Climate change, net zero, flooding, energy, biodiversity, parks and green spaces.
What councils do
Every Welsh council has declared or responded to the climate emergency and has plans to cut its own emissions, from buildings, vehicles and the things it buys. Councils also manage flood risk on local rivers and streams.
Who decides
The Cabinet agrees climate plans; scrutiny committees check progress.
Having a say
Ask your councillors how the council is doing against its own targets, and respond to its consultations on plans.
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By council, last 12 months
How many agenda items on this topic each council dealt with, and how many had a decision recorded.
RESOLVED: that
1. It be noted that the Welsh Government’s Bus Services (Wales) Bill and associated supporting documents, including proposals for the reform of bus services in Wales.
2. It be noted that the proposed submission of a draft response to the Senedd’s Climate Change, Environment, and Infrastructure Committee’s consultation on the Bus Services (Wales) Bill by the closing date of 13th May 2025, as set out in paragraph 16 of the report.
3. the response to the Senedd’s Climate Change, Environment, and Infrastructure Committee’s consultation on the Bus Services (Wales) Bill, as set out in Appendix A be approved.
4. Subject to approval by Cabinet in recommendation 3 above, authority be delegated to the Director of Planning, Transport & Environment to submit the approved final consultation response to the Senedd’s Climate Change, Environment, and Infrastructure Committee.
5. It be noted there will be a further report to Cabinet regarding the Council’s shareholder interests in Cardiff City Transport Services Limited (trading as Cardiff Bus) following an assessment of options and impacts of bus reform.
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
1. the forward planning of forthcoming trust decisions set out in Appendix A be noted;
2. the Conflicts of Interest Policy for Council Trusts set out in Appendix B be approved and adopted; and
3. Authority be delegated to the Chief Executive/relevant Director/Assistant Director/ Operational Manager in accordance with (i) the financial thresholds set out in the Scheme of Delegations and (ii) subject to complying with the Council’s Contract Standing Orders and Procedure Rules and Procurement Law, authority to implement and carry out all operational matters to advance the purpose or objects relating to the specific charity within their area of responsibility, save for any significant decisions that are specifically reserved to the Trusts Cabinet Committee including but not limited to:
a) Changing the governing document/objects of the trust/charity;
b) Appointing or removing new trustees;
c) Any acquisition or disposal of any trust asset including charity land, including any grant of an interest in land;
d) Winding up any trust/charity; and
e) Any other decision of a significant nature affecting the trust/charity,
Providing always that no delegation may be exercised in circumstances where there is a significant conflict of interest with the Council’s own interests.
RESOLVED: that
1. The publication of the draft 2025 – 2028 Play Sufficiency Assessment and Executive Summary on the Council website for the statutory 28-day period be approved.
2. Authority be delegated to the Director for Childrens Services, in consultation with the Cabinet Members for Children's Services and Tackling Poverty & Supporting Young People, Cabinet Member for Cabinet Member for Culture, Sport & Parks and the Cabinet Member for Education, to approve and submit to Welsh Government by 30th June 2025, the final version of the Play Sufficiency Assessment, Executive Summary and Action Plan, having considered the results of the consultation.
3. Authority be delegated to the Director for Childrens Services, in consultation with the Cabinet Members for Children's Services and Tackling Poverty & Supporting Young People, Cabinet Member for Cabinet Member for Culture, Sport & Parks and the Cabinet Member for Education to work with partners and Lead Officers to complete the final Action Plan, for its submission to Welsh Government by 30th June 2025.
4. Authority be delegated to the Director for Childrens Services, in consultation with the Cabinet Members for Children's Services and Tackling Poverty & Supporting Young People, Cabinet Member for Cabinet Member for Culture, Sport & Parks and the Cabinet Member for Education, to establish a working group for children’s play, inviting key stakeholders to contribute to, and develop a vision for play with the support of Child Friendly City; embracing the shared responsibility for ensuring the actions set out in the Action Plan is met.
5. Submission of an annual progress report on the Play Sufficiency Assessment action plan be approved to Cabinet, the Public Service Board, and the Children and Young People’s Scrutiny Committee escalating any significant risks if necessary.
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
Applicant
Allensbank Primary School
Gabalfa
21/09/2024
Birchgrove Primary School
Heath
01/02/2025
Bryn Deri Primary School
Radyr &
Morganstown
01/10/2024
Cardiff West Community
High School
Caerau
31/12/2024
30/11/2024
Ely and Caerau Childrens Centre
Ely
25/10/2024
Kitchener Primary School
Riverside
31/01/2025
Lakeside Primary School
Cyncoed
01/09/2021
Meadowlane Primary School
Trowbridge
11/02/2025
Millbank Primary School
Caerau
27/11/2024
Pentyrch Primary School
Pentyrch & St
Fagans
12/09/2023
23/10/2024
Severn Primary School
Riverside
26/10/2024
St Mellons CW Primary School
Llanrumney
21/09/2024
Lee Davies
St Teilo's C.W High School
Pentwyn
29/02/2023
Omer Rana
Stacey Primary School
Adamsdown
26/02/2025
Whitchurch High School
Whitchurch &
Tongwynlais
01/03/2024
Dan Walsh
YsgolGlan Ceubal
Llandaff North
13/09/2024
Bethan Wyn Jones
YsgolGyfun Gymraeg Glantaf
Llandaff North
18/09/2024
27/01/2025
YsgolGynradd Groes-Wen Primary School
Pentyrch &
St Fagans
31/01/2025
YsgolGymraeg Treganna
Canton
28/01/2025
Huw Williams
YsgolGynradd Gymraeg
Hamadryad
Butetown
06/10/2023
Christian Orelum
YsgolPencae
Llandaff
12/09/2024
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
Albany Primary School
Plasnewyd
01/05/2025
Kate Thomas
Bryn Celyn Primary School
Pentwyn
01/05/2025
Cardiff High School
Cyncoed
01/05/2025
Cathays High School
Gabalfa
18/05/2025
29/06/205
Jane Setchfield
Cllr Chris Weaver
CoedGlas Primary School
Llanishen
01/05/2025
Corpus Christi R.C High School
Lisvane & Thornhill
01/05/2025
Gabalfa Primary School
Llandaff North
25/06/2025
Leslie Maxim
Grangetown Primary School
Grangetown
01/05/2025
30/06/2025
Miguela Gonzalez
Cllr Ashley Lister
Greenhill School
Rhiwbina
25/05/2025
Cllr Jayne Cowan
Hawthorn Primary School
Llandaff North
01/05/2025
Cllr Dilwar Ali
HywelDda Primary School
Ely
30/06/2025
Kitchener Primary School
Riverside
30/06/2025
Cllr Kanaya Singh
LlanishenFach Primary School
Rhiwbina
28/06/2025
Meadowlane Primary School
Trowbridge
01/05/2025
Dawn Mitchell
Mount Stuart Primary School
Butetown
30/06/2025
Cllr Saeed Ebrahim
Ninian Park Primary School
Grangetown
01/05/2025
Cllr Waheeda Sattar
Oakfield Primary School
Trowbridge
30/06/2025
Cllr Joel Williams
St Mellons C.I.W Primary School
Llanrumney
25/06/2025
Clyde Darrell
St Teilo's C.I.W High School
Pentwyn
01/05/2025
Jenny Rathbone
Trelai Primary School
Caerau
24/03/2025
Whitchurch
High School
Whitchurch & Tongwynlais
01/05/2025
Andrew Davies
Whitchurch
Primary School
Whitchurch & Tongwynlais
01/05/2025 30/06/2025
Jonathan Morgan
YsgolGyfun Gymraeg Bro Edern
Penylan
01/05/2025
01/05/2025
01/05/2025
24/06/2025
Elin Arfon
YsgolGyfun Gymraeg Glantaf
Llandaff North
01/05/2025
YsgolGynradd Gymraeg Hamadryad
Butetown
01/05/2025
YsgolGymraeg Pwll Coch
Canton
25/06/2025
30/06/2025
Rhodri Ab Owen
Ysgol Y Wern
Llanishen
19/05/2025
Mike Landers
RESOLVED: that
• the progress made on carbon reduction over the period of the One Planet Cardiff Strategy be noted.
• the continuation of work on a “Green Growth Proposition” be approved focussing on building retrofit and renewable energy generation, to include a clear picture of challenges, goals, potential investment opportunities and delivery models associated with them.
RESOLVED: That the Chairperson writes to the Cabinet Member on behalf of the Committee expressing their comments and observations captured during the way forward.
Sections of the Corporate Plan and Budgetary Proposals relevant to Cllr Weaver’s portfolio
Cllr Weaver made a brief statement outlining sections in the Draft Corporate Plan and Draft Budgetary Proposals relevant to his portfolio.
Members were invited to ask questions and make comments and the discussion is summarised below:
Members wished to know how the new KPI’s compared to the current performance figures, and were advised that this information could be provided to the Committee.
