Ysgolion, lleoedd ysgol ac adeiladau, anghenion dysgu ychwanegol ac addysg cyfrwng Cymraeg.
Beth mae cynghorau'n ei wneud
Mae cynghorau'n rhedeg ysgolion cymunedol, yn ariannu pob ysgol wladol, yn darparu cludiant i'r ysgol ac yn cefnogi disgyblion ag anghenion dysgu ychwanegol. Maen nhw'n cynllunio lleoedd ysgol, gan gynnwys lleoedd cyfrwng Cymraeg o dan gynllun deng mlynedd.
Pwy sy'n penderfynu
Mae'r Cabinet yn penderfynu ar newidiadau i ysgolion, fel agor, cau neu uno ysgolion, ar ôl ymgynghoriad ffurfiol. Penaethiaid a chyrff llywodraethu sy'n rhedeg pob ysgol o ddydd i ddydd.
Dweud eich dweud
Rhaid ymgynghori ar gynigion i newid ysgol, a gall unrhyw un ymateb. Gall rhieni hefyd ddod yn llywodraethwyr ysgol.
Mewn rhifau
Mae cynghorau Cymru yn bwriadu gwario £1,307 y pen ar hyn yn 2026-27.
Mae'n amrywio o £1,099 yn Sir Fynwy i £1,475 yn Merthyr Tudful.
Disgyblion Blwyddyn 1 a addysgir yn Gymraeg: 25% ar draws Cymru (2025-26).
RESOLVED – That the Council be recommended to approve the recommendations of the Panel to appoint the following persons to current Local Authority Governing Body vacancies as follows:
School
Ward
Start of Vacancy
Applicant
Baden Powell Primary School
Splott
17/06/24
23/09/24
Kevin Jacobs
Jamie Emerson
Bryn Deri Primary School
Radyr & Morganstown
18/09/24
Natalie Grimwards
Christ the King RC Primary School
Llanishen
02/09/24
Edward Williams
Danescourt Primary School
Llandaff
08/02/24
Mark Vaughan
Ely and Caerau Childrens Centre
Ely
09/05/27
Alexandra Powell
Hywel Dda Primary School
Ely
24/07/24
Simon Rees
Meadowbank Primary School
Llandaff North
25/09/24
Laura Hrastelj
Meadowlane Primary School
Trowbridge
03/07/24
Ceri Jones
Rhydypenau Primary School
Cyncoed
13/09/23
Hamida Mitha
St Joesph’s RC Primarty School
Gabalfa
14/09/23
Jenny Cater
Ysgol Gymraeg Nant Caerau
Caerau
13/09/23
Hayley Rowe
Ysgol Gynradd Gwaelod Y Garth Primary School
Pentyrch & St Fagans
24/06/24
Meurig Jones
The Committee received and considered applications to future vacancies against criteria, matching skills to vacancies. RESOLVED – That the Council be recommended to approve the recommendations of the Panel to appoint the following:
School
Ward
Start of Vacancy
Re-Appointment
New Applicant
Cantonian High Schol
Fairwater
29/01/25
Ruth Jackson
Lansdowne Primary School
Canton
25/02/25
Ramesh Patel
Ninian Park Primary School
Grangetown
25/02/25
Ivor Gittens
Radyr Primary School
Radyr & Morganstown
27/01/25
Jane Griffiths
Rhydypenau Primary School
Cyncoed
27/01/25
Siân Evans
St Peter’s RC Primary School
Plasnewydd
01/12/24
Sophie Hayde
Moorland Primary School
Splott
28/01/25
Cllr Ed Stubbs
Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Plasmawr
Fairwater
29/01/25
Caroline Cooksley
RESOLVED: That the Chairperson writes to the Cabinet Member on behalf of the Committee expressing their comments and observations captured during the way forward.
RESOLVED – That the following matters be dealt with as indicated:
(1)
Application 1
The Sub Committee was asked to determine if a driver remained a fit and proper person to continue to hold a Hackney Carriage/Private Hire Driver’s Licence given that a complaint had been received stating that the driver refused to take a passenger on a pre-booked fare and became abusive and threatening.
The driver was not in attendance at the meeting.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the witness recounted that he had called Veezu and booked a journey that involved several stops on the way back to his home. The driver called him a few minutes before the pickup time and asked where he was, apparently unaware that the pickup time had been arranged for a few minutes later. The driver shouted that he couldn’t wait.
After he got into the vehicle, the driver refused to take him to the agreed stops on the way back home. He asked if he could speak to the dispatcher, in response to which the driver raised his voice again. At one point when the vehicle was stationary, the driver opened the passenger side door and stood in his way while shouting at him. A passer-by had to come over to the car to calm the driver down. The taxi company apologised and sent another driver to complete the journey.
The witness explained that this had been a distressing experience which he found it hard to relive, and he had trouble sleeping afterwards. He wished he had called the police at the time but had been too scared. He felt that the driver should not be driving if he was not capable of doing his job without being aggressive on several occasions, escalating each time, and he was concerned about what could happen to his next customer if there was nobody there to intervene.
RESOLVED – that the Hackney Carriage/Private Hire Driver’s Licence be suspended for 3 weeks, and that the driver be required to undertake the relevant SQA qualification within three months.
(2)
Application 2
The Sub Committee was asked to consider an application in principle for the Grant of a Hackney Carriage/Private Hire Driver’s Licence given that the applicant had a relevant conviction to consider.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the driver explained that he had two convictions, the first for the possession of false identity documents and the second for a money laundering offence. He made no excuse for what had happened in the past and had been working full-time since getting out of prison. He used to be a security driver and had got his SIA licence back this year.
