Agenda, decisions and minutes

Apologies for absence were received from Councillors Shabir Pandor and Tim Swift.

There were no pecuniary interests declared by members at the meeting.

1.         To highlight Appendix 3 to Agenda Item 6 and Appendix 1 to Agenda Item 14 which officers have identified as containing exempt information within the meaning of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972, and where officers consider that the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information, for the reasons outlined in the report.

2.         To consider whether or not to accept the officers’ recommendation in respect of the above information as set out in paragraph 5.2 of Agenda Item 6 and paragraph 5.1 of Agenda Item 14.

3.         If the recommendation is accepted, to formally pass the following resolution:-

RESOLVED – That in accordance with paragraph 3 of Part 1 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972, the public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of Appendix 3 to Agenda Item 6 and Appendix 1 to Agenda Item 14 on the grounds that it is likely, in view of the nature of the business to be transacted or the nature of the proceedings, that if members of the press and public were present there would be disclosure to them of exempt information and for the reasons set out in the report that in all the circumstances of the case, the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information.

Resolved:  That in accordance with paragraph 3 of Part 1 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972, the public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of Appendix 3 to Agenda Item 6 and Appendix 1 to Agenda Item 14 on the grounds that it is likely, in view of the nature of the business to be transacted or the nature of the proceedings, that if members of the press and public were present there would be disclosure to them of exempt information and for the reasons set out in the report that in all the circumstances of the case, the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information.

The Chair advised that Councillor Tim Swift had sent his apologies as he was receiving his MBE and Members offered their congratulations on his award.

Further to minute 50, Rail Performance and Governance Update, Councillor Blake advised that she had raised the Combined Authority’s concerns in respect of rail performance at the Transport for the North Rail North Committee.  She also reported that Jo Johnson had resigned and been replaced by Andrew Jones, MP for Harrogate as the new Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Transport.  He would now be working with Councillor Blake on the Rail North Review and an update would be brought to the next meeting.

Resolved:  That the minutes of the meeting of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority held on 11 October 2018 be approved and signed by the Chair.

(Member lead: Cllr S Hinchcliffe, Director: Alan Reiss)

The Combined Authority considered a report of the Director of Policy, Strategy and Communications which:

·         Provided an update on continuing organisational work to support preparations for the UK’s exit from the European Union.

·         Provided an update on the latest intelligence relating to the Government’s proposed transition deal.

It was noted that although the Autumn Budget had not provided any clarity on key funding and policy going forward, the Government had announced that the competitive element of the Transforming Cities Fund will be increased by £440 million. 

The key messages that have been communicated to Government seeking potential flexibilities to support future delivery and additional capacity development in forward planning was outlined in the report.  Members also noted the summary of detailed impact assessment work which had been undertaken by the Bank of England and HM Treasury.

Members discussed the importance of continuing to support businesses, people and communities and to ensure that they are aware of the Combined Authority and LEP’s activities to support business in developing products and providing services. It was reported that Councillors Judith Blake and Peter Box were members of the Government's Brexit Delivery Board which was looking at the possible implications and significant impacts on future decisions and the important role local government and the Combined Authority will have.  Further information will be brought to the next meeting.

In responding to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) on local preparations for Brexit, the Combined Authority had emphasised that more flexibility on Growth Deal funding will be sought in order to deploy it at short notice. A copy of the letter sent to MHCLG was attached at Appendix 1. 

The impact of Brexit on the City Region economy and businesses will continue to be monitored.

Resolved:

(a)       That the report be noted.

(b)       That the funding update and announcement relating to the allocation

of the Transforming Cities Fund be noted.

(c)        That the key messages from the latest Brexit economic impact work

undertaken by HM Treasury and the Bank of England be noted.

(Member lead: Cllr P Box, Director: Melanie Corcoran)

Resolved:

(a)       In respect of Project Lapwing –

That following a recommendation from the Investment Committee, the Combined Authority approves:

(i)         That the Lapwing project proceeds through decision point 2 and

work commences on activity 5 (full business case with finalised costs).

(ii)        That an indicative approval to the Combined Authority’s contribution of £1million (which will be funded through the Local Growth Fund’s Strategic Inward Investment Fund) is given with full approval to spend being granted, once the scheme has progressed through the Assurance Process to decision point 5 (full business case with finalised costs).

(iii)       That future approvals are made in accordance with the assurance pathway and approval route outlined in the submitted report including at decision point 5 through a delegation to the Combined Authority’s Managing Director following a recommendation by the Combined Authority’s Programme Appraisal Team. This will be subject to the scheme remaining within the tolerances outlined in the report.

(b)       In respect of A61S Bus Priority Corridor , Leeds –

That following a recommendation from the Investment Committee, the Combined Authority approves:

(i)         That the A61 South project proceeds through decision point 3 and work commences on activity 5 (full business case with finalised costs).

(ii)        That an indicative approval to the total project value of £14.15 million is given from the Leeds Public Transport Investment Fund with full approval to spend being granted once the scheme has progressed through the assurance process to decision point 5 (full business case with finalised costs).

(iii)       That future approvals are made in accordance with the assurance pathway and approval route outlined in the submitted report including at decision point 5 through a delegation to the Combined Authority’s Managing Director following a recommendation by the Combined Authority’s Programme Appraisal Team. This will be subject to the scheme remaining within the tolerances outlined in the report.

