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The decisions as the council's minutes record them. A plain-language summary follows once it has been written.
RESOLVED: To approve the minutes of the meeting of the CJC JOSC held on the 22 July 2024
RESOLVED to: • Note and agree the revised Work Programme as detailed in Appendix A to the report; • Consider and determine any further matters that members may wish to scrutinise over this period. Agree that the Work Programme be reviewed periodically to ensure the items identified for inclusion are relevant and that any additional referrals are incorporated, particularly where items are identified for matters of pre-scrutiny throughout the calendar year.
RESOLVED to: • Note the progress made against the RTP and the draft Case for Change; Endorse the approach to a proposed thematic Working Group for Regional Transport Planning.
RESOLVED to: Review and consider the available information on the Cardiff Central Enhancements Programme, including: · the Full Business Case Timetable. · The proposed assurance approach. · The risks to the scheme from a CCR perspective Any other matters that members may wish to scrutinise over that period.
RESOLVED to: • Note the work of the Portfolio Holder for Infrastructure and Major Projects Delivery within the CJC. • Scrutinise the Portfolio Holder in respect of such matters within the dedicated portfolio; Identify any areas arising from those matters which Committee wish to further scrutinise, as part of revisions to the Committee’s published work programme.
In accordance with the code of conduct, no declarations were made pertaining to the agenda
The Chair welcomed all officers and Members to the meeting. Apologies were received from Councillor R Leadbetter – Blaenau Gwent Councillor S Lloyd Selby – Vale of Glamorgan
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED: To approve the minutes of the meeting of the CJC JOSC held on the 22 July 2024
RESOLVED: To approve the minutes of the meeting of the CJC JOSC held on the 22 July 2024
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED to: • Note and agree the revised Work Programme as detailed in Appendix A to the report; • Consider and determine any further matters that members may wish to scrutinise over this period. Agree that the Work Programme be reviewed periodically to ensure the items identified for inclusion are relevant and that any additional referrals are incorporated, particularly where items are identified for matters of pre-scrutiny throughout the calendar year.
The Service Director Democratic Services and Communications presented the report for members comments and approval. Members were advised that following discussions with the Chair and Vice Chair of the JOSC and Key Officers within the CJC, a revised Work Programme has been formulated and is presented to Committee. In response to a query raised by Members around the Committee undertaking pre-scrutiny, the Service Director advised that the revised Work Programme provides opportunity for pre-scrutiny opportunities whilst also focusing on issues that the JOSC have already identified during discussions at its inaugural meeting and at the induction workshop. RESOLVED to: • Note and agree the revised Work Programme as detailed in Appendix A to the report; • Consider and determine any further matters that members may wish to scrutinise over this period. Agree that the Work Programme be reviewed periodically to ensure the items identified for inclusion are relevant and that any additional referrals are incorporated, particularly where items are identified for matters of pre-scrutiny throughout the calendar year.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED to: • Note the progress made against the RTP and the draft Case for Change; Endorse the approach to a proposed thematic Working Group for Regional Transport Planning.
The Chief Executive Cardiff Capital Region presented the report which provides an update to the Southeast Wales Corporate Joint Committee (SEWCJC) Joint Overview & Scrutiny Committee (JOSC) on progress against the Regional Transport Plan (RTP); presents the Case for Change (Transport for CCR); and puts forward a proposal for a thematic Working Group A Member referred to the proposed Terms of Reference for the Working Group and asked if Active Travel can be included as a key component for the working group to consider within their meetings. The Chief Executive Cardiff Capital Region advised that the CCR doesn’t have any remit over the delivery or funding of Active Travel as this sits at a local authority level and is more of a local transport plan issue but was happy to take the point away and seek advice as to how this could be integrated within the terms of reference. The Transport and Energy Manager reassured that there is a national Active Travel Board, Chaired by Welsh Government which includes various partners including TfW, SWTRA and Local Authorities A Member commented on the M4 Corridor traffic and the new Heads of the Valley road and asked how transport will be integrated from the West Midlands on the new road network. The Chief Executive CCR replied that this work from the Northern Valleys initiative to leverage investment into the A465 and improve joining up and marketing tourism sites. She continued that we want to see the road well used but ensure this results in visits to the towns and communities to encourage investment and job opportunities in the area and look at this as a huge opportunity and work with Local Authorities on this. A Member asked how people working from home has influenced change. The member also asked for more detail on the EV support infrastructure and bus interfaces and route connections. The Chief Executive CCR advised that travel to work patterns are constantly changing and this will continue to be monitored and assessed. She commented that whilst there is a mandate for Hybrid working in a lot of sectors, it does differ in each sector and region and there has been a surge in the Strategic Premises Fund to evidence the return to office. Monitoring the trends will be key as this will guide how we invest in the transport network. In relation to greener, cleaner transport schemes like metro plus and ULEV rollout Members were advised that CCR and UK and WG funding has invested in charging infrastructure, she continued that we cannot do it all ourselves as there are many layers to the infrastructure. The Chief Executive continued that bus to bus is an issue, particularly with young people trying to travel to education across region and is not