Members enquired about the dropout rate among apprentices at the Council and whether the Council monitors the progress of apprentices going on into further employment. Members were advised that the dropout rate is very low, some apprentices and trainees go on to work for the Council and in some service areas apprentice and trainee placements are very helpful in securing employment outside the Council. However, it was acknowledged that not all data may be properly captured, given the difficulties in keeping in touch with those who dropout.
RESOLVED: That the Chairperson writes to the Cabinet Member on behalf of the Committee expressing their comments and observations captured during the way forward.
Sections of the Corporate Plan and Budgetary Proposals relevant to the Culture, Sport and Parks portfolio
The Chair welcomed to the meeting Cllr Jennifer Burke, Cabinet Member for Culture, Sport and Parks; Neil Hanratty, Director of Economic Development; Donna Jones, Assistant Director for County Estates; Ruth Cayford, Operational Manager for Creative Industries and Culture; and Jon Maidment, Head of Parks and Cardiff Harbour Authority.
Cllr Burke made a brief statement, following which Neil Hanratty gave a presentation outlining sections in the Draft Corporate Plan and Draft Budgetary Proposals relevant to Cllr Burke’s portfolio.
Members were invited to ask questions and make comments, and the discussion is summarised below:
Members were advised that filming charges in Bute Park Visitor Centre have been added to the fees and charges report and will continue to be included there in future years.
Members sought an explanation for the decision not to increase fees at the riding school, and were advised that there is a need to invest in the school as the infrastructure is deteriorating, and there is concern that if fees are increased customers could transfer to commercial competitors.
Members were advised that there have been instances when the outdoor school has had to be closed due to the roof leaking. Officers were confident that the expected £10,000 increase in income would be forthcoming.
Members sought an update on the Cardiff Story museum and were advised that it was the Cabinet’s view that it should remain in its present location until a viable alternative could be found.
Members questioned why the KPI for satisfaction rate of parks was set at 72.5% and were advised that while the budget is increasing there are still pressures and areas where investment is needed. Members were advised that the development of a new parks strategy includes consultation to understand what people want from parks, and to encourage people who might not ordinarily access parks to do so.
Members sought an explanation for the changes in the plans for Pentwyn Leisure Centre since the previous plans were consulted on. The Cabinet Member advised that the type of equipment that is going into the centre is on a par with the International Pool and will be a decent piece of infrastructure that is safe for families.
Members sought assurance that there would no further delay to the reopening of St David’s Hall beyond the 4th quarter of 2026/27. The Cabinet Member advised Members that in recent weeks nearly all relevant applications for work to progress have been submitted, and subject to regulatory approval work should commence in the summer. Announcement has been made that the Cardiff Singer of the World 2027 will take place at St David’s Hall and the hall will be open in time for that.
Members wondered whether the reopening of St David’s Hall in 2026-27 would have a significant impact on the city’s tourism sector, and were advised that alongside Cardiff Castle, Principality Stadium and the city’s grassroots venues, and forthcoming Arena, it would mean that Cardiff would have a wide variety of venues that could host a range of different performers. Cardiff is increasingly seen as a destination for live events and it was important to the Council to ensure that St David’s Hall was not only maintained but enhanced in terms of what it offered people.
Members asked whether there was a mechanism to ensure that monies from the Financial Resilience Mechanism available for the sport development grant translate to improved services, and were advised that there is a sustained demand for this support which enables sports teams and clubs across the city to take on assets and improve them, working in partnership with the council.
Members sought information on how the Council could ensure there was involvement for female sports initiatives in this. The Cabinet Member advised that the FAW is reporting a significant increase in women’s and girls’ participation in football clubs. Llandaff Cricket has had a record participation of young girls, and girls’ participation in rugby is improving in the younger age groups; the administration remains committed to increasing participation of under-represented groups.
Members asked how much of the £1.5 million FRM was currently allocated and were advised that not all of it was already committed.
Members sought an update on the Whitewater Rafting Centre, and were advised that there had been some significant budget challenges in recent years but with efficiency savings it is getting closer to being operated within budget and is very close to breaking even.
Members discussed how well the Whitewater Rafting Centre was promoted, and were advised that it is a niche facility and there has been some targeted marketing, but this could be reviewed to ensure it is reaching enough people. An offer was made for committee members to visit the Centre to see first-hand the range of services on offer and to discuss marketing and promotion with officers.
RESOLVED: That the Chairperson writes to the Cabinet Member on behalf of the Committee expressing their comments and observations captured during the way forward.
Sections of the Corporate Plan and Budgetary Proposals relevant to the Leader’s portfolio
The Chair welcomed to the meeting Cllr Huw Thomas, Leader of the Council; Neil Hanratty, Director of Economic Development; and Jon Day, Operational Manager for Investment and Tourism.
Cllr Thomas made a brief statement, following which Members were invited to ask questions and make comments, and the discussion is summarised below:
Members discussed the lessons to be learned and any governance arrangements that might need to be addressed in relation to the contract for the demolition of Aberthaw power station, dealt with via the Cardiff Capital Region body. The Leader advised that he could not comment in detail as there are ongoing legal proceedings, but at the right time all local authorities involved will want an investigation into what occurred.
Members discussed the Joint Overview and Scrutiny Committee which is responsible for reviewing and scrutinising decisions made by the CJC. The Leader reminded the Committee that there had been discussions about the appropriateness of the scrutiny arrangements for the City Deal, and expressed the view that this was something either CJC or Welsh Government would wish to look at in more detail. He could envision a system where if a project is being delivered by CCR within the area of a LA, it would be appropriate for the relevant committee to scrutinise the work of the CCR.
Members wished to know about the prospects for a project emerging from the recommendations of the Western Gateway’s independent Severn Estuary Commission on the potential for renewable energy. The Leader advised that the Commission is due to report in mid-March. Briefings he has had indicate there is a potentially deliverable project that is technologically and financially feasible, but it will be necessary to have the right regulatory and governance environment to unlock the private sector investment.
Members sought information on how returns on investment in the City Deal were measured in terms of job creation and other economic opportunities. The Leader advised that there is a 5-year gateway process of assessment done jointly by UK and Welsh Governments on a CCR level, the top level metrics being job creation, GVA uplift and leverage of private money to match public money invested.
Members wished to know how the Council ensures that projects invested in through the City Deal align with environmental commitments made through One Planet Cardiff and the goal to reach Net Zero. The Leader advised that the KPI’s for the City Deal were set in 2016 and did not necessarily have green objectives in mind. The CJC has to have statutory policies around things such as biodiversity and the next deal will be more of a green deal.
RESOLVED: That the Chairperson writes to the Cabinet Member on behalf of the Committee expressing their comments and observations captured during the way forward.
Sections of the Corporate Plan and Budgetary Proposals relevant to the Investment and Development portfolio
The Chair welcomed to the meeting Cllr Huw Thomas, Leader of the Council; Neil Hanratty, Director of Economic Development; Donna Jones, Assistant Director for County Estates; and Jon Day, Operational Manager for Investment and Tourism.
Cllr Thomas made a brief statement, following which Neil Hanratty gave a presentation outlining sections of the Budgetary Proposals relevant to the portfolio.
Members were invited to ask questions and make comments, and the discussion is summarised below:
Members sought clarification on the source of additional income of £27,000 and were advised that it was income from renting out workshop space.
Members sought clarification on SPF funding for Cardiff Indoor Market and were advised that the funding was for the Financial Year 2024/25, had been agreed and was already in place.
Members sought further details on how the Council is working with the hospitality and accommodation sectors to increase accommodation options for visitors during major events. The Leader advised that the amount of hotel accommodation in the city is relatively modest, and one of the reasons for pursuing the Indoor Arena is to provide a more regular stream of visitors into the city and encourage investment in hotel development.
Members discussed whether proceeds from the visitor levy could be used to benefit district shopping centres away from the city centre. The Leader advised that as currently proposed it is envisaged that the proceeds of the visitor levy are spent within the visitor economy; however, the Council would want to develop a plan for how the levy could be deployed in partnership with stakeholders, including the BID as well as stakeholders more broadly.
Members questioned whether investment in new infrastructure such as the Canal Quarter Regeneration Phase 2 was the right approach when existing infrastructure such as city centre paving was not being sufficiently maintained. The Leader advised that much of the paving repair work in the city centre was due to the heavy traffic of supply trucks along Queen Street and The Hayes. Turning to the canal, he reminded Members that the plans had been signed off in 2021 when there Covid restrictions and concerns about the viability of city centres. The Council would want to see further plans, with the development of the Indoor Arena, around the Utilita Arena, developed in a strategic manner with a master plan for the whole area, with green and blue space being a key component making it somewhere people will want to spend time.
Members questioned whether pursuing a target of more Grade A office space was the most sustainable approach when there is other office space that is not being used. Officers advised that there is a lack of vacant Grade A office space in the city centre, and thus a risk that there is no property available for businesses that want to invest. The Leader added that last year saw the highest level of office take-up in 7 years.
