Agenda item

a) The Panel are to receive the Overview and Scrutiny Work Programme and the notices of Key Executive decisions 1st July 2026 to 31st October 2026

b) Members to discuss future planning of items for the Work Programme

With the aid of a report by the Democratic Services Officer (Scrutiny) (a copy of which is appended in the Minute Book) the Overview and Scrutiny Work Programme was presented to the Panel.

Democratic Services reiterated the importance of the scoping process to the Panel and confirmed that the scoping documents had been circulated to the relevant Members. It was noted that the documents would be recirculated to the full Panel following the meeting.

Councillors Ascroft, Ferguson, Ioannides and Martin volunteered to serve on the working group established to review Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).

The Panel requested that an update on Civil Parking Enforcement be included on the work programme rather than being provided solely as an All-Member briefing. Members were advised that the matter had not been overlooked, but that it would first be considered through an All-Member Briefing. It was further noted that, should the Panel consider additional scrutiny necessary thereafter, a scoping document would be prepared.

Councillor Tomlinson proposed that Civil Parking Enforcement be added to the Panel's work programme.

Councillor Martin seconded the proposal and suggested that the matter be brought before the Panel once the first year of operation had been completed. In support of the proposal, it was noted that procurement concerned the Council's compliance with its own rules and procedures, and that the Panel should maintain oversight of this area.

Councillor Ioannides proposed an amendment to the proffered motion. He proposed the addition of prioritising Places for People, Commercial Investment Portfolio and the Civil Parking Enforcement / parking strategy onto the Work Programme.

The Panel hears the new Recommendation proposed by Councillor Tomlinson and a vote is called. 6 Members are For, 0 Against and 5 Abstainers.

Following the discussion, it was agreed:

That this Panel confirms its previous agreement that the Annual review of Civil Parking Enforcement performance be brought as a formal agenda item to this Panel and requests the DSO to confirm a date for that item- noting that any All-Member briefings in advance are welcome but does not substitute for a formal Panel meeting on the subject.

Councillor Ioannides moved again for prioritising Places for People, Commercial Investment Portfolio and the Civil Parking Enforcement / parking strategy onto the Work Programme.

The Panel were reminded of the scrutiny training previously undertaken and, in particular, the importance of completing a scoping document for all topics proposed for scrutiny. It was advised that scoping documents help to clearly define the purpose, scope and desired outcomes of a review, ensuring that scrutiny resources are focused on matters within the Panel’s remit and that any subsequent work is evidence-based, proportionate and achievable.

The Panel were advised of the importance of engaging with Places for People as a key partner of the Council. Officers confirmed that discussions were underway to bring the matter to a future meeting agenda, with consideration being given to ensuring the focus and scope of the discussion were appropriate and constructive.

Councillor Tobias seconded the motion and a vote was called.

The Panel hears the new Recommendation and a vote is called. 6 Members are For, 0 Against and 5 Abstainers.

Following the discussion, it was agreed:

That Places for People, Commercial Investment Portfolio and the Civil Parking Enforcement / parking strategy be prioritised and added onto the Work Programme.

The Chair reminded Members to complete the scoping documents

The Panel requested that, although One Leisure falls within the remit of the other Overview and Scrutiny Panel, regular updates be provided from the Shadow Board on the use of funding and related expenditure to enable oversight of matters of wider Council interest.