Agenda and draft minutes

Apologies for absence were received from Councillors Dean and Shah.

The Chair advised that there Were three items of urgent business received which would be considered as follows on the agenda:

a.    Agenda item 30a: Greater Manchester Empty Homes and Leasing Programme - Acceptance of Funding

b.    Agenda item 30b: Local Authority Housing Fund (LAHF) - Acceptance of Funding

c.     Agenda item 30c: Acceptance of 2026/27 GMCA Community Safety Partnership, Voluntary and Community Sector, Hate Crime, GM Violence Reduction and Cohesion Grants

The grounds for urgency in all three instances above were that formal decisions to accept grant funding, referred to in the submitted reports, were required prior to the next scheduled Cabinet meeting on 15^th June 2026.

The Chair added that agenda items 30a, 30b and 30c had been exempted from the call-in process by virtue of Rules 13 and 14 of the Constitution, following consultation with the Chair of Place, Economic Growth and Environment Scrutiny Board.

There were no public questions for this meeting of the Cabinet to consider.

The Minutes of the meeting of the Cabinet, held on 23^rd February 2026, are attached for approval.

Resolved:

That the minutes of the meeting of the Cabinet held on 23^rd February 2026, be approved as a correct record.

A report of the Cabinet Member for Adults, Health and Wellbeing which provides information for Cabinet on the outcome of the Care Quality Commission’s assessment of Adult Social Care in Oldham.

The Cabinet received a report of the Director of Adult Social Care (DASS) which provided information on the outcome of the Care Quality Commission’s assessment of Adult Social Care in Oldham.

The Care Quality Commission published its assessment report on adult social care in Oldham on 4^th February 2026. Adult social care received a good rating and a score of 67.

In their final report, the CQC praised Oldham for its strong leadership, positive culture, and person-centred approach, with most people telling assessors they had a good experience of local services.

The assessments are based on an assessment process that focuses on 4 core themes: working with people; providing support; ensuring support and leadership and nine quality statements.

In order to reach a rating and a score for each authority the CQC used five evidence categories:

·       People’s experience.

·       Feedback from staff and leaders.

·       Feedback from partners

·       Processes.

·       Outcomes.

The assessment process was made up of different stages that included an information return; interviews with residents; people who are using adult social care; unpaid carers; partners; Adult Social Care staff and leadership and elected members. The final stage was the publication of the assessment report.

Resolved:

1.    That the report be noted and welcomed.

2.    That the congratulations of the Cabinet be extended to the Deputy Chief Executive (Health and Care), the Director of Adut Social Care and to staff in the Adult Care Service for their outstanding achievement in securing a ‘good’ rating for the Council’s Adult Social Care Service, from the Care Quality Commission.

A report of the Cabinet Member for Adults. Health and Wellbeing, seeking to extend Adult Social Care’s Service Level Agreement with the Miocare Group.

The report considered a report of the Director of Adult Social Care (DASS) that sought approval to extend the Service Level Agreement with Adult Social Care and Miocare Group CIC, for a range of services provided.

The report also sought a commitment for wider Council colleagues to work with Miocare Group CIC to develop Service Level Agreements and specifications of requirements for those corporate services that Miocare Group CIC “buys back” from the Council.

Options/Alternatives considered:

Option 1 - To not extend the Service Level Agreement, and do not develop Service Level Agreements and specifications of requirements for services Miocare buys back from the council.

Option 2 – Do not extend the Service Level Agreement until the future focus of MioCare Group is clarified (with reference to paragraph 2.6, of the submitted report), and do not develop Service Level Agreements and specifications of requirements for services MioCare buys back from the council until that time.

Option 3 (the preferred Option) – Extend the Service Level Agreement for the services delivered to the Council by MioCare Group CIC and develop Service Level Agreements and specifications of requirements for services MioCare buys back from the council.

Resolved:

That the Cabinet:

1.    Approves the Service Level Agreement with Miocare Group CIC.

2.    Approves the refreshed Service Level Agreement updates the provisions governing the relationship and service delivery between the Council and Miocare Group CIC. The provisions allow for variation as the future focus of the Miocare Group becomes clearer through the implementation of the Adult Social Care Target Operating Model.

3.    Endorses wider corporate services work with Miocare to develop Service Level Agreements and specifications of requirements for services Miocare buys back from the Council.

A report of the Cabinet Member for Adults. Health and Wellbeing, seeking approval to update the Council’s Smokefree policy.

The Cabinet considered a report of the Director of Public Health that sought approval to update and publicise the Smokefree policy in Oldham to create healthy and safe environment for the Borough’s residents. 

It was estimated that exposure to SHS (Second Hand Smoke) in the UK caused around 2,700 deaths in people aged 20-63 and a further 8,000 deaths a year among people aged 65 years and older. People particularly at risk from the effects of SHS and smoke included pregnant women, children and people with pre-existing heart or respiratory illnesses.

Reducing smoking was one of the key priorities of Oldham’s Health and Wellbeing Strategy and it was the Council’s ambition to work towards a smoke-free Oldham.  Smoking had been identified as a key challenge facing the system in the Oldham Integrated Care Partnership’s Locality Plan and was highlighted as one of the 18 core areas needed to be improved and transformed. High smoking rates and the need for improved support for self-management around smoking cessation were identified as key factors in the report by Carnall Farrar which identified priorities for addressing health and care demand and drivers of demand in Oldham.

In 2018 Oldham council developed a smokefree policy which covered all council owned properties, spaces and vehicles. Updating this policy following legislative changes proposed in the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which was going through the House of Lords, would be an important step in Oldham achieving its smokefree ambitions and reducing tobacco use and smoking prevalence in the borough.

Options/Alternatives considered:

Option 1 (preferred Option) – to update the Council’s Smokefree policy.

Option 2 – to not update the Council’s Smokefree policy.

Resolved:

That the Council revise and update its smokefree policy, in line with the narrative detailed in the submitted report relating thereto.

A report of the Cabinet Member for Adults. Health and Wellbeing seeking an extension of the Current Commissioning Arrangements for Care at Home.

The Cabinet received a report of the Director of Adult Social Care, which advised Members that the Council's current contractual arrangements for the delivery of Care at Home, Extra Care and Night Provision support services commenced on 1^st April 2019 and, following the approved two-year extension option, was due to expire on 31^st March 2026.

Approval to undertake a full open tender process for new Care at Home, Extra Care and Night provision support services was granted by Cabinet on 22^nd September 2025, as set out in the Cabinet report titled, “Future commissioning Arrangements for Care at Home, Extra Care support and Night Provision support services.”

The tender process for Care at Home, Extra Care and Night Provision services was underway. However, due to necessary changes in procurement timelines including extended tender submission deadlines which enables full engagement from prospective providers, evaluation and moderation requirements, and the need to ensure a safe mobilisation period for any new providers the recommissioning timetable needed to be revised.

To ensure continuity of care for vulnerable residents, compliance with the Council’s statutory duties under the Care Act 2014, and a safe and well-managed transition to new contractual arrangements, approval was sought to extend the current contracts for a further three months until 30^th June 2026, with the new contracts commencing 1^st July 2026.

