CL 73

LONDON BOROUGH OF HARROW

MINUTES of the Quarterly Meeting of the Council of the London Borough of Harrow held at the Council Offices, Peel Road, Wealdstone, on Thursday, llth March, 1971, at 7.30 p.m.

Present: The Worshipful the Mayor (Alderman Frank Rees) (in the Chair);

The Deputy Mayor (Alderman Mrs. M C M. Has lam, J.P,);

Aldermen: Frederick Adkins, Dip.Arch., F ,R ,1 .B .A ., P.P.Inst.R.A., E.G 0 Buckle, F.R.I.C.S., W.S. Clack, M.I.Ex., M.Inst.M., G.L.C., H.G 0 Gange, O.B.E. ,J.P., Lt. Cdr. A.E.P.F. MacRae, R,,N,V : R., H.T. Mote, D 0 L. ,J ,P C ,G ,L,C , , C.E. Stenhouse, J,P.

Councillors: E,S,W. Atherton, F CR.1..B.A.,A.M .T.P.I.,Dip.T.P., Mrs. S 0 M, Beard, Miss C .A Bednell, J.,F C Bint, J ..A Campbell, M CA C Carmody, B.Sc.(Est. Man), A 0 R.I,C S,, Mrs. H e N, Clokie, B .A . ,B .Litt., Owen W.N. Cock, A .C. Cocksedge, Mrs. M.R. Crick, S.R.N., Mrs. J.M. Debell, J 0 O U Edis, A.C r I,S . ,A.C,P.,F.S.C.T., F.B.S,C., C.G. Ellement, Capt. E.W.H. Feakins, M.Inst.M., B, Ford, Miss J.E. Gould, R.H a Grace, B..M. Haigh, B ,Sc . (Econ . ) , E . J . Harkett, D S H,J 0 Hart, C.G. Henning Brodersen, J r F n Heywood, G, Colborne Hill, N.G. Hines, Capt, T. Donald Jones, Mrs. J,R S Keen, G,M« Laurie, M.A., F,L. Le Franc, M 0B.,E,, F.I .M.L.T . ,F C I .S .T . ,F.R.S 8 H. ,S ,R .M.L.T . , M. Leigh, C.F.J. Low, F.S.S., M 0R B S 0 H., M,A. Murphy, B .A., Dip .Ed., J .W. Nickolay, A.M. Inst .T ., Mrs. N. Rees (Mayoress), D.B, Rouse, A,.G, Sellers, D CJ. Skingle, M.Inst .M. ,L...M.R.S .H r ,A.I .B.S ,T., D.G, Stevens, F.R.I.C.S., R..F. Stone, A.J u J t Strevens, R ,S Sullivan, W,A. Tackley, A.B.C, Turner, R .Tech.Eng,,M C J.Inst.E c ,M. Inst, ,B ,E., B .C.A, Turner, K.S.G., A.C.I.S.,M.B,I,M., N. Watson, LL.B . ,A ,C ,A ., Mrs. D.E.Wells, R .J .Whit tome, A .C.I.I., and W.E.N. Wormald.

PRAYERS

Rabbi Sidney Brichto, M.A,, Mayor's Chaplain, opened the meeting with Prayers.

CL 74 COUNCIL

MINUTES

RESOLVED: (1305)

THAT THE MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL OF THE BOROUGH HELD ON 21ST JANUARY, 1971, BE TAKEN AS READ AND SIGNED AS A CORRECT RECORD.

PRESENTATION OF REGALIA

Mr, F.G. Moorfoot, Chairman and Managing Director of Kodak Limited,, presented on behalf of his Company, a ceremonial chain for the Mayoress's Badge of Office

In accepting the gift on behalf of the Corporation, the Mayor expressed his warm and sincere thanks for such a beautifully prepared article.

Mr, Moorfoot thereupon invested the Mayoress with the ceremonial chain and Badge of Office.

HARROW SCHOOL: 400th ANNIVERSARY OF THE FOUNDATION

The Worshipful the Mayor reported that on 26th February, in company with the Mayoress and the Town Clerk, he had had the priviledge of welcoming Her Majesty the Queen to the Borough when she visited Harrow School in connection with the celebrations to mark the 400th Anniversary of the foundation of the School. He also reported that previously he had sent on behalf of the Council a message of congratulations to the Head Master and Governors on achieving this very important milestone in the long history of the School.

MR. AND MRS. HUGH DYKES: BIRTH OF SECOND CHILD

The Mayor reported that on behalf of the Council he had sent a message of congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Hugh Dykes on the birth of their second child.

COUNCILLOR AND MRS CARMODY: BIRTH OF SECOND CHILD

Members of the Council present joined the Mayor in congratulating Councillor and Mrs. Carmody on the birth of their second child on 13th February, 1971.

