Agenda item

To consider a confidential report by the Head of Finance and Assets (copy enclosed) updating members on the 2012/13 element of the capital plan including an update on major projects.

Councillor Julian Thompson Hill, Lead Member for Finance and Efficiency presented the confidential report updating Council on the 2012/13 element of the Capital Plan including an update on major projects.  A summary of the total plan and how it was financed (Appendix 1) had been attached to the report together with details of actual and planned expenditure by each Head of Service.  The Lead Member proceeded to update members on the current range of major projects and capital receipts.

Councillor Stuart Davies welcomed the Foryd Harbour Development and highlighted the need to market the facilities and ensure appropriate equipment was provided to allow winter storage of yachts which could prove a profitable enterprise.  Following a brief discussion the Head of Finance and Assets (H:F&A) agreed to clarify the availability of equipment in the next report back to Council.

In response to members’ questions/comments the Lead Member and H:F&A  –

·        elaborated upon Phase 3 of the Rhyl Coastal Defence works and reassured members that the Council would continue to pursue its preferred option during discussions with the Welsh Government

·        advised that a business plan had been prepared for the Rhyl Harbour development and funding for a Harbour Master had been made available

·        renovation of the Bee & Station Hotel was close to completion.  Under the terms of the grant it was unlikely that the Council would be permitted to utilise the building to house its own facilities

·        the Project Manager for the West Rhyl Housing Improvement Project was significantly involved with the Welfare Reform Group and fully aware of the implications in terms of the housing element; the purpose of the project was to bring a balanced housing market to the area

·        in terms of potential funding available from pension funds discussions were taking place with Pension Fund representatives to encourage investment in the county

·        provided a breakdown of the anticipated capital receipts generated during 2012/13 and noted the request to provide that level of detail in future reports.

Whilst not part of the capital plan item, queries were raised regarding the allocation of revenue earmarked for community funding.  The Corporate Directors for Customers and Economic & Community Ambition updated members on the latest position advising of ongoing work to ensure a strategic approach and an equitable allocation of funding to deliver town and community priorities.  In light of members’ comments the Chief Executive suggested that the issue be discussed further in the Budget Workshop scheduled for December. 

RESOLVED that Council note the latest position on the 2012/13 element of the capital plan and the update on major projects.

The meeting concluded at 12.20 p.m.