Members asked whether there is a strategy for bringing surplus non-Grade A office space up to standard for reuse, and were advised that there is a market for cheaper office space for start-up and growing businesses, while other surplus office space has been repurposed for residential use.
Members wished to know whether there were concerns around CO2 emissions in relation to the creation of car parks in support of the Indoor Arena. The Leader advised that the current surface area car parks are being replaced by a single multi-storey car park with fewer parking spaces, while recognising there will be people who will drive to events at the Arena and want to park to access facilities in Cardiff Bay. Most of the area will be released to make it more attractive to people on foot and for leisure purposes.
Members wondered whether there were plans for more festivals or other attractions to encourage visitors to make longer stays. The Leader referred to the Cardiff City of Music Festival as a homegrown event that the Council would like to invest in and grow for the long term. Officers added that the Cardiff Live development will provide a venue able to compete for smaller business tourism events, and this will hopefully encourage visitors to stay longer and enjoy other facilities.
Members discussed how to promote other things for people to see or do in Cardiff besides the major events. The Leader advised that this was the sort of thing that the Council would want to be able to enhance through funds unlocked by the tourism levy.
Members discussed whether the planned investment in Cardiff Indoor Market would interfere with the improvements already taking place in the market. Officers advised that the intention of the redevelopment is to improve the market as it is rather than change what it will be doing. Work will be done to make good the roof and stop it leaking, and to improve the stallholders’ stands.
Members asked whether proposals for open space or street food facilities in the city centre were seen as competing with the Indoor Market. Officers advised that businesses are generally comfortable with investments that improve the overall offer and attract more people into the city centre. The Leader advised that it was indicative that businesses and investors see the city centre as being a place where people go to socialise, eat and spend leisure time rather than for shopping.
RESOLVED: That the Chairperson writes to the Cabinet Member on behalf of the Committee expressing their comments and observations captured during the way forward.
Sections of the Corporate Plan and Budgetary Proposals relevant to the Tackling Poverty portfolio
The Chair welcomed to the meeting Cllr Peter Bradbury, Cabinet Member for Tackling Poverty and Supporting Young People; and Helen Evans, Assistant Director for Housing and Communities.
Cllr Bradbury made a brief statement outlining sections of the Budgetary Proposals relevant to his portfolio.
Members were invited to ask questions and make comments, and the discussion is summarised below:
The Chair expressed gratitude for the acceptance of the KPI recommendations from the Scrutiny Performance Panel into the Corporate Plan, particularly around the Race Equality Task Force and sustainable employment.
Members wished to know how much of a challenge the rise in employers’ National Insurance contributions presented to the Council and what is the Council’s strategy for addressing it. The Cabinet Member advised that the Council adjusts its work according to Governments’ tax proposals, and added that he had not received many letters from employers complaining that the increase was causing problems in recruitment.
Members asked whether there were KPIs around supporting people to stay in work. The Cabinet Member advised that the target for getting people into work had been raised, and that the team aims to get people into full-time and meaningful rather than temporary employment. Officers advised that most of the funding for Into Work services is grant funding and comes with a requirement that people stay and work for at least 6 months. Mentors work alongside the new employees to ensure they are sustained in that employment.
Members discussed whether people pass through the Into Work service only to be seen again a few months later, and were advised that some people have multiple barriers into work. A new Connect to Work programme will be delivered next year looking at those complex barriers, helping people into work and then wrapping support around them.
Members asked about the confidence levels at achieving the KPIs, and were advised that this is a key risk in 2026 as a significant amount of funding for Into Work services comes from the SPF. The Cabinet Member added that the team do remarkable work in the face of great challenges and difficulties, and it is important that funding for the next few years is secured to keep them in post.
Members sought information on what contingency there was should the SPF be significantly reduced or withdrawn. Officers advised that Connect to Work would help in some respects but not in terms of overall funding. Currently posts that become vacant are not being backfilled. Should no alternative funding become available the Council would have to look to exit posts. The Cabinet Member added that he would be putting pressure on ministers to replace SPF or put in place grant funding, and he would encourage Members to do the same.
RESOLVED: That the Chairperson writes to the Cabinet Member on behalf of the Committee expressing their comments and observations captured during the way forward.
Sections of the Corporate Plan and Budgetary Proposals relevant to the Housing and Communities portfolio
The Chair welcomed to the meeting Cllr Lee Bridgeman, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities; Helen Evans, Assistant Director for Housing and Communities; and Rebecca Hooper, Operational Manager for Neighbourhood Regeneration.
Cllr Bridgeman made a brief statement, after which Helen Evans and Rebecca Hooper gave a presentation outlining sections of the Budgetary Proposals relevant to the Housing and Communities portfolio.
Members were invited to ask questions and make comments, and the discussion is summarised below:
Members discussed the use of volunteers in hubs and libraries. The Cabinet Member advised that it was decided at an early stage not to adopt a full volunteer service. Hub and library staff are professional and qualified and cannot be replaced with volunteers. Officers added a balance had been struck between the number of volunteers in hubs and libraries and the remaining paid staff, and it is unlikely that paid staff could be reduced further. As part of an internal restructuring the Council is looking to create more specialist library roles. Volunteers receive good training and there are robust procedures in place.
Members wished to know about the number of hubs that hub managers are managing and whether this was sustainable. Officers advised that this depends on the size of hub; Central Library has its own manager while for smaller hubs and libraries there may be a single manager across 3 or 4. The Council is creating more senior roles such as assistant managers and senior hub library assistants and there will be one of these in each hub or library.
Members discussed the training of existing staff in specialisms and were advised that the Council is encouraging hub and library staff to enrol for a librarianship degree.
Members wondered how the proposal to remove free parking periods from Council car parks would affect the viability of district and local centres. The Cabinet Member advised that car parking charges were not part of his portfolio. Officers advised that there is a coordinated approach with Transport and Highways relating to regeneration of shopping areas. Many district centres do not have free car parking and the focus is on ensuring there are good Active Travel opportunities to encourage people out of cars where possible.
Members questioned why there was no reference in the Corporate Plan to 15-minute cities and sought reassurance that the Council still supports the concept. The Cabinet Member assured Members that the commitment was still there but the 15-minute city name had been dropped as there was too much toxicity around it.
Members sought further information on the Roath-Adamsdown Business Corridor. Officers advised that the boundaries had not yet been defined and there have been discussions around alignment with other regeneration and Active Travel schemes. The size of the area will be part of the consultation.
Members welcomed the focus on ensuring books in hubs and libraries reflect the diversity of language and sought information on how this diversity was assessed. Officer advised that this was through consultations, surveys, and conversations with library staff and customers. In addition, a new IT system being rolled out allows customer requests in specific languages to be logged.
Members sought information on whether reduction of the book fund would have an impact on people who access books in community languages. Officers advised that they were confident that the Council would be able to continue to meet the requirements of community languages. Data on the percentage of purchased books are in community languages could be provided to the Committee.
Members sought information on the venues used for the Learning for Life programme, and were advised that there are many such venues, including schools, churches and community halls, which are listed on the website, and in addition there continue to be some online courses available.
Members were advised that adult literacy and numeracy comes under a separate programme for adult learning called Learning for Work.
Members were advised that most Learning for Life participants are 50-plus retirees and that officers would be able to provide a demographic breakdown to committee if required.
Members enquired about the priority for the Clifton Street area in the Roath-Adamsdown Business Corridor placemaking plan. Officers advised that the South Riverside Business Corridor placemaking plan is currently being concluded, and there is a significant project for Cowbridge Road East that officers are looking to secure funding for and take forward shortly. The target date for the Adamsdown-Roath Business Corridor to commence is June, and this includes Clifton Street. Officers are working close with colleagues to coordinate the work with plans for a Transport Corridor along Newport Road and Broadway.
Members wished to know what the allocation of £1.5M for regeneration from the FRM was likely to be spent. Officers advised that ward councillors would be invited to put forward ideas that meet the criteria around regeneration. The key priority will be deliverability. The Cabinet Member urged Councillors to look out for the email from officers inviting ideas.
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.
RESOLVED To: approve the Investment decisions below:
(1) A commitment of £50m for the WPP Closed Ended Infrastructure sub-fund Series II
(2) An investment of £20-£30m in the WPP Real Estate UK Impact sub-fund funded from top-slicing the existing Property Investments
(3) The transfer of the existing BlackRock Low Carbon Tracker Fund into the new WPP bespoke BlackRock passive fund.
The decision on the private credit fund was delegated to the Section 151 Officer and Chairperson, with further information to be gathered and shared with committee members.