MAYOR'S CHARITY FUND

The Mayor reported that on Saturday, 3rd April, there would be a curry supper at the home of Councillor T.D. Jones, and that the proceeds of the evening would be devoted to the Mayor's Charity Fund.

COUNCIL CL 75

APPOINTMENT OF MAYORESS TO MEMBERSHIPOF SHENLEY HOSPITAL MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE,

The Mayor reported that Councillor Mrs. Rees (Mayoress) had been appointed to membership of Shenley Hospital Management Committee with effect from 1st April, 1971,

HARROW COUNTY GRAMMAR SCHOOL FOR BOYS: DIAMOND JUBILEE.

The Mayor reported that on 21st January, 1971, he had attended, with the Chairman of the Education Committee, celebrations at Harrow County Grammar School for Boys to mark the 60th Anniversary of the foundation of the school. He also expressed his best thanks to all Members who had supported him at the service of dedication at the Borough Church, St. Mary's, Harrow on the Hill, on 14th January.

PUBLIC GALLERY,

The Mayor expressed a cordial welcome to a party of members of the Trefoil Guild and a party of student midwives who were present in the public gallery.

THE MAYOR'S CHAPLAIN: ENGAGEMENT,

The Mayor warmly congratulated his Chaplain, Rabbi Sidney Brichto, M.A., on his recent engagement to be married.

PETITIONS,

The Town Clerk submitted the following petitions:-

(a) of 5,505 signatures concerning the lack of suitable Youth facilities in the Borough,

(b) of 42 signatures protesting at the proposal to instal a 12,000 gallon oil storage tank at the premises of Advance Laundries Limited, Stuart Road, Wealdstone,

(c) of 90 signatures objecting to an application for planning permission for the construction of a Youth Centre at Kenton Cricket and Lawn Tennis Club ground.

Pursuant to Standing Order 7 the petitions were referred to the appropriate Committees.

76 COUNCIL

REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

HEALTH COMMITTEE

Upon motion by Councillor T 0 D. Jones,

RESOLVED: (1306)

THAT THE REPORTS OF MEETINGS OF THE HEALTH COMMITTEE HELD ON 22ND JANUARY AND 9TH FEBRUARY,1971 BE RECEIVED AND, INSOFAR AS THE SAME REQUIRE CONFIRMATION AND ARE NOT OTHERWISE DEALT WITH IN THESE MINUTES, BE HEREBY CONFIRMED.

Upon motion by Councillor T.D, Jones,

RESOLVED: (1307)

THAT THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDATION AS CONTAINED IN THE REPORT OF THE HEALTH COMMITTEE DATED 9TH FEBRUARY, 1971, BE HEREBY APPROVED AND ADOPTED:-

RECOMMENDATION I: Housing Act, 1969, Part III: Dwellings in Good Repair and Provided with Standard Amenities: Qualification Certificates.

SOCIAL SERVICES COMMITTEE

Upon motion by Councillor Feakins,

RESOLVED: (1308)

THAT THE REPORTS OF MEETINGS OF THE SOCIAL SERVICES COMMITTEE HELD ON 22ND JANUARY AND 9TH FEBRUARY, 1971, BE RECEIVED AND, INSOFAR AS THE SAME REQUIRE CONFIRMATION AND ARE NOT OTHERWISE DEALT WITH IN THESE MINUTES, BE HEREBY CONFIRMED.

Upon motion by Councillor Feakins,

RESOLVED: (1309)

THAT THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDATIONS AS CONTAINED IN THE REPORT OF THE SOCIAL SERVICES COMMITTEE DATED 9TH FEBRUARY, 1971, BE HEREBY APPROVED AND ADOPTED:-

RECOMMENDATION I:"Haslam House", Children's Reception Centre, Honeypot Lane.

RECOMMENDATION II: Minor Capital Programme 1971/72: Provision of Lightning Conductors at "Haydon Hill", Old Persons Home,

RECOMMENDATION III: Adult Training Centre at South Harrow: Excess Expenditure.

RECOMMENDATION IV: Minor Capital Programme, 1971: Headstone Lane Day Nursery.

COUNCIL CL 77

RECOMMENDATION V: Income Assessment Scales for the Council's Social Services: Standard (maximum) Charge for the Home Help Service.

EDUCATION COMMITTEE

Upon motion by Councillor Hines,

RESOLVED: (1310)

THAT THE REPORTS OF MEETINGS OF THE EDUCATION COMMITTEE HELD ON 22ND JANUARY AND 16TH FEBRUARY, 1971, BE RECEIVED AND, INSOFAR AS THE SAME REQUIRE CONFIRMATION AND ARE NOT OTHERWISE DEALT WITH IN THESE MINUTES, BE HEREBY CONFIRMED.

