Bedford Borough Council Requests and Responses ... 2012.doc · Web viewPlease find documents attached – Definition of a Looked After Child, Emergency Protection Order Guidance,

Bedford Borough Council Requests and Responses Received October 2012

Request ID

Date of response

Request and Response

3585 25/10/2012 Request and response:

Under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, the authority must state whether or not the information exists and I confirm that we do hold the information you requested.

Please find the information you requested enclosed. You requested:

1. In respect of current funding arrangements for this financial year FY2012/13, does the Council use a banded funding framework to delineate the level of need and associated level of funding for individual pupils attending LEA maintained special schools? Yes

a. If so:

(1) Does the same banded framework apply to both pre and post 16 years pupils attending LEA maintained special schools? Yes

(2) Does the same banded framework apply to all LEA maintained special schools? Yes

(3) Please supply details of the banded framework in use and the definitions of additional need or disability associated with each band which is used by the Council when allocating pupils to a particular band. Please see document attached - Banding descriptors Sept 2011

(4) What is the process used by the Council for allocating individual pupils to a particular band? Please see document attached - Education Panel Terms of Reference.

(5) Please supply details of the amount of funding allocated per individual pupil in each particular band. Information to follow – see explanation below.

(6) Are there pupils attending LEA maintained special schools whose particular needs are such that they do not fall within the banded framework and if so what mechanism is used to determine the level of funding allocated to such individual students? Any additional TA / medical support is determined on an individual basis

b. If not, what mechanism does the Council use to determine the amount of funding allocated to each individual pupil? Decisions are all made at Education Panel – see Terms of Reference attached.

2. In respect of future funding for the coming financial year FY2013/14 and thereafter under the Government’s revised funding arrangements for high needs pupils attending LEA maintained special schools, does the Council propose to continue with, or to introduce, a banded funding framework to delineate the level of need and associated level of top up funding for individual pupils?

The same descriptors to determine the banding levels will be used but funding will alter per band and per school to take into account the £10,000 funding provided in the first instance and top ups will then be provided to schools as appropriate.

a. If so:

(1) Will the same banded framework apply to top up funding for both pre and post 16 years pupils attending LEA maintained special schools? Yes

(2) Will the same banded framework for top up funding apply to all LEA maintained special schools? Yes

(3) Does the Council propose to continue with an existing, unmodified, banding framework? If not, please supply details of the new or modified banded framework which will be used and the definitions of additional need or disability associated with each band which will be used by the Council when allocating pupils to a particular band (if different from the banding framework used at present). Descriptors will remain the same

(4) What process will be used by the Council for allocating individual pupils to a particular band (if different from that used at present)? No change to process.

(5) Please supply details of the provisional amount of top up funding which the Council proses to allocate per individual pupil in each particular band. Information to follow – see explanation below.

(6) Are there likely to be pupils attending LEA maintained special schools whose particular needs are such that they will likely fall outside the banded framework and if so what mechanism does the Council propose to adopt to determine the level of top up funding allocated to such individual students? It is unlikely that this will be the case but if additional support is required this will be decided in the same way as now by Education Panel – see Terms of Reference attached

b. If not, what mechanism does the Council propose to use to determine the amount of top up funding allocated to each individual pupil? Pupils needs will be assessed individually

We do not currently have all of the information with regards to Question 1a(5) and 2a(5), as the answers to your questions will be dependent on an Executive Decision which is due at the end of October, as decisions have to be made which will affect an outcome. Once these decisions are made we will base our replies on these and will contact you again with the information you have requested.

3586 3/10/2012 Request:

I write to request an up to date list of Subcontractors for the Construction of the New Shortstown Primary School, Bedfordshire. Scheme comprises the construction of a new primary school to include school building, access, play facilities, boundary treatment, materials, car parking and landscaping.

Our response:

You requested:


Under the Freedom of Information Act the authority must state whether or not the information exists and I confirm that we do not hold this information.

Bedford Borough Council has a contract with SCAPE for the delivery of this project. We are in liaison with the main contractor over

the design and works but do not appoint or hold a list of subcontractors that are used. I would suggest that the main contractor is approached for this information. Their contact details are Scape System Build Ltd, 4th Floor Pearl House, 5 Friar Lane, Nottingham, NG1 6BT, Tel: 0115 958 3200, Fax: 0115 958 3232

3587 1/10/2012 Request:

I write to request an up to date list of Subcontractors for the Construction of the Bedford Riverside North, Mixed Use Development, Bedfordshire. Scheme comprises of a mixed use redevelopment of the Bedford North Riverside site, likely to include residential, offices, leisure (including river related) and retail (including niche shops, bistro, restaurant and cafe uses). The associated works include access roads, enabling, sewer systems, infrastructure and landscaping.

Our response:

Thank you for your request for information about subcontractors for the construction of the Bedford Riverside North development which we received on 1 October 2012. Your request has been considered under the Environmental Information Regulations 2004.

The information you requested is available on the authority’s website and can be located at http://www.bedford.gov.uk/environment_and_planning/planning_town_and_country/view_applications_plans__docs.aspx .

The only information the Planning Authority holds is in relation to the planning application. Details of what subcontractors for the construction of the Bedford Riverside North development can only be sought from the applicant whose details are in the public record on the planning application.

3588 3/10/2012 Request:

I write to request an up to date list of Subcontractors for the Construction of the Livingstone Lower School Extension/Alterations, Bedfordshire. Scheme comprises of part single and part 2 storey extension to the rear to provide two reception classrooms and 8 teaching classrooms and ancillary accommodation together with the alterations and extension of the original school buildings for teaching, dining, kitchen and administration accommodation following demolition of church hall. The associated works include enabling, sewer systems, infrastructure and landscaping.

Response:

http://www.bedford.gov.uk/environment_and_planning/planning_town_and_country/view_applications_plans__docs.aspx

I am writing in respect of your recent enquiry for information held by the Council under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act 2000.

You requested:

I write to request an up to date list of Subcontractors for the Construction of the Livingstone Lower School Extension/Alterations, Bedfordshire. Scheme comprises of part single and part 2 storey extension to the rear to provide two reception classrooms and 8 teaching classrooms and ancillary accommodation together with the alterations and extension of the original school buildings for teaching, dining, kitchen and administration accommodation following demolition of church hall. The associated works include enabling, sewer systems, infrastructure and landscaping.


This project is now finished, all works being completed in July 2012. Bedford Borough Council was not in possession of a list of subcontractors for this project. This would need to be queried with the main contractor. Their contact details are Borras Construction Ltd. 1 Salar House, Campfield Road, St. Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 5HT Tel: 01727 850633.

3589 15/10/2012 Request:

Please accept this email as a request for the following information, in relation to the property known as:

BerryfieldsFolkes RoadWoottonBedford

Access is required to records containing the information necessary to answer the following questions of the CON29R form:

3.1 - Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.2 - Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (b) - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (c) - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council

3.7 (d) - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (e) - Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (f) - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.9 (a)-(n) - Planning Department, Bedford Borough Council3.11 - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.13 - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council

Response:

Your request has been considered under the Environmental Information Regulations 2004.

I attach the information you requested from Environmental Health & Trading Standards department. Regarding the questions relating to planning, the Planning department advise that all information relating to planning applications is available on our website http://www.bedford.gov.uk/environment_and_planning/planning_town_and_country/view_applications_plans__docs.aspxThe data used for answering questions 3.1, 3.2 and 3.7(e) is accessible for viewing on appointment directly with Highways Development Control.

Property Address: Folkes Road, Wootton, Bedford,

3.7 Outstanding NoticesDo any statutory notices which relate to the following matters subsist in relation to the property other than those revealed in a response to any other enquiry in this schedule:-

b) Environmentc) Health & Safetyd) Housing f) Public Health

b) Noc) Nod) Nof) No

3.11 Compulsory PurchaseHas any enforceable order or decision been made to compulsorily purchase or acquire the property?

No

3.13 Radon GasDo any records indicate that the property is in a ‘Radon Affected Area’ as identified by the Health

No


Protection Agency?

3590 29/10/2012 Request:

Under the Freedom of Information Act, please provide me with the following: (1) the total number of penalty charge notices issued at each parking location in the area in both the current and last financial year and (2) for the same time periods, details of the revenue generated from those notices, again broken down by parking location.

Response:

I refer to your recent enquiry for information held by the Council.


Please find attached a spreadsheet that contains the information you have requested for both periods (2011-12 and 2012-13).

3591 12/10/2012 Request:

Under the Freedom of Information Act, please provide me with all recorded information relating to performance-related pay and/or incentives for parking attendants employed by the council or its contractors. This may include (but is not limited to) internal emails and other correspondence, policy papers submitted to the cabinet or other committees of the council, guidance or advice received from central government or elsewhere, and communications sent to those employed as parking attendants or companies contracted to provide parking services.

Response:

Under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, the authority must state whether or not the information exists and I confirm that we do hold the information you requested. The information you requested is as follows:

Please provide me with all recorded information relating to performance-related pay and/or incentives for parking attendants employed by the council or its contractors.

Bedford Borough Council do not pay Civil Enforcement Officers (CEOs) any performance related pay or incentive.

3592 29/10/2012 Request:

Under the Freedom of Information Act, please provide me with the most recent versions of all guidance provided to parking attendants about the exercise of their duties, including in particular acceptable strategies for patrolling their allocated areas.

Response:


Acceptable strategies for patrolling allocated areas:

The main objective of a Civil Enforcement Officer (CEO) is to ensure fair and consistent Enforcement Parking Controls. CEO duties will also include monitoring signs, lines and parking equipment and providing witness statements. CEO duties may extend to other parking related activities and observations, provided that such extensions do not impair achievement of the main objective.

When exercising their prescribed functions CEO’s must wear a uniform which identifies the Officer by number, shows the name of the enforcement authority and confirms the Officer is engaged in parking enforcement.

Patrol areas for foot patrols and for the mobile camera vans are rotated daily and constantly monitored by GPS Navigation Systems from the Base Control Office.

Guidance & Training provided to Civil Enforcement Officers:

Road Traffic Act 1991 – This can be found on the following link: www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1991/40

Traffic Management Act 2004 - Attached

In addition:

Course Service Provider

http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1991/40

Bedford Borough Council Customer Care Charter

Bedford Borough Council Induction Training

NVQ Level 2 CPA XTP InternationalHealth & Safety Bedford Borough CouncilConflict Resolution & Physical Intervention Training

Maybo & Bedford Borough Council

Emergency First Aid Bostock Health CareDriving Skills Assessment Shires

Please contact [email protected] for a copy of the attachment.

3593 25/10/2012 Request:

I would like to request for Con29R Environmental Health under EIR (Qs 3.7, 3.11, 3.12 & 3.13) for the address(es) below please?

Reynes Drive, Oakley, Bedford

Response:


I attach the information you requested from Environmental Health & Trading Standards department.

Property Address:

Reynes Drive, Oakley, Bedford


b) Environment b) No

mailto:[email protected]

c) Health & Safetyd Housing f) Public Health

c) Nod) Nof) No


No

3.12 Contaminated LandDo any of the following apply (including any relating to land adjacent to or adjoining the property which has been identified as contaminated land because it is in such a condition that harm or pollution of controlled waters might be caused on the property):-

a) a contaminated land notice;b) in relation to a register maintained under

section 78R of the Environmental Protection Act 1990:-

i) a decision to make an entry; orii) an entry; or

c) consultation with the owner occupier of the property conducted under section 78G(3) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 before the service of a remediation notice?

No

3.13 Radon GasDo any records indicate that the property is in a ‘Radon Affected Area’ as identified by the Health Protection Agency?

YesThis property falls within a Radon Affected Area as it is underlain, completely or partly by geology which has potential to cause radon levels to exceed the action levels for either basic or full radon protection. The level of protection needed, if any, is site specific. Radon Affected Areas are designated by the Health Protection Agency They estimate that between 1-3% of properties in the area could be

affected and recommend that the level of radon gas should be measured. The present owner or (for a new property), the builder should be asked if the radon levels have been measured in the property; whether the results were at, or above the Action Level (prescribed by the HPA) and if so, whether remedial measures were installed and if the radon levels were re-tested and confirmed, the effectiveness of the measures.

The HPA should be contacted for any further advice. (Tel: 01235-831600 or through their internet address: www.hpa.org.uk/radiation).

A guide containing further information about Radon Affected Areas is available free from DEFRA Warehouse Publications, Admail 6000, London SW1A 2XX (Tel: 08459-556000 and Fax: 020-8957-5012) or from DEFRA Radioactive Substances Division, Zone 4/E7, Ashdown House, 123 Victoria Street, London SW1E.

3594 15/10/2012 Request:

Please accept this email as a request for the following information, in relation to the property at: Lanchester CloseClapham

Bedford Access is required to records containing the information necessary to answer the following questions of the CON29R form: 3.1 – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.2 – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (b) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (c) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (d) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (e) – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (f) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.9 (a)-(n) - Planning Department, Bedford Borough Council3.11 – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.13 - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council Response:



Property Address:Lanchester Close, Clapham, Bedford


b) Environmentc) Health & Safety

b) Noc) No


c) Housing f) Public Health

d) Nof) No


No


No

3595 15/10/2012 Request:

Please accept this email as a request for the following information, in relation to the property known as: Hunters CloseClaphamBedford Access is required to records containing the information necessary to answer the following questions of the CON29R form: 3.1 – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.2 – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (b) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (c) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (d) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (e) – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (f) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.9 (a)-(n) - Planning Department, Bedford Borough Council3.11 – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.13 - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council Response:



Property Address:Hunters Close, Clapham, Bedford,


b) Environmentc) Health & Safetyc) Housing f) Public Health

b) No c) Nod) Nof) No


No


YesThis property falls within a Radon Affected Area as it is underlain, completely or partly by geology which has potential to cause radon levels to exceed the action levels for either basic or full radon protection. The level of protection needed, if any, is site specific. Radon Affected Areas are designated by the Health Protection Agency They estimate that between 1-3% of properties in the area could be


affected and recommend that the level of radon gas should be measured. The present owner or (for a new property), the builder should be asked if the radon levels have been measured in the property; whether the results were at, or above the Action Level (prescribed by the HPA) and if so, whether remedial measures were installed and if the radon levels were re-tested and confirmed, the effectiveness of the measures.