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
Allensbank Primary School
Gabalfa
21/09/2024
Bryn Deri Primary School
Radyr & Morganstown
01/10/2024
Cardiff West Community High School
Caerau
31/12/2024
30/11/2024
Danescourt Primary School
Llandaff
13/03/2024
Katherine Shearer
Ely and Caerau Childrens Centre
Ely
24/10/2024
Ffederasiwn y Ddraig
(Ysgol Pen y Pil and Bro Eirwg)
Trowbridge/Llanrumney
20/04/2024
Adheesha Liyanagunawardana
Lakeside Primary School
Cyncoed
13/09/2023
Millbank Primary School
Caerau
26/11/2024
Pentyrch Primary School
Pentyrch & St Fagans
12/09/2023
23/10/2024
Pontprennau Primary School
Pontprennau & Old St Mellons
08/11/2024
Cllr Peter Littlechild
Radyr Primary School
Radyr & Morganstown
22/03/2024
Nigel Shears
Severn Primary School
Riverside
22/10/2024
St Mellons CW Primary School
Llanrumney
21/09/2024
St Teilo's C.W High School
Pentwyn
29/02/2023
Whitchurch High School
Whitchurch & Tongwynlais
01/03/2024
Ysgol Glan Ceubal
Llandaff North
23/10/2024
Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Glantaf
Llandaff North
18/09/2024
Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Hamadryad
Butetown
06/10/2023
Ysgol Pencae
Llandaff
12/09/2024
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
Albany Primary School
Plasnewydd
01/05/2025
Birchgrove Primary School
Heath
01/02/2025
Bishop Childs C.W Primary School
Trowbridge
01/05/2025
Richard Leyshon
Bryn Celyn Primary School
Pentwyn
01/05/2025
Cardiff High School
Cyncoed
24/03/2025
01/05/2025
01/05/2025
Julia Phillips Lewis
Nonny Matthewson
Cardiff West Community High School
Caerau
19/03/2025
Joanne Larner
Cathays High School
Gabalfa
01/05/2025
Cllr Peter Wong
Coed Glas Primary School
Llanishen
01/05/2025
Cllr Garry Hunt
Corpus Christi R.C High School
Lisvane & Thornhill
01/05/2025
Fitzalan High School
Fairwater
24/04/2025
01/05/2025
Cerys Furlong
Ramesh Patel
Grangetown Primary School
Grangetown
01/05/2025
Hawthorn Primary School
Llandaff North
01/05/2025
01/05/2025
01/05/2025
Steven Chadwell
Paul Rock
Llanedeyrn Primary School
Pentwyn
01/05/2025
Alex Ingram
Llysfaen Primary School
Lisvane & Thornhill
01/05/2025
Susan Powell
Marlborough Primary School
Penylan
01/05/2025
Cllr Rodney Berman
Meadowbank School
Llandaff North
01/05/2025
Mike Borley
Meadowlane Primary School
Trowbridge
01/05/2025
Mount Stuart Primary School
Butetown
01/05/2025
Ivor Gittens
Ninian Park Primary School
Grangetown
01/05/2025
Radyr Comprehensive School
Radyr & Morganstown
01/05/2025
David Silver
Rhiwbeina Primary School
Rhiwbina
29/03/2025
Siva Sivapalan
Rhydypenau Primary School
Cyncoed
01/05/2025
Nonny Matthewson
Rumney Primary School
Rumney
01/05/2025
01/05/2025
Cllr Bob Derbyshire
Caroline Derbyshire
Springwood Primary School
Pentwyn
19/03/2025
Jessica Gow
St Teilo's C.W High School
Pentwyn
01/05/2025
Trelai Primary School
Caerau
24/03/2025
Whitchurch High School
Whitchurch & Tongwynlais
01/05/2025
Whitchurch Primary School
Whitchurch & Tongwynlais
01/05/2025
Ysgol Glan Morfa
Splott
01/05/2025
Cllr Huw Thomas
Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Bro Edern
Penylan
01/05/2025
01/05/2025
01/05/2025
Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Glantaf
Llandaff North
27/01/2025
01/05/2025
Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Hamadryad
Butetown
01/05/2025
Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Pen-y-Groes
Pentwyn
01/05/2025
Michael Landers
Ysgol Mynydd Bychan
Gabalfa
01/05/2025
Cllr Rhys Taylor
Ysgol Y Berllan Deg
Pentwyn
01/05/2025
Cllr Rodney Berman
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.
APPLICATIONS GRANTED
24/01641/DOC – WHITCHURCH AND TONGWYNLAIS
Land to the North West of Whitchurch Hospital Playing Fields, Whitchurch.
Re-discharge of Condition 20 (Drainage) of 17/01735/MJR subsequently varied under 20/02632/MJR.
The application was granted subject to the conditions outlined in the report.
23/02481/FUL – BUTETOWN
Parcel of Land located to the South of Hemingway Road, West of Future Inns Hotel and South of Miller & Carter Steak House.
Demolition of an existing building and construction of a car park with associated lighting, EV provision and landscaping.
(Cllr Gunter left the meeting during discussion of this item in accordance with her prejudicial interest).
The application was granted subject to the conditions outlined in the report.
24/02088/FUL – BUTETOWN
Land South of Future Inns Access Road, Butetown.
Multi-Storey Car Park including an ancillary office, and associated infrastructure including vehicular and pedestrian access, landscaping, drainage and a temporary construction compound.
(Cllr Gunter left her seat as a member of the Committee during this item in order to speak as a Ward Councillor, and did not vote in accordance with her prejudicial interest.)
The application was granted subject to the conditions outlined in the report.
23/01914/FUL – CATHAYS
Medallion House Crwys Road, Cathays.
Partial change of use of the ground floor from A1 retail to D1 community centre and A1 retail, demolition of the existing first and second floor and the construction of 64no. affordable flats on 4 new upper floors and 3no. 2-bed flats in existing car park and associated works.
(Cllr Humphreys left the meeting during discussion of this item in accordance with her personal and prejudicial interest).
The application was granted subject to the conditions outlined in the report.
APPLICATION DEFERRED
24/01620/OUT – OLD ST MELLONS
Land adjacent to Cefn Eurg, Druidstone Road.
Proposed construction of a detached dwelling with integral garage.
The application was deferred for a site visit to take place.
APPLICATION REFUSED
23/02600/FUL – LLANDAFF
Land at Radyr Court Close.
Erection of affordable houses together with access, landscaping, drainage, engineering and other associated works.
(Cllr Driscoll left his seat as a member of the Committee during this item in order to speak as a Ward Councillor, and did not vote in accordance with his prejudicial interest.)
The application was refused.
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 License given that a complaint had been received stating that he attempted to charge a customer an extra amount for paying by debit card and was attempting to charge a fixed fee and not utilise the calibrated meter in the vehicle.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the driver explained that he had taken card payments long before it was mandatory to offer them, and often picked up passengers near the train station who did not have cash on them. On the night in question, at about 1am he saw the witness waiting for a taxi and asked him if he needed to pay by card, which he did. The passenger asked how much it would be to go to Penylan, which he said would cost about £10.
The driver added that he had accidentally pressed the £1 extra button on SumUp while waiting to leave the rank but did not intend to charge this. He was aware of the rules against charging more than was on the meter, even though he had to pay fees on card payments. The driver suggested that during the journey, the passenger was upset and rude. After arriving at the destination, they paid the £9.30 fare listed on the meter by card and then took pictures of the inside and outside of the car. The passenger was not charged anything extra, which the receipt showed.
The driver’s representative added that there had been no previous complaints against the driver, and he had been taking card payments for six years now without ever being accused of trying to charge more than what was on the meter.
Responding to questions from the Sub Committee, the driver emphasised that he knew it was not legal to charge a transaction fee for card payments, and stressed that he had added the £1 fee by mistake at the start of the journey and then not tried to charge it at the end. He also emphasised that he had not asked for a fixed fee, but had just said that a trip to Penylan would likely be around that amount, and then put the meter on as requested.
The witness recalled that he had hailed a taxi at the bottom of St Mary’s Street on a Friday night, which was always busy. He found a taxi which was willing to take card, as he didn’t have cash and this was before a card reader became a requirement. He asked the driver if he could go to Penylan and the driver said ‘£10’. The witness said ‘we’ll see what the meter says’, because he was aware of the requirements for journeys within the city boundaries. The driver then said there would be a £1 fee, which he disputed.
The witness insisted that he had not been rude or angry. At the end of the journey, as he exited the vehicle he took a photo of the numberplate, because he didn’t think it was right that the driver had tried to charge him a fixed fare within the city boundaries.
Members asked what the fee was at the end of the journey. The witness responded that he paid £9.30 and suggested that the photo he took of the meter showed a £9.30 total with a £1 fee having been added to it. The driver clarified that the £1 fee had not been added to the fare, as he had to press an extra button to add this on before taking payment, but did not do this because he had pressed the £1 button accidentally.
The driver added that he had never been accused of overcharging before, and he always used the meter even when he went outside of the boundaries to places like Penarth.
The driver’s representative suggested that the situation may have stemmed from a misunderstanding when the driver advised that the likely cost to go to Penylan would be around £10, which the passenger interpreted as a fixed fare.
RESOLVED – that no further action be taken.
(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 License given that he had 9 penalty points on his driving licence.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the driver explained the offences and acknowledged complacency on his part, particularly regarding two of his speeding offences which had occurred in the same week. At the time he was going through a personal crisis with his partner being ill in hospital, and he failed to notice a recent change in speed limit in an area from 40mph to 30mph.