Upon motion by Councillor Hines,

RESOLVED: (1311)

THAT THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDATIONS AS CONTAINED IN THE REPORT OF THE EDUCATION COMMITTEE DATED 16TH FEBRUARY, 1971, BE HEREBY APPROVED AND ADOPTED:-

RECOMMENDATION I: Whittlesea School Governing Body - Articles and instruments of Government,

RECOMMENDATION II: Managing Bodies for Primary Schools.

RECOMMENDATION III: Boiler Conversions - 1971/72 Programme.

RECOMMENDATION IV: Capital Estimates 1970/71 - Harrow College of Technology and Art; Provision of Equipment.

RECOMMENDATION V: Capital Estimates 1971/72 - School Meals Service: Furniture and Equipment.

RECOMMENDATION VI: Membership of Youth Employment Sub-Committee.

RECOMMENDATION VII: Contract for the Tuning of Pianos in Schools.

RECOMMENDATION VIII: Cedars (Harrow Weald) Community Association.

(Note: Alderman Mote, D.L'. , J.P. ,G.L.C 0 , having declared an interest did not vote)

HOUSING COMMITTEE

Upon motion by Councillor Barry Turner,

RESOLVED: (1312)

THAT THE REPORTS OF MEETINGS OF THE HOUSING COMMITTEE HELD ON 22ND JANUARY AND 16TH FEBRUARY, 1971, BE RECEIVED AND, INSOFAR AS THE SAME REQUIRE CONFIRMATION AND ARE NOT OTHERWISE DEALT WITH IN THESE MINUTES, BE HEREBY CONFIRMED.

CL 78 , COUNCIL

Upon motion by Councillor Barry Turner,

RESOLVED: (1313)

THAT THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDATIONS AS CONTAINED IN THE REPORT OF THE HOUSING COMMITTEE DATED 15TH FEBRUARY, 1971, BE HEREBY APPROVED AND ADOPTED:-

RECOMMENDATION I: Northolt Park Estate: Grant of Easement to Colne Valley Water Company.

RECOMMENDATION II: Glebe Estate: "in-fill" Development.

RECOMMENDATION III: Repair and Maintenance of Council Dwellings: Annual Programme, 1970/71.

RECOMMENDATION IV: Elmgrove Estate: Conversion to Natural Gas.

RECOMMENDATION V: Delegation of matters to Chairman.

RECOMMENDATION VI: Greater London Council: Housing Nomination Agreement

RECOMMENDATION VII: Horticultural Maintenance of Housing Estates.

RECOMMENDATION VIII: Council House Rents.

Upon motion by Councillor Barry Turner,

RESOLVED: (1314)

THAT THE REPORT OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF THE HOUSING COMMITTEE HELD ON 4TH MARCH, 1971, BE RECEIVED AND, INSOFAR AS THE SAME REQUIRES CONFIRMATION AND IS NOT OTHERWISE DEALT WITH IN THESE MINUTES, BE HEREBY CONFIRMED.

Upon motion by Councillor Barry Turner,

RESOLVED: (1315)

THAT THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDATION AS CONTAINED IN THE REPORT OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF THE HOUSING COMMITTEE DATED 4TH MARCH, 1971, BE HEREBY APPROVED AND ADOPTED:-

RECOMMENDATION I: Berridge Estate (S.S.): Redevelopment Phase IA.

MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE.

Upon motion by Alderman Mote, D.L.,J.P.,G.L.C

RESOLVED: (1316)

THAT THE REPORTS OF MEETINGS OF THE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE HELD ON 22ND JANUARY AND 10TH FEBRUARY, 1971, BE RECEIVED AND, INSOFAR AS THE SAME REQUIRE CONFIRMATION AND ARE NOT OTHERWISE DEALT WITH IN THESE MINUTES, BE HEREBY CONFIRMED.

COUNCIL CL 79

Upon motion by Alderman Mote, D.L. , J.P. ,G. L.C. ,

RESOLVED: (1317)

THAT THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDATIONS AS CONTAINED IN THE REPORT OF THE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE DATED 10TH FEBRUARY, 1971, BE HEREBY APPROVED AND ADOPTED:-

RECOMMENDATION I: Borough Treasurer's Department: Computer Section: Amended and Increased Establishment.

RECOMMENDATION II: Middlesex County Council Act 1950, Section 23: Payment of Gratuities to Widows of Deceased Employees.

RECOMMENDATION III: Local Government Superannuation Act 1953: Payment of Gratuities to Retiring Employees.

RECOMMENDATION IV: Whitley Council for the Health Services (Great Britain): (a) Medical and (Hospital) Dental Council, Committee "c" (b) Dental Whitley Council (Local Authorities)

RECOMMENDATION V: Borough Engineer and Surveyor's Department; Increased Establishment.

RECOMMENDATION VI: Housing Act Advances.

RECOMMENDATION VII: Proposed Purchase of Collating Machine.