(c)        In respect of Stourton Park and Ride –

That following a recommendation from the Investment Committee, the  Combined Authority approves:

(i)            That the Stourton Park and Ride project proceeds through decision point 3 and work commences on activity 5 (full business case with finalised costs).

(ii)           That an indicative approval is given to the total project value of £30.1 million, of which £27.3 million will be funded by the Combined Authority from the Leeds Public Transport Investment Fund, with full approval to spend being granted once the scheme has progressed through the Assurance Process to decision point 5 (full business case with finalised costs). This indicative approval is subject the scheme being successful in gaining ERDF funding for the scheme. In the event that the ERDF bid is not successful an indicative approval of £25.4 million from the Leeds Public Transport Investment Fund will be applied.

(iii)         That further development costs of £635,000 are approved in order to progress the scheme to decision point 5 (full business case with finalised costs).

(iv)         That the Combined Authority enters into an addendum to the existing funding agreement with  ...  view the full decision text for item 62.

The Combined Authority considered a report of the Director of Delivery on the progression and funding for the following schemes through the Combined Authority’s assurance process:

·         Project Lapwing

·         A61S Bus Priority Corridor

·         Stourton Park and Ride

·         Elland Road Park and Ride

·         Leeds Enterprise Zone Power Solution

·         A650 Bradford to Keighley Corridor (Hard Ings)

·         York Outer Ring Road Phase 2 (Monks Cross)

Members also considered the following schemes which have had change request reports assessed in line with the Combined Authority’s assurance process and also been considered and recommended by the Investment Committee for approval:

·         Rail Park and Ride Programme Phase 1

·         Outwood Station Park and Ride

Details of all the schemes were provided in the submitted report and it was noted that these had been considered and recommended for approval by the Investment Committee at their meeting held on 7 November 2018.

Resolved:

(a)       In respect of Project Lapwing –

That following a recommendation from the Investment Committee, the Combined Authority approves:

(i)         That the Lapwing project proceeds through decision point 2

and work commences on activity 5 (full business case with finalised costs).

(ii)        That an indicative approval to the Combined Authority’s contribution of £1million (which will be funded through the Local Growth Fund’s Strategic Inward Investment Fund) is given with full approval to spend being granted, once the scheme has progressed through the Assurance Process to decision point 5 (full business case with finalised costs).

(iii)       That future approvals are made in accordance with the assurance pathway and approval route outlined in the submitted report including at decision point 5 through a delegation to the Combined Authority’s Managing Director following a recommendation by the Combined Authority’s Programme Appraisal Team. This will be subject to the scheme remaining within the tolerances outlined in the report.

(b)       In respect of A61S Bus Priority Corridor , Leeds –

That following a recommendation from the Investment Committee, the Combined Authority approves:

(i)         That the A61 South project proceeds through decision point 3 and work commences on activity 5 (full business case with finalised costs).

(ii)        That an indicative approval to the total project value of £14.15 million is given from the Leeds Public Transport Investment Fund with full approval to spend being granted once the scheme has progressed through the assurance process to decision point 5 (full business case with finalised costs).

(iii)       That future approvals are made in accordance with the assurance pathway and approval route outlined in the submitted report including at decision point 5 through a delegation to the Combined Authority’s Managing Director following a recommendation by the Combined Authority’s Programme Appraisal Team. This will be subject to the scheme remaining within the tolerances outlined in the report.

(c)        In respect of Stourton Park and Ride –

That following a recommendation from the Investment Committee, the  Combined Authority approves:

(i)            That the Stourton Park and Ride project proceeds through decision point 3 and work commences on activity 5 (full business case with  ...  view the full minutes text for item 62.

Resolved:

In respect of A61S Bus Priority Corridor , Leeds –

That following a recommendation from the Investment Committee, the Combined Authority approves:

(i)         That the A61 South project proceeds through decision point 3 and work commences on activity 5 (full business case with finalised costs).

(ii)        That an indicative approval to the total project value of £14.15 million is given from the Leeds Public Transport Investment Fund with full approval to spend being granted once the scheme has progressed through the assurance process to decision point 5 (full business case with finalised costs).

(iii)       That future approvals are made in accordance with the assurance pathway and approval route outlined in the submitted report including at decision point 5 through a delegation to the Combined Authority’s Managing Director following a recommendation by the Combined Authority’s Programme Appraisal Team. This will be subject to the scheme remaining within the tolerances outlined in the report.

Resolved:

In respect of Stourton Park and Ride –

That following a recommendation from the Investment Committee, the Combined Authority approves:

(i)            That the Stourton Park and Ride project proceeds through decision point 3 and work commences on activity 5 (full business case with finalised costs).

(ii)          That an indicative approval is given to the total project value of £30.1 million, of which £27.3 million will be funded by the Combined Authority from the Leeds Public Transport Investment Fund, with full approval to spend being granted once the scheme has progressed through the Assurance Process to decision point 5 (full business case with finalised costs). This indicative approval is subject the scheme being successful in gaining ERDF funding for the scheme. In the event that the ERDF bid is not successful an indicative approval of £25.4 million from the Leeds Public Transport Investment Fund will be applied.

(iii)         That further development costs of £635,000 are approved in order to progress the scheme to decision point 5 (full business case with finalised costs).