Members asked why the driver had only declared 6 penalty points when renewing his licence when he actually had 9. The driver explained that the second offence in that week, in June 2023, was not actually penalised until the following February, which he still did not understand. He had paid the fine initially but then had it reimbursed in December 2023, so he assumed it had been a mistake and they had charged him twice for the same offence. In January 2024 he was summoned to court and told that he hadn’t paid the fine. He co-operated in every way he could and accepted his punishment for speeding, which ended up being a larger fine than the original one. At the time he renewed his application, he believed there were only 6 points on his licence.
Responding to questions from the Sub Committee, the driver explained that the two offences in the same week were committed on Manor Way. The driver added that he drove past there almost every day because he lived nearby. He was not making excuses but felt there were some mitigating circumstances on his mind when he failed to notice the change to a 30mph road, and he did not deny that he was speeding.
Members noted that with 9 points now on his licence, he would need to be very careful in order to keep driving at all. The driver agreed and stressed that he was very aware of this. Taxi driving was very important to him because it allowed him to work flexibly and care for his wife. He reiterated that the offences had been a temporary lapse of judgement which he had owned up to.
RESOLVED – that no further action be taken.
(3)
Application 3
The Sub Committee was asked to consider an application for a Hackney Carriage / Private Hire Driver’s License given that he had a conviction contrary to the guidance.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the driver stated that he had made a big mistake six years ago, while he was new in the country and had been drinking. He had sexually assaulted a woman who reported him to the police, and he had accepted a caution for this and apologised.
Members asked why he had not declared this on his application form. The driver explained that he didn’t know that he needed to at the time, having only been in the UK for a year and only having had limited English skills then. At the police station he had come under the impression that accepting the caution and apologising would be the end of the matter. He didn’t know it would show up on his application but he needed a job and didn’t want to be turned down. He felt very ashamed, both for what he did and for not declaring it.
RESOLVED – that the application for a Hackney Carriage / Private Hire Driver’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 License given that he had been issued with a caution by South Wales Police which he did not declare on his renewal application.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the driver explained that he had received a caution for battery in 2022 after an incident between him and his wife. He pushed her and she called the police, and he was arrested and released with a caution. When it came to renew his licence, he misunderstood the question and thought it only referred to convictions, not cautions.
Members asked why he had not declared the caution immediately in 2022, let alone failing to do so in 2024 upon renewal. The driver responded that he didn’t realise it was something he had to declare as he had been released straight away. He had understood it as a warning rather than something on his permanent record, and apologised for this.
Members suggested that having been a taxi driver since 2008, he would have renewed his licence several times before, and should have been aware of the need to inform the licensing authority as soon as possible if he committed any sort of offence. The driver apologised and reiterated that he was under the impression that a caution was more like a warning.
The driver added that in 16 years in the trade he had never had any incidents of this or any other nature. The offence was something in his private life which he and his wife had now resolved.
RESOLVED – that the Hackney Carriage / Private Hire Driver’s Licence be suspended for 28 days, and the driver receive a written warning.
(5)
This case was deferred to the next meeting.
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.
APPLICATIONS GRANTED
24/01293/FUL – PONTCANNA
Pontcanna Mews, Kings Road, Pontcanna, Cardiff
Retention of Change of use of existing Retail premises (Use Class A1) and to allow Flexible Use of the premises for Retail (Use Class A1), Financial and Professional Services (Use Class A2), Food and Drink (Use Class A3), Business (Use Class B1), Beauty Salon (Sui-Generis) and Tattoo Studio (Sui-Generis), including the use of the external courtyard for purposes ancillary to these uses and retention of a Covered Structure to provide outdoor seating.
The application was granted subject to amendment of the following conditions:
Condition 3
Members of the public shall only be admitted or allowed to remain on the premises, including the Covered Structure hereby approved, related to any use within Class A3 of the Schedule to the Town and Country Planning (Uses Classes) Order 1987 (or any Order amending, revoking, or re-enacting that Order), between the hours of 08:00 and 18:00 Sunday to Thursday and between 08:00 and 20:30 on Friday and Saturday.
Condition 4
The external areas of the premises, including the Covered Structure hereby approved, shall only be permitted to be used for any purpose, except for means of access, between the hours of 08:00 and 18:00 Sunday to Thursday and between 08:00 and 20:30 on Friday and Saturday.
Condition 5
The premises shall not be used for purposes within Class B1 and A3 of the Scheduled to the Town and Country Planning (Uses Classes) Order 1987 (or any Order amending, revoking, or re-enacting that Order) that creates noise audible at the boundary of the nearest residential property outside of the hours of 07:45 and 17:15 Sunday to Thursday and 07:45 and 20:45 on Friday and Saturday.
And subject to the addition of the following conditions:
Condition 11
There shall be no provision of any music or any amplified sound at the premises that would be audible at the boundary of any residential property.
Condition 12
Within one month of the date of this planning permission a solid means of enclosure, of a minimum of 1.8m in height and a maximum of 2m in height, shall be provided to the boundary of all residential properties adjoining the site which provides for no visibility to the neighbouring properties.
24/00084/FUL – RHIWBINA
Land at the rear of 19A Heol Y Coed, Coed Ceirios, Rhiwbina, Cardiff
Erection of a 2 storey dwelling with associated landscape works.
The application was granted, subject to additional wording in Condition 3:
Construction Environmental Management Plan
No development, including site clearance, shall commence until such time as a Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) has been submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority. The CEMP shall, as a minimum, include the following:
- Details of site hoardings, site access and wheel washing facilities
- A strategy for the delivery of plant and materials
- The parking of vehicles of site operatives and visitors
- Loading and unloading of plant and materials
- Restrictions on deliveries, removal, loading and / or unloading of plan and materials during school pickup and drop off times.
- Storage of plant and materials used in constructing the development
- A plan identifying the location of any site compound
- The erection and maintenance of security hoarding
- Control of Nuisances: details of restrictions to be applied during construction including timing, duration and frequency of works; details of measures to minimise noise and vibration; details of dust control measures and measures to monitor emissions of dust arising from the development; measures to control light spill and the conservation of dark skies.
- Traffic Management: access routes (including any temporary traffic regulation orders required) and traffic management
- Details of the persons and bodies responsible for activities associated with the CEMP and emergency contact details.
All development shall be undertaken in full accordance with the approved CEMP.
APPLICATIONS GRANTED SUBJECT TO A BINDING SECTION 106 AGREEMENT
24/01603/FUL – LLANEDEYRN
Land west of St Teilos High School
Proposed Development of 53 Council Homes, Nine Supported Living Apartments, Re-Alignment of Footpath, Sustainable Drainage Proposals, Landscape Planting Including an Ecotone and Associated Works.
APPLICATIONS DEFERRED
23/02600/FUL – LLANDAFF
Land at Radyr Court Close
Erection of affordable houses together with access, landscaping, drainage, engineering and other associated works.
(Councillor Driscoll left his seat as a member of the Committee during this item in order to speak as a Ward Councillor, and did not vote in accordance with his prejudicial interest)
The application was deferred for reasons for refusal relating to loss of amenity / open space and ongoing flood concerns, including the failure of flood defences.
24/01641/DOC – WHITCHURCH AND TONGWYNLAS
Land to the north-west of Whitchurch Hospital playing fields, Whitchurch, Cardiff
Re-discharge of Condition 20 (Drainage) of 17/01735/MJR subsequently varied under 20/02632/MJR.
The application as deferred until January 2025 as the Committee ran out of time.
RESOLVED – That the following matters be dealt with as indicated:
(1) Application 1
This item was deferred to a later meeting.
(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 License given that information had been received stating that he allegedly committed four speeding offences, but when contacted by police regarding these offences, returned documents with details stating that other drivers committed these offences. It was also alleged that when questioned by Licensing Officers, the driver stated that someone in his household had returned the documents. The driver had also disclosed a driving offence which was not on his licence.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the driver stated that he accepted responsibility for the speeding offences as he was the only person who drove his taxi, but he believed that someone else had filled out the inaccurate forms. He had had some family problems in the last few years and was worried that someone might have filled in the forms maliciously to get him in trouble.
The driver’s representative reiterated that the driver accepted responsibility for the speeding offences, and added that he would have filled in the paperwork accurately and responsibly had he received it. He had been driving a taxi in Cardiff for nearly twenty years with a very good record. He hoped that the Sub Committee would take into account that taxi driving was his sole source of income and he needed to support his family.
Responding to questions from Members, the driver confirmed that he did not know any of the names provided in the paperwork, and did not think the forms were in his handwriting.
The witness, representing South Wales Police, stated that in his view, the only reason the forms would have been filled in falsely would have been to help the driver avoid a penalty for speeding. He did not accept the explanation that they had been filled out maliciously by someone else, as they had resulted in the driver getting away with several speeding offences until he was eventually caught out.
