From

To

Question

Overview

Cllr Anderson

Leader

Does the Leader of the Council think that the all-out local elections scheduled for May in Thurrock ought to go ahead? 

Remain ambitious for residents of Thurrock who deserved this following the failures of the past. An opportunity of going on to the government priority program, and although this was not a given, it would be a real once in a lifetime opportunity for Thurrock to become part of something that was stronger, more resilient, more ambitious, more impactful for the people that lived here. It was getting ahead of the game, driving that forward, if we have to postpone elections, then I believe it is a price worth paying.

Cllr G Byrne

Leader

The leaders Christmas message was very uplifting if you live in the West of the Borough, can I ask if East Thurrock is on the Cabinet and Directors radar. 

Reflected on the achievements delivered not just by the council, but with partners across the borough, working together to improve the lives for all our residents. Every part of the borough was touched by those achievements and as Leader was quite clear that he represented all residents and was proud to do so.  

Cllr Coxshall

Leader

To ask the Leader of the Council to outline his proposal for Local Government Reform following the expression of interest to join the Government's Priority Programme for Devolution. 

Accept that ambition for devolution was something that had been about for at least 20 years. The previous Conservative government came close to agreeing a devolution deal for greater Essex some years ago. There was merit in applying to be part of that first wave where we can shape our future from the start rather than having an approach that we did not want imposed on us at a later date. Proposal would be to engage closely with partners across the county of Essex, be ambitious at the same time for the people of Thurrock. Not yet accepted onto the priority program, so not seen detail from government. Will be guided by evidence and be committed to finding a solution that balances geographies, that made sense for long-term sustainability, that championed our distinctive communities here in Thurrock and delivered excellent local services for years to come for everyone, but particularly for our most vulnerable friends and neighbours.

Cllr Jefferies

Leader

Does Cllr Kent agree with the statement made by the leader of Basildon District Council, that under plans to reorganise local government in Essex, Basildon and Thurrock should be joined as a single unitary authority? 

Devolution coupled with local government reorganisation could achieve benefits for residents. Ahead of being accepted onto the priority program, there were lots of unknowns and questions to be answered. Will engage in discussions based on robust evidence and with clear principles. Continue to have conversations with neighbouring councils and district councils. Continue to work on developing plans that worked for Thurrock and delivered councils that were capable of being sustainable.

Cllr J Maney

Leader

The leader stated recently that Essex devolution and local government reorganisation would be "the most significant change for local government in more than a generation". In light of this, how will his administration ensure that residents in Thurrock are informed and engaged from this point forward? 

Most significant piece of work the council will be involved in. Ensure that energy and resources are put into keeping residents informed and engaged in changes. Promote information through local community groups and forums so that local people can be informed and have their say. More information on plans will be shared once known. Discussions will take place with residents at the planning public question time events. Keep members updated and informed through the process. Reconfirm that commitment made at Cabinet that people will have a say in the changes that affect them.

Cllr Jones

Cllr L Watson

What message does it send to developers when this Labour Government continually announces that it is going to force local councils to build more houses in their area.

Thurrock is significantly under the supply of homes when set against the housing need. The need to address significant increase in homelessness in Thurrock and further compounded by housing affordability. As well as boosting supply of homes there was the opportunity to create community benefits such as securing monies for school provision and highway improvements, as developments are permitted through the use of planning obligations. Of critical importance was the delivery of affordable homes that was captured as part of new developments that assist with the council’s social housing needs. Applicants were required to go through the planning system.

Cllr B Maney

Cllr Worrall

The general consensus appears to be that the new Overview and Scrutiny arrangements at the council have improved the democratic process. What if any measures are being considered for further strengthening the democratic structure of the council in the new municipal year? 

The new scrutiny framework had strengthened governance to enable scrutiny committees to play a more active role in shaping decisions and policy review. Cabinet valued feedback and encouraged committee chairs to present their views to cabinet. A full review will be undertaken following the end of the pilot year for all 49 members to contribute to. Outcomes will be presented to General Services Committee with final proposals being presented to council.

Cllr G Byrne

Cllr Hooper

Can I ask why the place committee were told the Phi deal had to go through procurement process with tenders, when clearly other purchases have not?been. 

As discussed at Place O&S, due to time constraints as it would take up to 8 to 12 months to go through the proper full tender process. The Phi procurement went through the housing framework process.

Cllr Rigby

Cllr L Watson

Further to the previous updates on this matter, would the portfolio holder advise when we will know how s106 monies held by the council will be allocated? 

All monies must be spent in line with the Section 106 agreement. Progress made on unblocking a number of existing obligations the Council currently held. Where the Council were in receipt of monies, and the element of agreed spend within the agreement requires review we were seeking legal advice on how these can be unblocked. Due to the nuanced nature of Section 106 agreements, it was not possible to provide a specific date for completion, the outcome was being expedited. 

Cllr Johnson

Cllr Worrall

How will the council ensure that, via the internal democratic process, there is proper member engagement, oversight and scrutiny of the devolution process including all negotiations with other local authorities / third parties? 

Agreed that ensuring proper member engagement, oversight and scrutiny of the devolution process was vital to its success. Administration totally committed to ensure all members can contribute and represent their views of their residents. A cross-party working group would be established, an excellent forum to discuss devolution. Expand discussions with residents and stake holders, collaboration was essential to achieve best outcomes. Appreciate early days but once more information was available this would be shared with members.