3596 15/10/2012 Request:

I write to request an up to date list of Subcontractors for the Construction of the Ridgeway School Extensions in Bedfordshire. Scheme comprises construction of new teaching block and cycle stands. The associated works include enabling, infrastructure, sewer systems and landscaping.

Response:

I am writing in respect of your recent enquiry for information held by the Council under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act 2000.

You requested:

I write to request an up to date list of Subcontractors for the Construction of the Ridgeway School Extensions in Bedfordshire. Scheme comprises construction of new teaching block and cycle stands. The associated works include enabling, infrastructure, sewer systems and landscaping.


Bedford Borough Council has a contract with SCAPE for the delivery of this project. We are in liaison with the main contractor over the design and works but do not appoint or hold a list of subcontractors that are used. I would suggest that the main contractor is approached for this information. There contact details are: Scape System Build Ltd, 4th Floor Pearl House, 5 Friar Lane, Nottingham, NG1 6BT, Tel: 0115 958 3200, Fax: 0115 958 3232

3597 4/10/2012 Request:

I write to request an up to date list of Subcontractors for the Construction of the The Saracens Head, Public House Extensions in Bedfordshire. Scheme comprises construction of single storey rear extension and replacement windows at front. The associated works include infrastructure, enabling and landscaping.

Response:

Under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, the authority must state whether or not the information exists and I confirm that we do hold the information you requested:

Request: I write to request an up to date list of sub-contractors for the construction of The Saracens Head, Public House, extensions in Bedfordshire. Scheme comprises construction of single storey rear extension and replacement windows at front. The associated works include infrastructure, enabling and landscaping.

Response: The main contractor is Boothville Roofing and Construction Ltd. The sub-contractors are ‘domestic’ sub-contractors appointed by the main contractor so Bedford Borough Council is not at liberty to release this information.

3598 29/10/2012 Request:

I write to request an up to date list of Subcontractors for the Construction of the New Great Denham Primary, The Village Medical Centre, Bedfordshire. Scheme comprises the construction of a primary school to include school building, external play and education areas, car parking, boundary treatments and associated works.

Response:



Please find the information you requested below.

New Great Denham Primary

Bedford Borough Council have a contract with SCAPE for the delivery of this project re New Great Denham Primary. We are in liaison with the main contractor over the design and works but do not appoint or hold a list of subcontractors that are used. I would suggest that the main contractor is approached for this information.

Scape System Build Ltd4th Floor Pearl House5 Friar LaneNottinghamNG1 6BTTel: 0115 958 3200Fax: 0115 958 3232

The Village Medical Centre

We do not hold any information.

3599 3/10/2012 Request and Response: (duplicated request of 3586)

You requested:



Bedford Borough Council has a contract with SCAPE for the delivery of this project. We are in liaison with the main contractor over the design and works but do not appoint or hold a list of subcontractors that are used. I would suggest that the main contractor is approached for this information. Their contact details are Scape System Build Ltd, 4th Floor Pearl House, 5 Friar Lane, Nottingham, NG1 6BT, Tel: 0115 958 3200, Fax: 0115 958 3232

3600 25/10/2012 Request:

Please accept this email as a request for the following information, in relation to the property known as:

Alburgh CloseBedford


3.1 - Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.2 - Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (b) - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (c) - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (d) - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (e) - Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (f) - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council

3.9 (a)-(n) - Planning Department, Bedford Borough Council3.11 - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.13 - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council

Response:



Property Address:Alburgh Close, Bedford, 3.7 Outstanding Notices

Do any statutory notices which relate to the following matters subsist in relation to the property other than those revealed in a response to any other enquiry in this schedule:-




No


No


3601 8/10/2012 Request:

How many hours of compulsory sports activities are the children at your school required to take part in during the academic year of 2012/2013 and for the previous four academic years broken down by year group?

Please provide a breakdown of how much money was spent on sports equipment at your school for the academic year of 2011/2012 and for the previous four academic years broken down into 12 month blocks?

Please provide a breakdown of how much money is budgeted for sports equipment at your school for the academic year of 2012/2013?

Please provide a breakdown of the cost to the school and charges made to the parent for after school sports activities for the academic year of 2011/2012 and for the previous four academic years broken down into 12 month blocks?

Please provide a list of after school sports activities that your school is offering for the academic year of 2012/2013 and for the previous four academic years broken down per 12 month block and as are available per academic year group?

Response:

Further to your request for information dated 1 October, I can confirm that the information you requested is held under the Freedom of Information Act 2000. However, the Council, for the reasons that follow, declines to disclose the information requested.

You requested.

I’d like to send some questions about school sport participation to all the schools in Bedford, to tie in with some research we’re doing. Is it possible to have a list of the email addresses for all the schools- primary, middle and secondary in the area?

Pursuant to Section 17 (1) of the Act the Council

1. States that this information is exempt information.

2. Specifies, that the exemption in question is contained within Section 21 (Information accessible to applicant by other means)

of the FOI Act (FOIA).

This information is available on our website http://www.bedford.gov.uk/education_and_learning/schools_and_colleges.aspx under related links on the right hand side – Education Establishment Guide.

3602 25/10/2012 Request:

Please accept this email as a request for the following information, in relation to the property at:

School LaneCarltonBedford


3.1 - Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.2 - Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (b) - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (c) - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (d) - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (e) - Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (f) - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.9 (a)-(n) - Planning Department, Bedford Borough Council3.11 - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.13 - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council

Response:


I attach the information you requested from Environmental Health & Trading Standards department. Regarding the questions relating to planning, the Planning department advise that all information relating to planning applications is available on our website http://www.bedford.gov.uk/environment_and_planning/planning_town_and_country/view_applications_plans__docs.aspxThe data used for answering questions 3.1, 3.2 and 3.7(e) is accessible for viewing on appointment directly with Highways


http://www.bedford.gov.uk/education_and_learning/schools_and_colleges.aspx

Development Control.

Property Address:

School Lane, Carlton, Bedford, 3.7 Outstanding Notices


b)Environmentc)Health & Safetyd)Housing f)Public Health



No


No

3603 25/10/2012 Request:

I am writing to make a request under the Freedom of Information Act for details of all allegations made to the council of fraud, theft and corruption by councillors, council officials and council staff/employees/contractors (ie. anyone internal to the council)

More specifically, I am requesting the following:

1. a) The total number of allegations received in 2011/12

1. b) A summary of each allegation made to the council of fraud, theft and corruption by councillors, council officials and council staff/employees/contractors (ie. anyone internal to the council) including, but not limited to: - a detailed description of the alleged wrongdoing (please include if it relates to fraud, theft, corruption, or a combination), - the number of councillors, council officials, or council staff/employees/contractors involved, - their role or job titles, - the amount (value) involved, - whether an internal investigation was launched, - if the police were involved, - if any other external investigators were involved, - the outcome of any internal or external investigation (stating if any disciplinary action was taken) - if the investigation has resulted in a public hearing or court case where the names of those found guilty were made public, please provide the names of those involved

2. a) and b) The same for 2010/11

3. a) and b) The same for 2009/10

Please note that I am seeking details relating to internal council persons (such as councillors, officials and employees or contractors), whether they were alleged to have acted alone or with external individuals.

By way of explanation, I would expect the terms 'fraud, theft, and corruption' to include (but not be limited to) the descriptions below: (This is not an exhaustive list)

- The term 'fraud' contained with the Fraud Act 2006 includes fraud by false representation, fraud by failing to disclose information and fraud by abuse of position. It may include the intentional distorting of statements or other records to conceal the misappropriation of assets, evasion of liabilities or for gain. It may involve unauthorised use of council property. - The term theft' may include the theft of monies or property by persons internal to the council (please note I am not interested in thefts carried out by persons external to the council) - The term 'corruption' can be defined as the offering, giving, soliciting or acceptance of an inducement or reward that may influence the action of any person. The main law relating to corruption in public bodies is contained in the Public Bodies Corrupt Practices Act 1889 and the Prevention of Corruption Act 1906 as supplemented by the Prevention of Corruption Act 1916, Local Government Act 1972 and the Anti-Terrorism Crime and Security Act 2001. Corruption occurs if a person offers gifts or consideration as an inducement or acts in collusion with others. This could involve elected Members or officers of the council. Please also include those offences in relation to the Bribery Act 2010.

Response:

Under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, the authority must state whether or not the information exists and I can confirm that the Council does hold the information requested.

1. a) The total number of allegations received in 2011/12. Please see attached for details.

1. b) A summary of each allegation made to the council of fraud, theft and corruption by councillors, council officials and council staff/employees/ contractors. Please see attached for details.

2. a) and b) The same for 2010/11. Please see attached for details.

3. a) and b) The same for 2009/10. Please see attached for details.

Your request for details of the role or job title

Pursuant to Section 17 (1) of the Act the Council:

1. States that the information requested is exempt information.

2. Specifies that the exemption in question is the subject of a non-absolute exemption contained within Section 40 (Personal Information) of the FOI Act.

The information requested is considered to be personal data under the Data Protection Act 1998 because “personal data” means data which relate to a living individual who can be identified –

“(a) from those data, or(b) from those data and other information which is in the possession of, or is likely to come into the possession of, the data

controller, and includes any expression of opinion about the individual and any indication of the intentions of the data controller or any other person in respect of the individual”;

Personal information relating to third parties is treated as exempt information under s40 of the Freedom of Information Act which effectively requires the judgement on disclosure to be made under the Data Protection Act. The Council has made a decision by reference to paragraph 6 of Schedule 2 to the Act by way of discharging its duty to lawfully and fairly process personal data in accordance with the first Data Protection Principle contained in Schedule 1 to the Act.

This provides:

“The processing is necessary for the purposes of legitimate interests pursued by the Data Controller or by the third party or parties to whom the data are disclosed, except where the processing is unwarranted in any particular case by reason of prejudice to the rights and freedoms or legitimate interests of the data subject.”

Balancing the interests of the individuals, and in particular their stand alone expectation of appropriate privacy, against your legitimate interest to access such information, the Council is minded, in applying the relevant statutory test, that the information sought can be disclosed, because its provision, without more information, is on balance unlikely to identify the persons in question.”

Please contact [email protected] for a copy of the attachments

3604 31/10/2012 Request:

I am writing to request information under the Freedom of Information Act on details of senior officers' (ie. chief officers) declarations of interests held by the council.Please note, senior officers are to be taken as those defined as chief officers in the Localism Act 2011 (s43(2)) http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2011/20/part/1/chapter/8/enactedPlease note, I am interested in the declarations that are held in relation to all chief officers serving since January 1, 2010.

Please provide the following information for each officer:

- names - department - section - name and address and nature of additional business, or other employment - name and address of company, firm or other body or individual of whom consultancy is undertaken and nature of the consultancy with an indication of frequency or volume of such work - name and address and nature of business of each company or other body of which you are a director, with an indication of whether it is in a paid or unpaid capacity - name and address and nature of business of each firm with which you are a partner - name and address and nature of business of each company in which you hold shares - name and address of the organisations of whom you are engaged on a retainer basis and nature of the retainer

Response:

http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2011/20/part/1/chapter/8/enacted


Under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, the authority must state whether or not the information exists and I confirm that we do hold some of the information you requested.

Please find the information you requested below.

The Chief Officers in respect of whom information is sought are the following:

(a) The head of its paid service designated under section 4(1) of the Local Government and Housing Act 1989; (b) its monitoring officer designated under section 5(1) of that Act; (c)a statutory chief officer mentioned in section 2(6) of that Act; (d)a non-statutory chief officer mentioned in section 2(7) of that Act; (e)a deputy chief officer mentioned in section 2(8) of that Act.

Their details are:

(a) Philip Simpkins, Chief Executive(b) Michael Gough, Assistant Chief Executive Governance(c) Margaret Dennison, Director of Children’s Services ; Frank Toner, Director of Adults’ Services & Trevor Roff, Chief Finance Officer (d) Stewart Briggs, Executive Director of Environment and Sustainable Communities; Martin Williams, Assistant Chief Executive HR and Corporate Policy & Mark Oakley, Head of Economic Development(e) Angela Murphy, Assistant Director Commissioning, Family Support & Specialist Services; Jane Winterbone, Assistant Director Chief Education Officer; Simon Westwood, Assistant Director Vulnerable Children; John Bruynseels, Assistant Director Community Care Services; Simon White, Assistant Director Business Support & Operational Housing; Glen Barcham, Assistant Director Highways & Transport; Paul Rowland, Assistant Director Planning & Housing; Stephen Tomlin, Assistant Director Environment Community; Craig Austin, Assistant Director Regulatory Services; Andrew Watkins, Assistant Director Financial & Corporate Services; Annabel Scholes, Assistant Director Corporate Finance; Lee Phanco, Assistant Director Revenue, Benefits & Risk; Susan Drummond, Head of Leisure & Culture; Surinder Momi, Head of Internal Audit & Adrian Piper, Head of Property Services

Bedford Borough Council is not required to and does not hold a register containing Chief Officers’ declarations.

3605 4/10/2012 Request:

Can you tell me who is the contact person for each of the following positions within your organisation. If they have any direct dial telephone numbers and email addresses that would be very helpful.

· Finance Director· Auditor· Procurement Director· Health and Safety Manager· Head of Estates Management· Sustainability Manager

Response:



Please find the information you requested attached.

Please contact [email protected] for a copy of the attachment

3606 11/10/2012 Request:

Under the Freedom of Information Act, please provide me with the following information regarding access to community sexual health services in your PCT: 1) What are your criteria for accessing community sexual health services? How – if at all – have they changed since 2009/10?2) Do you in any way restrict access to sexual health services on the basis of age? If yes – how? Has this changed since

2009/10?3) Do you in any way restrict access to sexual health services on the basis of the patient’s choice of contraceptive method? If yes

– how? Has this changed since 2009/10?4) Do you in any way restrict access to sexual health services on the basis of residency, e.g. whether or not the patient is

resident in your PCT catchment area? If yes – how? Has this changed since 2009/10?

Response:



1) What are your criteria for accessing community sexual health services? How – if at all – have they changed since 2009/10?

Community sexual health services commissioned by NHS Bedfordshire are open access regardless of place of residence. There has been no change to access criteria since 2009/10.

2) Do you in any way restrict access to sexual health services on the basis of age? If yes – how? Has this changed since 2009/10?

No. One of our providers is commissioned to provide dedicated clinics for under 25 year olds, including school based clinics, but also provide all age clinics. There has been no change since 2009/10

3) Do you in any way restrict access to sexual health services on the basis of the patient’s choice of contraceptive method? If yes – how? Has this changed since 2009/10?