Members queried the supporting documentation and heard that the driver had initially provided a copy of an informal rental agreement with another individual for temporary use of the vehicle. South Wales Police had not been able to track down this person and confirm that they either existed or had the required licence and insurance to drive a taxi. The witness suggested that having initially been caught speeding, the driver had claimed someone else was driving, only to realise that this would be a breach of the insurance and then admit it was him.
RESOLVED – that the Hackney Carriage / Private Hire Driver’s License be revoked.
(3) Application 3
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 License given that a complaint had been received stating that he refused to take an assistance dog, claiming he had a medical condition.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the driver recalled that on the day in question he was suffering from bad hay fever which was making him itch and sneeze. He accepted the job, but when he saw it was a dog he called Dragon Taxis and apologised for not being able to take the passenger. The operator explained that he wasn’t allowed to refuse a guide dog but he had to insist because it was a medical issue. He was very sorry to have inconvenienced the passenger, and would not do it again.
The driver’s daughter added that he had a history of hay fever and medical records to support that. It could be triggered around pets and it was hard to drive when he was sneezing and coughing. He felt it was better to arrange an alternative, but did not intend to offend or dismiss the customer in any way. He had never had another complaint and had already been suspended by Dragon Taxis for a month for this incident.
Responding to questions from Members, the driver said that he was unaware that he could apply for a medical exemption certificate which would allow him to not take assistance animals. Rather than a specific allergy to dogs, it was hay fever which could sometimes be exacerbated by them. He understood that without an exemption certificate, he was legally required to take them.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the witness recalled that she booked a taxi from Leckwith to Barry at about 8:15pm. She could see on the Dragon app that the driver who had accepted the job was at the traffic lights nearby, so she went out to wait for him, only to see him do a U-turn and park on the opposite side of the road. It was dark so she didn’t approach the car. She then got a call from Dragon asking whether it was a guide dog, which she confirmed.
The witness emphasised that the driver should have come over and spoken to her in person if he was unable to take her and her dog. The operator had not explained why the driver was not willing to take the dog. She found it humiliating and exhausting to have to fight for equality to access a taxi.
The Sub Committee listened to recordings of the two calls in question provided by Dragon Taxis, one with the passenger and one with the driver.
The driver apologised to the witness for his mistake, which he assured her would never happen again. He had never turned down taking a dog before and understood that it was required as part of his licence.
RESOLVED – that the driver receive a written warning, and be required to complete the relevant SQA course within twelve weeks.
(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 License given that a complaint had been received stating that he had 11 points and £300 in fines on his driving licence. This was in respect of 3 speeding offences, 2 other speeding offences where he was fined £290 and £250, and a further speeding offence for which he attended a speed awareness course. None of this information was provided by the driver, as required in Section M of the Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Drivers Licence Conditions.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the driver stated that he had committed six speeding offences and made a mistake when filling out the necessary forms, because he thought he was driving his private car when it was actually his taxi. He went to court for the offences and received 11 points in total, and had sent evidence of his offences to the licensing authority.
The witness, representing South Wales Police, explained that this case had been flagged due to the six offences occurring in a short space of time, and during the investigation it was discovered that the driver had nominated two different people who were found not to be insured on the taxi. He was sceptical of the suggestion that the driver could have been confused about which car was involved, as each NIP form displayed the make, model and registration in bold capital letters on the front page. The witness suggested that the driver had only now decided to tell the truth having gone to court for the six offences, where he had agreed a deal to take 11 points and be able to continue driving.
The driver responded that his confusion over the vehicle was due to him being new to driving the taxi at the time, and the two cars having similar numberplates. He had also suffered a number of family tragedies around that time which would have contributed to his stressful situation. Members queried whether a picture of the vehicle would have been provided in the letter, which the Legal Officer clarified was not automatic although it could be requested.
The driver’s representative summarised that the driver had believed the speeding offences had each been committed in his private vehicle rather than his taxi, and had provided the real names of his friends and family who had been using the other car at that time. He now accepted that he was mistaken and had been driving his taxi on each occasion. He had since been punished in court for each offence with fines and penalty points.
RESOLVED – that the Hackney Carriage / Private Hire Driver’s License be revoked.
(5) Application 5
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 License given that he had declared a caution for battery.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the driver stated that he did not feel that battery was an accurate description, as it related to a domestic dispute where he and his wife had both pushed each other. The Legal Officer clarified that the definition of battery included physical contact and not necessarily hitting or wounding. The police had found sufficient evidence to charge him with it, and by accepting the caution, he had admitted the offence.
The driver’s wife added that he was not a violent person at all but they had had a bad day, and he had then misunderstood what he was admitting to when he accepted the caution due to not speaking English as a first language. She hoped that Members would take into account that they had a mortgage and children to support.
Responding to questions from Members, the driver stated that he had been unaware of the duty to inform the licensing authority of any offences, and would do so straight away if anything happened in the future.
RESOLVED – that the Hackney Carriage / Private Hire Driver’s License be suspended for one week, and that the driver receive a written warning.
(6) 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 / Private Hire Driver’s License given that a complaint had been received stating that the driver was alleged to have provided false information to South Wales Police in relation to identifying the driver following a speeding offence notification.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the driver stated that he had received a speeding ticket and spoken to a friend about it, who advised him to put down a false name as it was his second offence. This was a stupid mistake which he never should have done. He had learned the hard way and apologised.
The witness, representing South Wales Police, stated that the driver had now accepted that he lied on his form, but previously sent a fraudulent insurance document to back it up. The witness had spoken to the company in question, who made clear that they had not issued the policy. The driver had been able to plead guilty to the original speeding ticket rather than to lying on his form, receiving three points rather than six and a smaller fine. He had knowingly and deliberately lied to the police, and offered no defence other than that he didn’t want a ticket.
The driver’s representative asked that the Sub Committee take into account the circumstances of the case. The driver had accepted that he had lied and given the reasons behind that. There was a scam going round where drivers were misled by individuals promising that they could make offences go away in return for money. The driver had not been honest at the outset but had been now, and he understood the importance of honesty and integrity when serving the public. He categorically assured Members that he would never do anything like this again, and would help with further inquiries into the issue.
The witness suggested that the driver knew from the start what he needed to do to declare his offence properly, having previously received a speeding ticket and complied with the legal requirements, but chose not to this time. He compounded the issue by continuing to knowingly lie, and only told the truth after being caught.
Members asked how many points the driver had on his licence in total, and heard that he had six.
RESOLVED – that the Hackney Carriage / Private Hire Driver’s License be revoked.
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 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 the public be excluded from the meeting at this point during consideration of this item as the Committee discussed exempt information of the description contained in paragraph 14 and 16 of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Action 1972. The public may be excluded from the meeting by resolution of the Committee pursuant to Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972 during discussion of this item.
Regeneration
The Cabinet Member was invited to make an opening statement after which Members were provided with a presentation from Officers on the information in the public domain.
The Chairperson invited questions and comments from Members for the open session.
Members sought assurance regarding the Capella production studio and were pleased to hear that the Wales Millennium Centre has officially launched Capella, alongside announcing £1M in support funding.
In relation to the Event Hall, members noted that this is not included in the Business Case for the Core Office development.
Members were interested to hear whether creche facilities have been considered as part of the wider regeneration of the area, particularly given their potential contribution to local prosperity and alignment with the Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015, which promotes sustainable development and its five ways of working. Members noted that a previous creche at County Hall had closed due to financial sustainability issues, however it was considered that there might be a role for private sector provision of such facilities.
RESOLVED – That the public be excluded from the meeting at this point during consideration of this item as the Committee discussed exempt information of the description contained in paragraph 14 and 16 of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Action 1972. The public may be excluded from the meeting by resolution of the Committee pursuant to Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972 during discussion of this item.
Finance & Property
The Cabinet Member was invited to make an opening statement after which Members were provided with a presentation from Officers on the information in the public domain.
The Chairperson invited questions and comments from Members for the open session.
Members noted that external capacity has been engaged to assist with due diligence. The Chief Executive and the s151 officer are satisfied with the process and the robustness of the procurement exercise.
With regard to Risk Management, Members heard that the Council is protected from build cost risks, as a Development Agreement is being used instead of a JCT build contract. Under this arrangement, the preferred bidder bears the construction costs, and the Council will acquire the completed building at a fixed price and agreed-upon specification.
In relation to the procurement process, Members expressed their support for the approach taken, acknowledging the overall robustness of the process, which provides assurance regarding financial risk.
Members also considered the rationale for discarding alternatives to a new build. They noted that decanting into existing offices would be more expensive both in the short term (due to moving and running costs) and in the long term (because a new office will eventually be needed, and construction costs are expected to rise).
Regarding how the proposals align with the Well-being of Future Generations Act (Wales) 2015 and its sustainability requirements, Members referred to Appendix 3 of the Cabinet report, which outlined how the new Core Office meets these criteria. Notably, the new office will be more accessible to the public, better integrated into the public realm, and include spaces for local residents. It will also lead in carbon efficiency, support well-being, facilitate the provision of social housing on the existing County Hall site, and contribute to building safe and empowered communities.
