Report of Executive Director (Finance and Resources) attached.

NOTE: In light of rapidly changing circumstances, it is anticipated that a supplementary report will be issued before the Cabinet meeting on 9 June 2020.

The Committee considered Minute 25 of the meeting of Cabinet held on 9 June 2020, which had been referred direct to Scrutiny, together with a report of the Executive Director (Finance and Resources), which provided a high-level initial assessment of the local financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the minimisation of its impact on local residents and businesses and the future sustainability of service provision. The report also outlined the Council’s initial response to the financial challenges presented by the pandemic over the short and medium term, although councillors were advised that assumptions and understanding of many contributory factors were under constant review.

Councillors were advised that it was currently too early to assess the overall economic impact of COVID-19, but that it was currently estimated that the original lockdown arrangements could cost the authority around £2.5m-£3.0m each month and that effective management of the short and medium-term financial challenges arising from the pandemic would be important going forward, whilst continuing to provide support for local residents and businesses.

The Executive Director (Finance and Resources) highlighted areas of central Government support that had been received by the Council, including a number of elements of passported funding and reported that the pandemic had had a significant effect in terms of a number of universal income areas.  He also gave an oral update on the latest announcements by the government regarding potential emergency grant funding since the publication of the report.

The relevant members of the Cabinet were also in attendance to answer questions raised by councillors at the meeting.

In response to questions regarding the costs of the temporary contraflow system in Western Esplanade to assist with social distancing measures, the Executive Director (Finance & Resources) agreed to circulate the costs of the security staff employed to manage the scheme to the Committee after the meeting.

Resolved:

That the following decisions of the Cabinet be noted:

“1. That the Council’s initial assessment of the local financial impact of the unprecedented challenges that has been caused by the pandemic, be noted;

2. That the proposed tactical and strategic response to managing the financial challenges, be noted; and

3. That regular reports be presented to future Cabinet meetings, which will provide updated assessments on the Council’s financial position and outline any changes to the Council’s strategy and range of assumptions.”

Note: This is an Executive Function

Cabinet Member: I Gilbert