Options/Alternatives considered:

Option 1: to allow the existing Care at Home, Extra Care and Night Provision contracts to expire on 31^st March 2026 without extension.

Option 2 (preferred Option): To proceed with the full procurement exercise and approve a three-month extension to the existing contracts, extending them from 1 April 2026 to 30 June 2026, with the new contracts commencing on 1 July 2026.

Resolved:

1.    That the Cabinet approves a three-month extension of the current contracts for Care at Home, Extra Care and Night Provision from1^st April 2026 to 30^th June 2026, at an estimated cost of £5.47m.

2.    That the Cabinet authorises the new contracts to commence on 1^st July 2026.

A report of the Cabinet Member for Adults. Health and Wellbeing to report, seeking approval to Tender for the Domestic Property Disability Adaptions Framework.

The Cabinet received a report of the Director of Adult Social Care, which informed members that approval was required to commence a competitive procurement exercise for the Domestic Property Disability Adaptations (DPDA) for the provision of Level Access Showers and Shower over Baths services.  The aim of this was to award a new contract from 1^st December 2026 for an initial period of two years, with the option to extend for a further two years. This would ensure continuity of an essential service, in compliance with procurement regulations, and provide value for money for the Council.

Options/Alternatives considered:

Option 1: To do nothing and allow the Framework Agreements to end on 30^th November 2026.

Option 2 (preferred Option): To seek approval for the commencement of a competitive tender process for the provision of the Domestic Property Disability Adaptations (DPDA) service through a closed framework under the Procurement Act 2023, covering the delivery of Level Access Showers, Shower Over Baths and associated bathroom adaptations for a duration of two years, to commence from 1^st December 2026 to 30^th November 2028, with an option to extend for a further two years, up to 30^th November 2030.

Resolved:

1.    That the Cabinet approves the commencement of a competitive tender process for the provision of the Domestic Property Disability Adaptations (DPDA) service as a closed framework under the Procurement Act 2023, and appoint up to four (4) providers, covering the delivery of Level Access Showers, Shower Over Baths and associated bathroom adaptations.

2.    That the Cabinet approves the proposed contract duration of two years, to commence from 1^st December 2026 to 30^th November 2028, with an option to extend for a further two years, up to 30^th November 2030, subject to satisfactory performance, continued funding and the achievement of value for money.

3.    That the Cabinet delegates authority to the Director of Adult Social Services, in consultation with the Lead Member for Health and Social Care, to:

a.    Conduct the procurement process in line with the Council’s Contract Procedure Rules and procurement legislation.

b.    Award the contract(s) following completion of the procurement exercise.

A report of the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Corporate Services and Sustainability, looking for approval of the Procurement of a Crisis Payment Provider.

The Cabinet considered a report of the Executive Director of Resources that sought approval for the procurement of a crisis payment provider to be funded by the Crisis and Resilience Grant Funding commencing 1^st April 2026.

The Cabinet was being asked to consider and agree to procure a comprehensive crisis payment provider for a 3-year period, with option to extend for a further 3-year period subject to funding being available.

As part of the scheme guidance for the Crisis and Resilience Fund, we are required to assess and administer crisis payments. This umbrella payment approach will enable the Local Welfare Provision and Crisis Payments Team to quickly support residents experiencing financial crisis. It will ensure we have access to a range of payment options including energy vouchers, supermarket vouchers, goods in kind and other types of payments so that we can support residents experiencing different types of crises. The funding would be provided by the Department of Work and Pensions via the Crisis and Resilience Grant Funding commencing 1^st April 2026.

Options/Alternatives considered:

Option 1 – To not procure a crisis payment provider.

Option 2 (preferred Option) – To procure a crisis payment provider, as detailed and recommended in the submitted report.

Resolved:

That the Cabinet agree to:

1.    The procurement of a crisis payment provider for a period of 3 years with option to extend for a further 3-year period subject to available funding.

2.    Continuing with the current approach of utilising a provider called HUGGG to issue crisis payments for up to three months to allow for the procurement process to take place.

3.    To delegate authority to the Executive Director of Resources in consultation with the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Corporate Services and Sustainability to award the contract following the completion of the procurement process.

4.    To delegate authority to the Executive Director of Resources, in consultation with the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Corporate Services and Sustainability, to approve any extensions to the contract as provided for within the original contract terms and where there is budget available.

A report of the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Corporate Services and Sustainability, requesting approval to utilise the allocation of grant funding under the Crisi and Resilience Fund.

The Cabinet considered a report of the Executive Director of Resources, which sought approval to allocate grant funding of £5,746,881 from the UK Government to Oldham Council to deliver the Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027.

The purpose of the fund was to provide a safety net for households on low incomes who had encountered a financial shock and to invest in building activity that builds individual and community financial resilience to better deal with crises in the long-term, reducing crisis need. The submitted report sets out how the fund would be utilised to deliver the scheme's objectives.

Options/Alternatives considered:

Option 1 (preferred Option) – to accept the grant funding of £5,746,881 from the UK Government to Oldham Council to deliver the Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027.

Option 2 – to do nothing.

Resolved

That the Cabinet agrees:

1.    accept the full allocation of £5,746,881 of CRF Grant Funding and deliver the scheme outlined in this paper in accordance with DWP scheme guidance.

2.    To approve the Crisis Payment policy.

3.    To approve the Housing Payment policy.

A report of the Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure seeking approval to accept extension funding offered by Arts Council England for 2026/27 in support of the continued development of Oldham’s cultural programme and new theatre project.

The Cabinet received a report of the Director of Communities which was asking for approval to accept extension funding offered by Arts Council England (ACE) for 2026/27 in support of the continued development of Oldham’s cultural programme and the new theatre project. The report was also seeking delegated authority to accept a further extension for 2027/28, should it be awarded by Arts Council England.

Options/Alternatives considered:

Option 1 (preferred Option) – To accept the Grant. Accepting the funding enables the continuation of cultural delivery, community engagement, and preparatory work for the new theatre, ensuring Oldham remains compliant with Arts Council England requirements and well positioned for future national portfolio funding.

Option 2 – To decline the Grant. Declining the grant would significantly reduce cultural delivery capacity, limit engagement with communities, and hinder progress towards a successful launch of the new theatre. It may also impact future eligibility for Arts Council England funding.

Resolved:

1.    That the Cabinet approve the acceptance of a grant of £656,147 from Arts Council England for the financial year 2026/27, as detailed in the submitted report.

2.    That the Cabinet delegate authority to the Executive Director of Place/Deputy Chief Executive, to accept a further one?year extension for 2027/28 of a similar value, should this be offered, to the Council, by Arts Council England.

A report of the Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport that will ensure the continued delivery of Bikeability Core and Bikeability Plus training in Oldham for the period April 2026 to March 2029.

The Cabinet considered a report of the Executive Director of Resources which advised that a decision was required to ensure the continued delivery of Bikeability Core and Bikeability Plus training in Oldham for the period April 2026 to March 2029. Without approval of the proposed contract arrangements, the Bikeability provision for children and young people would be disrupted, with adverse impacts on road safety, active travel, and public health outcomes.