No. There has been no change since 2009/10

4) Do you in any way restrict access to sexual health services on the basis of residency, e.g. whether or not the patient is resident in your PCT catchment area? If yes – how? Has this changed since 2009/10?

No. There has been no change since 2009/10

3607 25/10/2012 Request:

Please accept this email as a request for the following information, in relation to the property at: Ely WayKempstonBedford Access is required to records containing the information necessary to answer the following questions of the CON29R form:

3.1 – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.2 – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (b) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (c) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (d) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (e) – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (f) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.9 (a)-(n) - Planning Department, Bedford Borough Council3.11 – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.13 - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council

Response:



Property Address:

Ely Way, Kempston, 3.7 Outstanding Notices


b)Environmentc)Health & Safetyd)Housing f) Public Health




No


No

3608 29/10/2012 Request:

This is a request for Business Rates information, to be dealt with under the Freedom of Information Act 2000.

Please provide the ratepayer’s name(s) in respect of the property listed below for the period 01/04/2000– 31/03/2001

ADDRESS NORTHERN TECHNICAL AREATHURLEIGH AIRFIELDTHURLEIGH BEDFORD

Response:

Under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, the authority must state whether or not the information exists and I confirm that we do hold the information you requested and you will find the information below.

Question: Please provide the ratepayer’s name(s) in respect of the property listed below for the period 01/04/2000– 31/03/2001NORTHERN TECHNICAL AREA, THURLEIGH AIRFIELD, THURLEIGH, BEDFORD MK44 2YP

Answer: The property concerned was not in the rating list for the period 1 April 2000 to 31 March 2001 and therefore no-one was liable

for Non Domestic rates during this period.

3609 1/11/2012 Request:

How many fixed CCTV cameras have been operational in each of the last five years.

Response:


How many fixed CCTV cameras have been operational in each of the last five years?

Bedford Borough Council operates the following number of permanent CCTV cameras on its public space CCTV system as at year ending 31st March of the following years:

2012 – 76 cameras of which 3 are fixed static cameras and 73 functional (PTZ) cameras2011 – 73 cameras of which 2 are fixed static cameras and 71 functional (PTZ) cameras2010 – 69 cameras of which 2 are fixed static cameras and 67 functional (PTZ) cameras 2009 – 67 functional (PTZ) cameras 2008 – 67 functional (PTZ) cameras

3610 26/10/2012 Request:

1. How many a) families with dependent children b) pregnant woman c) individuals have been placed in a) Bed and Breakfast accommodation b) Temporary Accommodation c) Private rented accommodation under prevention and relief of homelessness powers for each quarter from June 2010 to present?

2. How many a) families with dependent children b) pregnant woman have been resident for 6 weeks or more in bed & breakfast accommodation for each quarter since January 2010?

3. How much has your authority spent on housing people in a) Bed and Breakfast accommodation b) Temporary Accommodation c)

Private rented accommodation under prevention and relief of homelessness powers since June 2010 to present?

4. What is the single maximum figure your authority has spent for one family in any one week on bed and breakfast accommodation since June 2010 and can you provide a copy of the invoice?

5. Do you use B&Bs to accommodate young people (25 or under)?

Response:


1. How many a) families with dependent children b) pregnant woman c) individuals have been placed in a) Bed and Breakfast accommodation b) Temporary Accommodation c) Private rented accommodation under prevention and relief of homelessness powers for each quarter from June 2010 to present?

Please see spreadsheet below.

2. How many a) families with dependent children b) pregnant woman have been resident for 6 weeks or more in bed & breakfast accommodation for each quarter since January 2010?


3. How much has your authority spent on housing people in a) Bed and Breakfast accommodation b) Temporary Accommodation c) Private rented accommodation under prevention and relief of homelessness powers since June 2010 to present?


4. What is the single maximum figure your authority has spent for one family in any one week on bed and breakfast accommodation since June 2010 and can you provide a copy of the invoice?


5. Do you use B&Bs to accommodate young people (25 or under)?

It is Childrens Services policy not to accommodate under 18s in B & Bs.

Please contact [email protected] for a copy of the spreadsheet

3611 2/11/2012 Request:

Please provide:

1. a) For 2011/12, the total amount paid out by the council in allowances and expenses to all councillors (i.e. the full figure for the entire council for expenses and allowances together)b) A breakdown giving: - the total paid out in allowances (of all types) to all councillors - the total paid out in expenses (of all types) to all councillors

2. For 2011/12, the total paid to each individual councillor in allowances and expenses.Please provide this as a list in an Excel spreadsheet or CSV format, showing: - the name of the councillor - the total paid in allowances to the councillor - the total paid in expenses to the councillor - the total of both allowances and expenses paid to the councillor

Please note, I do not require any further breakdown, by type of allowance or type of expense.

Response:


1. a) For 2011/12, the total amount paid out by the council in allowances and expenses to all councillors (ie. the full figure for the entire council for expenses and allowances together)

b) A breakdown giving:


- the total paid out in allowances (of all types) to all councillors

You requested total paid out in allowance:


1. States the above is exempt information.

2. Specifies, that the exemption in question is the subject of an absolute exemption contained within Section 21 (Information Accessible to applicant by other means) of the FOI Act (FOIA). Please see link below:

http://www.bedford.gov.uk/council_and_democracy/transparency/idoc.ashx?docid=3241b32d-8103-4028-a722-14d9cad07b81&version=-1

The total paid out in expenses (of all types) to all Councillors is £2051.33.

2. For 2011/12, the total paid to each individual Councillor in allowances and expenses:

The total allowances paid to each individual Councillor is set out in the above link

The total expenses to individual Councillors for 2011/12 are as follows:

Councillor ExpensesAdams 25.00Bagchi 628.05Hill 10.70Holland 26.40King 104.40Oliver 156.60Prescod 888.28Rigby 154.30Rider 57.60



3612 1/11/2012 Request:

Please accept this email as a request for the following information, in relation to the property at: The WaterfrontLakeside WayWixamsBedford Access is required to records containing the information necessary to answer the following questions of the CON29R form: 3.1 – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.2 – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (b) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (c) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (d) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (e) – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (f) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.9 (a)-(n) - Planning Department, Bedford Borough Council3.11 – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.13 - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council

Response:


Property Address:


Lakeside Way, Wixams, Bedford,

3.7 Outstanding Notices


b)Environmentc) Health & Safetyd)Housing f) Public Health


3.11 Compulsory Purchase

Has any enforceable order or decision been made to compulsorily purchase or acquire the property?

No

3.13 Radon Gas

Do any records indicate that the property is in a ‘Radon Affected Area’ as identified by the Health Protection Agency?

No

3613 25/10/2012 Request:

Further to an earlier request, what is the cost associated with each IT contract?

Response:


Please find the information you requested set out below:

In relation to Contracts: What is the cost associated with each contract?

Contract 1 - £22,864.14 – 11/01/2012Contract 2 - £2,839.42 -11/01/2012Contract 3 - £22,673.42 -11/01/2012Contract 4 - £3,704.60 -07/04/2009Contract 5 - £4,025.50 -20/04/2009Contract 6 - £60,062.08 -19/01/2010

3614 5/11/2012 Request:

This is a request for Business Rates information, to be dealt with under the Freedom of Information Act 2000.

Please provide the ratepayer’s name(s) in respect of the property listed below for the period 01/04/2000– 31/03/2001

ADDRESS

SOUTHSIDETHURLEIGH AIRFIELDTHURLEIGH, BEDFORD

Response:


Question: Please provide the ratepayer’s name(s) in respect of the property listed below for the period 01/04/2000– 31/03/2001 – Property Ref: 1169295

ADDRESS

PT HANGAR

5 SOUTHSIDETHURLEIGH AIRFIELDTHURLEIGH, BEDFORD MK44 2YP

Answer: Argent International Inc

3615 30/10/2012 Request:

Who constitutes your schools forum (name and job title)?Which school are they employed by?How often is membership renewed?

Response:

Under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, the authority must state whether or not the information exists and I confirm that we do hold the information you requested. You requested Who constitutes your School Forum?

Linda Stevens, Head of Members’ Services

Which School are they employed by? The Head of Members’ Services is an employee of Bedford Borough Council

How often is membership reviewed? Membership will, in future, be reviewed annually during the school summer term with any changes in membership taking

effect from 1 September each year following any necessary elections

3616 5/11/2012 Request:

How much has Bedford Borough Council spent on HD CCTV camera's in the last three years? (please specify each year) How many cameras has the council purchased?

How many of these cameras have been set up in the Bedford area?In what places have the cameras been installed?

Response:


Bedford Borough Council's Public Space CCTV system does not operate with the use of High Definition (HD) or 'mega Pixel' Cameras. No spend has been made on HD cameras in respect of this system.

3617 1/11/2012 Request:

The names of all Public Health Funerals/ bona vacantia estates passed or in the process of being referred ie pending referral to The Treasury Solicitor ( BV ) Department or Duchy of Lancaster within the last 4 weeks. This is a request for fresh information. Please include any public health funerals that have also occurred since my last request but which may not have been included in your previous response.

We request the following information only:

1) The full name of the deceased

2) The date of death

3) Last known address

4) Approximate value of estate ( if not exempt )

Response:


Please find the information you requested enclosed.


3618 24/10/2012 Request:

How many children that were expected to return after the summer holidays have now failed to return to school?

How many of those children have been suspected of being the subject of a forced marriage?

Response:



How many children that were expected to return after the summer holidays have now failed to return to school? Six

How many of those children have been suspected of being the subject of a forced marriage? None

3619 1/11/2012 Request:

Please accept this email as a request for the following information, in relation to the property at: Twinwood RoadClaphamBedford Access is required to records containing the information necessary to answer the following questions of the CON29R form:


3.1 – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.2 – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (b) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (c) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (d) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (e) – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (f) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.9 (a)-(n) - Planning Department, Bedford Borough Council3.11 – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.13 - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council

Response:


Property Address:

Twinwood Road, Clapham, Bedford,


d) Environmentc) Health & Safetyd) Housing f) Public Health


3.11 Compulsory PurchaseHas any enforceable order or decision been made to No


compulsorily purchase or acquire the property?3.13 Radon Gas


YesThis property falls within a Radon Affected Area as it is underlain, completely or partly by geology which has potential to cause radon levels to exceed the action levels for either basic or full radon protection. The level of protection needed, if any, is site specific. Radon Affected Areas are designated by the Health Protection Agency They estimate that between 1-3% of properties in the area could be affected and recommend that the level of radon gas should be measured. The present owner or (for a new property), the builder should be asked if the radon levels have been measured in the property; whether the results were at, or above the Action Level (prescribed by the HPA) and if so, whether remedial measures were installed and if the radon levels were re-tested and confirmed, the effectiveness of the measures.


A guide containing further information about Radon Affected Areas is available free from DEFRA Warehouse Publications, Admail 6000, London

SW1A 2XX (Tel: 08459-556000 and Fax: 020-8957-5012) or from DEFRA Radioactive Substances Division, Zone 4/E7, Ashdown House, 123 Victoria Street, London SW1E.

3620 25/10/2012 Request:


Chiltern Avenue, Bedford,

Please find plans attached if required.

Response:



Property Address:Chiltern Avenue, Bedford





compulsorily purchase or acquire the property?


d) a contaminated land notice;e) in relation to a register maintained under



consultation with the owner occupier of the property conducted under section 78G(3) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 before the service of a remediation notice?

No


No

3621 6/11/2012 Request:

In line with our instruction on behalf of our client, please provide the following information:

Liability start date of the account Liability end date of the account (if applicable) Details of any periods of empty rates (dates, percentage value of relief) Details of refunds issued (including reason and value of interest where appropriate)

Details of any credits held on this account

Please note that our client trades under various company names and these are outlined in their letter of authority and you may hold a current or historic liability in any of these names.

Freedom of Information Act

Also we would be grateful if you could provide under the Freedom of Information Act a list of credits being held for our client’s current and historic business rates or council tax accounts and the appropriate suspense accounts falling under your jurisdiction.

The information required under the Freedom of Information Act is as follows: a) Ratepayer name, b) Account reference, c) Full address including postcode, d) Amount of credit, e) The year to which the credit relates.

We have already provided details of the known accounts however these properties may not be exhaustive and we therefore request that you search for any other accounts in our clients’ trading names. – please ensure a name search is carried out on all of these as highlighted in the letter of authority in order to determine if you hold any other historic or current accounts for our client.

Response:


For the address listed the information requested is as follows:-

Liability start date of the account – our records start from 1/4/94 (information prior to this date is archived) Liability end date of the account (if applicable) – ongoing liability Details of any periods of empty rates (dates, percentage value of relief) - none Details of refunds issued (including reason and value of interest where appropriate) - none Details of any credits held on this account - none

There are no credits held in respect of your client for any other property within the area of Bedford Borough Council.

3622 Request:

17/10/2012Health, Safety and Environment issues

We ask for your assistance in providing information relevant to this company:

Details of any inspections, correspondence or outstanding issues between Bedford Borough Council and the business including notices, permits, prosecutions, pending audits or site visits for the last 3 years and

The name and contact details of the Company’s Bedford Borough Council contact responsible for liaising with the Company on health, safety and environmental matters and

Details of any previous prosecutions, Improvement Notices, Prohibition Notices or other enforcement action.

Response:

Your request has been considered under the Environmental Information Regulations 2004. Please accept our apologies for the delay in responding to you.

I enclose a copy of the information you requested:

• Details of any inspection, correspondents, Permits and site visits between Bedford Borough Council and the company.

• Any matters relating to health and safety would be enforced by the Health and Safety Executive.

3623 Not dealt with as FOI

Request:

Regarding the joint working protocol:

1. Was the protocol at any time between 2005 to date adopted by the local authority?2. If the answer to 1 is yes, to what extent and what parts of the protocol were adopted?3. If the protocol was not adopted has the protocol, in any age dispute case, been applied? For example has the authority

previously agreed to carry out a fresh age assessment for a young person when in receipt of new evidence having previously been assessed by another local authority and if so, was this approach as a consequence of the terms of the protocol at paragraph 9?

4. Have there been any occasions when the authority has liaised with UKBA to discuss different decisions on age with a view

to reaching a mutual consensus and if so, have there been any cases where this has led to an adjudication and subsequent agreement on the issue?