Recognising that the new Core Office will be a flagship building, Members sought reassurance that it would be designed to a high standard. They were pleased to learn that the project will deliver a flexible, dynamic space that accommodates more staff than currently work at County Hall.
The need for the Core Office to meet democratic accountability requirements was also highlighted. Members were reassured by the offer that they will have an opportunity to provide input regarding their specific requirements.
In terms of workspace design, Members sought to understand how the new Core Office would feel for those working there. They were informed that the new office will allocate 8m² per person (excluding meeting rooms), which is more generous than the 6m² typically found in call centres. This allocation is based on a more efficient use of space, reflecting new working practices such as the use of docking stations instead of desks with storage. Additionally, workspaces will be tailored to meet the needs of different services.
Members noted that the new Core Office is proposed to be 100,000 square feet, supporting approximately 925 staff, with other council employees based in community hubs, delivering front-line services, and/or working from home. They also noted that the Council has a responsibility to provide space for staff who are either unwilling or unable to work from home. The new Core Office is seen as a positive driver for staff productivity by providing a better working environment that better meets their needs.
Regarding City Hall, Members sought clarification on whether any short-term measures could be implemented to reduce its running costs. Members heard that the Council’s current strategy is to make only the minimum necessary improvements. Members were also informed that recent upgrades to the heating system have inadvertently increased costs, as electricity is currently more expensive than gas.
RESOLVED – That the public be excluded from the meeting at this point during consideration of this item as the Committee discussed exempt information of the description contained in paragraph 14 and 16 of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Action 1972. The public may be excluded from the meeting by resolution of the Committee pursuant to Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972 during discussion of this item.
AGREED: that the Chairperson, on behalf of the Committee, writes to the Cabinet Member conveying the observations and recommendations of the Committee when discussing 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.
APPLICATIONS GRANTED SUBJECT TO ENTERING INTO A BINDING SECTION 106 AGREEMENT
24/00624/FUL – SPLOTT
The partial removal of fill material, undertaking of reprofiling groundworks, and the installation of an Energy Park (comprising battery energy storage facility, associated substation and ancillary buildings) and Data Centre, along with access, parking, drainage, landscaping and associated works.
RESOLVED: that
1. the Electric Vehicle Road Map be adopted and published as the Council’s strategic approach to delivering Council supported public electric vehicle infrastructure.
2. authority be delegated to the Director of Planning, Transport and Environment, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Strategic Planning & Transport and the Corporate Director of Resources, to implement the delivery of further public electric vehicle Infrastructure in accordance with the road map.
RESOLVED: that
1. authority be delegated to the Director of Economic Development and the Corporate Director of Resources, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Finance, Modernisation & Performance and the Cabinet Member for Investment & Development, to clarify and agree acceptable funding terms of a loan with Welsh Government.
2. Subject to recommendation 1, a loan of £1.63 million be made to the applicant on conditions set out in Confidential Appendices 2 & 7.
RESOLVED – That the public be excluded from the meeting at this point during consideration of this item as the Committee discussed exempt information of the description contained in paragraphs 14, 16 and 21 of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Action 1972. The public may be excluded from the meeting by resolution of the Committee pursuant to Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972 during discussion of this item.
AGREED: that the Chairperson, on behalf of the Committee, writes to the Cabinet Member conveying the observations and recommendations of the Committee when discussing 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 Private Hire Driver’s License given that a complaint had been received stating that he displayed conduct unbefitting of a licensed driver.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the driver explained that he had taken a booking by the supermarket in St Mellons and waited there for the customer. Two people arrived, an old woman and a younger woman with her. He thought he only had one customer, and that the younger woman was helping her to the car. A minute or so into the journey the passenger said ‘where is my daughter?’, so he stopped at a petrol station to turn around. The passenger suddenly asked where her daughter was again and this confused the driver, so he called his operator. The passenger became panicked and angry and so he asked his operator if he could drop her back at the original spot and leave.
The driver refuted the suggestion in the witness’ statement that he had stopped to fill up his car, as well as the suggestion that he had spoken in an aggressive manner.
Responding to questions from the Sub Committee, the driver confirmed that he had experience working with older people who required extra assistance. He always got out of his car to help them get in, but in this case she was already being assisted.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the witness recalled that she and her mother were at the garden centre when she booked a taxi home for two people and received a text confirming this. The driver was not paying attention as they came up to the vehicle so she helped her mother into the car. She asked the driver to open the boot, at which point he shut the door and drove off, so she rang the operator and spoke to them. It took about 15 minutes for the taxi to return with her mother inside, who was quite shaken. The driver got out and came over, not to help her out but to tell her very loudly to get out of his vehicle, in what she felt was an aggressive way. Eventually another driver came along and they went home.
Regarding the driver’s statement that he had spoken to the passenger, the witness explained that her mother was profoundly deaf and couldn’t have conversations with people unless they were very close and looking directly at her. The booking had been clearly made for two people and her mother had told him to return her immediately. She also disputed the driver’s suggestion that her mother had been angry and aggressive, noting that she was 96 years old and 4’9”.
Members asked if there was any other conversation between the witness and the driver. She explained that she had just said ‘hello’ initially and then asked if he could open the boot.
RESOLVED – that the Private Hire Driver’s Licence be suspended for two weeks.
(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 License given that a complaint had been received stating that the driver smoked a cigarette whilst in his licensed vehicle and proceeded to drive and act in a manner not considered fit and proper.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the driver stated that he had been having a cigarette outside his vehicle while waiting for the customer to arrive. When the passenger got in, he smelt smoke and told him that he had a lung condition. The driver acknowledged his mistake and in hindsight should have moved further away from the vehicle.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the witness suggested that the driver had been smoking inside the vehicle, and that he had asked if the passenger minded if he continued. He challenged the driver on this as he knew it was illegal, and the driver threw it out of the window. The witness emphasised that he had weak lungs and was coughing throughout the journey, but needed to get home and kept quiet so the driver did not terminate the trip.
The driver turned up the music very loud, which the witness felt was intended to intimidate him, and exceeded the speed limit during the journey. When asked about his badges, he said he didn’t use them, which made the witness suspect that he was not driving legally.
Responding to questions from Members, the driver explained that he took his badges out of his car overnight because it had been broken into before. He had his badge on him in this instance but it might not have been in the window. He understood the requirements about displaying the badge.
The driver’s representative asked about an altercation with a group of people in another vehicle mentioned in the driver’s statement. The witness explained that while they were stopped at a red light, the passenger side window was wound down to get rid of the smell of smoke, and some young men nearby heard them arguing about it. He didn’t feel this was relevant or indicative of the whole journey so didn’t he include it in his own statement.
The driver’s representative acknowledged that he understood why the witness was upset at smelling smoke, and the driver would move further away from the vehicle in the future. He asked that Members show leniency in this instance, suggesting that the situation had been escalated by the witness. The driver had been licensed to drive taxis for 13 years and had never had a complaint of this nature before.
The witness disputed the suggestion that the driver had only been smoking outside of his vehicle, but emphasised that his attitude was the main reason for his complaint.
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 Hackney Carriage/Private Hire Driver’s License given that the driver declared he had 9 penalty points on his driving licence.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the driver apologised for the three offences, which he had incurred in 2022, 2023 and 2024 respectively. He accumulated heavy mileage each year, normally 40,000-50,000 miles, and his priority was customer safety and excellent customer service. He understood there was no excuse for exceeding the speed limit but had appealed one of these convictions as a 30mph sign was covered by trees, but this had been unsuccessful.
He assured Members that he was a safe driver who went above and beyond for his passengers. He had been a licensed taxi driver for nearly seven years now and had received no complaints in that time. It was his main source of income, and he would endeavour not to put himself or the licensing authority in this situation again.
Responding to questions from the Sub Committee, the driver clarified that none of the offences had occurred while he had passengers in the vehicle.
Members discussed the delay between the last SP30 conviction in February and the driver notifying the authority in August, noting that he was obligated under the conditions of his licence to inform them of any offence as soon as it occurred. The driver responded that he had declared it upon renewing his licence, and apologised for failing to do so sooner.
RESOLVED – that the driver receive a written warning
(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 License given that the driver declared he had three SP30 motoring convictions and was pending a further two.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the driver apologised for the convictions. He had worked as a taxi driver for many years and loved the job and being a part of the community. He supported his family on his single income and worked long hours to do so. He understood the responsibilities of being a taxi driver and the challenges of the job.
The driver’s representative updated Members on the status of the two pending convictions. The driver had received three points for one of them, meaning he now had twelve in total, and he had been ordered to take a speed awareness course for the other offence.
The Sub Committee queried whether he had received any kind of ban. The driver responded that he had paid the fines and had not had any notification of a ban, so he was still driving. He had been informed of the last set of points about three weeks ago and had a speed awareness course booked in October.