It was proposed to award a five-month interim contract for the period April 2026 to August 2026 via a delegated decision process (for which Cabinet approval would not be required), while concurrently undertaking a competitive procurement exercise for a contract period of two years and seven months from September 2026 to March 2029 (subject to Cabinet approval).

This approach will ensure continuity of service, enable effective forward planning with schools, ensure compliance with procurement regulations, and secure value for money, while maintaining the delivery of high-quality, inclusive training in accordance with national Bikeability standards.

The submitted report was seeking the Cabinet’s approval to commence procurement of a contract for the delivery of Bikeability Core and Bikeability Plus training in Oldham for September 2026–March 2029, subject to funding. To maintain continuity from April 2026, a five-month interim contract (April–August 2026) was proposed to be approved via the councils delegated decision process.

Options/Alternatives considered:

Option 1 – To do nothing. The current delivery arrangements would therefore end with no replacement contract, resulting in cessation of Bikeability training in Oldham.

Option 2 – To extend the existing arrangements for three years. Extending the current arrangements would limit market testing, could conflict with procurement rules, and may not deliver best value.

Option 3 – To procure a new contract for a period of two years and seven months (Recommended option). To conduct a competitive procurement to appoint a provider for a contract period of two years and seven months (Sept 2026– March 2029). This ensures continuity, compliance with procurement rules, value for money, and high-quality delivery.

Resolved:

That the Cabinet:

1. Approves the commencement of a procurement exercise to tender for the delivery of Bikeability Core and Bikeability Plus training in Oldham for a period of two years and seven months from September 2026 to March 2029. 
2. Approves the proposed contract term of two years and seven months for the Bikeability Core and Bikeability Plus contract to provide continuity of delivery and value for money.
3. Delegates authority to the Director of Environment, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport and the Director of Finance, to:

a.    approve the final procurement and tender documentation.

To consider a report of the Cabinet Member for Transport and Highways which seeks acceptance of grant funding under the  City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement.

The Cabinet considered a report of the Executive Director of Place/Deputy Chief Executive requesting formal approval to accept £496,000 in City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS1) revenue grant funding that had been allocated to Oldham Council to Support the development of the borough’s transport pipeline and Local Implementation Plan (LIP).

Options/Alternatives considered:

Option 1 (preferred Option) – To accept the grant funding of £496,000 and develop the transport project pipeline and Local Implementation Plan (LIP).

Option 2 – To decline the grant funding £496,000 and then be unable to develop the transport project pipeline and Local Implementation Plan (LIP), which would risk falling behind on required transport plans and potential future funding opportunities.

Resolved:

1.    That the grant offer from the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS1), for revenue grant funding of £496,000 available to Oldham Council to support the development of our transport pipeline and Local Implementation Plan (LIP) be accepted.

2.    That approval be granted for part of this resource to be used to support Council teams, as required, in developing a pipeline to potentially secure further capital funding for Oldham.

3.    That delegated authority be granted to the Director of Legal Services, or his nominated representatives, to execute and complete any contractual documents.

Report of the Cabinet Member for Children and Young People seeking formal approval for the establishment and implementation of Oldham’s Staying Close model.

The Cabinet received a report of the Executive Director of Children’s Services, which advised that a decision was required to formally approve the establishment and implementation of Oldham’s Staying Close model, which provided an enhanced, relationship?based package of practical and emotional support for care leavers aged 16 – 25 years, whose welfare required provision beyond the statutory Local Offer.

The Staying Close programme strengthened early planning from age 16 years, ensuring that each eligible young person had a Trusted Person, improved access to and sustainment of suitable accommodation, and coordinated multi?agency support across health, wellbeing, education, employment, and relationships.

Approving the model, detailed in the Executive Director’s report, would enable Oldham Council to address significant local needs — including housing pressures, mental health inequalities, and risks of homelessness and social isolation; whilst embedding a sustainable, multi?agency approach that improves long?term outcomes for care leavers.

A positive decision would also ensure compliance with the national Staying Close programme, secure alignment with Oldham’s existing Leaving Care pathways, and enable the Council to utilise the allocated DfE grant funding (£331,091 per year for three years) to deliver a high?quality, evidence?based offer that represented an “invest to save” opportunity through reduced crisis demand, improved tenancy sustainment, and better EET outcomes.

Options/Alternatives considered:

Option 1 – To do nothing and to continue with the existing care leaving provision. Under this option Oldham would continue delivering its statutory Local Offer for care leavers without implementing the enhanced Staying Close model.

Option 2 – Partial/limited implementation of Staying Close. This option would option would introduce some elements of the model, for example, a Trusted Person offer or some housing?related support—but without creating the full Staying Close Team, multi?agency pathway, or full accommodation, wellbeing and EET support package.

Option 3 (preferred Option) – The full implementation of the Staying Close Model. Under this Option, Oldham Council implements the full Staying Close model as set out in the Delivery Plan, including: a dedicated Staying Close Team; dual adviser/Trusted Person roles; early planning from age 16; multi?agency referral panel; mental wellbeing navigation; tenancy sustainment support; group skills development; digital engagement; comprehensive data and evaluation; and strong governance via the Corporate Parenting Board.

Resolved:

That the Cabinet approves the acceptance of the grant money, detailed in the submitted report of the Executive Director of Children’s Services, with the purpose to establish and implement Oldham Borough Council’s Staying Close model.

A report of the Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Early Years, seeking approval of funding from Greater Manchester Combined Authority’s Integrated Settlement for Education, Work and Skills.

The Cabinet considered a report of the Director of Education and Early Years, which advised Members that Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) was presently working with each of the ten local authorities to determine how devolved funding was to operate. This activity was taking place with teams across the Council and had implications for various services and choices that the Council will want to make. This was part of the latest devolution deal and included an integrated settlement that allowed GMCA to prioritise areas of activity to deliver the GM Strategy and constituent policies, including Get GM Working, Live Well and Local Growth Plans.

This report specifically related to an initial tranche of Integrated Settlement (IS) funding that was being allocated for Education, Work and Skills via the GMCA and the position known to officers at the time of writing.

The report outlines the funding confirmed to Oldham from GMCA at this stage for extensions to three projects currently being funded in the Oldham area.

Request to accept the funding and permission to extend associated contracts for additional Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET) support (forms part of Targeted Specialist Services and Support (TSSS) contract), year 2 of economic inactivity trailblazer funding and associated projects and WorkWell Vanguard for the financial year 2026/2027.

Advising members that GMCA have made the decision to cease funding a fixed term post, in addition to the IS.  GMCA suggest that the post is continued to be funded by this current allocation, if Local Authority’s (LA’s) choose to do so.

The report outlines the proposal for the allocation of the funding, and the intention of Officers to primarily secure the associated posts within the education, work and skills delivery teams that have been affected by the move across to the IS and the decisions GMCA have made in relation to the level of funding and allocations.  The delivery teams affected are Action Together, Get Oldham Working, Positive Steps and Post 16 Service.

Options/Alternatives considered:

Option 1 (preferred Option):  To accept the extension to the funding up to 31 March 2027 and continue to deliver the three projects and adjust the funding to secure the internal post.  This option secures additional support for residents in Oldham that is not funded by Council funding.

