Agenda item

The Overview and Scrutiny panel (Performance & Growth) is invited to consider and comment on progress and performance during Quarter 3 sssssas summarised in the Corporate Performance Report attached and detailed in Appendices A, B, C and D.

Executive Councillor: S Ferguson

By means of a report by the Business Intelligence and Performance Manager (a copy of which was appended in the Minute Book), the Corporate Performance 2025/26 Quarter 3 Report was presented to the Panel.

Further clarification was sought regarding the issues being experienced on Highways works and wondered if it was a coincidence that 3 sites had been affected.

The Panel were informed that Cambridgeshire County Council holds responsibility for the Section 278 Highways Agreement and therefore has authority to restrict when the developer may undertake works. Officers confirmed that the Council remains in regular dialogue with the developer, noting that it is in all parties’ interests for the units to be delivered, marketed, and made available to residents as soon as possible. It was further reported that the three sites concerned fall within the same circumstances, and discussions have taken place with the County Council to explore whether any flexibility can be provided regarding the timing of works.

Satisfaction was expressed with the progress of the Disability Grant but disappointment was noted regarding the ongoing delays.

Concerns were raised regarding the Waste Performance Indicators, noting that achieving the target for PI19 may negatively impact the figures for PI20. It was further suggested that including tonnage per bin would provide useful contextual information.

This was noted as a welcome suggestion and something that the Team would like to take on board in the future.

Councillor Chapman requested his thanks be passed onto the Housing Department for their work with a resident in his ward. He went on to highlight concerns regarding homelessness and stated that data on the number of rough sleepers would provide a clearer understanding of the full extent of homelessness within the District.

It was noted that an annual count of rough sleepers is undertaken one night each year in November; however, it was acknowledged that this method does not provide an accurate reflection of the actual number of individuals sleeping rough. It was agreed that obtaining more comprehensive data would be beneficial.

Following a query regarding the use of stretch targets, the Panel was informed that stretch targets have historically played an important role in setting performance expectations. It was noted that, while such targets can drive improved performance, overly challenging targets may have a demoralising effect. The importance of establishing achievable and realistic targets was therefore emphasised.

Clarification was sought on whether the fly?tipping figures included waste discarded from vehicles on the motorway and asked if this could be incorporated, noting that such waste detracts from the appearance of the District. It was emphasised that litter picking along the highway is a dangerous task and congratulated the people who carry out the work.

The Panel heard that this is not classed as Fly tipping but acknowledged that the problem appears to be getting worse again and is difficult to stay on top of.

The Committee welcomed the improved presentation of the reports, noting that they were now easier for the Panel to consider. Support was shown with the earlier observation that, although many Indicators are marked green, the report does not fully reflect all activity within the Organisation. It was suggested that providing additional information on the Amber and Red Indicators would aid understanding of the Council’s overall position.

The Panel were thanked for their feedback on these reports.

Action 29 of the Progress Report was raised, the Panel seeking clarification on how performance could be improved, noting that no supporting metrics were provided in the report.

The Panel was informed that the Local Plan would be central to achieving this objective. Members were advised that the action comprised two key elements: firstly, the development of the guidance, and secondly, its subsequent implementation. It was noted that the guidance had now been produced and the rollout phase was underway. Officers expressed the expectation that, over time, this would support the delivery of higher?quality housing.

Following the discussion, it was

RESOLVED

that the comments of the Overview and Scrutiny Panel be passed to Cabinet for their consideration when making a decision upon the recommendations within the report.