currently working well across region, we have to think about how we address these problems. A Member commented that Monmouthshire and the Vale have the highest population of residents over the age of 65 and that Monmouthshire are losing younger people who are choosing to gain employment, buy homes and start families in other areas like Newport which is a fast moving and developing city. He therefore asked is there ability or ambition to seek out a change for the M48 to make Monmouthshire a more interesting and viable option for young people to work and live. The Chief Executive acknowledged the low growth in the working age population in Monmouthshire and advised that a letter has been sent to the transport minister regarding the De-Trunking of the M48 but stated that links with the Western Gateway were essential for it to work. She concluded that there needs to be an integrated plan as resolving transport issues on its own won’t resolve the wider issues. A Member asked if there was any information available on the delay of opening the park and Ride at the Pontypool and New Inn station as this was a frustration of many residents and a contributing factor as to why people leave the area and move to Cardiff as travelling there is not a viable option. The Chief Executive advised that the delay was owing to technical factors with work required on site to meet network rail regulations. She advised that work is underway with an expected opening of late December 2024. RESOLVED to: • Note the progress made against the RTP and the draft Case for Change; Endorse the approach to a proposed thematic Working Group for Regional Transport Planning.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED to: Review and consider the available information on the Cardiff Central Enhancements Programme, including: · the Full Business Case Timetable. · The proposed assurance approach. · The risks to the scheme from a CCR perspective Any other matters that members may wish to scrutinise over that period.
The Strategic Director Policy, Impact & Partnerships Cardiff Capital Region presented a report to Members to offer them an opportunity for pre-decision scrutiny of the Metro Central Business Case timeline and approvals process. The report and presentation provided to Members gave details on the following core areas: Strategic Benefits and Outcomes, Current Programme, Progress, Financials, Integration, Business Case Timeline, Business Case Assurance and Risks from a CCR perspective. Following conclusion of the presentation Members were invited to ask questions and give their observations. A Member asked what plans there are to make the building net zero such as roof panels and LED Lighting. The Principal Programme Sponsor - Transport for Wales advised that the installation of Solar Panels will be on the southern entrance to the concourse and there is a Carbon Management Plan in place to manage the process. The Member was reassured to hear the update and stated that it would be good to ensure that the plans are promoted so the public are aware. A Member asked if there had been engagement with Network Rail and the Department for Transport regarding the rail infrastructure getting into Cardiff being sufficient. The Principal Programme Sponsor – Transport for Wales advised that there is a separate collaborative project, led by Network Rail, reviewing relief line speed upgrades to ensure that Cardiff Central is ready. The station is currently unable to support the capacity if the lines are upgraded first. We need to ensure the upgrade is in place first to manage capacity at the station. We are working together to secure funding as a priority to support the work. Following a concern from a Member, the Committee were reassured that managing the continuation of the current service is at the forefront of the priorities for Transport for Wales to ensure they maintain the provision and reassured that they were also working with Cardiff bus interchange to support this should replacement services be required. There was a commitment that further information would be brought back from the contractor in the form of a ‘fly through’ which would provide that assurance to Members. A further concern was raised in respect of passenger pick up and drop off in this area without risk due to the lack of train connectivity. He added that residents from Merthyr often miss the last connection from Cardiff Central and are forced to use their vehicles late at night, often having to navigate the city centre traffic. In response, the Principal Programme Sponsor – Transport for Wales clarified that the multi model transport hub on Penarth Road, which Network Rail is delivering as part of the master plan piece, will provide a dedicated taxi rank, drop off and pick up point to ensure a seamless interchange and that the connectivity is working across the whole city. The Member added that more, clear communication is required to address any confusion with travel arrangements for any residents who are unfamiliar with the city centre layout. The Principal Programme Sponsor – Transport for Wales confirmed that working closely with Cardiff Council is key and that all stages of the road and rail network changes will be carefully managed as they evolve as integration with the wider transport arrangements is critical to the overall success of this scheme. The Senior Programme Lead added that all partners have come together regarding their communications to ensure the key information is publicised and people are aware of the changes and how it may impact them. A Wayfinding Strategy Plan, in collaboration with Cardiff Council, is being established which is how people travel on foot and interact with the station. He explained that this particular scheme links in with so many other initiatives. The Principal Programme Sponsor – Transport for Wales advised that they do cover all aspects of communication and in the Cardiff bus interchange, in addition to electronic, real time information and electronic timetables, there are also a number of ambassadors at the interchange who can offer support to all their customers. She also pointed out that they are also proactive with communication in the form of letters to advise of any major developments being undertaken which is particularly helpful to those passengers who are unable to access information digitally. A Member referred to the Joint European Championships which are on the horizon, and the importance of making sure the timelines are in place and he asked what is in place to mitigate against the risks from suppliers and external