Option 2:  To decline the extension to funding up to 31 March 2027.   This option effectively removes existing provision, resource and support for residents

Resolved:

1.    That the Cabinet accept the additional funding to deliver the extensions to the three schemes, namely NEET support, Trailblazer and WorkWell Vanguard, and the proposed use of the funds that support Oldham residents.

2.    That the Cabinet agrees to sign the grant funding agreement issued by GMCA.

3.    That the Cabinet agrees that each of the three funds bear the cost of the Education, Work and Skills Co-ordinator post previously funded by GMCA.

4.    That the Cabinet notes the change to grant funding mechanism for education, work and skills funding via the GM Integrated Settlement.

Report of the Cabinet Member for Education, Early Years and Skills seeking extension of the contract for Special Education Needs Travel Assistance Service.

Cabinet received a report of the Director of Education and Early Years which advised that the current Special Educational Needs Transport Services Dynamic Purchasing System was awarded for a period of five years from 1^st September 2022 until 31^st August 2027. This report seeks to extend the current Special Educational Needs Transport Service DPS Contract from August 2027 until 23^rd February 2029. This forms part of the transition from the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 under which the DPS was awarded to the new Procurement Act 23 and can only be up to the permitted/advertised value of £17.5m.

Options/Alternatives considered:

Option 1 (preferred Option): To agree to apply the proposed extension to the current DPS which has and continues to work well in terms of a compliant solution for the requirements which are needed both ad-hoc and as a larger project in advance of the start of a new academic year.

Option 2: That the extension is not approved. If the DPS were to expire as of its original planned expiry date, our procurement team advise there is no alternative type of framework which will be as well suited to the requirements due to the changes in Procurement Regulations applying from February 2025.

Resolved:

That the Cabinet authorises the extension to the current Special Educational Needs Transport Service Contract.

Report of the Cabinet Member for Education, Early Years and Skills requesting the approval of ‘high needs’ capital works to be undertaken.

The Cabinet considered a report of the Director of Education and Early Years, which sought approval from the Cabinet for two capital projects that will offer additional places and enhance provision for pupils with additional needs who are based within the Cranmer Trust. The report was also seeking approval for the allocation of funding from the HNPCA and Basic Need Grant towards the schemes.

 The two projects would enhance existing provision and provide additional provision for pupils with additional needs. These proposals were now developed sufficiently for costs and proposals to be placed before Cabinet for a final decision. These projects will create a total of 50 new places in mainstream secondary schools for children with additional needs.

Currently the Local Authority has around £2.7m of Basic Need funding and £7.1m of High Needs Capital Allocation Funding. It was proposed that where projects will generate additional places these projects are funded from the HNPCA Grant provision These developments reinforce Oldham’s commitment to an inclusive system where specialist support is available earlier, within mainstream settings, reducing escalation of need and delivering better long-term outcomes for children and young people. This aligned directly with the government’s vision that schools should be inclusive by design, with dedicated inclusion bases forming a core component of the future school estate.

Project 1 related to Brian Clarke C of E Academy, an inclusive, co-educational, Church of England secondary school situated in Oldham Town Centre. The school caters to pupils aged 11–16. The existing capacity of the school is eight forms of entry (8FE) equating to 1,200 pupils. As part of the Cranmer Education Trust, this academy was committed to inclusive education and already demonstrates strong SEND practice (Ofsted June 2025) and is a school of choice for families where children have SEND. This proposal sought funding to establish an Autism Education Resource Base (ERB).

Project 2 related to Blue Coat School. Blue Coat School was an inclusive, co-educational, Church of England secondary school situated in Oldham Town Centre. The school caters to pupils aged 11–18. The existing capacity of the school is eight forms of entry (8FE) equating to 1,692 pupils, of which, the number on roll in the sixth form is 434. As part of the Cranmer Education Trust, this school also was committed to inclusive education and already demonstrates outstanding SEND practice as evidenced by Ofsted and also by the positive outcomes young people with SEND achieve year on year.

Options/Alternatives:

Option 1: To approve the above capital investment for the projects listed above to deliver the ambitions of the SEND and Inclusion Strategy 2023 - 2027.

Option 2: To not approve the projects and risk not fulfilling the above strategy.

Resolved:

That the Cabinet approves the capital investment, for the projects at the two schools detailed in the report, namely the Brian Clarke C of e Academy and the Blue Coat School, to deliver the ambitions of the SEND and Inclusion Strategy 2023 - 2027.

Report of the Cabinet Member for Education, Early Years and Skills, seeking approval for various Capital Works to be carried out

The Cabinet considered a report of the Director of Education, Skills and Early Years which advised Members that, in line with the SEND & AP Green Paper, the recommendation contained therein was for the implementation of tier 2 support and provision for secondary aged children, commissioned from and provided by Kingsland School.

The project proposal was to replace a single storey derelict modular building (former Limehurst Youth Centre) with a new 2 storey modular building providing classrooms, practical workshops, meeting rooms, kitchen, staff areas, storage and w.c’s for 36 pupils.

The total cost of this project is estimated to be in the region of £1,237,500 (a total of £1,361,250 when including 10% contingency).  It is proposed that this project is funded by the LA Basic Need and/or HNPCA Grant.

Options/Alternatives considered:

Option 1 (the preferred Option) – that the suitable site in Limeside (Currently a disused former youth centre known as Limehurst), be utilised.

Option 2 - to agree to the capital costs of part re-modelling the building at the Limehurst site with SEND Capital Provision Funding but however, to solely rely on income generation for the staffing costs.

Option 3 – In line with Option 1 (above) but with a lower base funding element to allow for a minimum staffing level for a fully functioning Tier 2 provision that can still provide quality and ensure sustainability. This would be calculated by availability of surplus DSG in the LA budget (estimated at 50% of base funding in 3.1 - £180,000).

Resolved:

That the implementation of tier 2 support and provision for secondary aged children, commissioned from and provided by Kingsland School, be authorised and the project proposal, detailed in the submitted report, to replace a single storey derelict modular building (former Limehurst Youth Centre), be approved.

A report of the Leader and Cabinet Member for Growth that seeks approval for proposals for the commencement of formal statutory consultation on the establishment of an Oldham Mayoral Development Corporation.

The Cabinet considered a report of the Executive Director of Place/Deputy Chief Executive that, if approved, would enable the Council to undertake the required statutory consultation on the proposed establishment of an Oldham Mayoral Development Corporation, in order to test public and stakeholder support for a governance model intended to accelerate delivery of the Borough’s regeneration programme and Live Well ambitions, before any final decision would be made regarding a formal designation.

The Cabinet was therefore being asked to approve the commencement of formal statutory consultation on the proposed establishment of an Oldham Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC).