Responding to questions from the Sub Committee, the driver confirmed that he had also applied for licences from Newport and Wolverhampton councils, and both had been refused.
Responding to questions from the Sub Committee, the driver explained that he worked as a delivery driver for Dominos and Amazon in addition to security driving. He wanted to be a taxi driver because his partner was a carer and he wanted to be able to be more flexible so he could look after their child.
RESOLVED – that the application for the Grant of a Hackney Carriage/Private Hire Driver’s Licence be refused.
(3)
Application 3
The Sub Committee was asked to consider an application in principle for the grant of a Private Hire Operator’s Licence given that the applicant previously held a Hackney Carriage/Private Hire Driver’s Licence with Cardiff Council that was subsequently revoked.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the driver emphasised that what happened in 2015 was not reflective of him. He had learned a lesson and not made any mistakes like that since, and he hoped to get a second chance.
Members queried the circumstances of the revocation of his previous licence for fraud, and heard that he had been contracted to do a school run. He had given jobs to his colleagues to complete, and several of the drivers did not complete these jobs, without his knowledge. As the person in charge, he accepted responsibility and felt he had served his punishment over the last eight years, and assured the committee it would never happen again. The Legal Officer clarified that school run operators were not permitted to subcontract.
RESOLVED – that the application for the grant of a Private Hire Operator’s Licence be refused.
(4)
Application 4
The Sub Committee was asked to determine if a driver remained a fit and proper person to continue to hold a Hackney Carriage/Private Hire Driver’s Licence following a complaint received alleging that he deliberately refused to take a fare that involved carrying a guide dog.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the driver stated that he had been on the way to pick up the passenger when his car cut out at some lights. He had been having issues with it for several weeks but hadn’t mentioned it to the operator because he needed the work. He thought he had sent the job back but then realised that he hadn’t. He cancelled the trip but then his car started again, and he drove past the passenger who was stood behind some parked cars, not seeing his dog.
The driver acknowledged that he told Veezu he was no longer in the area, which was not true. He suggested that he panicked because he didn’t want them to stop him driving, and because he needed the money and knew the car would cost a lot to fix. He apologised for the inconvenience caused to the customer, and emphasised that he had picked up hundreds of disabled passengers over the years and never had a complaint. As a result of the incident, he had lost his job with Veezu.
The Sub Committee asked for more details about his car and heard that it had cut out before, but not for a couple of days leading up to the incident. Members noted that the driver log showed he had accepted another job just a few minutes after breaking down, and queried how the car could have been unfit to take a passenger one moment and fine the next.
The witness addressed the Sub Committee, explaining that he had used Veezu to book a trip to the hospital. He was following the job on the mobile app so he knew when the car was approaching, despite being visually impaired. He recalled the car slowing down as it passed him, then it went towards the far end of the estate and the job disappeared on the app. The same driver reappeared on the map shortly after and then disappeared again. A few minutes later, he was able to find another Veezu driver to take him to the hospital, but was late for his appointment.
Members queried whether the original driver communicated with him at any point to explain the situation, and heard that he had not.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the representative from Veezu stressed that he had not taken an opinion in his representation, and had provided driver logs, call logs and GPS tracking which had been agreed as accurate by all parties. All bookings undertaken were logged in their system, and he could not recall any other specific instances of fares being cancelled for similar reasons so close to the pickup time. To his knowledge, there were no previous complaints of this nature against the driver.
Members asked what happened when a Veezu driver declined a job close to the pickup time, and heard that when jobs came up, nearby drivers had a period of flexibility where they could accept, decline or return to base at their discretion. In this case, because the driver had travelled to the booking after accepting it, he was required to call the operator and explain why he had returned to base outside of that time period.
RESOLVED – that the Hackney Carriage/Private Hire Driver’s Licence be suspended for 3 weeks.
(5)
Application 5
This item was deferred to the next meeting.
(6)
Application 6
The Sub Committee was asked to determine if a driver remained a fit and proper person to continue to hold a Private Hire Driver’s Licence given that a complaint had been received stating that the driver allowed his licensed vehicle to be driven by unlicensed drivers on three occasions, each resulting in a speeding offence. It also stated that the driver was the only person insured to drive the vehicle.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the driver stated that on three occasions after being caught speeding, he had asked someone to help him fill out the DVLA documents because his English was not very good, before signing them himself. He found out later that this person had filled in false names, and on the fourth occasion he was caught speeding he filled out the form himself. He had not committed any offences other than these four. He hoped that the committee could take into account that he was supporting his family and had recently lost his father.
The Sub Committee noted that getting someone else to fill out these forms was considered fraud regardless of whether the driver signed them before or after the false information was added. The driver confirmed that he understood it was his responsibility to make sure it was correct when he signed it.
The witness, representing South Wales Police, reiterated that the forms made very clear that they were only to be filled in by the person in question. They noted that on the fourth occasion the driver was able to fill in the form himself, and that he lived within walking distance of a police station, where he could have gone to request assistance if he was having any trouble.
Members asked what would have happened if the driver had declared his speeding offences in the proper way. The witness explained that the first offence would have led to a speed awareness course, before the next three would have been 3 points each. This meant a total of 9 points, which would now be 6 with 3 having expired.
RESOLVED – that the Private Hire Driver’s Licence be revoked.
(7)
Application 6
The Sub Committee was asked to determine if a driver remained a fit and proper person to continue to hold a Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Driver’s Licence following a complaint alleging that he charged and obtained more than the legal fare and failed to provide a proper receipt on request.