(iv)         That the Combined Authority enters into an addendum to the existing funding agreement with Leeds City Council to increase by £635,000 from the Leeds Public Transport Investment Fund.

(v)          That future approvals are made in accordance with the assurance pathway and approval route outlined in the submitted report including at decision point 5 through a delegation to the Combined Authority’s Managing Director following a recommendation by the Combined Authority’s Programme Appraisal Team. This will be subject to the scheme remaining within the tolerances outlined in the report.

Resolved:

In respect of Elland Road Park and Ride Phase 3 –

That following a recommendation from the Investment Committee, the Combined Authority approves:

(i)         That the Elland Road Park and Ride Phase 3 project proceeds through decision point 3 and work commences on activity 5 (full business case with finalised costs).

(ii)        That an indicative approval to the total project value of £5.75 million is given to be funded from the Combined Authority from the Leeds Public Transport Investment Fund with full approval to spend being granted once the scheme has progressed through the assurance process to decision point 5 (full business case with finalised costs).

(iii)       That further development costs of £165,000 are approved in order to progress the scheme to decision point 5 (full business case with finalised costs) taking the total development cost expenditure approval to £410,000.

(iv)       That the Combined Authority enters into an addendum to the existing Funding Agreement with Leeds City Council to increase by £165,000 from the Leeds Public Transport Investment Fund for expenditure of up to £410,000.

(v)        That future approvals are made in accordance with the assurance pathway and approval route outlined in the submitted report including at decision point 5 through a delegation to the Combined Authority’s Managing Director following a recommendation by the Combined Authority’s Programme Appraisal Team. This will be subject to the scheme remaining within the tolerances outlined in the report.

Resolved:

In respect of Leeds Enterprise Zone Power Solution –

That  following a recommendation from the Investment Committee, the Combined Authority approves:

(i)         That the project proceeds through decision point 4 (full business case) and work commences on activity 5 (full business case with finalised costs).

(ii)        That an indicative approval to the total project value of £5 million is given which will be funded by the Combined Authority from the Local Growth fund with full approval to spend being granted once the scheme has progressed through the assurance process to decision point 5 (full business case with finalised costs).

(iii)       That future approvals are made in accordance with the assurance pathway and approval route outlined in the submitted report including at decision point 5 through a delegation to the Combined Authority’s Managing Director following a recommendation by the Combined Authority’s Programme Appraisal Team. This will be subject to the scheme remaining within the tolerances outlined in the report.

Resolved:

In respect of A650 Bradford to Keighley Corridor (Hard Ings) –

That following a recommendation from the Investment Committee, the Combined Authority approves:

(i)         That the Hard Ings Road Improvements, Keighley project proceeds through decision point 4 and work commences on activity 5 (full business case with finalised costs)

(ii)        That an indicative approval to the total project value of £10.3 million is given from the West Yorkshire plus Transport Fund with full approval to spend being granted once the scheme has progressed through the assurance process to decision point 5 (full business case with finalised costs)

(iii)       That further development costs of £2.718 million are approved in order to progress the scheme to decision point 5 (full business case with finalised costs) to be funded from the West Yorkshire plus Transport Fund, taking the total project approval to £3.86 million.

(iv)       That the Combined Authority enters into an addendum to the existing funding agreement with Bradford City Council for expenditure of up to £3.86 million from the West Yorkshire plus Transport Fund

(v)        That future approvals are made in accordance with the assurance pathway and approval route outlined in the submitted report including at decision point 5 through a delegation to the Combined Authority’s Managing Director following a recommendation by the Combined Authority’s Programme Appraisal Team. This will be subject to the scheme remaining within the tolerances outlined in the report.

Resolved:

In respect of York Outer Ring Road Phase 2 (Monks Cross) –

That following a recommendation from the Investment Committee, the Combined Authority approves:

(i)         That the York Outer Ring Road Phase 2 project proceeds through decision point 4 and work commences on activity 5 (full business case with finalised costs)

(ii)        That an indicative approval to Phase 2 to the value of £3.585 million is given from the West Yorkshire plus Transport Fund with full approval to spend being granted once the scheme has progressed through the assurance process to decision point 5 (full business case with finalised costs).

(iii)       That future approvals are made in accordance with the assurance pathway and approval route outlined in the submitted  report including at decision point 5 through a delegation to the Combined Authority’s Managing Director following a recommendation by the Combined Authority’s Programme Appraisal Team. This will be subject to the scheme remaining within the tolerances outlined in the report.

(Member lead: Cllr P Box, Director: Melanie Corcoran)

Resolved:

(a)       In respect of the Investment Readiness Project –

That following a recommendation from the Investment Committee, the Combined Authority approves:

(i)         That the Investment Readiness project proceeds through decision point 2 and work commences on activity 5 (full business case with finalised costs).

(ii)        That an indicative approval to the Combined Authority’s contribution of £1.429 million is given (which will be funded from £714,500 from the Leeds City Region Business Rates Pool and £714,500 from ESIF), with Full Approval to spend being granted once the scheme has progressed through the Assurance Process to Decision Point 5. The total project value is £1.429 million with funding already secured.

(iii)       That future approvals are made in accordance with the assurance pathway and approval route outlined in the submitted report including at decision point 5 through a delegation to the Combined Authority’s Managing Director following a recommendation by the Combined Authority’s Programme Appraisal Team subject to the scheme remaining within the assurance tolerances outlined within the report.