The MDC would be a statutory body, designated by the Mayor of Greater Manchester, operating within a defined Red Line Boundary (Mayoral Development Area), as detailed in the submitted report, focused on accelerating delivery of Oldham’s regeneration and development programme, including, the following:

·       SportsTown (Health, Sport Science & Innovation Campus)

·       Town Centre regeneration (including Town Living Partnership sites)

·       Cultural & Creative Quarter heritage assets

·       Minewater Heat Network and Incubator

·       Northern Roots (Phase 2)

·       Strategic brownfield residential opportunities

The Cabinet was advised that a proposed MDC would support the delivery of: The Greater Manchester Strategy (GMS) 2025, the Pride, Progress, Partnership (The Oldham Plan 2024 – 2030), the Community Regeneration Partnership and Oldham’s Live Well ambitions.

Options/Alternatives considered:

Option 1 – Do Nothing / Continue with Existing Arrangements

Option 2 – Strategic Partnership Expansion

Option 3 – Mayoral Development Zone (Non-Statutory

Option 4 (the preferred Option) – create a Mayoral Development Corporation

Resolved:

1.    That the Cabinet approves the commencement of formal statutory consultation on the proposal to establish an Oldham Mayoral Development Corporation.

2.    That the Cabinet notes that following consultation, a further report will be brought to Cabinet to consider the outcome and determine whether to support the Mayor of Greater Manchester in formally requesting designation from the Secretary of State.

Report of the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, seeking seek approval to amend the existing social housing Allocations Scheme.

The Cabinet received a report of the Director of Communities, the purpose which was to seek approval to amend the existing social housing Allocations Scheme, to ensure that the Council was compliant with legislation requirements and making the best use of social housing stock in the borough.

All local housing authorities in England were required to maintain an allocations scheme, pursuant to S.166A of the Housing Act 1996. This is regardless of whether the authority owned the stock in its area or, as in the case of OMBC, formed part of a wider CAF in which several different social landlords apply the same allocations policy.

Options/Alternatives considered:

Option 1 (preferred Option) – to approve the proposed changes to the Allocations Policy, as detailed in the Director of Communities submitted report

Option 2- to reject the recommendations in the report and do nothing.

Resolved:

1.    That the suggested amendments to the Allocations Scheme, as outlined in the report of the Director of Communities, be approved.

2.    Approval is given to begin re-registering existing Housing Register applicants under the requirements of the new scheme once the service’s system provider has undertaken any required system changes.

3.    That approval is given to delay full implementation of the new scheme, by up to 12 months from the date of this decision, in the event of the service’s software provider requiring time to deliver the necessary system changes.

4.    That approval is given to recruit a Right Sizing Officer who will co-ordinate a right sizing scheme on behalf of all social housing providers on the Common Allocation Framework. This post will be funded via a contribution from each social housing provider taking part.

5.    That delegated authority be granted to the Director of Communities, enabling him to amend the annual lettings plan following consultation with social housing providers that are part of the Common Allocation’s Framework.

A report oof the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods detailing the Infrastructure Funding Statement for 2024/25.

The Cabinet considered a report of the Executive Director of Place/ Deputy Chief Executive which was requesting approval of the publication of Oldham’s Infrastructure Funding Statement 2024/25.

As required under the 2019 revised Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Regulations the Council had prepared an Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS) for the monitoring period 2024/25. The IFS provided a summary of the financial contributions the Council has secured through Section 106 (s106) agreements from new developments for off-site infrastructure works and affordable housing, in addition to highway works completed as part of new developments through Section 278 (s278) agreements.

Options/Alternatives considered:

Option 1 (preferred Option) – To approve the Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS) 2024/25 for publication on the Council’s website and send it to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Option 2 – To not approve the Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS) 2024/25 and not publish it on the Council’s website and not send it to Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Resolved:
that the Cabinet approves the Oldham Infrastructure Funding Statement 2024/25 for publication.

A report of the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods detailing Oldham’s Monitoring Report for 2024/25.

The Cabinet received a report from the Executive Director of Place/Deputy Chief Executive that requested approval for the publication of the Oldham’s Monitoring Report (AMR) and 2024/25. 

The report explained that, under Regulation 34 and 35 of The Town and Country (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2012, local planning authorities must make monitoring information available for inspection as soon as possible after the information became available. The Monitoring Report covered the previous financial year, that is 1^st April?2024 to 31^st March?2025. In terms of housing land supply, the Monitoring Report presented the position as of 1^st April 2025.  

In line with Regulations, the Monitoring Report provided details on whether the Council was meeting the various milestones that were set out in the Local Development Scheme (LDS) for preparing the various Local Plan documents. Performance would be monitored against the LDS that was in place at the start of the monitoring period. The Monitoring Report also monitored a range of planning indicators, such as housing, employment and biodiversity, which sought to assess the effectiveness of the Council’s land-use planning policies, and whether they were achieving their objectives and delivering sustainable development. This was the Council’s 21^st Monitoring Report.  

The 2024/25 Annual Monitoring Report also included the Places for Everyone (PfE) Monitoring Report at Appendix 2, to the submitted report. PfE being the strategic spatial plan for nine Greater Manchester local authorities (Bolton, Bury, Manchester, Oldham, Rochdale, Salford, Tameside, Trafford and Wigan), and as such set out a collective planning policy framework across those nine PfE local authorities. PfE had been adopted with effect from 21^st March 2024.

Options/Alternatives considered:

Option 1 (preferred Option) – To approve the Council’s Monitoring Report 2024 - 2025 for publication. The reported advantages were that approving the Monitoring Report would help with implementing and reviewing our local planning policies, whilst also being transparent and meeting the requirements of the regulations. 

Option 2 – To not approve the Council’s Monitoring Report 2024 – 2025. There were no reported advantages in not approving and publishing the Monitoring Report for 2024/25.

Resolved:

That the Cabinet approves the Oldham Monitoring Report for 2024/25, for publication. 

A report of the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods which seeks approval to publish the Biodiversity Duty Report (2026) in line with section 40A of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006.

The Cabinet received a joint report prepared by the Executive Director of Place/Deputy Chief Executive and the Director of Environment that requested approval to publish the Biodiversity Duty Report (2026), in line with section 40A of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006.

In considering the report the Cabinet were advised that the report has previously been considered by the Place, Economic Growth and Environment Scrutiny Board, at its most recent meeting on 19^th March 2026. The Scrutiny Board had endorsed the report’s recommendations and recommended that this meeting of Cabinet approve the report.

Options/Alternatives considered:

Option 1 the preferred Option) - to give approval to publishing the Biodiversity Duty Report on the Council’s website. The advantage of this option was that the Council would fulfil its legal duty, as set out in the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006. There were no reported disadvantages to this option.

Option 2 - to not give approval to publishing the Biodiversity Duty Report on the Council’s website. There were no reported advantages to this option. The Council would, therefore, fail to meet the legal duty set out in the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 to publish a report during the time specified.

Resolved:

1.    That the Cabinet grants approval for the publication of the Biodiversity Duty Report (2026) on the Council’s website.

2.    That the Cabinet notes that, as this report has previously been considered by the Place, Economic Growth and Environment Scrutiny Board, on 19^th March 2026, it is exempt from the Council’s call-in process.

A report of the Leader and Cabinet Member for Growth that details an update on overall scheme progress and to obtain approval for the Council to enter into the necessary Grant Funding Agreements.

