Agenda and minutes

The Chair invited the Executive Member for Culture, Arts and Housing, Councillor Simon Myers to share the welcome news that the restoration of Scarborough Community Football Pitch was almost complete with a handover date to Scarborough Athletic of 1 July and the club’s first pre-season friendly match at the venue scheduled for 25 July.

Apologies for absence were received from Councillor Mark Crane and Richard Flinton.

Resolved

That the public Minutes of the meeting held on 26 May 2026, having been printed and circulated, be taken as read and confirmed by the Chair as a correct record.

Councillor Gareth Dadd declared an interest in Minute 929 in his position as owner of a holiday let business for which he had previously been granted a dispensation.

Members of the public may ask questions or make statements at this meeting if they have given notice to St John Harris, Principal Democratic Services Officer, and supplied the text by midday on Thursday, 11 June, three working days before the day of the meeting.  Each speaker should limit themselves to 3 minutes on any item.  Members of the public who have given notice will be invited to speak:

·         at this point in the meeting if their questions/statements relate to matters which are not otherwise on the Agenda (subject to an overall time limit of 30 minutes);

·         when the relevant Agenda item is being considered if they wish to speak on a matter which is on the Agenda for this meeting.

If you are exercising your right to speak at this meeting, but do not wish to be recorded, please inform the Leader who will instruct anyone who may be taking a recording to cease while you speak.

The following question was presented to the Executive by Roger Tuckett:

Mr Tuckett preceded his question with a short poem ‘Listen to the silence’ written by an autistic friend of his.

When and by whom was the 2025/26 Action Plan for the NY Autism Strategy approved?

The Executive Member for Health and Adult Services, Councillor Michael Harrison then responded as follows:

On 18 March 2025 North Yorkshire Council Executive agreed to adopt the North Yorkshire Autism all-age Strategy 2025-2030

Whilst there is no direct legal duty within the Act to produce a local autism strategy or plan, there is a duty to implement the national strategy. To meet this duty we have developed the strategy and plans to deliver it. The action plan continues to be regularly updated by members of a Community of Interest Group and is intended to be a living document. It supports delivery of the strategy while also evolving to reflect and inform emerging priorities, including new opportunities and updates in government policy, ensuring these are appropriately considered and aligned.

The North Yorkshire Health and Wellbeing Board, which holds statutory responsibility for promoting integration across health and care and for overseeing relevant strategies, will receive the year one update of the strategy in due course.

In response, Mr Tuckett claimed there had been a failure of leadership, governance and co-production in the Autism Strategy Action Plan through failing to involve the community of interest group of which he was a member. He therefore asked if the council would be willing to make a referral of this issue to the Scrutiny of Health Committee and also to the council’s internal auditors, Veritau.

Councillor Harrison did not recognise that there had been a failure of leadership or governance nor that a referral to the Scrutiny of Health Committee or Veritau was necessary; however, he and the service was very willing to work with the community of interest group to address any shortcomings around co-production of the Action Plan

Recommendations

That Executive:

       i.         Approve an exceptional allocation of £350,000 to support the Westway Boxing Club expansion project, comprising £236,000 from the Overdale School demolition underspend and £114,000 from the residual Eastfield capital receipts reserve associated with the TIP process.

     ii.         Confirm that this decision is an ‘exception’ based on urgency and project readiness and does not alter the policy as agreed at the Executive on 16 December 2025 that all other allocations will be made only through the community‑led investment plan and TIP process.

    iii.         Delegate authority to the Assistant Chief Executive – Local Engagement, in consultation with the Section 151 Officer and the Assistant Chief Executive – Legal and Democratic Services, to instruct on the capital grant funding agreements and associated usual compliance with capital expenditure requirements (including the Council’s Procurement and Contract Procedure Rules and, to the extent applicable, the Subsidy Control Act 2022, the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 and the Procurement Act 2023).