The driver’s representative addressed the Sub Committee, acknowledging that the facts presented in the witness statement were accurate. He felt that the evidence provided showed it was indefensible and apologised to the witness and the committee He highlighted the driver’s personal life, noting that he was a doctor and a family man who had switched professions because his wife was disabled.
The driver’s representative added that he had trained the driver personally under the old BTEC system and felt responsible for not having got the message across about the importance of taxi drivers’ conduct. He suggested that education would be more appropriate than prosecution, and that this could be an opportunity to retrain the driver rather than just revoke his licence. He driver had admitted his mistake and acknowledged his guilt, and was willing to do the new SQA qualification which had more of a focus on mobility and disability issues.
The driver echoed his representative’s statement and apologised to the witness.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the witness thanked the driver for his apology. He added that earlier on the day in question, he had had similar issues with another taxi, which was why he did not challenge the fare in this case even though he knew he had been overcharged. He hadn’t used a taxi since this incident and it would take a long time before he felt comfortable using one again, which had a debilitating impact on his independence.
RESOLVED – that the Hackney Carriage/Private Hire Driver’s Licence be suspended for 3 weeks.
RESOLVED: that
(a) it be noted that Cantonian High School is currently located within temporary accommodation and therefore it is important to bring forward the Fairwater Campus as a matter of urgency.
(b) all of the options as outlined in Confidential Annex 1, Appendix 1 be considered and agree to proceed with Option 7 to:
i) Novate the existing ISG contracts to a supply chain partner, as set out in Confidential Annex 1, Appendix 6 to enable urgent works to continue on site for a limited period of time and with limited scope whilst a tender is undertaken for the remaining works of Fairwater Campus.
ii) Commence the process for a tender exercise for the remaining works with immediate effect to complete Fairwater Campus with the least possible disruption.
(c) Subject to finalisation of and entry into the various agreements, it be agreed that the urgent option to proceed with, novating the existing ISG Construction Ltd contracts to a supply chain partner, with the intention for it to be for a limited timeframe and scope.
(d) Subject to agreeing (b) and (c) above, the ISG Construction Ltd enabling and main works contracts be terminated as outlined in Confidential Annex 1 & Appendix 2.
(e) authority be delegated to the Director for Education and Lifelong Learning in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Education and Cabinet Member for Finance, Chief Executive, Director for Economic Development, Section 151 Officer and Monitoring Officer to:
i) agree an alternative option in the event that the novation of ISG Construction Ltd contracts fails to proceed with an existing supply chain partner and
ii) to determine and agree all aspects of the procurement process and the tender and appointment for a main contractor for the remaining works to complete Fairwater campus (Confidential Annex 1, Appendix 1 - Option 7) (including for the avoidance of doubt development of all procurement documentation and selection and award criteria, commencement of procurement through to award of contracts) and all ancillary matters (including but not limited to agreement of ancillary documents).
(f) subject to any final legal and financial advice, that the Council enters into the agreements necessary to implement the recommended urgent option including but not limited to any agreement with the administrator, contractor and sub-contractors.
(g) the Single Impact Assessment outlined in Annex 2 be noted.
RESOLVED: Council AGREED:
1.
To approve the new appointments of Local Authority governors to the school governing bodies as set out in Appendix 1, each for a term of 4 years from the date of the appointment, in accordance with the recommendations of the Local Authority Governor Panel.
RESOLVED – That the Council be recommended to approve the recommendations of the Panel to appoint the following persons to current Local Authority Governing Body vacancies as follows:
School
Ward
Start of Vacancy
Applicant
Cardiff West Community High School
Caerau
08/07/2024
Kate Berrisford
Gabalfa Primary School
Llandaff North
05/01/2024
Carolyn Mason
Llanedeyrn Primary School
Pentwyn
31/07/2024
Folabomi Lewis
Marlborough Primary School
Penylan
22/05/2024
Martin Pereira
Mary Immaculate High School
Caerau
04/11/2023
Donna Hoffman
Severn Primary School
Riverside
25/07/2024
Eira Jenkins
Ton-Yr-Ywen Primary School
Heat
09/01/2024
Eleanor Lancaster
Windsor Clive Primary School
Ely
22/03/2024
Sara Nur
Ysgol Gymraeg Coed-Y-Gof
Fairwater
30/06/2024
Meinir Howells
Ysgol Gymraeg Pwll Coch
Canton
17/09/2024
James Eul
Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Hamadryad
Butetowb
06/10/2023
David Hann
The Committee received and considered applications to future vacancies against criteria, matching skills to vacancies.
RESOLVED – That the Council be recommended to approve the recommendations of the Panel to appoint the following:
School
Ward
Start of Vacancy
Re-appointment
New Applicant
Christ the King RC Primary School
Llanishen
Michael Hamblin
Herbert Thompson Primary School
Ely
Louise Lynn
Meadownbank School
Llandaff North
14/09/2024
Gareth Newell
Thornhill Primary School
Lisvane & Thornhill
27/11/2024
Stephen O’Brien
Willowbrook Primary School
Trowbridge
27/11/2024
27/11/2024
Simon Dooley
Julia Watkins
Ysgol Pencae
Llandaff
27/11/2024
RESOLVED: That the Chairperson writes to the Cabinet Member on behalf of the Committee expressing their comments and observations captured during the way forward.