partners. The Principal Programme Sponsor – Transport for Wales responded that Balfour Beatty have been supporting Transport for Wales through the early design stage to make sure the scope for the main tender is fit for the market, such as surveys to reduce the risks to the market and what TfW are proposing suits potential bidders. She added that TfW have begun the procurement process to get a contractor on board for the proposed design and build. She added that TfW are already in dialogue with the framework members to be clear about what they want and the need to maintain services at all times as well as the transport network throughout Wales. The Principal Programme Sponsor also referred to the support from the DFT in the form of an advance works package especially regarding platform buildings so they are customer focussed to overcome any disruption. With regards to the Euros in 2028, the Principal Programme Sponsor – Transport for Wales advised that it is crucial that the rail network and station is ready to welcome the huge volume of visitors to the area. This piece of work has started already with a phasing of the works and prioritisation of interventions, with the end goal in mind, to consider what are the must dos to prepare for the event. A Member sought clarification on whether the transport hub includes secure cycle parking and what that capacity would look like i.e. provision for cargo bikes. The Principal Programme Sponsor – Transport for Wales advised that this initiative is a Network Rail led scheme but provided a response that currently the proposal is to have 30 cycle spaces within the vicinity and all of it must be secure. Until an operator is agreed for that facility, it is difficult to get into the level of detail, discussion and negotiation. In terms of accessibility, Network Rail Standards says that 5% of all active travel provision should be accessible, therefore discussions are underway about the availability of chargers for e-bikes. The number of cycle spaces, 30 in total proposed, was questioned by Members and considered inadequate. The Principal Programme Sponsor – Transport for Wales confirmed that the proposal is for 150 cycle spaces at Cardiff Central and added that Welsh Government have set the requirement for 450 cycle spaces across the Metro Central Programme therefore TfW will be working with all partners on all the projects to try and fill the requirement as each element of the Metro Central develops. The Senior Programme Lead reiterated that the 30 spaces is for that one part of the multi model transport hub alone with active travel being a key objective of the wider transport initiative. RESOLVED to: Review and consider the available information on the Cardiff Central Enhancements Programme, including: · the Full Business Case Timetable. · The proposed assurance approach. · The risks to the scheme from a CCR perspective Any other matters that members may wish to scrutinise over that period.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED to: • Note the work of the Portfolio Holder for Infrastructure and Major Projects Delivery within the CJC. • Scrutinise the Portfolio Holder in respect of such matters within the dedicated portfolio; Identify any areas arising from those matters which Committee wish to further scrutinise, as part of revisions to the Committee’s published work programme.
The Committee welcomed the Portfolio Member of the CJC for Infrastructure and Major Projects Delivery, and Chair of the Regional Transport Sub Committee, Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Councillor Andrew Morgan OBE to the meeting. As part of the ongoing commitment to improve the function of Scrutiny as a critical friend of the CJC, the item is being brought before the JOSC to maintain a constructive dialogue between CJC Portfolio Holders and Scrutiny. Members were invited to scrutinise any arising matters within the portfolio holder’s responsibility and to ensure that the appropriate mechanisms are in place to effectively scrutinise the CJC. A Member commented on the financial pressure facing Local Authorities and commented on the risk to regional transport planning and asked how we can ensure continuity to the delivery of services in relation to regional and local transport plans. The Portfolio Member replied that the point has been discussed around bus services and future franchising with recent changes to bus regulations and stated that, unless we still have a bus network in place, we will have nothing to franchise. Under franchising, it is suggested that the South-East Wales region may be the last region out of the four to take forward franchising as we are still three to four years away. He advised that with increasing transport costs, unless there is additional revenue into public transport, we could see a diminishing bus network which will make franchising even more difficult, particularly if a service has to be re-introduced. The Member replied with concern and stated that interim support may be required if the region is to be the last to franchise the services. The Portfolio Member replied that public consultation will begin in January with a two month period to follow two months to work through the responses and a final version submitted to Welsh Government at the end of May 2025. A Member asked if there is any intention to produce briefing notes for members to enable them to support the wider public with engagement. A Member commented that many Local Authorities are losing bus routes almost monthly and asked if we can ask Welsh Government to consider a different form of rollout to ensure a reliable bus service as buses are a lifeline for many of our residents. The Chair of the Regional Transport Sub-Committee advised that North Wales were in operation quicker because there is a smaller number of operators and services in the area. He continued that franchising comes with risks but lessons are being learned on each phase. He advised that an uplift in funding will be required to continue to maintain services until we get to franchising and ensure all routes will be covered, not just the profitable routes. Following discussion it was RESOLVED to: • Note the work of the Portfolio Holder for Infrastructure and Major Projects Delivery within the CJC. • Scrutinise the Portfolio Holder in respect of such matters within the dedicated portfolio; Identify any areas arising from those matters which Committee wish to further scrutinise, as part of revisions to the Committee’s published work programme.
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