Considered a report of the Assistant Chief Executive – Local Engagement which sought approval for an allocation of £350,000 from the Eastfield capital receipts reserves to support the expansion of Westway Boxing Club, in light of time critical cost pressures and significant match funding secured from a private developer.

Presenting the report, the Executive Member for Corporate Services, Councillor Heather Phillips commended this project which fulfilled a long held ambition to expand the boxing club with all the social, health and wellbeing benefits it would bring to the local community, without detriment to any later projects in the area to be funded from the £3.2m capital receipts reserve. Other Members of the Executive and the local division councillor echoed her comments, alluding to the transformative power of sport, the pivotal role of non-council providers and the generosity of the developer.

Resolved (unanimously) that the Executive:

1. Approve an exceptional allocation of £350,000 to support the Westway Boxing Club expansion project, comprising £236,000 from the Overdale School demolition underspend and £114,000 from the residual Eastfield capital receipts reserve associated with the TIP process.

2. Confirm that this decision is an ‘exception’ based on urgency and project readiness and does not alter the policy as agreed at the Executive on 16 December 2025 that all other allocations will be made only through the community‑led investment plan and TIP process.

3. Delegate authority to the Assistant Chief Executive – Local Engagement, in consultation with the Section 151 Officer and the Assistant Chief Executive – Legal and Democratic Services, to instruct on the capital grant funding agreements and associated usual compliance with capital expenditure requirements (including the Council’s Procurement and Contract Procedure Rules and, to the extent applicable, the Subsidy Control Act 2022, the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 and the Procurement Act 2023).

Reasons

The recommendation to consider the allocation of funding to the Westway Boxing Club in advance of the broader Eastfield Investment plan was proposed for the following reasons:

·       The project is ready to start, with planning permission and a contractor in place

·       Delays will result in significant cost increases

·       Delays could result in the expiry of the planning consent

·       The Council can utilise £236,000 underspend, reducing the drawdown on the residual Eastfield capital receipts reserve associated with the TIP process to £114,000

·       The project delivers strong community, health and regeneration benefits

·       This is a one off exception and does not alter the December 2025 policy position

Recommendation

       i.         That Executive approve the adoption of the proposed North Yorkshire Council Harbours Strategy.

Considered a report of the Corporate Director – Environment which sought approval from Executive and adoption of the proposed North Yorkshire Council Harbours Strategy.

In the absence of the Executive Member for Open to Business, the Corporate Director - Environment, Karl Battersby introduced the report and outlined that the strategy had been developed following extensive consultation. The strategy established a long‑term vision to maximise the potential of the authority’s harbours through safe, sustainable operations, protection of maritime heritage and support for innovation and economic growth. Eight strategic objectives were identified, including maintaining infrastructure, improving operational efficiency, strengthening engagement with stakeholders, and supporting growth across sectors such as fishing, tourism, aquaculture and renewables.

The Chair invited local Scarborough members, Councillor Liz Colling and Councillor Janet Jefferson to address the meeting. Councillor Colling welcomed the new strategy, the comprehensive consultation undertaken and the incorporation of feedback from harbour users, local communities and the Area Committee. Councillor Jefferson recognised the significance of the Council’s role as Harbour Authority and the need to address historic under‑investment, alongside ensuring appropriate governance arrangements and financial management of harbour revenues. She also highlighted that some harbour users were more difficult to reach through standard consultation methods and that further efforts would be required to ensure inclusive engagement. In response to her query about timescales for the provision of a boat hoist at Scarborough Harbour, Mr Battersby advised that provision for a future boat hoist depended on strengthening works (of significant cost) to the West Pier which formed part of longer‑term proposals linked to the West Pier regeneration scheme, with current priorities focused on essential repairs and initial phases of the project. It was noted that this further development would be subject to funding availability as part of future phases of work. Local councillor and Executive Member, Councillor Heather Phillips also commended the new strategy and the extensive consultation including with Scarborough Town Council.

Resolved (unanimously) that the Executive approve the adoption of the proposed North Yorkshire Council Harbours Strategy.