RESOLVED: that the Committee:
1. Note the contents of Appendix A and agree any amendments required to the draft work programme;
2. Note the update from the SOP T&F Group, set out in paragraphs 18-22 and agree any amendments required;
3. Formally agree to commence the ALN Inquiry and EOTAS T&F Groups, as set out in paragraphs 23 - 27 above, and agree any amendments required.
RESOLVED: that the Committee:
1. Note the correspondence update arising from recent scrutiny meetings;
2. Agree whether to implement the correspondence tracker proposal;
3. Note the links to relevant papers from other Council Committees and raise any issues arising from them;
4. Note the links to recent Inspection Reports from Care Inspectorate Wales and Estyn and raise any issues arising from them.
RESOLVED – That the following matters be dealt with as indicated:
(1)
Application 1
The Sub Committee was asked to determine if a driver remained a fit and proper person to continue to hold a Hackney Carriage/Private Hire Driver’s Licence given that a complaint had been received which stated that he became threatening and angry when challenged in respect of the metered fare being charged, and failed to provide his driver identification when requested.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the driver stated that he was at the taxi rank by the castle when a passenger approached him and asked to be taken home. He asked if she had a preferred route and proceeded with the journey, and as they were about to go over the Fairoak roundabout she queried the reading on the meter. She said he was ripping her off but he explained it was the normal meter price and she could take it up with the council if she wanted.
The passenger asked him to stop so she could get out and refused to pay the fare. He saw another cab coming and waved him down to explain the situation. The passenger asked for his ID and he said she could take a picture of his plate number. He recorded a video on his phone but had lost it while backing up his device recently.
Members queried why he had refused to show identification to the passenger when she requested it. The driver suggested that she had been aggressive to him, and he didn’t want to leave his seat. He had reached behind instead to get his papers from the back seat because this included the meter certificate which showed it was functioning correctly.
The Sub Committee explored the discrepancy between the fare requested and what the witness normally expected to pay. The driver didn’t know why exactly it was higher than normal, as every meter was the same. He recalled that when she got out of the cab, he said she could just give him what she had, not necessarily the whole fare.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the witness reiterated the details in her statement, a number of which contradicted the driver’s account. She suggested that the driver had not asked her about her preferred route, but she had asked to avoid Newport Road because it often took longer. As they stopped at the lights on Lake Road East, she noticed that the fare was higher than usual. She got taxis home a lot, frequently after midnight, and the fare was normally around £16. When she challenged this, the driver said that the council set the rates but clearly didn’t want to talk about it any further.
She added that when the driver reached into the back of the car she thought he was grabbing at her, which was distressing. He got out the meter certificate but she realised the meter was still running and by then had reached £21.70. She said she wouldn’t pay anything until he provided his name and badge number so she could make a complaint. She tried to get out of the vehicle to take a picture of the plate number but he locked the doors, and at one point claimed he didn’t know his registration number.
The driver then flagged down another taxi driver who spoke to both of them. The second driver agreed that the fare was higher than expected and suggested that she pay it before taking it up with the council. The driver had been aggressive and rude throughout, and she felt scared and unsafe.
Members discussed the witness’ account and asked whether she accepted the explanation that the doors locking could have been an automatic feature. She explained that she asked the driver to unlock the door but he didn’t. It was only when the second driver came back that the door was unlocked.
In response to questions from the driver’s representative, the witness stated that she couldn’t recall the starting amount on the meter when she got in the taxi. It was only when they got to the lake that she realised the fare was higher than normal. The Licensing Officer added that the council had retrospectively calculated a reasonable fare for the trip at the night-time rate to be about £17, though it might have been higher due to the bank holiday.
The driver’s representative asked whether the witness accepted that meters were checked by authorised council officials and could not be tampered with by the drivers. The witness did not agree, and suspected that it was either set to a higher rate or was already running when she got into the vehicle.
The driver’s representative suggested that the incident could be seen as a misunderstanding. The driver was just doing his job in getting her home, starting and stopping the meter accordingly, and it was not right that he was challenged about what he was required to charge. The driver then flagged down a third party to help defuse the situation.
The witness acknowledged the points made but still felt upset about the experience, and had not used a hackney carriage since. She emphasised that the driver’s conduct was unacceptable, since he had been aggressive and nasty and refused to provide his licence number.
RESOLVED – that the driver receive a written warning.
(2)
Application 2
The Sub Committee was asked to determine if a driver remained a fit and proper person to continue to hold a Hackney Carriage/Private Hire Driver’s Licence given that a complaint had been received which stated that he displayed aggressive and intimidating behaviour by shouting and gesturing towards a cyclist using the regular bus lane.
The driver was not in attendance.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the witness explained that he had been cycling on Newport Road, coming from Roath towards Bute Park. There was a cycleway near the prison but he didn’t join it, choosing instead to use the bus lane which he was entitled to do. He stopped at a red light, and as he pulled away again a taxi started honking at him. The driver overtook him close by and shouted and gestured for him to move over. This was very upsetting and intimidating. It had happened before with other drivers, some of whom had been physically aggressive towards him.
The Sub Committee viewed a video of the incident provided by the witness.
RESOLVED – that the driver receive a written warning.
(3)
Application 3
The Sub Committee was asked to determine if a driver remained a fit and proper person to continue to hold a Private Hire Driver’s Licence given that he had declared relevant convictions on his DBS certificate as part of the application to renew his licence.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the driver explained that he had been driving along the bus lane on Westgate Street last November. A bus inspector flagged him down and came over, and they had an altercation which led to the driver being accused of racism. This went to court and he was convicted and fined. He couldn’t afford to appeal and paid the fine in instalments.