3624 16/10/2012 Request:

I am writing to request copies of all reports (including, but not limited to, monthly, quarterly and annual internal audit progress reports, or similar) produced by your internal audit team detailing investigation into allegations of internal fraud, corruption and/or theft, for the years 2009/10, 2010/11 and 2011/12.

Response:

Under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, the authority must state whether or not the information exists and I can confirm that the information you requested is held under the Freedom of Information Act 2000. However, the Council, for the reasons that follow, declines to disclose the information requested.

Your request for Audit reports



4. Specifies that the exemption in question is the subject of an absolute exemption contained within Section 21 (Information Accessible to Applicant by Other Means) of the FOI Act. The reports are available on the Council's website - please see link below.

http://www.councillorsupport.bedford.gov.uk/ieListMeetings.aspx?CId=125&Year=2012

Your request for details of allegations and investigations



2. Specifies that the exemption in question is the subject of a non-absolute exemption contained within Section 30 (Investigations

http://www.councillorsupport.bedford.gov.uk/ieListMeetings.aspx?CId=125&Year=2012

and Proceedings Conducted by Public Authorities) of the FOI Act.

3625 6/11 Request:

Please can you provide me with the following information under the Freedom Of Information Act 2000:-

(a) addresses and rateable values of empty Commercial properties that are within Bedford Borough Council area and

(b) the names of the owners of those properties referred to in (a)

Response:

Under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, the authority must state whether or not the information exists and I confirm that we do hold the information you requested and you will find the information in the attached spreadsheet.


3626 1/11/2012 Request:


Jubilee GardensFolkes RoadWootton


3.1 - Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.2 - Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (b) - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (c) - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council


3.7 (d) - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (e) - Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (f) - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.9 (a)-(n) - Planning Department, Bedford Borough Council3.11 - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.13 - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council

Response:


Property Address:

Folkes Road, Wootton, Bedford,


e) Environmentc) Health & Safetye) Housing f) Public Health



No

3.13 Radon Gas



No

3627 5/11/2012 Request:

Under the freedom of information act I am requesting information on non-self-drive cars owned or leased by your council (ie cars owned or leased for the purpose of driving/chauffeuring elected members and/or council staff).

Specifically may I be informed of the number of cars leased or owned by your council for the purpose of driving/chauffeuring elected members, executives, and council workers? (i.e. not cars for self-drive)

I would also like to know the make and model of each car, whether it is owned or leased, and how much the car has cost the council in lease, or purchasing, over the past five financial years.

Please state how many times each of these have been used; and by which councillors and staff members (including their directorate), on a yearly basis, for the past five financial years.

For each car please can you tell me the yearly running cost - including the cost of driver(s) – for each of the past five financial years.

If you have a driver(s) employed on a ‘bank’ basis, please can you tell me how much this has cost for each of the past five financial years?

I would also like to know the mileage clocked up on this automobile(s) over the past five financial years

Response:


Please find the information you requested below :

1 The Council owns one vehicle for this purpose. This is not exclusively chauffeur driven and is available for use by groups of

officers/members collectively on official council business when its use is more cost effective and/or convenient than the use of public transport or separate personal vehicles.

2 The vehicle is a Chrysler Jeep Grand Voyager 2.8 CRD LX. It was purchased outright by the Council when new and registered in February 2006. No lease or purchase costs have been incurred in respect of this vehicle over the last five financial years.

3 The attached table shows the number of occasions on which the vehicle has been used in each of the last 5 financial years. The Council does not hold records of the individual staff members or councillors who used the vehicle on each occasion.

4 The Council does not hold information about the yearly running costs of the vehicle for the years 2007/08 and 2008/09. The following table shows the yearly running costs for the last three financial years.

Year Cost2009/10 2,7072010/11 5,5582011/12 3,994

The Council does not have a dedicated driver/chauffeur. The staff who drive the vehicle for the civic team do so as part of a much wider range of duties. The above figures therefore do not include staff costs for driving the vehicle as the Council does not hold this specific information.

5 The Council does not employ drivers on a ‘bank basis’.

6 The following table shows vehicle mileage over the past five financial years:

Year Mileage2007/08 9,4862008/09 10,9422009/10 9,8722010/11 11,6222011/12 9,500

Year Total Number of Occasions UsedCivic Team Planning Chief Adult and Environment

(ie Mayor/Deputy/Speaker/ Deputy Speaker)

(Committee site visits)

Executives Community Services Directorate

and Sustainable Communities Directorate

2007/08 223 215 6 1 0 1

2008/09 219 210 6 3 0 0

2009/10 192 186 5 0 1 0

2010/11 256 239 10 3 1 3

2011/12 171 162 8 0 1 2

3628 1/11/2012 Request:


Northill RoadCopleBedford


3.1 - Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.2 - Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (b) - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (c) - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (d) - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (e) - Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (f) - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.9 (a)-(n) - Planning Department, Bedford Borough Council

3.11 - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.13 - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council

Response:


Property Address:

Northill Road,Cople,


f) Environmentc) Health & Safetyf) Housing f) Public Health



No


No


3629 25/10/2012 Request

I would be grateful if you could provide the following information regarding the Elstow site.

1 Location plan showing leachate and landfill gas monitoring and extraction wells.2 Leachate level data relative to Ordnance Datum (OD) and the level on the landfill at those locations for at least the last calendar year (on a monthly basis) preferably for the last three to four years as I will be required to look at the efficacy of what has been installed. 3 Quantities and quality of leachate removed from the site on a monthly basis.4 Quality of leachate – as determined from monitoring on site via wells.5 Plan showing the area capped (engineered capping) on site. This is with an engineered cap, I presume to be clay but need to know what materials have been used and what the construction detail is – a cross section showing this would be helpful.6 Plan showing location of installation of leachate cut off/outbreak control measures.7 Evidence of how long the new (post August 2005) leachate and gas extraction system has been operating and whether wells are being replaced on a regular basis.8 A least a year’s data referring to the gas extraction system, preferably three to four years if available, which wells are extracting gases which have no flows etc.9 Any information recording leachate/landfill gas migration issues. E.g. have there been any leachate outbreaks in the last couple of years, is there evidence of landfill gas in peripheral monitoring wells?10 Any Information regarding stability of the slopes, including reports, any engineering works undertaken to rectify slips etc.

Response

Thank you for your request for information about Elstow North Landfill which we received on 9 October 2012. Your request has been considered under the Environmental Information Regulations 2004 and we give some information that we currently hold of your original list.

1 Location plan showing leachate and landfill gas monitoring and extraction wells. Please see plan attached

2 Leachate level data relative to Ordnance Datum (OD) and the level on the landfill at those locations for at least the last calendar year (on a monthly basis) preferably for the last three to four years as I will be required to look at the efficacy of what has been installed. Please see attached

3 Quantities and quality of leachate removed from the site on a monthly basis. Please see quality information as attached. Regarding Quantity - we are removing 25 cubic meters a day for off site treatment.

4 Quality of leachate – as determined from monitoring on site via wells. As attached

5 Plan showing the area capped (engineered capping) on site. This is with an engineered cap, I presume to be clay but need to know what materials have been used and what the construction detail is – a cross section showing this would be helpful.Currently reviewing files held for this data.

6 Plan showing location of installation of leachate cut off/outbreak control measures.Currently reviewing files held for this data.

7 Evidence of how long the new (post August 2005) leachate and gas extraction system has been operating and whether wells are being replaced on a regular basis.Both gas and leachate extraction systems are operational, unaware of any wells having been replaced

8 A least a year’s data referring to the gas extraction system, preferably three to four years if available, which wells are extracting gas which have no flows etc.As attached

9 Any information recording leachate/landfill gas migration issues. E.g. have there been any leachate outbreaks in the last couple of years, is there evidence of landfill gas in peripheral monitoring wells?Data attached

10 Any Information regarding stability of the slopes, including reports, any engineering works undertaken to rectify slips etc.Currently reviewing files held for this data.

Please contact [email protected] for a copy of attachments

3630 8/11/2012 Request

Please could you let me know if you have responded to the Governments consultation on the proposed closure of theIndependent Living Fund (ILF).


If you have, please could you provide me with your responses to the questions within that consultation?

Response


Please could you let me know if you have responded to the Governments consultation on the proposed closure of the Independent Living Fund (ILF).

We did not respond to the Governments consultation on the proposed closure of the Independent Living Fund (ILF).

3631 26/10/2012 Request

In my earlier request I had also asked for information on school land sold. It may be that's a Borough Council issue but could I have confirmation of the situation with regard to this?

Response

Under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, the authority must state whether or not the information exists and I confirm that we do hold the information you requested:

The only school land sold by Bedford Borough Council in the past five years was the site of the former Elstow Lower School in September 2012. The school had been closed for many years. The sale price will be in the public domain in due course because it will be noted on the registered title at the Land Registry:

http://www.landregistry.gov.uk/professional/guides/practice-guide-7#guide-mark-8

With regard to the buyer’s intention the Council cannot say what is their intention because only he knows what it is. However, we can say that the transfer imposed a restrictive convenant restricting the use of the land to the construction and occupation of private residential dwellings and all usual ancillary buildings, gardens and facilities.

http://www.landregistry.gov.uk/professional/guides/practice-guide-7#guide-mark-8

3632 25/10/2012 Request

I would like to know on what grounds social workers can request Emergency Protection Order and Interim Care Order to be applied for children and what processes and procedures social workers must follow before applying for the above orders. Therefore, could you please provide relevant internal guidelines, procedure manuals and policies that social worker must comply with.

Response

Under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, the authority must state whether or not the information exists and I confirm that we do hold the information you requested. Please find the information you requested enclosed. You requested:

I would like to know on what grounds social workers can request Emergency Protection Order and Interim Care Order to be applied for children and what processes and procedures social workers must follow before applying for the above orders.



2. Specifies, that the exemption in question is contained within Section 21 (Information accessible to applicant by other means) of the FOI Act (FOIA).

This is set out in law eg Children’s Act, and is publicly available from Government.http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2004/31/contents Therefore, could you please provide relevant internal guidelines, procedure manuals and policies that social worker must comply with.

Please find documents attached – Definition of a Looked After Child, Emergency Protection Order Guidance, Children in Need Procedures.



http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2004/31/contents

3633 6/11/2012 Request

I would like to request the following information please:

1) How many times pest controllers have been called into local authority run primary and secondary schools within the past year.

2) The figures per school3) A breakdown of the type of vermin they were called in to deal with. 4) If any member of staff/or pupil has been bitten by a rat or mouse

Response

Thank you for your request for information about pest control treatments in local authority run primary and secondary schools which we received on 12th October 2012. Your request has been considered under the Environmental Information Regulations 2004.

Please find attached details of referrals where a visit was made by a pest control technician to local authority operated primary and secondary schools in the past year (as requested in questions 1 – 3).

1. How many times pest controllers have been called into local authority run primary and secondary schools within the past year. 2. The figures per school3. A breakdown of the type of vermin they were called in to deal with. 4. If any member of staff/or pupil has been bitten by a rat or mouse.

Not to our knowledge

3634 2/11/2012 Request

The attached properties were acquired under compulsory purchase by your authority in the last 4 years.

Please will you inform us of the amount of money raised as a result of this order and where the monies are held as we wish to make a claim on behalf of the persons entitled to the proceeds?

Response

Further to your request for information dated 9 October 2012, I can confirm that the information you requested is held under the Freedom of Information Act 2000. However, the Council, for the reasons that follow, declines to disclose the information requested.

You requested information on the amount of money raised as a result of this order and where the monies are held.


1. States that information relating to the amount raised as a result of this order is exempt information.

2. Specifies, that the exemption in question is the subject of an absolute exemption contained within Section 40 of the FOI Act (FOIA).

An explanation follows below.

Broad Avenue – This is still in process and the CPO has not yet been enforced.

Pyms Close – Whilst the address of the property has been made publically available through the relevant public notices, financial information about this property is confidential information that is exempt on the basis of Section 40 of the Freedom of Information Act. It is concluded that we are exempt providing the individual properties’ details on the basis of Section 40 (DPA) which is to keep the information confidential. The owner of the property at the time was contacted to be notified about monies owing to them.

3635 6/11/2012 Request

To review our client’s rate accounts historically, please provide the following information:

Liability start date of the account Liability end date of the account (if applicable) Details of any periods of empty rates (dates, percentage value of relief) Details of refunds issued (including reason and value of interest where appropriate) Details of any credits held on this account

Response


For the address listed the information requested is as follows:-

Unit 8-9 St Martins Way Liability start date of the account – 25/3/11 Liability end date of the account (if applicable) 14/9/11 Details of any periods of empty rates (dates, percentage value of relief) - Empty rate 0% throughout period Details of refunds issued (including reason and value of interest where appropriate) £10,296.00 refunded 2 November

2012 – payments received after account closed. Details of any credits held on this account - none

Unit 8 St.Martin’s Way

Liability start date of the account –15/9/11 Liability end date of the account (if applicable) ongoing Details of any periods of empty rates (dates, percentage value of relief) - Empty rate 0% Details of refunds issued (including reason and value of interest where appropriate) none Details of any credits held on this account - none

There are no credits held for your clients at any other address within the area of Bedford Borough Council.

3636 18/10/2012 Request

How many children did you take into care (either interim or full) in the last financial year 2011/12 where the obesity of the child was cited as a factor in the care proceedings? If so please give (a) the age of the child, (b) the sex of the child and (c) the BMI of the child.

Response


Please find the information you requested enclosed. You requested;

How many children did you take into care (either interim or full) in the last financial year 2011/12 where the obesity of the child was cited as a factor in the care proceedings? None

If so please give (a) the age of the child, (b) the sex of the child and (c) the BMI of the child.

3637 26/11/2012 following clarification

Request

On how many occasions since the start of this calendar year has your authority paid a casual worker or a consultant at a rate in excess of £500-per-day (excluding VAT)?

For each occasion provide the daily rate of pay, the job that they were employed to do and the name of the company (if applicable) that was paid for their services.

NOTE: If a consultant/shift worker was employed for more than one day – please work out the average daily rate and supply me with the total they were paid and the number of days they worked for the authority ONLY if the average daily rate is in excess of £500 (excluding VAT).

Response:


Please find the information you requested attached. Please note we have not included details in respect of seeking Legal advice or agency staff.