(b)       In respect of the Transformational – A6120 Leeds Northern Outer Ring Road Improvements, Leeds –

That following a recommendation from the Investment Committee, the Combined Authority approves:

(i)         That the A6120 Leeds Northern Outer Ring Road Improvements (A647 to A65) proceeds through decision point 2 and work commences on the feasibility study.

(ii)        That an expenditure approval is given to the total value of £392,500 to Leeds City Council to fund a feasibility study.

(iii)       That the Combined Authority enter into a funding agreement with Leeds City Council for expenditure of up to £392,500 to be funded from the West Yorkshire plus Transport Fund.

(iv)       That future approvals are made in accordance with the assurance pathway and approval route outlined in the submitted report through a delegation to the Combined Authority’s Managing Director following a recommendation by the Combined Authority’s Programme Appraisal Team. This will be subject to the scheme remaining within the tolerances outlined in the report.

(c)       In respect of Corridor Improvement Programme Phase 1 – A647 Dawsons Corner –

That following a recommendation from the Investment Committee, the Combined Authority approves:

(i)         That the Dawson’s Corner project proceeds through decision point 3 and work commences on activity 4 (full business case).

(ii)        That an indicative approval is given to the total project value of £20.159 million, with the Combined Authority’s contribution of £19 million (which will be funded through £15 million from the CIP Phase 1 fund and £4 million from the LPTIP fund) is given with full approval to spend being granted once the scheme has progressed through the assurance process to decision point 5 (full business case with finalised costs). The total project value is £20.159 million.

(iii)       That  development costs of £1.599 million, (including £499,000 additional development costs and £1.1 million land assembly costs) are approved in order to progress the scheme to decision point 5 (full business case with finalised costs), taking the approval to £2.607 million

(iv)       That the Combined Authority issue an addendum to  ...  view the full decision text for item 63.

The Combined Authority considered a report of the Director of Delivery on the progression and funding for the following schemes through the Combined Authority’s assurance process:

·         Investor Readiness Support Programme

·         Transformational – A1620 Leeds Northern Outer Ring Road Improvements

·         Corridor Improvement Programme Phase 1 – A647 Dawsons Corner

·         Corridor Improvement Programme Phase 1 – Dyneley Arms

·         Corridor Improvement Programme Phase 1 – Fink Hill scheme

·         Corridor Improvement Programme Phase 1 – A650 Newton Bar

·         Institute of High Speed Railways and System Integration – Phase 1

Councillor Box provided an update on the schemes as they had been considered by the Investment Committee on the same day as the Combined Authority agenda was published.  He advised that all the schemes presented were recommended by the Investment Committee to the Combined Authority for approval. 

In discussing the High Speed Railways and System Integration scheme, it was reported that the Investment Committee had deferred consideration of the item from their November meeting pending further information being provided.    A presentation had been given at the December meeting and, in recommending the scheme to the Combined Authority for approval, the Investment Committee had asked that it be noted that the Combined Authority’s contribution to the scheme will be capped at £13.047 million regardless of any future increases to the total scheme costs.

Members also considered the Business Growth Programme which has had a change request report assessed in line with the Combined Authority’s assurance process.  This had also been considered and recommended by the Investment Committee for approval.

Resolved:

(a)       In respect of the Investment Readiness Project –

That following a recommendation from the Investment Committee, the Combined Authority approves:

(i)         That the Investment Readiness project proceeds through decision point 2 and work commences on activity 5 (full business case with finalised costs).

(ii)        That an indicative approval to the Combined Authority’s contribution of £1.429 million is given (which will be funded from £714,500 from the Leeds City Region Business Rates Pool and £714,500 from ESIF), with Full Approval to spend being granted once the scheme has progressed through the Assurance Process to Decision Point 5. The total project value is £1.429 million with funding already secured.

(iii)       That future approvals are made in accordance with the assurance pathway and approval route outlined in the submitted report including at decision point 5 through a delegation to the Combined Authority’s Managing Director following a recommendation by the Combined Authority’s Programme Appraisal Team subject to the scheme remaining within the assurance tolerances outlined within the report.

(b)       In respect of the Transformational – A6120 Leeds Northern Outer Ring Road Improvements, Leeds –

That following a recommendation from the Investment Committee, the Combined Authority approves:

(i)         That the A6120 Leeds Northern Outer Ring Road Improvements (A647 to A65) proceeds through decision point 2 and work commences on the feasibility study.

(ii)        That an expenditure approval is given to the total value of £392,500 to Leeds City Council to fund a feasibility study.

(iii)       That the Combined Authority enter  ...  view the full minutes text for item 63.

Resolved:

(a)       In respect of Corridor Improvement Programme Phase 1 – A647 Dawsons Corner –

That following a recommendation from the Investment Committee, the Combined Authority approves:

(i)         That the Dawson’s Corner project proceeds through decision point 3 and work commences on activity 4 (full business case).

(ii)        That an indicative approval is given to the total project value of £20.159 million, with the Combined Authority’s contribution of £19 million (which will be funded through £15 million from the CIP Phase 1 fund and £4 million from the LPTIP fund) is given with full approval to spend being granted once the scheme has progressed through the assurance process to decision point 5 (full business case with finalised costs). The total project value is £20.159 million.