He added that he had driven taxis for more than 15 years and never had a complaint. It was an unfortunate incident but he had taken it on the chin and hoped to move on. He relied on his job to pay the rent and support his family, and would be willing to do the relevant BTEC course if it would help.
Members queried what exactly he was alleged to have said. The driver explained that it was allegedly a racial slur, but he disputed saying this. He acknowledged that he shouldn’t have gotten angry, and anything similar were to happen again he would just ignore it and go to the next job.
The driver’s representative reiterated that he had driven taxis for more than 15 years and had a good record with no recent issues. He had disputed the complainant’s version of events but couldn’t afford to challenge the conviction so had to accept the fine and everything that came with it. Outside of work, he was of good character and worked with charities and food banks. Taxi driving was his sole source of income, and it was of vital importance that he be able to keep his licence. He had also indicated his willingness to complete the relevant qualification in order to shore up his knowledge and ability.
RESOLVED – that the Private Hire Driver’s Licence be suspended for two weeks, and that the driver be required to complete the BTEC Certificate In Taxi & Private Hire Driver (Level 2) within three months.
(4)
Application 4
The Sub Committee was asked to determine if a driver remained a fit and proper person to continue to hold a Private Hire Driver’s Licence given that he had been convicted of offences resulting in him being disqualified from driving.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the driver explained that in 2021 he had taken a job on Cyncoed Road whilst driving for Uber. While driving on Newport Road, he saw a cyclist in the bus lane and passed him when the gap was sufficient. The traffic slowed down and the lane split into two, with his lane diverted slightly towards the middle of the road. The cyclist came up behind him, thinking that the taxi had cut him off, and kicked the car twice, swore at the driver and broke the mirror.
The driver added that he wanted to prosecute the cyclist for this damage so he pulled into the left on Colchester Avenue to stop him leaving the scene. As his vehicle stopped, the cyclist went into the front wing and hit his shoulder on the door. The ambulance and police were called, and the cyclist went to hospital while the driver was arrested. He was released with no charge that day but learned about a year later that criminal proceedings were underway, which led to him being disqualified from driving for two years.
He emphasised that he had not intended to do the cyclist any harm, only move across to stop him running off as he knew he wouldn’t have any registration. It was the worst mistake he had ever made, and he had lost years of earnings and a mortgage as a result.
He added that he had been a taxi driver for 34 years, and had done school runs for 17 of those. He had an excellent record and always went above and beyond for his passengers, and felt he was a good ambassador for the city of Cardiff. He missed doing the job a lot, as it was not only his source of income but also his social life. He didn’t feel he would be able to work anywhere else, and hoped he would be allowed to keep his badges.
Members asked what he would do differently if an incident like this were to happen again. The driver accepted that his reaction had made him the culprit, and in the future he would just ignore it and carry on with the next job. He stressed that what happened that day was out of character for him.
Members queried the details of the incident, noting that a news article about it differed in some respects. The driver maintained that this was an inaccurate report that got key details wrong.
Members asked how he felt about sharing the road with cyclists in general. The driver emphasised that he took his responsibilities both as a taxi driver and under the Highway Code very seriously, and he understood how dangerous a car could be when used improperly. He acknowledged that by not pulling over and calming down he had made a very serious error, but it would never happen again.
RESOLVED – that the Private Hire licence be suspended until such a time that the driver produces a certificate of the SQA ‘Introduction to the Role of the Professional Taxi and Private Hire Driver’ qualification.
(5)
Application 5
The Sub Committee was asked to consider an application in principle for the grant of a Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Driver's Licence given that the applicant had a relevant conviction to consider.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the driver acknowledged he had several convictions from his younger days, but he had come a long way since then and turned his life around, and did not pose any danger to the public.
Members noted that the guidance advised not issuing the licence in a case like this unless there were exceptional circumstances, and asked what these might be. The driver explained that his last conviction was seven years ago, and since then he had a clean record. He had been working consistently since then and had become a real part of the community who was always helping others out.
In response to questions from the Sub Committee, the driver explained that he had recently received an endorsement on his licence due to defective tyres. He had bought a car which passed its MOT, and while driving it back to Cardiff was stopped for a bald tyre. He had received three points and a fine for this.
RESOLVED – that the application for the grant of a Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Driver's Licence be refused.
RESOLVED: that
1. A consultation on the partnership approach to modernising Cardiff’s football playing pitch provision, as set out in this report and at Appendix 2, be approved, including the future establishment of a smaller number of hub sites to understand the required number and the preferred locations and to return to Cabinet for final approval.
2. A consultation with schools and other relevant stakeholders on the proposed Community Focused Schools 3G Playing Pitch Policy, attached at Appendix 3, be approved.
3. A call for Expressions of Interest from interested local football clubs, for the potential self-management of facilities by way of an Agreement to enable clubs to attract investment to improve facilities, be approved.
RESOLVED – That the following matters be dealt with as indicated:
(1)
Application 1
The Sub Committee were asked to determine if a driver remained a fit and proper person to continue to hold a Hackney Carriage/Private Hire Driver’s Licence given that a complaint has been received stating that he refused to take a journey from Cardiff train station to Penarth after allegedly saying he was available for hire
Addressing the Sub Committee, the driver’s representative asserted that the driver had not broken any rules and suggested he had had been singled out by this complaint. He was not registered with the ICO and was not legally allowed to store information about customers and their trips as he was self-employed.