3638 8/11/2012 Request

Who is the Head of Children’s Safeguarding at your council? Have you set up a Children’s Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub? If Yes, at what stage is the project at? And who is the main contact in the Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub? If No, Do you plan to set up a Children’s Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub in • The next 3 month • The next 6 months • The next 12 months • We have no plans to set up a Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub Who is the Head of Adults Safeguarding at your council? Do you have any plans for setting up an Adult’s Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub? If Yes, at what stage is the project at? And who is the main contact in the Adult’s Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub? If No, Do you plan to set up an Adult’s Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub in • The next 3 month • The next 6 months • The next 12 months • We have no plans to set up a Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub Response


Who is the Head of Children’s Safeguarding at your council?

Andrew Ferguson Have you set up a Children’s Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub?

No If Yes, at what stage is the project at? And who is the main contact in the Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub? If No, Do you plan to set up a Children’s Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub in • The next 3 month • The next 6 months • The next 12 months • We have no plans to set up a Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub

We have no plans to set up a Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub Who is the Head of Adults Safeguarding at your council?

Mr John Bruynseels, Assistant Director Community Care Services Do you have any plans for setting up an Adult’s Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub?

No If Yes, at what stage is the project at? And who is the main contact in the Adult’s Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub? If No, Do you plan to set up an Adult’s Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub in • The next 3 month • The next 6 months • The next 12 months • We have no plans to set up a Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub

We have no current plans for a Multi Agency Safeguarding hub.

3639 1/11/2012 Request


Jubilee GardensAshpole AvenueWootton Access is required to records containing the information necessary to answer the following questions of the CON29R form: 3.1 – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.2 – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (b) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (c) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (d) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (e) – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (f) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.9 (a)-(n) - Planning Department, Bedford Borough Council3.11 – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.13 - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council Response


Property Address:

Ashpole Avenue, Wootton, Bedford,








No

3.13 Radon Gas


No

3640 1/11/2012 Request

Please accept this email as a request for the following information, in relation to the property at: West EndElstow Access is required to records containing the information necessary to answer the following questions of the CON29R form: 3.1 – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.2 – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (b) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (c) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (d) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (e) – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (f) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.9 (a)-(n) - Planning Department, Bedford Borough Council3.11 – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.13 - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council

Response


Property Address:

West End, Elstow, Bedford,



g) Environmentc) Health & Safetyg) Housing f) Public Health




No

3.13 Radon Gas


No

3641 26/11/2012 Request


Please can you send me details of the nature of the proposal and their main components of the organisations that have been shortlisted in the tender for a cafe facility in Priory Country Park under the freedom of information act?

Response

Under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, the authority must state whether or not the information exists and I confirm that we do hold the information you requested and it is duly given below.

Please can you send me details of the nature of the proposal and their main components of the organisations that have been shortlisted in the tender for a cafe facility in Priory Country Park under the freedom of information act.

The tender process for the Priory Park Cafe has been reviewed by an external consultant who summarised that the scoring across the range of questions was unclear and it could be construed that there was a use of sub-criteria which had not been shared with the bidders. Their recommendation, which has been accepted by the Mayor, was that ALL bidders should be invited to participate at the tender stage.

3642 17/10/2012 Request

This FOI request seeks information on allegations concerning the abuse or neglect of looked after children for the period April 2009 to March 2012.

Response


Please find the information you requested below:

With reference to all allegations of abuse or neglect of children in foster and residential placements referred to the LADO (or equivalent designated manager responsible for safeguarding Looked after children) in each year, and outcomes for those children:

Foster Placements Residential PlacementsYear (from 1 April to 31 March): 2009-

20102010-2011

2011-2012

2009-2010

2010-2011

2011-2012

Alle

gatio

ns

Total number of allegations of abuse or neglect of children

16 10 11 9 8 12

Number of allegations that were substantiated 0 0 2 5 1 1Number of allegations that were unsubstantiated 15 10 9 4 6 10Of these: Number that proved to be unfounded 0 3 3 0 3 3 Number unsubstantiated due to insufficient evidence

5 2 1 1 0 0

Number that have yet to be decided 0 0 0 0 0 0

Out

com

es fo

r C

hild

ren

Number of substantiated allegations that resulted in the permanent removal of the child from the placement

0 1 1 0 0 1

Number of unfounded allegations that resulted in the permanent removal of the child from the placement

0 0 0 0 0 0

Number of unsubstantiated allegations that resulted in the permanent removal of the child from the placement

2 0 3 0 0 0

3643 6/11/2012 Request


HIGH STREET, BEDFORD,

Please find plans attached if required.

Response

Thank you for your request for information. Your request has been considered under the Environmental Information Regulations 2004.


Property Address:High Street, Bedford,


b)Environment

c) Health & Safetyd)Housing f) Public Health

b) Yes: Air Quality Management Area Order No. 5 dated 6th November2009 made under Section 83 of the Environment Act 1995.c) Nod) Nof) No


No


f) a contaminated land notice;g) in relation to a register maintained under

section 78R of the Environmental Protection

No

Act 1990:-i) a decision to make an entry; orii) an entry; or



No

3644 12/11/2012 Request

1. How many interim staff employees earning over £50,000 per annum has the council employed since April 2010?2. Since April 2010, how many interim staff employees earning over £50,000 per annum have received payments through

companies rather than directly?3. Since April 2010, what is the total amount of money the council has paid to companies that also employ interim staff members

earning over £50,000 per annum? 4. How many companies that also employ interim staff members earning over £50,000 per annum has the council paid since April

2010?5. How many permanent staff employees earning over £50,000 per annum has the council employed since April 2010?6. Since April 2010, how many permanent staff employees earning over £50,000 per annum have received payments through

companies rather than directly?7. Since April 2010, what is the total amount of money the council has paid to companies that also employ permanent staff

members earning over £50,000 per annum? 8. How many companies that also employ permanent staff members earning over £50,000 per annum has the council paid since

April 2010?

Response


Please find the information you requested attached.


3645 30/10/2012 Request:

Under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 I would like to find out the following information relating to staff suspensions.

It will include, but not be limited to:

The number of council staff suspended by the council in the years 09/10, 10/11 11/12 and so far this year. I would like it to be broken down by each year I would also like to know the reason for disciplinary action and the outcome of the suspension (e.g. dismissal, reprimanded

etc) If they received full pay while suspended

Response:


Please find the information you requested attached and note that this excludes school-based staff.


3646 30/10/2012 Request:

How many complaints have you received alleging an inappropriate relationship between members of school and college staff and



pupils for each of the years 2009-10, 2010-11 and 2011-12?

How many members of staff were investigated during each of those years?

How many members of staff were disciplined for having an inappropriate relationship with a student?

Please break down the figures to show the number dismissed, suspended, given verbal warnings, given written warnings or any other sanction

Response:



Please find the information you requested below and note the data relate to those schools currently maintained by Bedford Borough Council.

Question 1:

2009-10 - 0,

2010-11 - 3

2011-12 – 0

Question 2:

2009-10 - 0,

2010-11 - 2

2011-12 – 0

Question 3:

2009-10 - 0,

2010-11 - 2

2011-12 – 0

Question 4:

2009-10 – 0

2010-11 – 2 suspended and dismissed

2011-12 - 0

3647 23/10/2012 Request:

We are currently conducting an investigation into the utility supply at the above premises. Our client has instructed us to establish who was responsible for the above mentioned property during the period between 07/02/11 and 31/12/11.

In order to help us progress with the investigation we would greatly appreciate you confirming the name and contact information of the registered food business operator, at the above mentioned property during the period in question.

Response:

Further to your request for information dated 15/10/12, I can confirm that the information you requested is held under the Freedom of Information Act 2000. However, the Council, for the reasons that follow, declines to disclose the information requested.

You requested who was responsible the above mentioned property.


1. States that is exempt information.

2. Specifies, that the exemption in question is the subject of an absolute exemption contained within Section 21 (Information Accessible to Applicant by other means) of the FOI Act (FOIA).

Please see link below

http://www.licensing.bedford.gov.uk/Main.dll/Search

3648 6/11/2012 Request:

Please accept this email as a request for the following information, in relation to the property at: Ashburnham RoadBedford Access is required to records containing the information necessary to answer the following questions of the CON29R form: 3.1 – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.2 – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (b) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (c) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (d) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (e) – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (f) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.9 (a)-(n) - Planning Department, Bedford Borough Council3.11 – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.13 - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council Please only respond to the relevant questions, where your specific department is listed.

Response:


I attach the information you requested from Environmental Health & Trading Standards department. Regarding the questions

http://www.licensing.bedford.gov.uk/Main.dll/Search

relating to planning, the Planning department advise that all information relating to planning applications is available on our website http://www.bedford.gov.uk/environment_and_planning/planning_town_and_country/view_applications_plans__docs.aspxThe data used for answering questions 3.1, 3.2 and 3.7(e) is accessible for viewing on appointment directly with Highways Development Control.

Property Address:Ashburnham Road, Bedford,


b)Environment

c) Health & Safetyd)Housing f) Public Health

b) Yes: Air Quality Management Area Order No. 5 dated 6th November2009 made under Section 83 of the Environment Act 1995.

c) Nod) Nof) No


No


No

3649 22/10/2012 Request:

Please detail all GIS/Map software licences held which allow you to supply internal and external (i.e publicly viewable) map data and


their relevant costs (initial cost, subscription or contract fees etc). Please also supply the renewal dates for any contracts that are involved with the software.

Response:


Please find the information that is available set out below.

Please detail all GIS/Map software licences held which allow you to supply internal and external (i.e. publicly viewable) map data and their relevant costs (initial cost, subscription or contract fees etc).Please also supply the renewal dates for any contracts that are involved with the software.

ESRI LocalView Intranet: Initial cost of LocalView Intranet and Internet: £17,895Maintenance cost: £2,500Renewal date of contract: 24/3/2013

ESRI LocalView Internet which Public can use to see various datasets:Maintenance cost: £2,500Renewal date of contract: 24/3/2013

ESRI Productivity Suite Ordnance Survey data conversion software:Maintenance cost: £1,150Renewal date of contract: 24/3/2013

IDOX Public Access has a map tab whereby the Public can see Planning Applications etc:Initial cost: £10,000Maintenance cost: £4,750Renewal date of contract: 31/03/2013

IDOX Uniform has embedded GIS:Maintenance cost: £7,221

Renewal date of contract: 31/3/2013

3650 6/11/2012 Request:

Please accept this email as a request for the following information, in relation to the property at: Felmersham RoadRadwellBedford Access is required to records containing the information necessary to answer the following questions of the CON29R form: 3.1 – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.2 – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (b) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (c) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (d) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (e) – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (f) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.9 (a)-(n) - Planning Department, Bedford Borough Council3.11 – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.13 - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council Please only respond to the relevant questions, where your specific department is listed.

Response:

Thank you for your request. Your request has been considered under the Environmental Information Regulations 2004.



Property Address:

Felmersham Road, Radwell, Bedford.







No

3.13 Radon Gas


No

3651 15/11/2012 Request:

I have carried out an environmental search for the property on Chantry Ave. The search has been referred for further action and has advised us to contact the environmental health department of the local authority to obtain:

“ information regarding any past industrial land use(s), pollution incidents/records of contamination, past siteinvestigations/remediation work, relevant details under the Council's Part 2A strategy and any other concernsregarding ground conditions on and adjacent to the property.”

I would be grateful if you could provide me with any of the information requested.

Response:

I have searched the records held by the Environmental Health and Trading Standards Department, and have answered your query as follows:

This department is aware of the previous uses of land in the vicinity of the site.

By virtue of Part IIA of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 (‘the Act’), the Council was required to formulate a Strategy to detail how it plans to meet its duty to inspect land in its area and identify contaminated land under sections 78B and C of the Act. To date, no sites within our area have been identified as falling within the definition of contaminated land as defined in the Act.

The property has not been identified as requiring assessment with respect to potential contaminated land. The Woburn Industrial Estate is located adjacent to the South of the property. We have undertaken a desk-based

assessment of the Woburn Industrial Estate and, based on its current use, do not consider it necessary to undertake any further action with respect to contaminated land.

3652 1/11/2012 Request:

As part of my research I would like to know what elements of your highways maintenance services are you likely to tender in the next 5 years including estimated dates and financial value of the tendered services.

Response:

Thank you for your request for information about Highways Maintenance Services which we received on 18 October 2012. Your request has been considered under the Environmental Information Regulations Act 2004. The information you have requested is as follows:

We plan to tender elements of the term contract for highways services before March 2016. The exact scope of works and likely value of the contract has not yet been determined. We normally tender for a schedule of rates for surfacing works on a 1 or 2 year cycle, with the tender process for this year likely to be in process by December, the estimated annual value of works being circa £3m.

3653 25/10/2012 Request:

I am making inquiries regarding your waste collection service(s). I would like to understand the current workings of the services that you currently provide.

This is a request under the ‘Freedom of Information Act’.

1. Do you operate an in-house service or do you have a private contractor in operation?a. If so, what is the name(s) of the private contractor(s)?b. What is the period of the contract? And when does it terminate?

2. Which waste collection service(s) do you (or the contractor) currently provide? (E.g. Weekly refuse, weekly recycling, separate glass, paper, co-mingled recycling, etc.)

3. Are you planning to make any changes to the service? If so, what changes are you planning?a. Starting a new service (E.g. Paid garden collection, etc.)b. Moving depots?c. Closing Landfill sites?d. Opening new waste transfer stations?

Response:

Thank you for your amended request for information about waste collection services, which we received on 23 October 2012. Your request has been considered under the Environmental Information Regulations 2004 and we give below the information you requested.

1. Do you operate an in-house service or do you have a private contractor in operation? In-house service

a. If so, what is the name(s) of the private contractor(s)?b. What is the period of the contract? And when does it terminate?

2. Which waste collection service(s) do you (or the contractor) currently provide? (E.g. Weekly refuse, weekly recycling, separate glass, paper, co-mingled recycling, etc.) Weekly refuse and alternate co-mingled recycling (except glass)

3. Are you planning to make any changes to the service? No

3654 25/10/2012 Request:

Under the Freedom of Information act 2000, please disclose

Full details of reports received of female pupils a) having suffered; b) suspected to have suffered or c) believed to be at risk of suffering

female genital mutilation in each of the last three years for which figures are available.

I would like the response to include the age of the girls involved, the injuries suffered and the action taken by the local education authority as a result – e.g. treatment, referral elsewhere, report to the police, etc.