(iii)       That  development costs of £1.599 million, (including £499,000 additional development costs and £1.1 million land assembly costs) are approved in order to progress the scheme to decision point 5 (full business case with finalised costs), taking the approval to £2.607 million

(iv)       That the Combined Authority issue an addendum to the existing funding agreement with Leeds Council for additional expenditure of up to £1.599 million from the West Yorkshire plus Transport Fund taking the total value to £2.607 million.

(v)        That future approvals are made in accordance with the assurance pathway and approval route outlined in the submitted report through a delegation to the Combined Authority’s Managing Director following a recommendation by the Combined Authority’s Programme Appraisal Team. This will be subject to the scheme remaining within the tolerances outlined in the report.

(b)       In respect of Corridor Improvement Programme Phase 1 – Dyneley Arms –

That following a recommendation from the Investment Committee, the Combined Authority approves:

(i)         That the Dyneley Arms junction project proceeds through decision point 3 and work commences on activity 4 (full business case) and 5.

(ii)        That an indicative approval to the total project value of £2.747 million is given from the West Yorkshire plus Transport Fund with full approval to spend being granted once the scheme has progressed through the assurance process to decision point 5 (full business case with finalised costs)

(iii)       That additional development costs of £373,000 (which include £250,000 for land assembly) are approved in order to progress the scheme to decision point 5 (full business case with finalised costs) taking the total approval to £775,000.

(iv)       That the Combined Authority issues an addendum to the existing funding agreement with Leeds Council for additional expenditure of up to £373,000 from the West Yorkshire plus Transport Fund (giving a total funding agreement value of £775,000).

(v)        That future approvals are made in accordance with the assurance pathway and approval route outlined in the submitted report through a delegation to the Combined Authority’s Managing Director following a recommendation by the Combined Authority’s Programme Appraisal Team. This will be subject to the scheme remaining within the tolerances outlined in the report.

(c)        In respect of Corridor Improvement Programme Phase 1 – Fink Hill  ...  view the full decision text for item 63a

Resolved:

In respect of the Business Growth Programme –

That following a recommendation from the Investment Committee, the Combined Authority approves:

(i)         That the change request to the Business Growth Programme is approved to provide additional £7 million of funding to the Business Growth Programme. This will be funded from over programming against the Local Growth Fund.  This would take the expenditure approval for the total programme to £34 million.

(ii)        That future approvals are made in accordance with the assurance pathway and approval route outlined in the submitted report.  This will be subject to the scheme remaining within the tolerances outlined within the report.

(Member lead: Cllr K Groves, Director: Alan Reiss)

Resolved:

(a)       That the ongoing development of the Inclusive Growth Corridor Programme which will help to shape the future connectivity pipeline across all modes of transport serving the Leeds City Region as set out in Appendix 1 to the submitted report be noted.

(b)       That the commencement of a conversation with the public and stakeholders around the new 21^st century connectivity and services technologies required to address the economic and transport challenges facing West Yorkshire, to complement future strategic infrastructure including HS2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR) be endorsed.

(c)        That the establishment of a member working group to oversee the development of Connectivity Strategy and Mass Transit be endorsed.

(d)       That the Transport Committee continue to oversee the Connectivity Strategy, including the role of Mass Transit, with further updates brought to the Combined Authority throughout 2019.

The Combined Authority considered a report of the Director of Policy, Strategy and Communications on Planning for Growth: The Leeds City Region Connectivity Strategy which:

·         Provided an update on the ongoing development of the Inclusive Growth Corridor Programme which will help shape the future connectivity pipeline across all modes of transport serving the Leeds City Region.

·         Sought endorsement for the commencement of a conversation with the public and stakeholders around the new 21^st century connectivity and services technologies required to address the economic and transport challenges facing West Yorkshire, to complement future strategic infrastructure including HS2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR).

·         Sought endorsement for establishing a member working group to oversee the development of the emerging City Region Transit Network.

·         Sought the Combined Authority’s continued endorsement for the oversight of the Connectivity Strategy, including role of Mass Transit, to be delegated to the Transport Committee.

The report provided an update on the development of the Leeds City Region Connectivity Strategy.  A copy of a report, which had been considered by the Transport Committee at its meeting held on 9 November 2018, was attached at Appendix 1.

It was noted that no commitment was being made at this stage to develop a mass transit system, and more work would need to be undertaken around demand and a business case analysis.  It was proposed to open a conversation with the public and stakeholders on solutions to future capacity requirements and delivering inclusive growth.  The proposals were welcomed but discussion highlighted that there was no reference to Calderdale and parts of Kirklees in the maps provided and it was noted that work was underway to address this.  It was stressed that the new transport routes must be evidence based and provide benefits to the whole region and also that current connectivity should be taken into account. 

It was reported that the HS2 Environmental Impact Report had been published and a copy of the Combined Authority’s response to the consultation would be circulated to Members prior to its submission.  A report would be brought to the next meeting.

It was agreed that the Transport Committee continue to oversee the development of the Connectivity Strategy and that a member working group be established.  Progress reports would be brought to future meetings.

Resolved:

(a)       That the ongoing development of the Inclusive Growth Corridor Programme which will help to shape the future connectivity pipeline across all modes of transport serving the Leeds City Region as set out in Appendix 1 to the submitted report be noted.

(b)       That the commencement of a conversation with the public and stakeholders around the new 21^st century connectivity and services technologies required to address the economic and transport challenges facing West Yorkshire, to complement future strategic infrastructure including HS2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR) be endorsed.