The Chair noted that the allegation from the witness was that the driver was asked to take someone in his cab and said yes, but then changed his mind and refused the fare. He acknowledged that Penarth was out of the Cardiff area, but the witness’ contention was that this was not why it was refused
The driver’s representative suggested that the driver was not obligated to explain to a member of the public why he wasn’t able to take a fare. The driver added that the witness did not ask him whether he was booked, and just said ‘Penarth’ as his window was rolling down. He also suggested that it wasn’t a formal rank as it was only his taxi there.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the witness stated that he was out with his family on a day out, and as they worked their way down the rank they were turned down by quite a few cabs when he said they needed to go to Penarth. A few of the drivers told them to ask the first cab on the rank, which he did. After he turned down the fare, another driver advised him that this was not allowed, and so he made a complaint. His daughter told him that it was like that every weekend when she tried to get to Penarth.
The driver reiterated that he had not heard anything from the witness other than ‘Penarth’, and would not have been able to get back in time for his next booked trip if he had accepted it. He did not have a record of it but regularly took passengers to Penarth and other destinations outside of town. Responding to questions from the Sub Committee, he emphasised that he had no objection at all to taking passengers anywhere they asked.
Responding to questions from the Sub Committee, the witness explained that he had complained about another driver too, and this driver had not been singled out.
The driver’s representative summarised that while there was an issue with some drivers cherry-picking jobs, this driver had made clear that he did not do that. He only turned this one down because he had a job booked already and wouldn’t have been able to get back in time. He had done nothing wrong legally and did not deserve to be punished.
RESOLVED – that the driver receive a written warning.
(2)
Application 2
The Sub Committee were asked to determine if a driver remained a fit and proper person to continue to hold a Private Hire Driver’s Licence given that he declared he was disqualified from driving and had received a driving ban from the DVLA.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the driver explained that his offence had occurred when he was having a very bad day. He was going through a lot of stress and his wife had just filed divorce papers. He was working as a chef and finished late, and had drunk two pints. He undertook another vehicle while it was raining heavily and was pulled over. After that, he lost everything and didn’t have any other opportunities for work. He hoped that Members would give him another chance to get back on the road and earn a proper living.
Responding to questions from the Sub Committee, the driver explained that he was still working as a chef but was only able to do occasional part-time work as he did not have a car and it was hard to travel long distances. He relied on his wife and friends to give lifts but this was not always possible.
RESOLVED – that the Private Hire Driver’s Licence be revoked.
(3)
Application 3
The Sub Committee were asked to consider an application for the Grant of a Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Driver's Licence given that the applicant had a conviction contrary to the guidance.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the driver explained that he had made some silly mistakes but he wanted to feed his family and children. He stated he was a businessman and not aggressive
Responding to questions from the Sub Committee, the driver explained that he had re-applied for a Private Hire Driver’s Licence as he had previously owned a takeaway shop which he had sold and wanted to do something comfortable and easy. He had previously been in possession of a Private Hire Driver’s Licence in Newport (6 months) and Cardiff (just under a year). He had stopped after 6 months in Newport as he did not like travelling. He had not renewed either licence.
RESOLVED – that the application for the Grant of a Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Driver's Licence be refused.
(4)
Application 4
The Sub Committee were asked to consider an application for the Grant of a Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Driver's Licence given that the applicant previously held a licence with the Authority but was convicted for taking his daughter out of the county without the mother’s consent in 2019. He was also referred to committee in 2019 and subsequently had his licence revoked.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the driver explained that he first moved to Cardiff in 1994 and his daughter was born in 2012. He was then banned from the UK for 10 years and moved back to Romania. In 2014, he was accused of kidnapping his daughter. His wife moved to London and he was unable to go to his daughter’s school or doctors. His wife and daughter then moved back to Romania, and he had attended court on six occasions to try to gain custody of his daughter as she had returned from Romania with injuries.
Responding to questions from the Sub Committee the driver explained that he had not seen his daughter for 4 or 5 years and she was now 12 years of age. He had received a prison sentence for taking his daughter out of the UK without her mother’s consent. Whilst in prison he was attacked. When he came out of prison he was not feeling well so he had handed in his badge. He informed the Sub Committee that he was now fit and well and wanted to come back to work as quickly as possible. He explained that it was just a family quarrel and there was no violence involved.
RESOLVED – that the application for the Grant of a Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Driver's Licence be refused.
(5)
Application 5
The Sub Committee were asked to consider an application for the Grant of a Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Driver's Licence given that the applicant previously held a licence with the authority but was convicted for totting up points on his DVLA licence. He was also referred to committee and subsequently had his licence revoked.
The driver explained that he had not committed any speeding offences whilst working as a taxi driver. He had been a delivery driver with his own shop and the police had caught him on camera speeding. He now had a clean driving licence. He stressed that he had never committed any crimes and had now learnt his lesson. For one and half years had had no employment, lost his licence and lost his shop. He informed the Sub Committee that he had a security job but that only provided him with 10 days’ work per month which was not enough and asked for another chance.
Responding to questions from the Sub Committee the driver explained that the court had given him the chance to drive despite his points and said that if he made another mistake he would receive a 6 month ban. The police then stopped him for a worn tyre and he lost his licence for 6 months and his shop. He said that he had tried to use the train but the last one was at 10.00 pm and there were no busses. Sometimes he slept on the sofa which was hard. He explained that he had lost his licence before his taxi licence and had disclosed this information in his last application. The car with the worn tyre was his only car and the one he used as a taxi.
RESOLVED – that the application for the Grant of a Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Driver's Licence be refused.
RESOLVED: Council AGREED to:
1.
Approve the new appointments of Local Authority governors to the school governing bodies as set out in Appendix 1, each for a term of 4 years from the date of the appointment, in accordance with the recommendations of the Local Authority Governor Panel.