I would also like to know whether the Authority has an official policy on dealing with FGM, whether it collects statistics on the problem, and whether it provides relevant training for staff.

Response:



Under the Freedom of Information act 2000, please disclose

Full details of reports received of female pupils a) having suffered; b) suspected to have suffered or c) believed to be at risk of suffering

female genital mutilation in each of the last three years for which figures are available.

We have not collected any data in respect of Female Genital Mutilation. The Local Safeguarding Children Board has not been asked to commission any training in respect of Female Genital Mutilation. The Local Safeguarding Children Board has not been made aware that Female Genital Mutilation is a concern in Bedford Borough by any agency. We do have the national guidance available for professionals that can be found at http://bedfordscb.proceduresonline.com/chapters/contents.html chapter 35.

3655 6/11/2012 Request:

Please accept this email as a request for the following information, in relation to the property at: Coventry RoadBedford Access is required to records containing the information necessary to answer the following questions of the CON29R form: 3.1 – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.2 – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (b) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (c) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (d) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council

http://bedfordscb.proceduresonline.com/chapters/contents.html

3.7 (e) – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (f) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.9 (a)-(n) - Planning Department, Bedford Borough Council3.11 – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.13 - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council Please only respond to the relevant questions, where your specific department is listed.

Response:



Property Address:

Coventry Road, Bedford,






compulsorily purchase or acquire the property?3.13 Radon Gas


No

3656 30/10/2012 Request:

I am writing to request, under the Freedom of Information act (2000), the following information relating to Wild Britain (formerly Bedford Butterfly Park) :

1. Copies of all reports relating to zoo inspections (including Informal and Special Inspections) carried out under the Zoo Licensing Act since January 2010.

2. A copy of the zoo’s current stock list.

3. Copies of any correspondence between the zoo and the council, relating to zoo licensing and animal welfare, since January 2010.

4. A copy of all zoo licenses issued since January 2010 plus any attached conditions.

Response:

Thank you for your request for information about Wild Britain which we received on 19/10/12. Your request has been considered under the Environmental Information Regulations 2004.

See attached copy of the information you requested.



3657 12/11/2012 Request:

I would like the statistics of the number of people recruited by the council since 2007, and those made redundant, separated by voluntary and compulsory redundancy, over the same time period. The age groups should be divided into (Under 25) (25-49) (50-64) (65+) and by gender.

Response:


Please find the information you requested attached and note that Bedford Borough Council obtained Unitary Status on 1 April 2009 therefore data prior to this date relate the Former Bedford Borough Council.


3658 23/10/2012 Request:

Would you be able to tell me how many Private Hire Taxi Vehicle licenses and how many Public Hire/Hackney Carriage Vehicle licenses are currently held in your area.

If you can break this down into further areas within your council then this would be greatly appreciated.

Response:



The number of vehicles currently licensed by Bedford Borough Council is as follows:

Private Hire Vehicles 518Hackney Carriage Vehicles 70 (this is the limit)


Unfortunately we are unable to break this down further into areas within Bedford Borough Council.

3659 13/11/2012 Request:

I would like to know the following information.

It should include but not be limited to:

How many times have council employees been on trips abroad in the past two years which were paid for by the council?

In each case:

What was the job title of the person who went on the trip?Where did they go?What was the purpose of the trip?How long was it for (days)?How much did it cost the council?When was each trip?Where did the money come from to pay for it?

Response:

Under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, the authority must state whether or not the information exists and I confirm that we do hold the information you requested. You requested:

How many times have council employees been on trips abroad in the past two years which were paid for by the council?

In each case:

What was the job title of the person who went on the trip?Where did they go?What was the purpose of the trip?How long was it for (days)?

How much did it cost the council?When was each trip?Where did the money come from to pay for it?

I can confirm it is nil for Bedford Borough Council. In respect of schools, we have been advised from the School finance team that schools have their own back accounts and are funded directly from the Department of Education with the Local Authority not having any involvement with their budgets, therefore for schools we do not hold the information and you would need to get in touch with them directly. Please link below

http://www.bedford.gov.uk/education_and_learning/schools_and_colleges/lower_schools.aspx

Then go to ‘related link’ right hand corner, see contact details under ‘Education Establishment Guide’

3660 23/11/2012 Request:

1) Between 1st April 2009 and 22nd October 2012, please list each piece of “green” or recreational space which was sold by the authority. Please include: i. The name and/or location of the space, including a postcode ii. The size of the space in metres2

iii. The primary use of the space, pre-sale iv. The organisation the land was sold to v. The sale price vii. The date of the sale viii. The reason for the sale ix. The intended use for the proceeds from the sale, if any

2) Please list each piece of “green” or recreational space which the authority is currently marketing for sale, or has resolved to sell. Please include: i. The name or location of the space, including a postcode ii. The size of the space in metres2

iii. The primary use of the space iv. An estimated value of the land v. The reason for the proposed sale

http://www.bedford.gov.uk/education_and_learning/schools_and_colleges/lower_schools.aspx

My interpretation of “green” space would include: sports pitches, recreation grounds, allotments, grass verges, grazing land, school playgrounds etc. If your definition of green space varies greatly from this, please give your own definition.

Only in the event that my request is likely to be too costly to respond to, please disregard the questions in grey: 1 vii. & viii and 2 xi.

Response:

Thank you for your request for information about “green” or recreational space which we received on 22 October 2012. Your request has been considered under the Environmental Information Regulations 2004 and we give below the information you requested.

1) Between 1st April 2009 and 22nd October 2012, please list each piece of “green” or recreational space which was sold by the authority.

i. Land on the North side of Norse Road Bedford.ii. The land amounts to approximately 9,400 sq miii. Pre sale the land comprised roadside verge grassland. Post sale the land will provide access to an adjoining

residential development and the developer will construct a footpath/cycleway and improved and expanded roadside landscaping.

iv. The purchaser was the Orbit Group Ltdv. The share of the sale proceeds due to the Council was £2,851,325.vi. The sale was completed on 21/12/09vii. The land was surplus to requirements and its sale enabled an adjoining private residential development land to

proceed. This sale secured an improvement to the roadside verge in this part of Norse Road at no cost to the Council and to allow the Council to purchase, by agreement, the land necessary to provide an extension to the Norse Road cemetery to ensure its long term viability. The land was sold in conjunction with adjoining residential development land owned by a third party.

viii. The proceeds of sale were used to fund the Council’s agreed Capital Programme.

2) Please list each piece of “green” or recreational space which the authority is currently marketing for sale, or has resolved to sell.

There is no “green” or recreational space which Bedford Borough Council is currently marketing for sale, or has resolved to sell.

3661 6/11/2012 Request:

Please accept this email as a request for the following information, in relation to the property at: Stirling RoadShortstownBedford Access is required to records containing the information necessary to answer the following questions of the CON29R form: 3.1 – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.2 – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (b) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (c) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (d) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (e) – Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (f) – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.9 (a)-(n) - Planning Department, Bedford Borough Council3.11 – Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.13 - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council Please only respond to the relevant questions, where your specific department is listed.

Response:




Property Address:Stirling Road, Shortstown, Bedford,





No


No

3662 26/11/2012 Request:

I am wondering if you can tell me if you are aware of any incidents of inappropriate behaviour between a teacher and an under-age pupil of a sexual or non-sexual nature in any of your schools in the three year and, if so, can you provide details and say what action was taken?

Response:


Please find the information you requested below and note the data relate to those schools currently maintained by Bedford Borough Council.

2009/10

Inappropriate relationships between teachers and pupils: None

Other incidents of inappropriate behaviour between teachers and pupils: One complaint for using inappropriate physical intervention. Teacher was suspended, investigated and dismissed at end of their fixed-term contract. Another complaint regarding inappropriate lesson content was investigated and led to dismissal.

2010/11

Inappropriate relationships between teachers and pupils: Two complaints which were investigated, led to suspensions and subsequent dismissals.

Other incidents of inappropriate behaviour between teachers and pupils: One complaint relating to use of inappropriate language. Investigated and written warning issued.

2011/12

Inappropriate relationships between teachers and pupils: None

Other incidents of inappropriate behaviour between teachers and pupils: None

3663 25/10/2012 Request:

Please can you tell me whether you are aware of any attempts by parent/s to mislead the authorities/schools about where they live (ie by giving an address of a property that is not their primary home) in order to gain a place for their child at a school for which they would not otherwise be eligible?If so, can you provide me with all details and say what action was taken?

Response:

Under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, the authority must state whether or not the information exists and I confirm

that we do hold the information you requested.


Please can you tell me whether you are aware of any attempts by parent/s to mislead the authorities/schools about where they live (ie by giving an address of a property that is not their primary home) in order to gain a place for their child at a school for which they would not otherwise be eligible?If so, can you provide me with all details and say what action was taken?

We are not aware of any attempts.

3664 25/10/2012 Request:

Please can you tell me how many schools in your area have an exemption from the legal requirement to hold a daily act of collective worship of a "wholly or mainly of a broadly Christian character"?Of those who have, can you tell me how many are holding assemblies that are secular or that are based on Islam?

Response:



Please can you tell me how many schools in your area have an exemption from the legal requirement to hold a daily act of collective worship of a "wholly or mainly of a broadly Christian character"?

Only one school has a determination.

Of those who have, can you tell me how many are holding assemblies that are secular or that are based on Islam?

SACRE does not collect information in terms of collective worship/assemblies secular or otherwise.

3665 15/11/2012 Request:

Please note that the reference to the council should include those sections of the council concerned with press and marketing, animal welfare, children protection, the licensing of entertainment productions, health and safety in public venues, and the management and or running of entertainment venues within the area.

Please note that I am interested in receiving the information even if the theatre company or production company IS not (for whatever reason) going ahead with the production.

Please note that I am only interested in material which relates to the period January 1 2012 to the present day.

Please do redact any confidential financial information from the documents.

Please do exclude information which relates to any school productions.

1…Has the council been in contact with any theatre company and or production company and or similar about the production of a Pantomime in premises within the council’s area.

2…If the answer to the above question is yes can you please supply copies of all correspondence and communications (including emails) between the council and the aforementioned theatre company and or production company and or similar. This correspondence and communication will include but will not be limited to actual contracts as well as communications about scripts and storylines, the use of children and animals in performances, casting issues, information about health and safety requirements at particular venues, special effects and crowd controls.

3…All internal communications (including emails) which are held by the council and which in any way relate to plans for a Pantomime this Christmas. I am interested in receiving the information even if the planned production is not now going ahead.

Response

Under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, the authority must state whether or not the information exists and I confirm that we do hold the information you requested. You requested:

1…Has the council been in contact with any theatre company and or production company and or similar about the production of a Pantomime in premises within the council’s area.

Yes – both Children’s Services and Leisure & Culture

2…If the answer to the above question is yes can you please supply copies of all correspondence and communications ( including emails) between the council and the aforementioned theatre company and or production company and or similar. This correspondence and communication will include but will not be limited to actual contracts as well as communications about scripts and storylines, the use of children and animals in performances, casting issues, information about health and safety requirements at particular venues, special effects and crowd controls.

See attached

3…All internal communications (including emails) which are held by the council and which in any way relate to plans for a Pantomime this Christmas. I am interested in receiving the information even if the planned production is not now going ahead.

See attached


3666 22/11/2012 Request :

I would be grateful if you could provide the following information since April 2009

1) A list of savings / efficiencies you have saved with the value of the savings made.

2) A brief description of what it is.

and

a) A list of improvements you have made.

b) if you have a staff suggest box system (may have a different name in your organization) a list of suggests which have been implemented


Response :

I refer to your recent enquiry for information held by the Council:-

“I would be grateful if you could provide the following information since April 2009

1) A list of savings/efficiencies you have saved with the value of the savings made.2) A brief description of what it is.

and

a) A list of improvements you have made.b) If you have a staff suggest box system (may have a different name in your organization) a list of suggests which

have been implemented.”

Under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, the authority must state whether or not the information exists and I confirm that we do hold the information you requested. However, the Council, for the reasons that follow, declines to disclose the information requested for questions 1 and 2.


1) States that the response to Q1 and Q2 are exempt information.

2) Specifies, that the exemption in question is the subject of an absolute exemption contained within Section 21 (Information Accessible by other means) of the FOI Act (FOIA).

An explanation follows below.

The answers to your questions 1) and 2) are obtainable on the links to the Bedford Borough Council website below :

2009/2010

http://www.portal.bedford.gov.uk/internet/borough_council/your%20council/committee%20papers/2008-09/implementation%20executive/2009%2001%2021/Item%2011%20Summary%20General%20Fund%20Revenue%20Budget



2010/2011

http://www.councillorsupport.bedford.gov.uk/documents/g608/Public%20reports%20pack%2020th-Jan-2010%2018.30%20Executive.pdf?T=10

2011/2012


2012/2013


The answer to your questions a) and b) are as follows :-

The web-based Staff Suggestion Scheme has produced the following initiatives implemented by the Council. These are a combination of both inward and outward facing activities. All activities have the same result of reducing costs/increasing income to the Council.

a) Through the purchase of fuel for transport, obtaining “company” reward cards and points to provide benefit to the Borough Council.

b) Replacing all the hand driers in both Town Hall & Borough Hall with Dyson Airblade™ hand dryers and stopping the usage of paper towels.

c) Ceasing the practice of purchasing diaries for Council officers.d) Using white rather than coloured paper for BBC headed letters.e) Opening up the car park at Town Hall at weekends as a pay car park for the public.f) Using procurement cards to be able to shop as efficiently as possible using large national suppliers based locally.g) Recycling surplus stationery and office items with other Council departments.

3667 Request:







20/11/20121. Your authorities adopted tree policy as it relates to trees on land under your control (note: we do not require

information on tree policies as they relate to TPO’s, supplementary planning guidance etc.)2. We request a hard copy and an electronic copy3. In the event you do not have a policy please confirm this.

Response:

Thank you for your request for information about a Tree Policy which we received on 24 October 2012. Your request has been considered under the Environmental Information Regulations 2004 and we give below the information you requested.

The authority does not currently have a formalised Tree Policy but we are working to produce one over the next year.

3668 14/11/2012 Request :

I am seeking the exact location of all ON STREET Blue Badge Disabled Parking Bays in your Borough/Council area.

Response:


Please find attached a spreadsheet listing all locations of on-street blue badge disabled parking bays in the Borough of Bedford.