(c)        That the establishment of a member working group to oversee the development of Connectivity Strategy and Mass Transit be endorsed.

(d)       That the Transport Committee continue to oversee the Connectivity Strategy, including  ...  view the full minutes text for item 64.

(Member lead: Cllr K Groves, Director: Alan Reiss)

Resolved:

(a)       That the progression of the Leeds City Region Transforming Cities Fund bid to the stage 2 co-development phase be noted.

(b)       That the setting up of further on-going member working groups to support the development of the Leeds City Region stage 2 Transforming Cities Fund bids be endorsed.

(c)       That the Combined Authority’s Managing Director in consultation with the Chairs of the Combined Authority and Transport Committee submit the ‘small bid’ in consultation with the Chairs of the Combined Authority and Transport Committee.

(d)       That the Combined Authority delegates authority to the Transport Committee to oversee and submit both the ‘big bid’ and the ‘Future Mobility bid’.

(e)       That the Combined Authority grants approval to spend the £50,000 contribution made available by the Department for Transport to support the development of the Stage 2 bids.

The Combined Authority considered a report of the Director of Policy, Strategy and Communications on the Transforming Cities Fund (TCF) which

·         Provided an update on Transforming Cities Fund.

·         Sought endorsement to the continuation of the Transforming Cities Fund member working group sessions to oversee the development of the Transforming Cities Fund stage 2 submission.

·         Sought agreement for the Combined Authority’s Managing Director, in consultation with the Chair of the Combined Authority and Chair of the Transport Committee, to submit the ‘small bid’.

·         Sought delegated authority for the Transport Committee to oversee and submit the ‘big bid’ and the Future Mobility bid.

·         Sought approval to spend the £50,000 grant funded by the Department for Transport to support the development of the Stage 2 bid.

It was reported that the Transforming Cities Fund had been updated in the recent Budget announcement and the Government had now made a total of £1.28 billion available and extended the period to 2022-23. The key points arising from the announcement were outlined in the submitted report which had included confirmation that West Yorkshire had been successful in reaching stage two of the application process. 

The Combined Authority’s bid on behalf of the Leeds City Region for stage 1 had focussed around 3 themes and detailed proposals would be developed for the stage 2 submission. The Department for Transport (DfT) had made a contribution of £50,000 which would support the development of three bids, a ‘small’, ‘big’ and ‘future mobility’ bids, as part of the stage 2 submission.  The DfT had released guidance for the ‘small bid’ which would have a value of up to £10m.  This has to be submitted by 4 January 2019 and it is expected that a decision will be made by February 2019.  In view of the timescales, it was proposed that a Member working group be convened at the earliest opportunity to consider the scope of the small bid.  Information would be circulated to all Members of the Combined Authority and the transport Portfolio Holders.  It was agreed that the submission of the ‘small bid’ be delegated to the Combined Authority’s Managing Director in consultation with the Chairs of the Combined Authority and Transport Committee.

In welcoming the opportunities the Transforming Cities Fund provided, it was requested that it be made clear to Government that a longer timeframe should be sought for such transformational programmes. Assurances should also be sought for year on year investment to provide more certainty.  In respect of long term investment, it was reported that the City of York had submitted a bid for retrofitting buses which will be an issue affecting all parts of the City Region and was important for air quality and the economy through the jobs created. 

A ‘task and finish’ working group had been set up to shape the stage 1 submission and it was proposed to continue with this approach for the development of stage 2 with representation widened to include North Yorkshire authorities.

Resolved:

(a)       That the progression  ...  view the full minutes text for item 65.

(Member lead: Roger Marsh, Director: Alan Reiss)

Resolved:  That the Combined Authority adopts the following strategies:

·         Leeds City Region Digital Framework

·         Leeds City Region Green & Blue Infrastructure Strategy & Delivery Plan

·         Leeds City Region Energy Strategy & Delivery Plan.

The Combined Authority considered a report of the Director of Policy, Strategy and Communications which provided an update on the development of the Leeds City Region policy framework and recommended adoption of:

·         Leeds City Region Digital Framework

·         Green & Blue Infrastructure Strategy & Delivery Plan

·         Energy Strategy & Delivery Plan

The report provided an update on progress with the long-term policy framework which would replace the Strategic Economic Plan (SEP) and an overview of the three strategies, copies of which were attached to the submitted report.  Members welcomed the work being done and noted that the strategies would replace the SEP with a much broader, long term policy framework which includes the Local Inclusive Industrial Strategy aimed at tackling key challenges.  A copy of the policy framework was attached at Appendix 1.

In respect of the Digital Framework, it was reported that working groups will be established to ensure the aspirations in the framework are realised and they will report to the Panels.

Members discussed and welcomed the ambition to be the first city region to meet the Paris CIimate Agreement target.  It was noted that further work would be undertaken in respect of the projects identified in the Energy Strategy and Delivery Plan to achieve this and a report would be brought to a future meeting. 

It was noted that the Green and Blue Infrastructure Strategy and Delivery Plan had identified projects which will help to make the region more resilient to climate change and improve the quality of life for residents.  These included natural flood management and additional investment in cycling and walking.  It was noted that the Combined Authority had made an initial contribution for a shared resource to deliver the projects identified in the Green and Blue Infrastructure Strategy and Delivery Plan. 