RECOMMENDATION VIII: Revised Committee Structure: Finance Sub-Committee: Proposed Change of Title and Additional Orders of Reference.

RECOMMENDATION IX: Draft Orders of Reference: Delegation of Matters to Chairmen of the Management Committee and Finance and General Sub- Committee.

RECOMMENDATION X: Designation of Borough Librarian and Deputy Borough Librarian.

Upon motion by Alderman Mote, D.L.,J.P.,G.L 0 C.,

RESOLVED: (1318)

THAT THE REPORT OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF THE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE HELD ON 4TH MARCH, 1971, BE RECEIVED AND, INSOFAR AS THE SAME REQUIRES CONFIRMATION AND IS NOT OTHERWISE DEALT WITH IN THESE MINUTES, BE HEREBY CONFIRMED.

The Chairman having moved the adoption of Recommendation I (Senior Departmental Structures: Further Proposals) Alderman Buckle moved, and Councillor Sellers seconded, an amendment for the insertion after the word "That" in the first line of the Recommendation, the words "Subject to the concurrence of the Policy and Resources Committee".

CL 80 COUNCIL

The Chairman agreed to accept the amendment and, upon substantive motion,

RESOLVED: (1319)

THAT SUBJECT TO THE CONCURRENCE OF THE POLICY AND RESOURCES COMMITTEE THE COUNCIL HEREBY APPROVE, WITH EFFECT FROM 1ST APRIL, 1971 -

(1) THE AMENDED DESIGNATIONS OF POSTS AS DETAILED IN PARAGRAPHS 2 AND 3 OF THE REPORT OF THE ESTABLISHMENT SUB-COMMITTEE OF 2ND MARCH, 1971 AND THAT COUNCIL RESOLUTIONS 1300 (IX) (RESTRUCTURING OF DEPARTMENTS AND FURTHER CONSEQUENTIAL MATTERS) AND 1304 (I) (SENIOR DEPARTMENTAL STRUCTURES: FURTHER PROPOSALS) DATED 21ST JANUARY, 1971, BE AMENDED AS NECESSARY.

(2) THE POSTS OF ASSISTANT CONTROLLER (ADMINISTRATION) IN THE COMMUNITY SERVICES, EDUCATION AND DEVELOPMENT AND TECHNICAL SERVICES DEPARTMENTS OF THE COUNCIL AND THE SALARY GRADING OF EACH POST AT P.O.2(2).

(3) SCHEDULE I ATTACHED HERETO" TO THE REPORT OF THE ESTABLISHMENT SUB-COMMITTEE OF 2ND MARCH, 1971, DETAILING NEW POSTS AND REGRADINGS.

PUBLIC WORKS AND SERVICES COMMITTEE

Upon motion by Councillor Owen Cock

RESOLVED: (1320)

THAT THE REPORTS OF MEETINGS OF THE PUBLIC WORKS AND SERVICES COMMITTEE HELD ON 22ND JANUARY AND 11TH FEBRUARY, 1971, BE RECEIVED AND, INSOFAR AS THE SAME REQUIRE CONFIRMATION AND ARE NOT OTHERWISE DEALT WITH IN THESE MINUTES, BE HEREBY CONFIRMED.

Upon motion by Councillor Owen Cock,

RESOLVED: (1321)

THAT THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDATION AS CONTAINED IN THE REPORT OF THE PUBLIC WORKS AND SERVICES COMMITTEE HELD ON 22ND JANUARY, 1971, BE APPROVED AND ADOPTED:-

RECOMMENDATION I: Appointment of Representatives on Harrow Recreation Ground Management Committee,,

Upon motion by Councillor Owen Cock,

RESOLVED: (1322)

THAT THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDATIONS AS CONTAINED IN THE REPORT OF THE PUBLIC WORKS AND SERVICES COMMITTEE DATED 11TH FEBRUARY, 1971, BE HEREBY APPROVED AND ADOPTED:-

COUNCIL CL 81

RECOMMENDATION I: Charges for Sports Facilities.

RECOMMENDATION II: Public Health Act, 1936, Section 37: Proposed extension of Public Sewer: Anmer Nursery, Stanmore.

RECOMMENDATION III: Public Health Act, 1936, Section 37: Proposed extension of Surface Water Sewer, Lower Road, Harrow.

RECOMMENDATION IV: Provision of Sign Manufacturing Equipment.

RECOMMENDATION V: Headstone Manor Recreation Ground: Tithe Barn.

RECOMMENDATION VI: Final Accounts in Respect of Capital Works: Excess Expenditure.

The Chairman thereupon sought the consent of the Council, which was given, to take back for further consideration Minute 27 (Admission of Press and Public to Meetings).

TOWN PLANNING COMMITTEE.