Reasons

·       The North Yorkshire Council Harbours Strategy presents the first opportunity for North Yorkshire Council to set out its visions for Scarborough Harbour, Whitby Harbour, and Filey Coble Landing. 

·       The adoption of the strategy enables the Council to begin to fulfil its visions.

Alternative options considered

There are no other options. The only other option is not to have a harbour strategy.

Recommendations

       i.         That the Executive approve the Local Plan Timetable as set out in Appendix 1 and provide delegated authority to the Corporate Director of Community Development to package this timetable up into any relevant document / webpage as directed by forthcoming Government guidance and announcements.

     ii.         That the Corporate Director for Community Development in consultation with the Executive Member for Open to Business be delegated authority to carry out specific administrative duties including, but not limited to, publishing updates to Local Plan data, publishing consultation summaries and approving the Gateway Assessment Recommendations at stages 2 and 3.

    iii.         That the Corporate Director for Community Development in consultation with the Executive Member for Open to Business be authorised to review and amend the timescales of Local Plan Timetable.

Considered a report of the Corporate Director – Community Development which sought Executive approval of the Council’s Local Plan Timetable which included key milestones as set out in the Town and Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2026.

Introducing the report, the Executive Member for Corporate Services, Councillor Heather Phillips explained that that the timetable had been updated to align with new national requirements, including the introduction of a mandatory plan preparation period. It was noted that, whilst the approach to plan-making had changed, significant work had already been undertaken which would continue to inform the emerging plan. Adoption of the Local Plan remained targeted for 2029.

Members were advised that the revised process would include a ‘get ready’ phase prior to commencement of the formal 30‑month plan preparation period, which was proposed to begin on 30 April 2027. The timetable included three key consultation stages: scoping in late 2026, consultation on content and evidence in autumn 2027, and consultation on the proposed Local Plan in autumn 2028. Submission to the Secretary of State was planned for March 2029, with adoption anticipated later that year.

The report also sought delegated authority for the Corporate Director, in consultation with the Executive Member for Open to Business, to undertake several operational functions to support delivery of the timetable, including publication of updates, management of gateway assessments and consultation reporting. It was explained that this approach would ensure the programme could be managed efficiently and transparently.

During discussion, Members sought clarification regarding opportunities for public engagement, particularly in relation to when site assessments and proposed site allocations would be made available. In response, it was explained that the new system placed a greater emphasis on earlier engagement around evidence and strategic direction, with detailed site allocations not expected to be published until the proposed plan stage in autumn 2028. It was further noted that information on submitted sites would continue to be made available, including updates identifying sites no longer progressing.

Members also discussed the implications of the Government’s increased housing targets and the challenges associated with delivering these requirements. Concerns were raised regarding the risk of sites being allocated but not built out, the impact of speculative development, and the need to ensure that the plan remained deliverable in practice. Officers confirmed that the five‑year housing land supply would continue to be assessed using established methodologies, taking into account both completions and deliverable commitments.

Members expressed concern regarding the wider planning system, including the impact of short‑term holiday lets on housing availability, and the need for complementary national policy changes to address these issues alongside local plan preparation.

Resolved (unanimously) that:

1. That the Executive approve the Local Plan Timetable as set out in Appendix 1 and provide delegated authority to the Corporate Director of Community Development to package this timetable up into any relevant document / webpage as directed by forthcoming Government guidance and announcements.

2. That the Corporate Director for Community Development in consultation with the Executive Member for  ...  view the full minutes text for item 929.

Recommendations

That Executive:

       i.         Approve the Corporate Parenting Members’ Group Annual Report for 2025/26.

     ii.         Consider whether there are any issues arising from the Annual Report which need to be factored into the work programme for 2026/27.

    iii.         Agree to recommend the report to Full Council on 15 July 2026.

Considered a report of the Assistant Chief Executive – Legal and Democratic Services which presented the Corporate Parenting Members’ Group Annual Report summarising the activity of the group over the past municipal year.