The Cabinet considered a report of the Executive Director of Place/Deputy Chief Executive which provided an update on overall scheme progress, in relation to Princes Gate, which also sought to obtain approval for the Council to enter into the necessary Grant Funding Agreements and to complete all other necessary agreements/documentation to allow for the development of 331 new homes at Princes Gate, Oldham to commence.

Options/Alternatives considered:

Option 1 - To not enter into the Grant Funding Agreements. This would mean that the scheme remains unviable, and MUSE would not be able to deliver the said scheme. It would also cause reputational damage to the Council if the already secured GMCA Grant was not drawn down and it is highly likely that the grant would be re-allocated outside of the borough. The council could also decide not to contribute towards the Socially Rented Homes, which would mean that the 75 new homes in Phase 1 would be let at Affordable Rent levels only.

Option 2 (preferred Option) - To enter into the Grant Funding Agreements. This option would mean that Muse, as the Council’s selected strategic partner, would be in a position to deliver the 331 new homes at Princes Gate, as the first phase of residential development in the town centre. The homes formed an integral part of the Council’s Creating a Better Place Regeneration Programme.    

Resolved:

That the Cabinet will consider the confidential recommendations, detailed in the report, at agenda item 35.

Report of the Leader and Cabinet Member for Growth regarding the sale of land at Rosary Road, Fitton Hill (Medlock Vale).

The Cabinet considered a report of the Executive Director of Place/Deputy Chief Executive which was seeking approval of the sale of a small area of land to the Vistry Partnership to enable them to provide access to a 72 home residential development that obtained Detailed Planning Permission (FUL/354869/25) in December 2025.  

Options/Alternatives considered:

Option 1 - Do not dispose of the land – this option would mean that Vistry would be unable to develop the site and the Council would not benefit from 72 affordable homes being built.  The Council will also forgo a capital receipt.

Option 2 (preferred Option) – To dispose of the land; the Council would have full nomination rights for the affordable homes which would be let to those in need from Oldham’s Housing Register.  The new homes will also help meet our PfE Housing Targets.

Resolved:

That the Cabinet will consider the confidential recommendations, detailed in the report, at agenda item 36.

To consider a report of the Leader and Cabinet Member for Growth seeking approval for the acceptance of grant funding.

The Cabinet received a report of the Executive Director of Place/Deputy Chief Executive that was asking for approve and acceptance of the Economic Development and Regeneration Flexible Grant Programme (ED&RFG) grant allocation, previously known as the Local Growth and Place Flexible Grant (LG&PFG), following confirmation of an award from the Integrated Settlement Fund and Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) in February 2026. The final allocation was, yet to be determined but, previous information, received by Officers, had notified that it could be up to £2,171,726.

Options/Alternatives considered:

Option 1 – To do nothing. Failure to accept the grant allocation of ED&RFGwould reflect negatively on the perception of the town and its ambitions. It would have significant implications for delivery of the project budgets and, therefore, the achievement of regeneration ambitions and objectives.

Option 2 (the preferred Option) – To formally accept the ED&RFG allocation of up to £2,171,726 and enter into the Grant Funding Agreement as set out in the submitted report.

Resolved:

That the Cabinet will consider the confidential recommendations, detailed in the report, at agenda item 37.

Report of the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Corporate Services and Sustainability updating on the Revenue Monitor and Capital Investment Programme 2025/26, as at Month 10.

The Cabinet considered a report of the Director of Finance that provided members with an update, as of 30^th January 2026 (Month 10), of the Council’s 2025/26 forecast revenue budget position alongside the financial position of the capital programme together with the revised capital programme 2025/26 to 2029/30 (at Annex 2).

In terms of the Revenue Position, the forecast adverse position for 2025/26 at the end of Month 10 was estimated to be £4.946m (£15.199m at the end of Quarter 3). The details within this revenue monitoring report for Month 10 followed on from the Quarter 3 report previously presented. A forecast adverse position based on the Month 10 revenue controllable budget is £4.946m which represented a favourable movement of £10.253m from the position previously reported. As highlighted within the Quarter 3 report, the Council had explored opportunities in conjunction with its external treasury advisors to look at our current policy on capitalising interest costs for assets under construction.

The outcome of this work has resulted in a forecast one-off benefit to the Council’s General Fund Balance of £10.056m for 2025/26. Given, the in-year financial position of the Council, the level of reserves available, the approved budget reductions for 2026/27 and the budgetary gaps reported within the Council’s Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS), work continues across the organisation to reduce this forecast adverse variance by the financial year end.

The recent publication of the Local Government Finance Settlement provided some additional support to the Council as a result of the Fair Funding Review and the continuation of the Recovery Grant for another 3 years. Whilst this funding was welcomed, the Council must deliver within the financial resources allocated for 2026/27 onwards. The Council’s strategy to transfer much needed resources to reserves to increase the reserve position was a positive movement in ensuring the organisations financial resilience over the medium term. Further details of the current estimated position were included at Annex 1, to the submitted report.

In terms of the Capital Position, the report outlined the most up to date capital spending position for 2025/26 to 2029/30 for approved schemes. The revised Capital Programme budget for 2025/26 was £70.818m at the close of month 10 which incorporated the changes made from the annual review of the programme. The actual expenditure to 31^st January 2026 was £43.927m (62.03% of the forecast outturn).

Options/Alternatives considered:

Option 1 (preferred Option) – to approve the recommendations in the report.

Option 2 – to reject the recommendations and to propose alterative forecasts.

Resolved:

1.    That the Cabinet notes the contents of the report. Notes the forecast revenue position at the end of Month 10 at £4.946m as detailed at Annex 1, of the submitted report.

2.    That the Cabinet notes the general revenue usable reserves position for 2025/26.

3.    That the Cabinet approves the revised Capital Programme for 2025/26 including the proposed virements and notes the forecast for the financial years to 2029/30 as at the end of Month 10 as outlined in  ...  view the full minutes text for item 29.

A report of the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Corporate Services and Sustainability, requesting that the Cabinet approves Local Taxation Discretionary Policies for 2026/27.

The Cabinet received a report of the Executive Director of Resources which sought approval for three discretionary policies relating to Council Tax and Business Rates.

The report provided the full detail of proposed updates to the discretionary policies used to support Local Taxation administration, namely, Council Tax, Business Rates and Council Tax administration.

It was proposed that the policies be updated to reflect current post holder job titles and includes a requirement for an annual review of the policy to be undertaken, and where no substantive changes were proposed (or changes were minor and non-financial), authorisation be delegated to the Executive Director of Resources or to the Assistant Director of Revenues and Benefits.

Options/Alternatives considered:

Option 1 (preferred Option) – to approve the amended Local Taxation Discretionary Policies.

Option 2 – Approve Local Taxation and Benefits Discretionary Policies without the amendments regarding annual reviews.

Resolved:

1.    That the Cabinet grant approval to the proposed amendments to the existing Local Taxation Discretionary Policies for 2026/27.

2.    That the Cabinet grant approval to delegating the annual review of these policies to the Head of Revenues and that authorisation be delegated to the Executive Director of Resources, or to the Assistant Director Revenues and Benefits, where there is no financial impact or material change to be made to the policy.