Please contact [email protected] for a copy of the spreadsheet

3669 21/11/2012 Request :

Please would it be possible for you to be able to provide the following information of None Residential Care Packages. Please could you provide for each of the last 5 years the number of all Care Packages worth over £750 per week? If it is possible to do so please break these down to show how many are for people between 18-65 and how many for people over


65. If it is possible to do so please break these down to show which Care Packages were newly commissioned in each year. If it is possible to do so please indicate whether the value of these care packages includes any contribution from the Independent Living Fund (ILF) and how much this contribution is worth. If you only know the LA or Total contribution of the care package, but it is possible that there is an additional ILF contribution which the LA does not record please could you state this in your response? If the ILF is abolished in 2015 and the funds devolved to LA's but not ring fenced, would you anticipate being able to continue to fund current ILF users care packages to the level they currently are or not.

Response:


Please would it be possible for you to be able to provide the following information of None Residential Care Packages. Please could you provide for each of the last 5 years the number of all Care Packages worth over £750 per week. If it is possible to do so please break these down to show how many are for people between 18-65 and how many for people over 65. If it is possible to do so please break these down to show which Care Packages were newly commissioned in each year. If it is possible to do so please indicate whether the value of these care packages includes any contribution from the Independent Living Fund (ILF) and how much this contribution is worth. If you only know the LA or Total contribution of the care package, but it is possible that there is an additional ILF contribution which the LA does not record please could you state this in your response. If the ILF is abolished in 2015 and the funds develoved to LA's but not ring fenced, would you anticipate being able to continue to fund current ILF users care packages to the level they currently are or not.

2009-2010

2010-2011

2011-2012

2012-2013

Total packages in year under 65 67 91 109 94Total packages in year Over 65 66 73 78 51Total number of new packages in total above - under 65 34 23 16 23Total number of new packages in total above - over 65 28 30 26 10

These figures are based on the total of the Local Authority contributions only. The level of ILF funding is not recorded. It is possible that some of the clients within the totals above have some additional ILF funding.

3670 2/11/2012 Request :

I am doing a personal search to get the answers to the Con 29 local search questions. As requested I attach a list of the Environmental questions.

Please can you reply to these?

Response:


Please see below a copy of the information you requested.

Property Address:High Street, Kempston, Bedford

3.7 Outstanding NoticesDo any statutory notices which relate to the following matters subsist in relation to the property other than

those revealed in a response to any other enquiry in this schedule:-




No


h) a contaminated land notice;i) in relation to a register maintained under




No


No

3671 21/11/2012 Request :

Please could you provide figures on how many counterfeit goods have been seized in your part of Bedfordshire each year for the past three years? I have also submitted this request to Central Bedfordshire Council.

Response :


Please find the information you requested as follows:

Please could you provide figures on how many counterfeit goods have been seized in your part of Bedfordshire each year for the past three years. I have also submitted this request to Central Bedfordshire.

According to records held by the Environmental Health & Trading Standards Service, work is carried out in response to programmed work, intelligence received and enforcement action is taken where applicable; the table below gives a breakdown of counterfeit goods seized over the past three years:

In 2009 we confiscated - Approximately 40,000 DVD’s (joint operation),

In 2010 we confiscated - Approximately 30,000 cigarettes, 750 packets of tobacco, 16 bottles of scotch whiskey, 60 bottles of vodka, 21 bottles of whiskey, 12 tins of chewing tobacco (recorded).

In 2011 we confiscated - 397 Phone covers, 1000 car air fresheners, approximately 300 DVD’s (recorded).

3672 1/11/2012 Request :

FREEDOM OF INFORMATION REQUEST - MANAGEMENT OF PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

Using the attached Excel spreadsheet please give information about how your council monitors performance indicators

Response :


Please see attached plus a list of the performance indicators we currently collect.


3673 22/11/2012 Request :

Under The Freedom of Information Act 2000, I require information in respect to the following question(s) relating to a Section 106 Agreement pursuant to planning reference 03/01928/FUL at Britannia Iron Works Kempston Road Bedford MK42 9DH. Please provide your response electronically by email in the first instance.

1. Within THE FIRST SCHEDULE, Clauses 1, 2, 3 and 4 of the Agreement require the Owner to pay ‘The Sports Contribution’ of £343,000.00 (three hundred and forty three thousand pounds) to the Council in one quarter payments as directed by each Clause. (i) Please confirm the total payments received pursuant to this clause and (ii) the date on which those payment(s) were received by the County Council.

2. Following receipt of the above payment(s), (iii) please confirm the details of the ring-fenced accounts that the monies for each Clause was paid into and (iv) details of any other monies that had previously or subsequently been paid into these accounts.

3. (v) Please confirm the balance of the accounts as at 27th August 2011.

4. If any of the contribution paid by the Owner has been spent, (vi) please provide copies of invoices and receipts for the spending of the monies for each account with details of when this was expended, how much of the sum was expended and what it was expended upon.

Response :

Thank you for your request for information about S106 Sports Contributions pursuant to the planning permission 03/01928/FUL at Britannia Iron Works which we received on 26 October 2012. Your request has been considered under the Environmental Information Regulations 2004.

Our response as follows:1. The total of £257,250 has been received to date. Three payments of £85,750 each, received on 27 October 2008, 9

February 2011 and 11 September 2012.2. These monies are held in a specific s106 holding account individual to the sports contributions received for this

development. No other monies are paid into this account.


3. The balance of this account as at 27 August 2011 was £172,403.99 (includes interest).4. Please find attached a table setting out the s106 funding which is being used towards this year’s programme of works to

improve the capacity of playing pitches in Bedford. Please also find attached copies of the orders and invoices of the works currently being undertaken. These orders and invoices relate to the whole programme of sports pitch works in 2012/13 therefore also include contributions received from other s106 sites and not just the Britannia Iron Works.


3674 23/11/2012 Request :

For the financial years 2010-11 and 2011-12, please provide the following:

a) The total number of cash transactions* processed by your local authority for payments to the LAb) The total value of cash transactions* processed by your local authority for payments to the LA c) The total cost** of processing cash transactions*, or if that is not possible then the most reasonable estimate possible for payments to the LA d) The total number of cheque transactions* processed by your local authority for payments to the LA e) The total value of cheque transactions* processed by your local authority for payments to the LA f) The total cost** of processing cheque transactions*, or if that is not possible then the most reasonable estimate possible for payments to the LA

g) The total number of voucher transactions* processed by your local authority for payments to the LAh) The total value of voucher transactions* processed by your local authority for payments to the LAi) The total cost** of processing voucher transactions*, or if that is not possible then the most reasonable estimate possible for payments to the LA j) The total number of cash transactions* processed by your local authority for payments FROM the LA k) The total value of cash transactions* processed by your local authority for payments FROM the LA l) The total cost** of processing cash transactions*, or if that is not possible then the most reasonable estimate possible for payments FROM the LA m) The total number of cheque transactions* processed by your local authority for payments FROM the LA


n) The total value of cheque transactions* processed by your local authority for payments FROM the LA o) The total cost** of processing cheque transactions*, or if that is not possible then the most reasonable estimate possible for payments FROM the LA

p) The total number of voucher transactions* processed by your local authority for payments FROM the LA q) The total value of voucher transactions* processed by your local authority for payments FROM the LA r) The total cost** of processing voucher transactions*, or if that is not possible then the most reasonable estimate possible for payments FROM the LA *i.e. transactions in coins/notes, cheques or vouchers; not transactions by direct debit, standing order or cards. ** Please include any transactional costs, plus direct staff costs, plus any fraud costs, plus any other costs attributable to the transaction type.

[You may wish to provide the answers to (a) to (r) in the table below.]

s) The total number of people employed (or the full time equivalent) in your local authority’s cash office(s) t) For the payments identified in the answers to a) and r), a breakdown of the percentage attributable to each department in the authority.

Type For Transactions Processed For payments to the LA

For payments from the LA

CashVolume/number of… (a) (j)

Value of … (b) £ (k) £Cost of … (c) £ (l) £

ChequeVolume/number of… (d) (m)

Value of … (e) £ (n) £Cost of … (f) £ (o) £

VoucherVolume/number of… (g) (p)

Value of … (h) £ (q) £Cost of … (i) £ (r) £

Response :

Under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, the authority must state whether or not the information exists and I confirm that we do hold some of the information you requested.

However, the Freedom of Information Act 2000 does not oblige the Council to comply with a request for information if it estimates that the cost of fully complying with the request would exceed the “appropriate limit.”

This appropriate limit has been set in the Freedom of Information and Data Protection (Appropriate Limit and Fees) Regulations 2004 which provides that for a local authority the appropriate limit is £450. This is calculated by reference to a maximum of 18 hours being taken and the cost of staff time being set in the Regulations as £25 per hour. The Regulations also say that In calculating the amount the Council may, “for the purpose of its estimate, take account only of the costs it reasonably expects to incur in relation to the request in: (a) determining whether it holds the information, (b) locating the information, or a document which may contain the information, (c) retrieving the information, or a document which may contain the information, and (d) extracting the information from a document containing it.”

The Council has therefore decided to refuse some of your request for the following reasons:

Many Service Areas are unable to collate the information you require without exceeding the appropriate limit. For example, Leisure & Culture who are unable to provide this as it has been estimated that is will require between 36 and 44 hrs. This is due to the fact some calculations have to be done manually by going through a years worth of paper files and records. The level of transactions varies significantly throughout the year and there are more than 8 sites.

Notwithstanding the Council not being obliged to comply with the request if it estimates that the cost of complying fully would exceed the appropriate limit, information readily available from Adults Services (Day Care Centres), Highways and the Cash Office together with Cashiers Payment Analysis are attached for your information.

In respect of your question s) Number of FTE Employees:

There are 3.64 FTE employees in the Council’s main payments office.

In addition to processing the payment types requested in the Freedom of Information request the employees are responsible for processing all other forms of payment, and for the allocation of non-automated bank receipts. The Council does not hold a record of the estimated proportion of time or cost in respect of the processing of the specific payment types that are requested in the Freedom of Information request.

3675 19/11/2012 Request:

Please provide answers to the following questions:1. Is your organisation currently in the process of replacing upgrading or refurbishing its telecommunications systems or

equipment? Telecommunications should be interpreted in its broadest sense. If the answer is yes, please provide appropriate documentation or links to the documents that will allow access to decision making time scales, budgets, procurement and any current tender documents.

2. Does your organisation have any plans to replace, upgrade or refurbish its telecommunications systems or equipment in the next four years? Telecommunications should be interpreted in its broadest sense. If the answer is yes, please provide appropriate documentation or links to the documents that will allow access to decision making time scales, budgets, specifications, bills of quantities and procurement methods and timetables.

3. Does your organisation possess any redundant, unused, or obsolete telecommunication systems or equipment of any description that it would consider selling to a private company? Telecommunications should be interpreted in its broadest sense. If the answer is yes, please provide a comprehensive list of the equipment available and contact details for the position holder (not necessarily personal details) who should be contacted who has responsibility for disposal of the equipment.

4. Is your organisation likely to produce any redundant, unused or obsolete telecommunications equipment or systems in the next four years? Telecommunications should be interpreted in its broadest sense. If the answer is yes, then if possible please supply a comprehensive list of the equipment that is anticipated will become available and associated time scales and preferred methods of disposal. If this afore mentioned information is not yet available, please provide appropriate documentation or links to documents that will allow access to the decision making process and timescales for such

Response:


Please find the information you requested set out below.

1. Is your organisation currently in the process of replacing upgrading or refurbishing its telecommunications systems or equipment? Telecommunications should be interpreted in its broadest sense. If the answer is yes, please provide appropriate documentation or links to the documents that will allow access to decision making time scales, budgets, procurement and any current tender documents.- No

2. Does your organisation have any plans to replace, upgrade or refurbish its telecommunications systems or equipment in the next four years? Telecommunications should be interpreted in its broadest sense. If the answer is yes, please provide appropriate documentation or links to the documents that will allow access to decision making time scales, budgets, specifications, bills of quantities and procurement methods and timetables.- Yes, proposals are at such an early stage that no formal processes have yet been documented nor timescales allocated to the project. Bids for budget financing will be considered alongside other projects in accordance with Council evaluation criteria.

3. Does your organisation possess any redundant, unused, or obsolete telecommunication systems or equipment of any description that it would consider selling to a private company? Telecommunications should be interpreted in its broadest sense. If the answer is yes, please provide a comprehensive list of the equipment available and contact details for the position holder (not necessarily personal details) who should be contacted who has responsibility for disposal of the equipment.- There are currently various bits of the Mitel SX2000’s that were removed from various sites as part of the Cisco IP phone deployment. This includes cabinets, various cards for running the phones and lines. We also have various models of Mitel phones that were removed.

4. Is your organisation likely to produce any redundant, unused or obsolete telecommunications equipment or systems in the next four years? Telecommunications should be interpreted in its broadest sense. If the answer is yes, then if possible please supply a comprehensive list of the equipment that is anticipated will become available and associated time scales and preferred methods of disposal. If this afore mentioned information is not yet available, please provide appropriate documentation or links to documents that will allow access to the decision making process and timescales for such equipment to become available. - Besides the equipment listed above, there is a Mitel SX2000 system and a Siemens system potentially becoming redundant in the next four years.

3676 22/11/2012 Request:

We request a list of all B2 classified (General Industrial) and B8 classified (Storage or Distribution) properties, that have a Rateable Value at or in excess of £100,000 per annum that also currently qualify for "Empty Property Rates Relief".

Response:



3677 21/11/2012 Request:

Would you please supply me with the information requested below. (All the information requested relates to your Adult Social Services directorate).

• An up to date organisational chart of your Adult Social Services Directorate.

• The name and job title of the person in your organisation responsible for commissioning Adult Social Services.

• The name of the company currently contracted to provide your organisation with Electronic Homecare Monitoring Services and the end date of the current contract.

• The name of the proprietary Adult Social Care system used by your organisation (if applicable).

• The name of the proprietary rostering system used by your in-house Domiciliary Care/Re-ablement team (if applicable).

• If your organisation uses external care providers to meet your social care responsibilities, please confirm the number of external care providers currently contracted to your organisation.

• If your organisation uses external care providers to meet your social care responsibilities, please confirm the approximate number of external care workers currently monitored by your Electronic Homecare Monitoring system.