The Executive Member for Children and Families, Councillor Janet Sanderson introduced the report and invited the Chair of the Corporate Parenting Members’ Group, Councillor Caroline Goodrick to present the key highlights. Thanks were extended to Members and officers for their ongoing commitment and work in supporting children in care and care leavers.

In presenting the report, Councillor Goodrick highlighted a particularly busy year, including strengthened engagement with care experienced young people. This work had helped build closer relationships between Members and young people and supported the Group’s role as a ‘critical friend’ to Children and Young People’s Services.

The forthcoming implementation of new legislative requirements relating to children’s social care was noted, and the expectation that all elected Members, as corporate parents, would have regard to these duties. It was acknowledged that this would result in an increased programme of work for the Group in the year ahead.

Councillor Liz Colling was invited by the Chair to address the meeting asking questions regarding (i) the sufficiency of accommodation for children in need, looked after children and care leavers and (ii)  why parenting orders were not used in North Yorkshire when the people engaging in anti‑social behaviour seemed to be getting younger.  In response to the first question, Councillor Sanderson acknowledged that there were ongoing pressures in relation to placement availability, and that in some cases unregistered provision had been used where necessary to ensure the safety of children. Members were advised that work was ongoing to increase capacity, and that delays in Ofsted registration processes had contributed to current challenges. In respect of parenting orders, Councillor Sanderson confirmed that further information would be provided outside the meeting. It was noted that services sought, wherever possible, to divert young people away from the criminal justice system through early intervention and support.

The Executive Member for Culture, Arts and Housing, Councillor Simon Myers reiterated that securing appropriate accommodation for care leavers remained a priority, including the development of supported housing solutions.

Members expressed their continued support for the work of the Corporate Parenting Members Group.

Resolved (unanimously) that the Executive:

       i.         Approve the Corporate Parenting Members’ Group Annual Report for 2025/26.

     ii.         Agree to recommend the report to Full Council on 15 July 2026.

Reasons

To share with Full Council the work of the Corporate Parenting Members’ Group during 2025/26.

Alternative options considered

No alternative options were considered.

Recommendation

       i.         That Executive approve the adoption of the Community Safety and CCTV Service ASB Policy and Procedure.

Considered a report of the Assistant Chief Executive – Local Engagement which sought Executive approval for the adoption of the Community Safety and CCTV Service Antisocial Behaviour (ASB) Policy and Procedure which set out the council’s approach to preventing, managing and enforcing against ASB in line with the North Yorkshire Council (NYC) Enforcement Policy and statutory responsibilities.

Presenting the report, the Executive Member for Corporate Services, Councillor Heather Phillips advised that the purpose of the policy was to provide a consistent and transparent framework for addressing anti-social behaviour (ASB) across North Yorkshire. It was noted that, prior to local government reorganisation, approaches had varied across former district areas, and the policy sought to standardise the response within the Community Safety and CCTV Service.

The Community Safety CCTV Manager, Paul Romans then provided further details adding that the policy applied specifically to the Community Safety and CCTV Service and set out how cases of anti-social behaviour received by Community Safety Hubs would be managed. It outlined response times, the process for handling reports, and partnership working arrangements. Members were reminded that ASB was addressed across several service areas and agencies, and that the Community Safety Hubs operated within a multi-agency framework, working closely with North Yorkshire Police and other partners to ensure appropriate action was taken.

Members then discussed the report including Castle division and Eastfield division councillors, Councillors Janet Jefferson and Tom Seston who highlighted significant ASB issues in their areas. The Executive Member for Culture, Arts and Housing, Councillor Simon Myers drew attention to the impact of anti-social behaviour linked to homelessness and temporary accommodation in Scarborough, and the difficulties experienced by residents living in affected areas.