In adopting the strategies as part of the evolving policy framework, the need to link these to how people’s lives could be improved was highlighted and agreed.  The challenges were also noted and it was considered important to build on the strengths and achieved successes and be ready to take advantage of future funding opportunities to move towards being carbon neutral. 

Resolved:  That the Combined Authority adopts the following strategies:

·         Leeds City Region Digital Framework

·         Leeds City Region Green & Blue Infrastructure Strategy & Delivery Plan

·         Leeds City Region Energy Strategy & Delivery Plan.

(Member lead: Cllr T Swift, Director: Alan Reiss)

Resolved:

(a)       That the report be noted.

(b)       That the Combined Authority endorses and signs the Leeds City Region Statement of Common Ground (SoCG) as an additional signatory.

(c)        That the updated Leeds City Region Strategic Planning Review be endorsed and approved.

The Combined Authority considered a report of the Director of Policy, Strategy and Communications on the Statement of Common Ground and Strategic Planning Review.

The report provided details of two work streams, the Leeds City Region Statement of Common Ground (SoCG) and the Leeds City Region Strategic Planning Review.

Members considered the draft SoCG which was attached at Appendix 1.  It was noted that all local planning authorities are required to produce a SoCG and this had been drafted by Combined Authority officers in partnership with the Leeds City Region partner councils. Each partner would be signatories to the document and the Combined Authority is considered an ‘additional signatory’ as a body who have a role in the matters covered in a statement of common ground with plan-making powers.

It was reported that the recommendations agreed in 2015 in respect of the Strategic Planning Review Update have now been updated to reflect changing governance arrangements to progress in relation to cross-boundary working.  Details of the changes were outlined in the report and these had been agreed by the partner councils and recommended to the Combined Authority for approval by the Place Panel.

Resolved:

(a)       That the report be noted.

(b)       That the Combined Authority endorses and signs the Leeds City Region Statement of Common Ground (SoCG) as an additional signatory.

(c)        That the updated Leeds City Region Strategic Planning Review be endorsed and approved.

(Member lead: Cllr S Hinchcliffe, Director: Angela Taylor)

Resolved:  That the work being undertaken on the draft business plan and budget proposals for 2019/20 be noted.

The Combined Authority considered a report of the Director of Resources which provided outlined directorate business plans and the proposed draft revenue and capital budget for 2019/20.

Members noted the draft business plans for each directorate which were attached at Appendix 1. 

The draft proposed revenue budget for 2019/20 was attached at Appendix 2. It was noted that this currently shows a required use of reserves of £1.8 million, against the target previously agreed of £1.2 million.  This position has been developed through the Member Budget Working Group, and with input from the Overview and Scrutiny Committee and an overview from the Chief Executives.  Details were outlined in the submitted report and it was noted that further work was underway to close the funding gap to the previously agreed use of reserves of £1.2 million.

In respect of the LEP merger, it was reported that a bid had been made for transitional funds to meet some of the additional costs in establishing the new organisation but the outcome was not yet clear.

Councillor Groves provided an update on the joint work with bus operators in response to questions about bus fares.  She advised that aside from MCard, ticketing and fares are commercial decisions taken by the operators.  However this would be raised and clarification sought as part of the discussions being held with operators regarding partnership working.

In noting the draft business plan, comment was made that there should be a clearer statement of priorities alongside everyday business.  It was noted that work was continuing and the final business plan and budget for 2019/20 will be brought to the next meeting on 14 February 2019 to enable the transport levy to be set in accordance with legislative requirements.

Resolved:  That the work being undertaken on the draft business plan and budget proposals for 2019/20 be noted.

(Member lead: Cllr S Hinchcliffe, Director: Angela Taylor)

Resolved:

(a)       That the Combined Authority approves amendments to the terms of reference for the West Yorkshire and York Investment Committee as set out in Appendix 1 to the submitted report, authorising the Committee to make decisions on behalf of the Combined Authority to progress schemes under the Leeds City Region Assurance Framework, in accordance with each scheme’s bespoke assurance pathway and approval route.

(b)       That the Combined Authority approves revised bespoke assurance pathway and approval routes for the schemes set out in Appendix 2.

(c)        That the Combined Authority approves the changes in governance arrangements for the Enterprise Zone programme as detailed in para 2.11 of the submitted report.

(d)       That the Combined Authority notes the termination of the appointment of Councillor Robert Light as a member of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee and appoints Councillor Elizabeth Smaje as his replacement.

(e)       That the Combined Authority appoints Councillor Elizabeth Smaje as Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

(f)        That the Combined Authority notes the termination of the appointment of Councillor Simon Cooke as a substitute Combined Authority member and that his replacement is Councillor Rebecca Poulsen with effect from 26 October 2018.

(g)       That the Combined Authority notes the updated member appointments as set out in Appendices 3 and 4 to this report.

(h)       That the Combined Authority agrees the proposed response to the recommendations made by Calderdale Council’s Strategy and Performance Scrutiny Board as set out in Appendix 6.

The Combined Authority considered a report of the Director of Resources on the following corporate developments which:

·         Proposed governance changes in relation to the role of the Investment Committee.

·         Proposed governance changes to the Leeds City Region Enterprise Zone programme.

