC and the PCT, there had been a commitment from THFC to offer space for use by the PCT and that the PCT had been asked to come forward with proposals for the use of such space, but that this had not yet happened. Work was ongoing to ensure that a health centre did form part of the scheme, and the Committee suggested that a meeting be requested with the  ...  view the full minutes text for item 75