Issue - meetings

Report of GM Mayor, Andy Burnham.

Julie Connor, Assistant Director Governance & Scrutiny, GMCA introduced the item.  It was stated that the 2 year Implementation Plan was agreed in April 2018, and outlines the targets and ambitions to be achieved by the Combined Authority by 2020 with a RAG rating on progress.  It was noted that this went to all 3 GM Scrutiny Committees with each asked each to focus on the areas they cover.

Anne Morgan Head of Planning Strategy and Steve Fyfe,Head of Housing Strategy, GMCA were introduced to the Committee to cover housing and planning strategy, Steve Warrener, Finance and Corporate Services Director TfGM to cover any transport queries. MARK Atherton, Assistant Director for Environment, GMCA to attend the next meeting of this Scrutiny to cover items relating to the GM Green Agenda.

A Member commented on Priority 5 – Connectivity, specifically asking around the dashboard supporting indicators that indicate that 55.3% of short journeys under 2km are made by walking or cycling in 2015-17.  It was felt that this figure may be inaccurate as it was thought that there is a greater proportion who conduct this journey by car.

It was clarified that these numbers need to be checked with information provided on where/how they were sourced. This to then be fed back to this Scrutiny at a later date.

The question was also asked if work is underway to secure more funding for the Challenge fund with the understanding that the vast majority of the money first secured now being allocated.

It was clarified that the Made to Move strategy highlighted a figure of around £1.6 billion required to fund.  TfGM have worked with districts to bring forward proposals and schemes thorough 5 tranches. All of the schemes across the GM districts have been reviewed to check accuracy and see if other funding methods are available. This can then identify schemes for the allocated £160 million and create a substitute list of other schemes that are ready and require funding.  It was highlighted that GM is lobbying Government for funding via a few channels, such as via the Bee Network from the Walking Cycling Commissioner Chris Boardman, The Our Network vision and also likely though the Comprehensive Spending Review.  It was stated that if Members wish, TfGM can bring more detailed updates on specifics at future meetings, with regular reporting going through to leaders of the Combined Authority bi-monthly.

A Member asked for clarity on the amber rating for Housing Provision with the specific question as to what does ‘influencing infrastructure providers’ actually means.

It was clarified that infrastructure had been a focus in GM over the last 12 months with concerted activity to deal with a range of challenging issues. This lead to the establishment of the Infrastructure Board which is attended by infrastructure providers, and offers an ability to work more closely with them on their investment programmes so these are aligned with plans for growth or areas where infrastructure is under pressure.

There are also plans to produce  ...  view the full minutes text for item 166