RESOLVED: that
1. The proposals in respect of changes to Additional Leaning Needs provision as set out in paragraph 1 of this report without modification be approved.
2. Officers be authorised to take the appropriate actions to implement the proposals as set out in paragraph 1.
3. Officers be authorised to publish the decision within 7 days of determination of the proposals.
4. Authority be delegated to the Director of Education & Lifelong Learning (in consultation with the Cabinet Members for Education and Finance, Modernisation & Performance, the Director of Governance and Legal Services, the Director of Economic Development and the Corporate Director Resources) to determine all aspects of the procurement process (including for the avoidance of doubt development of all procurement documentation and selection and award criteria, commencement of procurement through to award of contracts).
RESOLVED: That the Chairperson writes to the Cabinet Member on behalf of the Committee expressing their comments and observations captured during the way forward.
RESOLVED:
To note that Council agreed the following Terms of Reference for the Committee at its annual meeting on 23rd May 2024:
“To scrutinise, measure and actively promote improvement in the Council’s performance in the provision of services and compliance with Council policies, aims and objectives in the area of children and young people, including:
· School Improvement
· Schools Organisation
· School Support Services
· Education Welfare & Inclusion
· Early Years Development
· Special Educational needs
· Governor Services
· Children’s Social Services
· Youth Services and Justice
· Children’s Play Services
To assess the impact of partnerships with and resources and services provided by external organisations including the Welsh Government, Welsh Government Sponsored Public Bodies, joint local government services and quasi-departmental non-governmental bodies on the effectiveness of Council service delivery.
To report to an appropriate Cabinet or Council meeting on its findings and to make recommendations on measures which may enhance Council performance and service delivery in this area.”
RESOLVED – That the Council be recommended to approve the recommendations of the Panel to appoint the following persons to current Local Authority Governing Body vacancies as follows:
School Name
Ward
Start of Vacancy
Application/s Received
Fitzalan High School
Canton
13/05/2024
Shahzaid Rehan
Glyncoed Primary School
Pentwyn
12/10/2023
03/11/2023
Amina Afsar
Stacey Eagles
Greenhill School
Rhiwbina
22/03/2023
Richard Churcher
St Cadoc’s RC Primary School
Llanrumney
25/01/2024
Philip Anyanwu
St Mary’s Catholic Primary School
Riverside
22/05/2024
Hannah Griffiths
St Monica’s C.W. Primary School
Cathays
22/09/2023
Ellie Fadipe
St Patricks RC Primary School
Grangetown
02/05/2024
Tianyu Xue
Tremorfa Nursery School
Splott
13/09/2023
17/04/2023
Robin Bonar-Law
Sophie Moignard
Whitchurch Primary School
Whitchurch & Tongwynlais
23/03/2024
Belinda Moseley
Windsor Clive Primary School
Ely
22/05/2024
22/03/2024
Adam Jones
Ysgol Glan Morfa
Splott
19/10/2022 31/01/2024
Jessica Brown
Stuart Pearson
The Committee received and considered applications to future vacancies against criteria, matching skills to vacancies.
RESOLVED – That the Council be recommended to approve the recommendations of the Panel to appoint the following:
School
Ward
Start of Vacancy
Re-appointment requested
New application received
Gladstone Primary School
Cathays
22/06/2024
Cllr Chris Weaver
Grangetown Nursery School
Grangetown
23/10/2024
Elizabeth West
Lakeside Primary School
Cyncoed
23/10/2024
Nick Alexander
Llanishen Fach Primary School
Llanishen
23/10/2024
Laith Bonnie
Pentyrch Primary School
Pentyrch & St Fagans
23/10/2024
Lesley Rees
RESOLVED: that
(i) the content of the Annual Report setting out progress and successes over the past 12 months of Cardiff’s Sustainable Communities for Learning programme be noted.
(ii) The ‘Education Investment Strategy Caerdydd 2024 – 2033’ be adopted.
(iii) the schemes that have been prioritised for investment under ‘Cardiff’s Sustainable Communities for Learning Rolling Programme 2024-2033’ be approved to allow a programme business case to be formally submitted to Welsh Government for approval by the Minister.
(iv) It be noted that individual proposals under ‘Cardiff’s Sustainable Communities for Learning Rolling Programme 2024-2033’ will be subject to appropriate business cases and are at this stage indicative.
(v) It be noted that the Cathays High School project will no longer be delivered through the Mutual Investment Model but will instead form a capital project in the rolling programme.
(vi) Responsibility be delegated to the Director of Education and Lifelong Learning for the development and implementation of operational plans to deliver the success measures set out in the strategy.
RESOLVED – That the following matters be dealt with as indicated:
(1)
Application 1
The Sub Committee were asked to consider an application for the Grant of a Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Driver's Licence given that the applicant previously held a licence with a different local authority and had the licence revoked. He also had a motoring conviction for CU80 (use of mobile phone while driving) which resulted in 6 penalty points.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the applicant stated that he was a hard worker who just wanted the best possible life for his children. He was a courteous and friendly driver who treated customers well and had experience driving for Uber before.
He had received the penalty points in 2021 for parking on a double yellow line. A police officer informed him he had committed an offence but then acted unprofessionally, which another police officer apologised for, so he didn’t realise he had actually received the points until he applied for a change of licence in Newport. Newport City Council then revoked his licence because of his failure to declare the points.
Members queried the history of complaints highlighted by Newport council. The driver acknowledged he had received some complaints while working for Uber but felt that this was because some customers would complain about anything. Since leaving Uber he had worked for Amazon but wanted to serve the public as a taxi driver again.