Upon motion by Councillor Heywood,

RESOLVED: (1323)

THAT THE REPORTS OF MEETINGS OF THE TOWN PLANNING COMMITTEE HELD ON 22ND AND 25TH JANUARY AND 17TH FEBRUARY, 1971, BE RECEIVED AND, INSOFAR AS THE SAME REQUIRE CONFIRMATION AND ARE NOT OTHERWISE DEALT WITH IN THESE MINUTES, BE HEREBY CONFIRMED,

Upon motion by Councillor Heywood,

RESOLVED: (1324)

THAT THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDATION AS CONTAINED IN THE REPORT OF THE TOWN PLANNING COMMITTEE DATED 17TH FEBRUARY, 1971, BE HEREBY APPROVED AND ADOPTED:-

RECOMMENDATION I: Delegation to Chairman.

POLICY AND RESOURCES COMMITTEE.

Upon motion by Alderman Buckle,

RESOLVED: (1325)

THAT THE REPORTS OF MEETINGS OF THE POLICY AND RESOURCES COMMITTEE HELD ON 22ND JANUARY AND 18TH FEBRUARY, 1971 BE RECEIVED AND, INSOFAR AS THE SAME REQUIRE CONFIRMATION AND ARE NOT OTHERWISE DEALT WITH IN THESE MINUTES, BE HEREBY CONFIRMED.

CL 82 COUNCIL

Upon motion by Alderman Buckle,

RESOLVED: (1326)

THAT THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDATIONS AS CONTAINED IN THE REPORT OF THE POLICY AND RESOURCES COMMITTEE DATED 18TH FEBRUARY, 1971, BE HEREBY APPROVED AND ADOPTED:-

RECOMMENDATION I: Office Floorspace.

(Note: Councillor Watson having declared an interest took no part in the discussion, withdrew from the meeting and did not vote).

RECOMMENDATION II: Industrial Floorspace,

RECOMMENDATION III: Site for Group Scout Headquarters for 4th Harrow Scouts,

The Chairman having moved the adoption of RECOMMENDATION IV: Proposed Two-form Entry First and Middle School at Central Harrow, Alderman Gange, 0,B.E,,J.P. moved an addendum, which was not seconded, that the following be added to the recommendation;

"All the families now occupying the properties affected by the Compulsory Purchase Orders will be offered accommodation by the Council,"

Whereupon it was,

RESOLVED: (1327)

THAT, TO ENABLE THE PROVISION OF A TWO-FORM ENTRY FIRST AND MIDDLE SCHOOL AT CENTRAL HARROW, THE COUNCIL HEREBY AGREE TO ACQUIRE COMPULSORILY PURSUANT TO THE POWERS AVAILABLE IN SECTION 90 OF THE EDUCATION ACT, 1944 AND THE ACQUISITION OF LAND (AUTHORISATION PROCEDURE) ACT, 1946, ALL INTERESTS IN THE FOLLOWING PROPERTIES, AS SHOWN UPON A PLAN PRODUCED BY THE BOROUGH SURVEYOR DATED 11TH MARCH, 1971 AND SIGNED BY HIM, AND THAT THE TOWN CLERK BE HEREBY AUTHORISED TO PREPARE AND SUBMIT TO THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION AND SCIENCE FOR CONFIRMATION A COMPULSORY PURCHASE ORDER:-

Property

1-10 (consecutive), Oakley Road, Harrow;98-124 (even), Welldon Crescent, Harrow;and sports ground, tennis courts and pavilion at rear.

The Chairman thereupon sought the approval of the Council, which was given, for his Vice-Chairman (Councillor Sellers) to move the adoption of Recommendation V (General Rate for the Financial Year 1971/72).

Whereupon Councillor Sellers moved the adoption of the Recommendation and Alderman Gange, O.B.E.,J.P-, moved the undermentioned amendment, which was not seconded, viz:-

COUNCIL CL 83

In the tenth line of paragraph (2) of the Recommendation substitute 71^p for 72^p, this reduction to be achieved by; -

In the estimates of the Management Committee, expenditure Code M71 (Mayoral Expenses), substitute £2000 for £2500 in respect of Sub item 60 (Allowance); and in expenditure Code M75 (Civic Expenses - General) substitute £1000 for £1500 against Sub-item 73 (Civic Hospitality). Also, reduce working balances by £119,500,

Whereupon, it was,

RESOLVED: (1328)

(1) That the General Rate Estimates for the year ending 31st March, 1972, be approved.