During discussion, concerns were expressed that the policy appeared primarily focused on urban areas and did not fully reflect the nature of anti-social behaviour in rural and seasonal hotspot locations, where incidents could be sporadic but significant. Mr Romans clarified that the policy focused on longer-term and complex cases, and that short-term or seasonal issues would typically be managed through coordinated action with partner agencies, including police, highways and other services.

Further discussion highlighted issues relating to persistent and repeat offenders, including young people involved in anti-social behaviour. Mr Romans confirmed that all Community Safety Hub staff were trained in the use of powers under relevant legislation and that a graduated approach was taken, prioritising early intervention and prevention before enforcement action. It was noted that enforcement action often required coordinated input from partner agencies, including Police, Youth Justice and Children’s Services.

Members recognised the continuing challenges involved in addressing anti-social behaviour and the need for a strong partnership approach, alongside effective use of enforcement powers where necessary.

Resolved (unanimously) that the Executive approve the adoption of the Community Safety and CCTV Service ASB Policy and Procedure.

Reasons

The adoption of the Community Safety and CCTV Service ASB Policy and Procedure

ensures:

·       A clear and consistent framework for dealing with ASB

·       Compliance with Council-wide enforcement principles

·       Improved confidence for Members, partners and  ...  view the full minutes text for item 931.

Recommendation

That Executive approves adoption of the Tree and Woodland Policy as set out in Appendix A to this report.

Considered a report of the Corporate Director – Environment which sought approval to adopt a Tree and Woodland Policy for North Yorkshire Council (NYC). This would draw on best practice in the sector to ensure consistent, safe, and the sustainable management of trees across the county.

Introducing the report, the Executive Member for Highways and Transportation, Councillor Malcolm Taylor explained that the policy brought together existing approaches from former district and borough councils into a single framework. The policy sought to strengthen protection of trees and green spaces, improve expectations on developers to retain trees and hedgerows, support biodiversity and climate resilience, and provide clearer and more transparent processes for residents, Members and officers.

The Chair then invited discussion on the report including by non-Executive members, Councillors Liz Colling, Kevin Foster, Caroline Goodrick and Andrew Murday.

During discussion, Members expressed general support for the policy but raised a number of detailed issues. Concerns were raised regarding the need to maintain an appropriate balance between protecting trees and allowing necessary works, together with clarity around appeal mechanisms for residents. Officers confirmed that decisions relating to tree works were subject to existing planning and complaints processes, and that applications refused under Tree Preservation Orders could be appealed.

Members welcomed the intention to prepare a future Tree Planting Strategy and sought clarity on its scope and timescales. Officers advised that this would be developed following adoption of the policy and would take a holistic approach, incorporating wider environmental strategies, with an estimated development period of between 18 months and two years.

Concerns were also raised regarding the maintenance of existing trees and the absence of additional dedicated funding. Officers confirmed that the policy would be implemented using existing resources, supported by prioritisation based on risk and condition.

During discussion, particular attention was given to paragraph 5.35 to the effect that the council could not authorise members of the public or their agents to undertake desirable but non-essential works to trees on Council land in line with good arboricultural or forestry practice when the Council could not allocate resources to such work. While the policy proposed that such works would not normally be permitted, Members considered whether, in certain circumstances, appropriately qualified and insured third parties should be permitted to carry out works at their own expense. Views were expressed both in support of a more flexible, pragmatic approach and in favour of maintaining equity of access to council services.

Following debate, it was agreed that the policy should be amended to allow for a case-by-case consideration of such requests, subject to appropriate standards, insurance and approval by the Council.

Resolved (unanimously) that the Executive:

       i.         approves adoption of the Tree and Woodland Policy as set out in Appendix A to the report; and

     ii.         approves delegation to the Corporate Director in consultation with the Executive Member to make amendments to the policy under service requests for tree works as detailed in paragraph 5.35 of the report to reflect the discussion to allow exceptions.  ...  view the full minutes text for item 932.

Considered the Forward Plan for the period 5 June 2026 to 30 June 2027.

Resolved that the Forward Plan be noted.

There were no urgent items.