·         Proposed changes in appointments to the membership of the  Combined Authority and its committees and to consider the appointment of a Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

·         Informed the Combined Authority of the recommendations of a scrutiny review conducted by Calderdale Council into its engagement and relationship with the Combined Authority and agree a formal response.

·         Provided an update on corporate performance including progress against 2018/19 corporate plan priorities, risk management and the current budget position.

Members discussed the proposal for the Investment Committee to be able to make decisions on behalf of the Combined Authority in respect of progressing schemes under the Assurance Framework to facilitate their delivery within the funding programme timescales.  Details of the proposed changes were detailed in the report and the draft terms of reference and a revised bespoke assurance pathway and approval routes for the schemes were attached at Appendices 1 and 2.  Members discussed the issues raised in respect of the political balance of the Investment Committee and the need to ensure projects were given the right level of scrutiny and investigation.  They were advised that the intention for the proposed changes was to speed up the progression and delivery of projects.  It was noted that there was geographic balance on the Committee and, in approving the changes, it was agreed that the issue of political balance would be considered further and addressed either at the Combined Authority’s AGM or as part of the LEP merger.

It was noted that the Combined Authority had previously identified the need to prioritise the accelerated delivery of the EZ programme and the proposed governance changes, which had been considered by the LEP Board on 22 November 2018, were outlined in the report.

The report provided an update on changes in membership and revised schedules were attached at Appendices 3 and 4. In respect of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee it was agreed that Councillor Elizabeth Smaje be appointed as a member and Chair of the Committee following the resignation of Councillor Robert Light. In welcoming Councillor Smaje to her new role it was agreed that a letter of thanks be sent to Councillor Light on behalf of the Combined Authority.

It was noted that Bradford Council had advised that Councillor Rebecca Poulsen would replace Councillor Simon Cooke as the substitute ‘balancing member’ on the Combined Authority with effect from 26 October 2018.

It was reported that Calderdale Council’s scrutiny boards had carried out a detailed review of their authority’s engagement and relationship with the Combined Authority.  The final report was endorsed by their Strategy and Performance Scrutiny Board and contained recommendations for both the Combined Authority and Calderdale Council.  The report had been presented to the Combined Authority’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee in September  ...  view the full minutes text for item 69.

(Member lead: Roger Marsh, Director: Alan Reiss)

The Combined Authority considered a report of the Director of Policy, Strategy and Communications which provided an update on the latest position in response to Government’s policy positions set out in ‘Strengthened Local Enterprise Partnerships’.

It was reported that following discussions both LEPs had proposed a new LEP covering the whole of West and North Yorkshire from April 2020.  A transition working group is being established to take forward activity with representatives from each LEP.  Membership will include the Chair and Managing Director of the Combined Authority, Chair of the LEP and Chair of the Business Innovation and Growth Panel and the working group will operate collaboratively and transparently to examine solutions across eight workstreams outlined in the submitted report.

Members welcomed the larger geography which will put the region in a stronger position to drive economic growth and provide opportunities to bid for a share of future central government funds and Roger Marsh was thanked for his leadership in progressing the merger.

Resolved:  That the Combined Authority notes the clearer local consensus on the LEP Review and that a joint Transition Working Group will take forward activity.

Resolved:  That the minutes of the Inclusive Growth and Public Policy Panel held on 4 September 2018 be noted.

Resolved:  That the minutes of the Business Innovation & Growth Panel held on 13 September 2018 be noted.

Resolved:  That the minutes of the Overview & Scrutiny Committee held on 14 September 2018 be noted.

Resolved:  That the draft minutes of the Green Economy Panel held on 23 October 2018 be noted.

Resolved:  That the draft minutes of the Place Panel held on 24 October 2018 be noted.

Resolved:  That the draft minutes of the Governance & Audit Committee held on 1 November 2018 be noted.

Resolved:  That the draft minutes of the West Yorkshire & York Investment Committee held on 7 November 2018 be noted.

(Member lead: Cllr P Box, Director: Angela Taylor)

Resolved:  That the Combined Authority, in its role as the Intermediate Body for the SUD part of the ESIF programme, approves the advice included in the full application assessment forms of Part 2 of exempt Appendix 1, and any respective conditions outlined in Part 4a.

The Combined Authority considered a report of the Director of Resources on the European Structural and Investment Funds (ESIF) – Sustainable Urban Development (SUD).

In its role as the Intermediate Body, the Combined Authority considered the advice included in the full application assessment form at Part 2 of exempt Appendix 1 and any respective conditions outlined in Part 4a.

It was reported that the full application had been considered by the Appraisal Team, under the responsibility of the Head of Research and Intelligence from the Combined Authority.  The proposals had been discussed by the Investment Committee at their meeting on 7 November 2018 and they had agreed that they appropriately addressed:

·                     local domestic priorities, development needs/growth conditions and opportunities.

·                     the contribution and value for money proposed in the context of the

Operational Programme and local ESIF Strategy.

·                     any local issues that need to be taken into account in the development and/or delivery of the project.

It was reported that the project is considered to be sufficiently developed to enable the Managing Authority to issue a funding agreement subject to the proposed conditions set out in the assessment being fully met.

Resolved:  That the Combined Authority, in its role as the Intermediate Body for the SUD part of the ESIF programme, approves the advice included in the full application assessment forms of Part 2 of exempt Appendix 1, and any respective conditions outlined in Part 4a.