(2) That the General Rate Fund being insufficient for the purposes to which it is applicable by law, and the Council having made an estimate of the amount required for those purposes during the period commencing on 1st day of April, 1971, and terminating on 31st day of March, 1972, and to defray any expenditure which may fall to be defrayed before the date on which the monies to be received in respect of the next subsequent rate will become available and for the purpose of paying the sums payable during the same period to other authorities under precepts issued by them, a General Rate of seventy-two and one-half new pence in the £. on the rateable value of each hereditament as shown in the Valuation List, be and is hereby made approved and levied in respect of the period commencing on 1st day of April, 1971, and terminating on 31st day of March, 1972, payable by two half- yearly instalments, the first instalment to be due on 1st day of April, 1971, and the second instalment to be due on 1st day of October 1971.

(3) That the Town Clerk be hereby authorised to give notice of such rate, within seven days of the Council meeting at which the rate is made, by publishing such notice in one or more newspapers circulating within the Borough; and

(4) That the Common Seal of the Corporation be affixed to the Rate Charge Book for each instalment of the said rate.

Upon motion by Alderman Buckle,

RESOLVED: (1329)

THAT THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDATIONS AS CONTAINED IN THE REPORT OF THE POLICY AND RESOURCES COMMITTEE DATED 18TH FEBRUARY, 1971, BE APPROVED AND ADOPTED:-* < -, ,

RECOMMENDATION VI: Civic Centre: Council Chamber and Offices Blocks: Secondary System of Electricity Supply.

RECOMMENDATION VII: "Willerton" Bridgewater Road, Weybridge.

CL 84 COUNCIL

RECOMMENDATION VIII: Erection of 29 Warden-controlled Elderly Persons Flats at Berridge Estate.

RECOMMENDATION IX: Adult Training Centre at South Harrow IndustrialEstate.

RECOMMENDATION X: Northolt Road Redevelopment: Acquisition of Properties.

RECOMMENDATION XI: Honeypot Lane Industrial Estate.

RECOMMENDATION XII: Sale of Land adjoining 1, Grimsdyke Road, Hatch End.

RECOMMENDATION XIII: Renovation of 4 Parkfield Avenue, North Harrow.

RECOMMENDATION XIV: Road Improvement at Eastcote Lane, Northolt Park Estate.

RECOMMENDATION XV: Proposals for Expenditure.

QUESTIONS.

Questions under Standing Order 12 were asked and replies given as follows:-

(1) Pear Wood, Stanmore;

By Councillor Mrs. Rees (Mayoress) of the Chairman of the Public Works and Services Committee -

Question:

(a) Would the Committee be prepared to recommend the Council that Peartree Wood in Stanmore be immediately passed to the Borough to be used as a public open space; and

(b) That in the event of the G.L.C. not being willing to hand it over to the Borough, to insist that at least this open space which has not been opened to the public for very many years be now made available not only to people living there and around, but also to those who come out of London to enjoy the Green Belt ?

Reply:

Mr. Mayor, the Greater London Council has been giving consideration to the possibility of increasing the public access to the various Green Belt estates in its ownership. Accordingly, a provisional approach has been received from the Valuation and Estates Department of the G.L.C. for the Borough Council to accept the 999 year lease of land including Pear Wood, Stanmore. The proposal suggests that Pear Wood should be dedicated as public open space. The proposal is being investigated and will be considered by the Public Works and Services Committee in the first instance. At the moment there is no provision in the Committee's estimates for expenditure on this project.

COUNCIL CL 85

(2) 2Q9 Bus service:

By Councillor Haigh of the Chairman of the Public Works and Services Committee -

Question:

What representations, if any, have been made to London Transport by the Council with a view to reinstating the 209 'bus service through the Rayners Lane Estate, South Harrow?

Reply -by Councillor Heywood:

By arrangement with the Chairman of the Public Works and Services Committee, Mr, Mayor, may I draw the attention of Councillor Haigh to item 1043 of the Town Planning Committee's report of 17th February, where he will find the information which he requires, and I can only just add to what he will already find in the Committee report that the letter containing the suggestions was delivered to London Transport on 23rd February and a reply is awaited c I can only express the hope that their reply will be rather more prompt than their bus service.

(3) Financial support for the Arts:

By Councillor Haigh of the Chairman of the Management Committee -

Question:

What was the Council's total expenditure on the Arts during the last financial year, and whether there has been any increase in this category of expenditure during the current financial year, and to ask if figures are available as to how the Council's contribution to the Arts compare with the other London Boroughs?

Reply:

Mr. Mayor,the Council made a grant of £1750 to the Harrow Arts Council in the financial year 1970/71. They have also agreed to make a grant of £2 000 for the financial year 1971/72. In addition to this grant, clerical assistance is accorded to the Arts Council and concessionary accommodation provided at the former T.A. Centre, Whitefriars Avenue, Wealdstone for the purposes of storage: Free publicity facilities are also given in the Council's Libraries. A grant of £7,500 in the current year is also made on behalf of the London Boroughs to the Greater London Arts Association and this is of course reflected in the G.L.C. precept. In the G S L.C, precept of course is also included £900,000 per annum for public halls and entertainment in the parks, quite apart from any question of museums and other things which come into the precept under other votes No figures are directly available for other Boroughs other than three years out of date via the I.M.T.A. statistics and as there has been a lot of change in that time I don't think there is any useful point in quoting them.