The Chair suggested that it was unusual to be offered a speed awareness course when a driver already had nine points, and noted that there was no evidence of whether he had been suspended or not. It was suggested that the driver be suspended until the licensing authority received evidence that the last two offences had been settled and the DVLA had not suspended him.
It was suggested that the matter be deferred to the next Sub Committee on 6th November. The driver’s representative noted that a month was a long time to wait when taxi driving was his main source of income. It was instead agreed that the driver would present the evidence to the licensing authority as soon as possible, while the authority would also check with the DVLA in the meantime.
RESOLVED – that the Private Hire Driver’s Licence be suspended until the driver presents evidence to the licensing authority that the two recent convictions have been settled with no driving ban.
(5)
Application 5
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 License given that the driver declared he had two SP30 motoring convictions and one SP50 motoring conviction.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the driver stated that he didn’t intend to make excuses, but did feel he was a fit and proper person to safely drive a taxi. Two of his speeding offences happened in the same place on Manor Way, after the speed limit there was reduced from 40mph to 30mph. On both occasions he was travelling to the hospital to visit his mother without passengers in the vehicle and was caught going at 36mph.
He admitted that this was wrong and had taken his punishment. He had taken this experience on board and was now an even more careful driver than before. He did a lot for his passengers and took public safety very seriously. He had a character reference from a funeral director whose clients he regularly drove around, and felt he was a good representative of the city of Cardiff.
Members asked why it took several months to inform the licensing authority of these convictions. The driver responded that he was aware of the obligation to notify the council, but the court process had finished in April and he had sent off his licence. After it came back, he notified the authority after a week or two, which he acknowledged he should have done sooner.
RESOLVED – that the driver receive a written warning.
(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 License given that the driver declared he was disqualified from driving and had received a ban from the DVLA.
Addressing the Sub Committee, the driver stated that he had a taxi licence since 2008 and as of the start of 2024 had not had any points on his licence. He had a drink and a meal with some friends one evening and gave one of them a lift home, not realising he was over the limit, and was pulled over. He was banned from driving for 15 months, which was reduced to 12 upon doing a course.
Before this ban had expired, he drove his car in an emergency, needing to pick up stock for the shop he ran, and was pulled over by the police for driving while disqualified. For this, he was given a nine month ban, fined and required to do community service.
Responding to questions from the Sub Committee, the driver acknowledged that it was never safe to drink alcohol before driving, and this had been a huge mistake. He understood the severity of his crime and the impact it had on people. Driving while disqualified had also been a terrible mistake and he had faced the consequences of this.
RESOLVED – that the Private Hire Driver’s License be revoked.
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. The publication of the Cardiff Local Area Energy Plan be approved, and the Plan be endorsed for use as a key evidence base for climate action across the city.
2. The evidence base be used to inform the production of the Council’s Green Deal Proposition, which is aimed at delivering a step change in the Council’s Climate Emergency action plan.
RESOLVED:
To note that Council agreed the following Terms of Reference for the Committee at its annual meeting on 23rd May 2024:
The role of this Committee is 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 economic regeneration including:
Cardiff City Region City Deal
Inward Investment and the marketing of Cardiff
Economic Strategy & Employment
European Funding & Investment
Small to Medium Support
Cardiff Harbour Authority
Lifelong Learning
Leisure Centres
Sports Development
Parks & Green Spaces
Libraries, Arts & Culture
Civic Buildings
Events & Tourism
Strategic Projects
Innovation & Technology Centres
Local Training & Enterprise
To assess the impact of partnerships with resources and services provided by external organisations including the Welsh Government, joint local government services, Welsh Government Sponsored Public Bodies 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: 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
23/02265/HSE – LLANDAFF
The Coach House, Cathedral Court, 6 The Cathedral Green, Llandaff
(Councillor Shimmin left the meeting during discussion of this item in accordance with his prejudicial interest)
Roof extension including new dormers
The application was granted subject to an amendment to the wording of condition 3:
‘The first floor window which is positioned nearest to the south corner of the front (south west) elevation and the two second floor dormer windows which are positioned nearest to the south corner of the front (south west) elevation shall be non-opening below a height of 1.7m above internal floor level and glazed with obscure glass, and thereafter be retained.
APPLICATION GRANTED SUBJECT TO ENTERING A BINDING SECTION 106 AGREEMENT
23/01301/VAR - BUTETOWN
Multi Storey Car Park, Stuart Street, Butetown
Variation of Conditions 2, 4, 5, 7, 8 10, 11 and 17 of 19/01012/MJR to reflect a move to a system build approach and allow more of the existing car park to be demolished, removal of the green walls, alterations to the footprint of the building particularly along the northern boundary slightly
reducing the building footprint, two car parking spaces to be lost, the use of a "split-level" parking arrangement, car parking spaces are to be increased, increase to the height of the car park building, and alterations to the car parks facades.
(Councillor Gunter did not take part in the discussion or vote on this item in accordance with her prejudicial interest)
The application was granted subject to the signing of a Section 106 agreement. Conditions regarding DEMP / CEMP to be authorised by the Planning Committee Chair.
23/01925/VAR – CATHAYS
Guildford Crescent, Cathays, Cardiff
Proposed residential-led mixed use redevelopment comprising residential apartments (use class C3) including ancillary indoor and outdoor residential amenity space; flexible commercial floorspace on the ground floor (use class A1, A2, A3, B1, D1 and D2); landscaping; related infrastructure and engineering works (Approved 12 November 2021 - 21/01682/MJR): -
Variation of condition 2 (Approved Plans) of 21/01682/MJR to amend the approved scheme as follows: 1) Demolish and re-build the existing Guildford Crescent Facade; 2) Window framing (transoms removed); 3) Level 1 and Level 2 windows (inclusion of louvre and mini-profile concrete side panels); 4) The size of commercial unit 1; 5) Reconfiguration of first floor roof terrace; and 6) Introduction of access door off Level 1 amenity lobby onto foyer roof.
The application was granted subject to the signing of a Section 106 agreement.
APPLICATION DEFERRED
21/02863/MJR - LLANISHEN
30-36 Fishguard Road, Llanishen, Cardiff, CF14 5PQ
Proposed demolition of existing garages and erection of new
attached development to form flats
(Councillor Hunt did not take part in the discussion or vote on this item in accordance with his prejudicial interest)
The application was deferred for a site visit to take place.
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 DEFERRED
23/02265/HSE – LLANDAFF
The Coach House, Cathedral Court, 6 The Cathedral Green, Llandaff
Roof Extension including New Dormers
REASON:
Deferred for additional information to be provided.
APPLICATION GRANTED
23/01833/FUL – PONTCANNA
Llandaff Fields Bowling Pavilion, Cathedral Road, Pontcanna
Installation of 6 glazed open padel courts for all year-round covered by glazed canopies. Installation of lighting set within the courts using low energy LED lighting. Refurbishment and alteration of existing Pavilion provision of mobile social space (cafe, changing facilities, toilets, office and storage)
Approved as per recommendation with the addition of the advisory note below:
The operator of the Pavilion be advised that it would be beneficial for the Toilet Facilities that are to be provided to be available for use to the general public during the permitted hours of operation in the interests of providing a community facility for all users of the Park.
APPLICATION GRANTED SUBJECT TO ENTERING A BINDING SECTION 106 AGREEMENT
23/02402/FUL – CATHAYS
MadinaAsjid Mosque, Lucas Street, Cathays
Proposed Madina Mosque and Community Centre including Landscaping, Highways, Parking, Drainage and Associated Works.
Approved as per recommendation subject to the signing of a Section 106 Agreement, plus additional condition regarding submission of a Travel Plan.
RESOLVED: Council AGREED to:
a.
Note the determinations of the IRPW in its Annual Report published in February 2024 attached as Appendix A;
b.
Note the Guidance for Principal Councils, Community and Town Councils, National Park Authorities, Fire and Rescue Authorities and Corporate Joint Committees in Wales – remuneration of members shown at Appendix B;
c..
Delegate authority to the Monitoring Officer to finalise the draft Members’ Schedule of Remuneration (Appendix C) to reflect the appointments made at the Annual Council;
d.
Delegate authority to the Monitoring Officer to update the Members’ Schedule of Remuneration in the Constitution and to make any necessary amendments to the 2024-2025 Schedule from time to time during the municipal year in order to reflect any changes in membership of the Council, Cabinet or Committees or as a result of any Supplementary Reports issued by the Independent Remuneration Panel for Wales.
RESOLVED to:
a. Approve the Net Zero Strategy and Net Zero Action Plan.
b. Agree for officers to undertake further work to identify and action the most appropriate communication channels to ensure Fund stakeholders are aware of this important policy.
c. Agree that the Corporate Director Resources in accordance with the Council’s Scheme of Delegations may determine all aspects of the procurement process for the appointment of appropriate specialist external advisors (including approving the evaluation criteria to be used and authorising the award of the contracts) and all ancillary matters pertaining to the procurement and proposals above.
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