Response:


• An up to date organisational chart of your Adult Social Services Directorate. http://www.councillorsupport.bedford.gov.uk/ecSDDisplay.aspx?NAME=SD276&ID=276&RPID=40334371&sch=doc&cat=13184&path=13019%2c13184

http://www.councillorsupport.bedford.gov.uk/ecSDDisplay.aspx?NAME=SD276&ID=276&RPID=40334371&sch=doc&cat=13184&path=13019%2C13184

http://www.councillorsupport.bedford.gov.uk/ecSDDisplay.aspx?NAME=SD276&ID=276&RPID=40334371&sch=doc&cat=13184&path=13019%2C13184


• The name and job title of the person in your organisation responsible for commissioning Adult Social Services.

George Hunt, Head of Commissioning

• The name of the company currently contracted to provide your organisation with Electronic Homecare Monitoring

Services and the end date of the current contract.

CM2000, contract is open ended

• The name of the proprietary Adult Social Care system used by your organisation (if applicable).

SWIFT

• The name of the proprietary rostering system used by your in-house Domiciliary Care/Re-ablement team (if applicable).

CM2000

• If your organisation uses external care providers to meet your social care responsibilities, please confirm the number of

external care providers currently contracted to your organisation.

27

• If your organisation uses external care providers to meet your social care responsibilities, please confirm the

approximate number of external care workers currently monitored by your Electronic Homecare Monitoring system.

100

3678 23/11/2012 Request:

Under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 I would like to request the following information relating to parking fine hotspots. It will include, but not be limited to:

The total number of parking tickets handed out in the last two financial years and the total amount of income that generated

If the number of tickets issued as a result of the CCTV Parking Enforcement Van is included in this can I have the figure separately for that (if not included then can I still have the figure_

If possible, a breakdown of how many tickets were handed out for the various offences (for example parking on the kerb)

The top ten streets in both Bedford and Kempston where the most tickets were given including a breakdown of the number of tickets and the income per street and year.

Also can I have the top ten streets for the Parking Enforcement Van and figures please and also since the vans were introduced how many tickets have been cancelled and why?

Response:


Please find attached the information you requested.


3679 6/11/2012 Request:


Bromham RoadBedford


3.1 - Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.2 - Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (b) - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council


3.7 (c) - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (d) - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (e) - Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (f) - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.9 (a)-(n) - Planning Department, Bedford Borough Council3.11 - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.13 - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council

Please only respond to the relevant questions, where your specific department is listed.

Response:



Property Address:Bromham Road, Biddenham, Bedford,






No





3680 6/11/2012 Request:

1. Details of TPO applications has been cited as the reason for application to include the road name and/or first four digits of post code

2. Subsidence claims involving your authority whereby LA owned trees are implicated in the damage to include road name and/or first four digits of post code. In addition please advise the value of payment made or whether the claim was successfully defended.

3. We request a hard copy and an electronic copy4. In the event you do not have the information please confirm this.

Response:


Question 1: The information you requested is available on the authority’s website and can be located at http://www.bedford.gov.uk/environment_and_planning/planning_town_and_country/view_applications_plans__docs.aspx

Question 2: The information you requested can be found in the attached spreadsheet.

Question 3: An electronic copy was sent 6 November 2012 to the email address above and a hard copy was also sent.

Question 4: Not applicable.

Question 5: Noted.

3681 22/11/2012 Request

What was your net expenditure for short breaks services for children aged 0-18 with a learning disability in a) 2009/10, b)2010/11 and c) 2011/12, and d) what was the agreed budget figure for 2012/13?

Response

Under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, the authority must state whether or not the information exists and I confirm


that we do hold the information you requested.


What was your net expenditure for short breaks services for children aged 0-18 with a learning disability in a)2009/10, b)2010/11 and c) 2011/12, and d) what was the agreed budget figure for 2012/13?

Short Breaks

Total Net Expenditure on Short Breaks

2009/2010 expenditure £480,7402010/2011 expenditure £577,8592011/2012 expenditure £563,7722012/2013 budget £770,354

3682 26/11/2012 Request

I would be grateful if you would send me the following information in relation to your HR/Payment solution/service.

1. The name of your current HR/Payroll software solution and provider2. The date the contract was signed3. The length of the current contract term4. The date the contracts are due to be renewed5. The current annual maintenance charges6. The original contract value.

Response

I refer to your recent enquiry for information held by the Council. Under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, the authority must state whether or not the information exists and I confirm that we do hold the information you requested and this is given below.

1) The name of your current HR/Payroll software solution and provider. If this is outsourced, please provide the name of your outsourcing provider.Northgate, Resourcelink.

2) The date that the contract was signed with your HR/Payroll provider.31 December 2010.

3) The length of the current contract term for both HR and Payroll.Expires 31 December 2015.

4) The date that the HR and Payroll contracts are due to be renewed.31 December 2015.

5) The current annual maintenance charges for your HR/Payroll solution. Pursuant to Section 17 (1) of the Act the Council


2. Specifies, that the exemption in question is contained within Section 43 (Commercial Interests) of the FOI Act (FOIA).

6) The original contract value of your HR/Payroll solution.Circa £600k.

3683 12/11/2012 Request

Could I please request information concerning the following for a dissertation I am compiling - 1. The number of children in residential care in Bedford Borough (Bedfordshire if possible) including statistics on age groups, gender and reasons why the children have been placed in residential care?

2. Number of residential homes in Bedford Borough including statistics such as government run homes and private run homes and contact details for the homes if possible?3. Number of children from Bedford Borough placed in residential homes outside Bedford Borough?4. Number of children from outside Bedford Borough placed in residential homes in Bedford Borough?

Response



1. The number of children in residential care in Bedford Borough (Bedfordshire if possible) including statistics on age groups, gender and reasons why the children have been placed in residential care?

2. Number of residential homes in Bedford Borough including statistics such as government run homes and private run homes and contact details for the homes if possible?

Children’s Homes Provider

Voluntary Sector St. Christopher’s Fellowship

PrivateContinuum Care and Education Group Limited

Private Oracle Care Limited

Local Authority Bedford Borough Council

Local Authority Bedford Borough Council

Private Oracle Care Limited

Private G4SPrivate Pathway Care

3. Number of children from Bedford Borough placed in residential homes outside Bedford Borough?

4. Number of children from outside Bedford Borough placed in residential homes in Bedford Borough?


5. States that the information (re Questions 1,3 & 4) requested is exempt information.

6. Specifies, that the exemption in question is contained within Section 21 (Information accessible to applicant by other means) of the FOI Act (FOIA).

This information is available in the public domain http://www.education.gov.uk/rsgateway/DB/SFR/s001026/index.shtml

However because Bedford Borough have small numbers they suppressed the numbers last year (due to concerns about children being identifiable). As for reasons why children are placed in residential care due to small numbers this information would not be disclosed as could lead to a child being identified. Also this information is not held centrally, but in individual files, this would be a manual task exceeding the time allowance for FOIs.

3684 1/11/2012 Request

I am writing to request the following information, relating to your local authority:

1. The number of pet shops licensed in 2010-2011, and 2011-2012 to sell animals as part of their business.

2. The number of licensed premises in 2010-2011, and 2011-2012 where a business of breeding dogs for sale is carried out.

Of those licensed breeding premises:

a) How many current license holders have licenses for up to 10 breedingbitches?

b) How many current license holders have licenses for 11 to 25 breedingbitches?

http://www.education.gov.uk/rsgateway/DB/SFR/s001026/index.shtml

c) How many current license holders have licenses for 26 to 50 breeding bitches?

d) How many current license holders have licenses for 51 to 80 breeding bitches?

e) How many current license holders have licenses for over 80 breeding bitches?

3. How many inspections were carried out on an annual basis of licensed dog breeding establishments during the years:

- 2009-2010

- 2010-2011

- 2011-2012

4. Finally, I ask for the names of all breeding establishments and pet shops that have had their license revoked, or application for renewal turned down, during the past 10 years.

Response


1. 2010 - 2011 - 11 pet shops

2011 -2012 – 9 pet shops

2. 2010- 2011 – 1 premise

2011 – 2012 – 1 premise

2a one

2b none

2c none

2d none 2e none

3. 2009 - 2010 - 1

2010 – 2011 -1

2011 – 2012 -1

4. We do not hold this information going back ten years. In the last 5 years there has not been any license revoked.

3685 31/10//2012 Request

I would like to submit a freedom of information request to you about technology use in your organisation, specifically around ‘cloud computing’ and if you are using it.

What are you using cloud computing for? (please indicate all that apply)- Hosted software e.g. HR, Finance - Hosted desktop (VDI)- Hosting website- Testing and development- Storage- Customer Relationship Management (CRM)- Other (please state)- I am not using cloud computing

When did you start using cloud computing? Response

I refer to your recent enquiry for information held by the Council. Under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, the authority must state whether or not the information exists and I confirm that we do hold the information you requested.Please find the information you requested set out below.

What are you using cloud computing for? (please indicate all that apply)- We currently utilise ‘Arbitras’ Housing, Blue Badge/Bus Passes System, National Land Information Services and

Skillsoft as ‘hosted’ software applications.When did you start using cloud computing? - 2006

3686 6/11/2012 Request:


YP505424 - Joyce Close, Bedford,

Response



Property Address:Joyce Close, Bedford,





No


j) a contaminated land notice;k) in relation to a register maintained under




No


No

3687 6/11/2012 Request:


BRETT DRIVE, BROMHAM, BEDFORD,

Response

Thank you for your request for information. Your request has been considered under the Environmental Information Regulations

2004.


Property Address:

Brett Drive, Bromham, Bedford, 3.7 Outstanding Notices





No


l) a contaminated land notice;m) in relation to a register maintained under



n) consultation with the owner occupier of the property conducted under section 78G(3) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 before

No

the service of a remediation notice?3.13 Radon Gas




A guide containing further information about Radon Affected Areas is available free from DEFRA Warehouse Publications, Admail 6000, London

SW1A 2XX (Tel: 08459-556000 and Fax: 020-8957-5012) or from DEFRA Radioactive Substances Division, Zone 4/E7, Ashdown House, 123 Victoria Street, London SW1E.

3688 6/11/2012 Request:


Horace CloseShortstownBedford


3.1 - Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.2 - Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (b) - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (c) - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (d) - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (e) - Highways Development Control Department, Bedford Borough Council3.7 (f) - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.9 (a)-(n) - Planning Department, Bedford Borough Council3.11 - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council3.13 - Environmental Health Department, Bedford Borough Council

Please only respond to the relevant questions, where your specific department is listed.

Response


I attach the information you requested from Environmental Health & Trading Standards department. Regarding the questions

relating to planning, the Planning department advise that all information relating to planning applications is available on our website http://www.bedford.gov.uk/environment_and_planning/planning_town_and_country/view_applications_plans__docs.aspxThe data used for answering questions 3.1, 3.2 and 3.7(e) is accessible for viewing on appointment directly with Highways Development Control.

Property Address:Horace Close, Shortstown, Bedford,





No


No

3689 27/11/2012 Request:

Please could you kindly provide the following information with figures for each of the financial years 2009/10, 2010/11, 2011/12 and up until 31 October in 2012/13?

1. How many 16 and 17 year old approached the council with housing needs? 2. How many of the 16 and 17 year olds with housing needs that approached the council were referred straight to the


housing department?3. How many of the 16 and 17 year olds with housing needs were referred to social services?4. How many of the 16 and 17 year olds were given an initial assessment by social services?5. How many were given a core assessment by social services?6. How many were referred directly from social services to the housing department with no initial assessment?7. How many were referred from social services to the housing department after the initial assessment?8. How many were provided with accommodation under section 20 of the Children Act 1989?9. How many were provided with support under section 17 of the Children Act 1989?10. How many were housed by the housing department but had support from social services?11. How many were housed by the housing department without support from social services?12. How many were housed a) in bed and breakfast accommodation, b) in shared accommodation with adults, c) in a

property on their own without support services.

Response:


How many 16 and 17 year old approached the council with housing needs? 83

How many of the 16 and 17 year olds with housing needs that approached the council were referred straight to the housing department?None

How many of the 16 and 17 year olds with housing needs were referred to social services?All

How many of the 16 and 17 year olds were given an initial assessment by social services?All cases offered an initial assessment and in most cases accepted

How many were given a core assessment by social services?3

How many were referred directly from social services to the housing department with no initial assessment?None

How many were referred from social services to the housing department after the initial assessment?None

How many were provided with accommodation under section 20 of the Children Act 1989?4 directly as a result of initial assessment

How many were provided with support under section 17 of the Children Act 1989?14

How many were housed by the housing department but had support from social services?None

How many were housed by the housing department without support from social services?None

How many were housed:a) in bed and breakfast accommodation - 5b) in shared supported accommodation with adults -9 (crashpad /supported lodgings)c) in a property on their own without support services - none

3690 21/11/2012 Request:

Under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 I seek the following information:

1. Who is the current supplier of Scaffolding services to the authority2. What was the annual expenditure for Scaffolding services in 2010/11, 2011/12 and the projected expenditure for 2012/133. When does the current contract for Scaffolding services end4. Who is responsible for authorising Scaffolding services5. Is your current Scaffolding services supplier CHAS and Constructionline accredited

Response:


Please find the information you requested below:

1) Who is the current supplier of scaffolding services to the authority?

Current suppliers (via a search with scaffolding in the company name) are:

Kempston Scaffolding Services LtdLinear Scaffolding Solutions LtdPiper Scaffolding Contractors Ltd

2) What was the annual expenditure for scaffolding services in 2010/11, 2011/12 and the projected expenditure for 2012/13?

2010/11: £58,4072011/12: £20,6122012/13 up to date: £6,326

Quotes are requested and contracts awarded according to best value and service.

3) When does the current contract for scaffolding services end?

At present there is no measured term contract in place, but quotations are sought on a project by project basis subject to requirements.

4) Who is responsible for authorising scaffolding services?

Rakesh Gohel, Building Works Manager

5) Is your current scaffolding services supplier CHAS and Constructionline accredited?

Kempston Scaffolding Services Ltd: Members of Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme, not CHAS and not Constructionline.

Linear Scaffolding Solutions Ltd: Members of Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme, not CHAS and not Constructionline.

Piper Scaffolding Contractors Ltd: CHAS and Constructionline accredited. Members of Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme.

Documents

Bedford Borough Council Requests and Responses ... 2012.doc · Web viewPlease find documents attached – Definition of a Looked After Child, Emergency Protection Order Guidance,