CL 86 COUNCIL

(4) Development at Laundry Premises, Stuart Road, Wealdstone.

By Alderman Gange of the Chairman of the Town Planning Committee

Question:

Regarding the 12,, 000 Gallon Oil Storage Tank at Advance Laundry, Stuart Road, Wealdstone:

(a) is it correct to say that existing industrial undertakings can build up to 50 feet high without planning permission.

(b) Why onljr four persons were notified of plans being presented in this case in view of the objections to plans recently for a taller chimney and boiler at this plant,

(c) Are yoiiBQw aware of the disquiet and sense of insecurity felt amongst the people living in the vicinity with this tank constructed 6 feet from the boundary fences of the surrounding properties ?

Reply:

In the first place it is not correct to say that industrial undertakings can build up to 50 feet high without planning permission. All industrial developments require planning permission subject only to such extensions as are specified in the General Development Order of 1963 This Order permits industrial development without express planning permission where it involves the installation by way of addition or replacement plant or machinery not exceeding 50 feet in height or the height of the plant or machinery replaced, whichever is the greater, provided (inter alia) there is no material affect on the external appearance of the premises of the undertaking, I think everybody will agree that in this particular case there is a material affect on the external appearance of this undertaking.

Secondly it was not four but seven people who were notified with hand delivery as long ago as the 12th of last February, to the properties numbered 20 to 32 on the even side of Talbot Road backing onto the site. As the planning application stood submitted these were the people who were mainly affected by this development. Naturally, I am well aware of the feelings of the people living in the area near this Laundry. In this case, however, the contents of the oil tank are not volatile and present no danger. As far as the visual amenities of the residents are concerned the owners of the laundry have confirmed their intention to plant evergreen trees 9 to 10 feet high along their northern boundary thus effectively screening the tank from the rear gardens of the adjoining residential properties . The boundary of the laundry does not directly abut these residential properties, being separated by a narrow right-of-way and the tank would in no case be nearer than 17 feet and not 6 feet from the boundary of any one property and in most cases is at a greater distance, and in any event, I would like to say for the benefit of the Council and members of the public that the actual planning application has not yet been dealt with by my Committee, so that what I have said about the proposals of the Laundry have been received ir advance but are not necessarily a result of our deliberations,

COUNCIL CL87

Supplementary Question

The Chairman did refer to the possibility of screening by trees. Would the Chairman agree that the present trees nearabouts are in a very, very poor condition and one could hope that the screening would not be like the surrounding trees on the property, I know the Chairman has seen it?

Reply:

I am delighted to give you the assurance that the proprietors of the Laundry have already indicated that they would be willing to provide a screen of freshly planted trees no less than 10 feet in height which would be higher than the tank itself, as from the moment they go in. But whether or not this proposal will necessarily stand as it is submitted, of course, I cannot prejudge until next Monday.

(5) The Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act, 1970;

By Alderman Gange of the Chairman of the Social Services Committee.

Question:

(a) What steps have been taken, in pursuance of section 1, to compile a list of persons who may be expected to receive some benefit under the Act, if steps have been taken how many are on the list,

(b) What steps have been taken by the various Committees affected,

(c) How many persons have received benefit as a result of the Act since it was passed nearly a year ago?

Reply:

Mr. Mayor, if I take the questions in the sections as Alderman Gange has given them I think he will have a clearer explanation.

(a) the initial list of handicapped persons is already in existence compiled under the powers available in Section 29 of the National Assistance Act, 1948, This is being used as a basis for a new Register of persons who may be expected to receive some benefit under the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act of 1970. To this list will be added details of chronically sick persons identified when section 1 of the new Act is put into operation by the Secretary of State in accordance with the advice which he has promised on the methods to be used. At present the sources of referral are mainly cJeneral Practitioners, hospital departments, social workers, local ministry offices and relatives. The register of handicapped includes 1,090 persons.