In response to questions from the Sub Committee, the driver confirmed that the six points on his licence were made up of 3 points for parking on a double yellow line and 3 for using his mobile phone while driving. He didn’t feel this was a fair punishment and believed the police had fabricated their charges. He had not put in an official complaint because he didn’t have the money to go to court.
Members asked if the driver would be happy for his children to travel in a taxi driven by someone who had six points on his record. The driver responded that he would not.
The Sub Committee viewed a video of the incident with the police officer provided by the driver. Members queried why he hadn’t shown the video to the authority until now. The driver responded that he hadn’t seen the point, and added that he had given it to Newport council at the time of his hearing.
RESOLVED – that the application for the Grant of a Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Driver's Licence be refused
(2)
Application 2
The Sub Committee were asked to determine if a driver remained a fit and proper person to continue to hold a Private Hire Driver’s License given that information was received by the Licensing Authority alleging suspected drug misuse that was a cause for concern with Adult and Children’s Services. Due to the nature of his role as a taxi driver and the high likelihood of transporting vulnerable passengers, these concerns were shared with the licensing authority, including a DNA test that was requested by the Council.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the driver stated that the DNA test stemmed from a family matter where he had voluntarily put himself forward to be tested as a possible carer for a child. He was shocked when he saw the results, having never used drugs in his life, and disputed it immediately with the testing company, his solicitor and the local authority. He had managed to arrange a new test through the local authority the day before the hearing and believed the results would show he had not taken drugs at any point in the last 12 months.
He added that he was dependent on the school run for his livelihood, as it was about 80% of his income. He had driven schoolchildren and children with special needs around for more than six years and loved it. He had no support from Universal Credit as he was self-employed, and was only just about keeping his cab running to pay the bills. This experience had turned his life upside down and been very damaging. He wanted to clear his name and get back to working the school runs.
Members asked about the time period the new test would cover, and when the results would be available. The driver confirmed that it would cover the last 12 months, so that it included the time of the original test and could clear his name properly, and the results would take up to two weeks.
The Sub Committee discussed the possibility of deferring the case until the results of the new test were available. The Licensing Officer confirmed that the next scheduled date was 5th June, and the driver would remain suspended from the school contract and able to drive his taxi in the meantime.
RESOLVED – that the matter be deferred to the next meeting of the Sub Committee
RESOLVED: That the Chairperson writes to the Cabinet Member on behalf of the Committee expressing their comments and observations captured during the way forward.
RESOLVED: Pursuant to this Committee’s delegated powers the following development management applications be determined in accordance with the recommendation set out in the reports of the Director of Planning, Transport and Environment, subject to any further amendments as detailed below and notification be given of the decisions in accordance with Section 70 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 or Section 74 of the Planning (Listed Building & Conservation) Act 1990.
APPLICATION GRANTED
(Councillor Ed Stubbs left the meeting during discussion of this item in accordance with his prejudicial interest, the Deputy Chair, Councillor Irene Humphreys took the Chair).
24/00110/FUL – BUTETOWN
Land off Lewis Road, Splott, Cardiff
Construction of a replacement school for Willows High School and associated works.
APPLICATION DEFERRED
23/02265/DCH
The Coach House, Cathedral Court, 6 Cathedral Green, Llandaff, Cardiff, CF5 2EB.
Roof extension including new dormers.
Reason for deferral: For a site visit to take place.
RESOLVED: that
1. officers be authorised to proceed to publish proposals in accordance with section 48 of The Schools Standards and Organisation (Wales) Act 2013 to:
· establish a new 8 place Specialist Resource Base for emotional health and wellbeing at Baden Powell Primary School from September 2024, within the existing buildings.
· establish an 8 place Specialist Resource Base for emotional health and wellbeing at Fairwater Primary School from September 2024, within the existing buildings. This would replace the existing Wellbeing Class.
· establish a new 16 place Specialist Resource Base for emotional health and wellbeing at Herbert Thompson Primary School from September 2025, within existing buildings or new building.
· establish a 16 place Specialist Resource Base for emotional health and wellbeing at Lakeside Primary School from September 2024, within the existing buildings. This would replace the existing Wellbeing Class.
· establish an 8 place Specialist Resource Base for emotional health and wellbeing at Springwood Primary School from September 2024, within the existing buildings. This would replace the existing Wellbeing Class.
· establish a 20-place Specialist Resource Base for learners with Emotional Health and Wellbeing Needs at Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Plasmawr from September 2024, within the existing buildings.
· establish a 20 place Specialist Resource Base for Autism at Coed Glas Primary School from September 2024, within the existing buildings.
· establish a 20 place Specialist Resource Base for Complex Learning Needs and /or Autism at Greenway Primary School from September 2024, within the existing buildings.
· establish a 20 place Specialist Resource Base for Complex Learning Needs and/or Autism at Severn Primary School from September 2024, within the existing buildings.
2. the proposal to establish an 8 place Specialist Resource Base for emotional health and wellbeing at Ysgol Gymraeg Pwll Coch does not progress.
3. It be noted that prior to implementation of the proposals a further report will be provided to Cabinet providing details of any objections received, the response to those objections and recommendations for implementation or otherwise of the proposals.
RESOLVED: That the Chairperson writes to the Cabinet Member on behalf of the Committee expressing their comments and observations captured during the way forward.
RESOLVED: That the Chairperson writes to the Cabinet Member on behalf of the Committee expressing their comments and observations captured during the way forward.