3.    That the Cabinet approve the Local Taxation Discretionary Policies, as presented at appendices 1, 2 and 3 of the submitted report, be adopted for 2026/27.

The Cabinet received a report of the Executive Director of Place/Deputy Chief Executive which informed members that the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) had allocated funding for local authorities within Greater Manchester to deliver a programme bringing empty properties back into use, as part of wider plans to ensure appropriate quality housing for those in temporary accommodation (TA), as well as reducing the finance impact on councils of providing TA.

Proposals were therefore presented for a three-year scheme. In the meantime, Oldham Council has been given an allocation of £483,727 for 2026/27, comprising:

·       £113,902 revenue funding, to employ 2 FTE staff, and

·       £369,825 capital funding, to fund a range of measures to bring empty properties back into use.

The submitted report was presented under Rules 13 and 14 of the Council’s Constitution, after the Chair of the Place, Economic Growth and Environment Scrutiny Board had approved its submission without it having been on the forward plan, of key decisions, due to the requirement to secure a decision from the Cabinet, prior to its next scheduled meeting on 15^th June 2026 and in doing so exempted the report from the call-in process.

Options/Alternatives considered:

Option 1 (preferred Option) – to complete the grant agreement and accept grant monies. Under this option, the Council would receive an initial £483,727 to set up a team and work to bring empty homes in the Borough back into use, to support our housing challenge. It is expected that this will be followed by subsequent funding for years two and three (subject to agreement at GMCA on 27^th March 2026).

Option 2 – to decline the grant. The Council could decline to accept the GMCA grant and not take part in the scheme.  By not completing the agreement, no grant would be paid to the Council, and we would not be able to instigate the proposed approach.   

Resolved:

That the Cabinet:

1.     Approves acceptance of the £483,727 grant from GMCA

2. Delegates authority to the Executive Director of Place/Deputy Chief Executive, in consultation with the Statutory Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods to:

a.     Approve the preferred model(s), to achieve delivery of expected outcomes

3.     Delegates authority to the Director of Legal, or his nominee, to formalise any necessary legal requirements including signing and/or sealing any documentation required to give effect to the recommendations and/or delegations in this report.

4.     Delegates authority to the Executive Director of Place/Deputy Chief Executive, or her nominee to approve the appointment of external legal advisors, as required, to protect the Council’s interests and give effect to the recommendations in this report

5.     The Cabinet notes the actions of the Chair of the Place, Economic Growth and Environment Scrutiny Board in allowing the submission of this agenda item and exempting the submitted report from the call-in process.

The Cabinet received a report of the Director of Neighbourhoods which advised that the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) had launched a fourth round of the Local Authority Housing fund (LAHF) to run over the financial years of 2026/27 to 2029/30.

Oldham Council had been awarded an allocation of £3,719,182 comprising of a capital grant element of £3,676,200 and revenue grant of £42,982. To secure the Grant a legally non-binding Memorandum of Understanding needed to be completed between the Council and MHCLG by 10^th April 2026.

The LAHF grant should be used to deliver:

a.             22 properties (2-4+ bed) to be allocated to temporary accommodation.

b.             7 properties (2-3 bed) for resettlement households

c.              6 properties (4+ bed) for resettlement households

The submitted report was presented under Rules 13 and 14 of the Council’s Constitution, after the Chair of the Place, Economic Growth and Environment Scrutiny Board had approved its submission without it having been on the forward plan, of key decisions, due to the requirement to secure a decision from the Cabinet, prior to its next scheduled meeting on 15^th June 2026 and in doing so exempted the report from the call-in process.

Options/Alternatives considered:

Option 1 (preferred Option) – to complete the Memorandum of Understanding and accept the grant monies. Under this option, the Council would receive £3.7 M to help deliver 35 homes including 22 to provide accommodation to families who are owed a statutory homeless duty by the local authority.  Whilst the exact figures are not yet known, this will lead to revenue savings for the Local Authority.

Option 2 – to decline the grant monies. Under this option, the Council could decline to accept the MHCLG grant and not take part in the scheme.  By not completing the MoU no grant would be paid to the Council.

Resolved:

That the Cabinet:

1.    Approves acceptance of the £3,7191,82 grant from MHCLG, comprising:

a.    £2,611,200 capital allocation for 2026/27

b.    £1,065,000 capital allocation for 2028/29

c.     One-off revenue allocation of £42,982

2.    Delegates authority to the Executive Director of Place/Deputy Chief Executive, in consultation with the Statutory Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods for:

a.    Approval of preferred model(s) to achieve delivery of expected outcomes.

b.    Approval of any necessary procurement exercises, to enable delivery of this scheme.

3.    Delegates authority to the Director of Legal, or his nominee, to formalise any necessary legal requirements including signing and/or sealing any documentation required to give effect to the recommendations and/or delegations in this report.

4.    Delegates authority to the Executive Director of Place/Deputy Chief Executive, or her nominee, to approve the appointment of external legal advisors, as required, to protect the Council’s interests and give effect to the recommendations in this report.

5.    Delegates authority to the Executive Director of Place/Deputy Chief Executive, or her nominee, to sign and return the Memorandum of Understanding with MHCLG by the deadline of 10^th April.

6.    The Cabinet notes the actions of the  ...  view the full minutes text for item 32.

The Cabinet received a report of the Director of Neighbourhoods which requested accept of the Greter Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) and Violence Reduction grant payments for 2026/27, to support the delivery of the Community Safety Partnership’s statutory duties under the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 and the commitment of the Council to make communities safer and stronger.

The grant monies were to be paid annually and the Community Safety Partnership was reliant upon acceptance of the grants to carry out its core functions.

The submitted report was presented under Rules 13 and 14 of the Council’s Constitution, after the Chair of the Place, Economic Growth and Environment Scrutiny Board had approved its submission without it having been on the forward plan, of key decisions, due to the requirement to secure a decision from the Cabinet, prior to its next scheduled meeting on 15^th June 2026 and in doing so exempted the report from the call-in process.

Options/Alternatives considered:

Option 1 (preferred Option) – to accept the grant funding and to continue delivery of activities and projects as allocated by the Community Safety Partnership.

Option 2 – to reject the grant funding and cease the delivery of project activity.

Resolved:

That the Cabinet:

1.    Approves acceptance of the Grants from GMCA, as follows:

2.    Delegates power to the Deputy Chief Executive (Place) to accept future grant allocations on behalf of the statutory Community Safety Partnership to enable timely delivery of activities and projects due to the limited period between confirmation of grants monies from GMCA and the start of the fiscal year.

3.    The Cabinet notes the actions of the Chair of the Place, Economic Growth and Environment Scrutiny Board in allowing the submission of this agenda item and exempting the submitted report from the call-in process.

To consider that the press and public be excluded from the meeting for the following 10 items of business, pursuant to Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972 on the grounds that discussions may involve the likely disclosure of exempt information, under paragraph 3, as defined in the provisions of Part 1 of Schedule 12A of the Act, to the Local Government Act 1972 and public interest would not be served in publishing the information.