CL 88 COUNCIL

(b) The Social Services Committee already exercise the permissive powers granted under section 29 of the National Assistance Act, 1948 now made mandatory by the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act of 1970- My Committee will be considering, at their next meeting, the establishment of policy guide lines under Section 2 with regard to the provision of extra items such as telephones, televisions, radios etc As regards aciion taken by other Committees I hope that the various Chairmen concerned will not object if, on their behalf and for convenience of reply, I briefly mention that I know that they are fully alive to the duties and responsibilities placed upon their Committees by the new legislation. Already the Housing Committee have arranged for lifts to be installed in the development of warden-controlled accommodation on the Berridge Estate, for the convenience of handicapped persons. The Town Planning Committee make a special point of ensuring that facilities are afforded for the easy access and movement of handicapped persons in all new public buildings and buildings frequently used by the public, such as new shops, Special attention is given to this aspect in relation to all new buildings for which the Council are responsible - this Committee's new residential home for Stanmore being one such example- The Council would perhaps wish to know that the Central Council for the Disabled, in association with the Royal Institute of British Architects, offered an award "Building for the Disabled in 1970" - the first of its kind in the world; and the Gayton Library was one of the ten nationally selected projects, A sum has been provided in the revenue estimates to cover the cost of making access to public conveniences easier for the disabled, Thought has already been given to the modification of conveniences at certain recreation Grounds and to the provision of notices or signs to be displayed indicating where facilities are available; and the issue of car badges for designated vehicles for disabled persons will be organised,

(c) A total of 138 handicapped persons who came to our notice since the Act was passed have received benefit.

(6) Civic Precedence - Processing:

By Councillor Mrs, Rees (Mayoress) of the Chairman of the Management Committee -

Question:

(a) Will the Chairman please inform the Council as to what precedence is to be given to those Members of the Council who have broken service,

and

(b) If the answer to the above is as to their first year of service irrespective of total time, will he ask his Committee to reconsider this matter?

Reply:

When, at the Council meeting on the 21st January, 1971, the former Chairman of the General Purposes and Policy Committee said that he was prepared to have this matter taken back for further discussion it was not envisaged that any reconsideration would include the question of Members of the Council who have broken service

COUNCIL CL 89

I am therefore of the opinion that the decision of the formal General Purposes and Policy Committee of 6th January, 1971 as contained in resolution 1334 (Order of Precedence for Civic Occasions: Processing) still stands. It is that: bearing in mind breaks in service which have occured in the past, seniority should be ascertained by reference to the total number of years of service, and not by the date of first election to the Council. In view of this no answer is necessary to (b) .

(7) Possible acquisition of 57. Drake Road, South Harrow:

By Councillor Cocksedge of the Chairman of the Education Committee.

Question:

Regarding the possible siting of a new school at Newton FarmWest, will the Chairman of the Education Committee confirm that, in the event of the owner of No. 57, Drake Road refusing to negotiate the sale of his property to the Council an approach having already been made for this purpose, the Council will not seek compulsory purchase powers to force such a sale ?

Reply:

A site in the Newton Farm area is being sought, but no decision has yet been made and it would be wrong for me to seek to bind the Council as to whether it should, or should not, use its statutory powers in hypothetical cases.

Supplementary question:

This is not a hypothetical case but a specific case where an approach to purchase has been made and subsequent to this question having been tabled I understand that a refusal has been received.

Note: The Mayor ruled that the above was not a supplementary question but a statement - Councillor Cocksedge rephrased his statement in the form of a question, viz:

That in fact since the situation has arisen and the matter is no longer hypothetical, would the Chairman make a positive answer to a positive question ?

Reply:

Mr. Mayor, I have nothing further to add.

(8) Proposed compulsory acquisition of properties in Oakley Road and Welldon Crescent,

By Councillor Mrs. Keen of the Chairman of the Policy and Resources Committee.

Question:

Concerning the Compulsory acquisition of a new School site in central Harrow notwithstanding what was said earlier, is the Chairman entirely satisfied that no other'site is available in central Harrow which would involve disturbance to fewer householders; will other homes be offered to residents, 'and suitable recreation space to "Heathfield School", and will a public inquiry be held ?

CL 90 COUNCIL

Reply:

Mr, Mayor, before submitting their recommendation my Committee and indeed other Committees looked most carefully at alternative sites before arriving at the decision recommended to the Council and also had regard to the number of houses disturbed in coming to this conclusion. Proper compensation will be paid to both the householders and the owners of the tennis courts, and not necessarily alternative accommodation, A public inquiry will be held if the responsible Minister so decides.

Supplementary question

Am I to understand that there will be no effect on the housing lists as at present?

Reply:

I think Mrs. Keen is correct in that assumption.

(9) Reorganisation of Local Government;

By Alderman Mote of the Chairman of the Policy and Resources Committee.

Question:

In view of the current re-organisation of Local Government will the Chairman of the Policy and Resources Committee as Leader of the Council take such action as may be necessary prior to the 24th March to indicate to the Secretary of State for the Environment any observations this Council might wish to make?

Reply;

Mr, Mayor, I have in my possession a copy of the White Paper, also a copy of a letter which the Town Clerk received from the Association of Municipal Corporations asking for observations on certain aspects of this matter, I am proposing, in consultation with the Town Clerk, to make observations to the A.M.C. and I can see no reason - in fact I give an undertaking that we shall also make some observations to the Secretary of State,

CLOSE OF MEETING

All business having been completed, the Mayor declared the meeting closed at 9-35 p,m.