That in accordance with Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972, the press and public be excluded from the meeting, for the following 10 items of business, on the grounds that it contains exempt information under paragraph 3 Part 1 of Schedule 12A of the Act, and it would not, on balance, be in the public interest to disclose the reports.

To consider confidential recommendations.

The Cabinet considered the recommendations in relation to agenda item 26.

Resolved:

1.     That the Cabinet grant delegated authority to the Executive Director of Place/Deputy Chief Executive, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Building a Better Place Oldham, the Director of Finance and the Director of Legal to agree final terms and to enter into a Grant Funding agreement with Muse in respect of the Community Regeneration Partnership grant funding of £5M (Five Million Pounds) as outlined in the submitted confidential report.

2.     That the Cabinet grant delegated authority to the Executive Director of Place/Deputy Chief Executive, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Building a Better Place Oldham, the Director of Finance and the Director of Legal to agree final terms and to enter into a Grant Funding agreement with Muse in respect of the proposed Council match funding contribution of £2,346,915.

3.     That the Cabinet grant delegated authority to Executive Director of Place/Deputy Chief Executive, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Building a Better Place Oldham, the Director of Finance and the Director of Legal to agree final terms and to enter into a Grant Funding agreement with Legal and General Affordable Homes in respect of the Council affordable housing contribution of up to £1.875M, which will ensure that the new homes are let at a social rent level.

4.     That the Cabinet grant delegated authority to the Executive Director of Place/Deputy Chief Executive, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Building a Better Place Oldham, the Director of Finance and the Director of Legal to enter into any associated documentation or agreements that may be required in connection with the above matters and to enable a phased drawdown of the site, which will result in a start on site at the earliest opportunity.

5.     That the Cabinet grant delegated authority to the Director of Legal, or his nominees to formalise any necessary legal requirements including signing and/or sealing any documentation required to give effect to the recommendations and/or delegations in this report.

6.     To note that following consideration by the Place, Economic Growth and Environment Scrutiny Board on 19^th March 2026, this matter is exempt from call-in, under Rule 14 of the Overview and Scrutiny Procedure Rules, as detailed in the Council’s Constitution.

To consider confidential recommendations

The Cabinet considered the recommendations in relation to agenda item 27.

Resolved:

That the Cabinet approves the freehold disposal of a strip of land (shown red in Appendix A, attached to the submitted confidential report) at Rosary Road, Fitton Hill to the adjoining landowner – Vistry Partnership, for a capital receipt of £271,000.

To consider confidential recommendations

The Cabinet considered the recommendations in relation to agenda item 28.

Resolved:

That the Cabinet:

1.    Approve the acceptance of an allocation up to £2,171,726 ED&RFG grant against the three interventions approved for funding by GMCA broken down as follows:

a.    Accessible Oldham.

b.    Tommyfield Park Phase 1 – increase accessibility into and around the town centre park.

c.     Town Centre Park Staff Members – facilitate the expansion of the town centre green space that has been created in the Town Centre. 

d.    Town Centre Infrastructure and Cultural Events Programme.

e.    Co-design cultural events to support Oldham’s Place Marketing approach, a core element of the Cultural Strategy and will support the emerging Creative Improvement District and Night-Time Economy strategy and action plan. Creating a safe, welcoming and vibrant town centre with wayfinding and town centre wardens/ambassadors. 

f.      Town Centre Business Grants and Support.

g.    Providing financial assistance to owners and tenants. Supporting local business growth, improves the local shopping environment, and raises the town’s appeal. 

2.    Note, that as accountable body for ED&RFG, GMCA will issue a Funding Agreement in respect of the grant, which will be reviewed by the Council ‘s legal services.

3.    Delegate authority to the Deputy Chief Executive (Place) to agree the terms of the Funding Agreement issued by GMCA in respect of the grant award in consultation with the Directors of Finance and Legal Services and approve appointments of professional teams and contract award in respect of the agreed budgets.

4.    Delegate authority to Director of Legal Services, or his nominated representative, to finalise and enter into the Funding Agreement issued by GMCA in respect of the grant award subject to the completion of any necessary due diligence on subsidy control compliance and authority to agree and complete any project change requests under the Funding Agreement.

5.    Delegate authority to the Director of Legal Services or their nominee to formalise any necessary legal requirements including signing and/or sealing any documentation referred to and/or required to give effect to the recommendations and/or delegations in this report.

6.    Delegate authority to the Director of Economy, or their nominated representative, to agree approval of spend, works or individual grants for the Accessible Oldham projects, Town Centre Infrastructure and Cultural Events Programme projects and Town Centre Business Grants and Support project.

7.    Delegate authority to the Director of Economy, or their nominated representative, to agree monitoring and evaluation of defined outputs and negotiations thereupon as required over the grant delivery period of 2026/2027.

8.    Note and endorse that the internal governance and administration for the ED&RFG grant will be performed via the Creating a Better Place Programme Board (CaPB) structures.

To consider confidential recommendtions.

The Cabinet received a report of the Director of Digital which sought authority to upgrade Oldham Council's existing 1,621 Microsoft 365 E3 licences to E5 licences and the procurement of Microsoft 365 E5 licences to fully equip all Council employees (totalling approximately 3,102 users).

This course of action was considered essential to consolidate multiple third-party vendors into a unified Microsoft ecosystem, enhance cyber security in line with National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) guidance, and unlock advanced features that require organisation-wide E5 adoption for optimal effectiveness.

Resolved:

That the Cabinet:

1.    Authorise, at a cost of £715,248, the upgrade of Oldham Council's existing 1,621 Microsoft 365 E3 licences to E5 licences and the procurement of Microsoft 365 E5 licences to fully equip all Council employees (totalling approximately 3,102 users).

2.    Direct the Council’s IT team to integrate all E5 licences into the Microsoft ecosystem, including enabling advanced security features like Defender for Endpoint and Entra ID P2, while conducting a phased rollout to minimise disruption and align with NCSC cyber security best practices.

3.    Authorise the procurement of external specialist resource (£150K) to supplement internal effort (£50K) at a total cost of £200,000 from IT Capital, to exploit the new E5 licensing, activating new functions and features of the E5 product.

4.    Note that over three years the total cost will be £915,248.

5.    Note that the Council’s Commercial Procurement Unit will ensure compliance with authority’s Contract Procedure Rules. 

To consider confidential recommendations

The Cabinet considered a confidential report of the Director of Digital that sought authority to enter into new contracts for both supply chain risk management software and CAF compliance tools under procurement compliant framework agreements in accordance with Contract Procedure Rules. To then systematically work through the National Cyber Security Centre's (NCSC) Cyber Assessment Framework (CAF), ensuring full compliance and maximising cyber security posture across the organisation.

The decision was considered essential to address CAF compliance within Oldham Council, to address supply chain vulnerabilities, enhance cyber security in alignment with NCSC CAF guidance, and consolidate risk management processes by replacing manual, inefficient assessments.

Resolved:
That the Cabinet:

1.    Authorise the approval of a three-year contract procurement at £150,000 for supply chain risk management software via the G-Cloud framework for Oldham Council, covering a 36-month term. To authorise the approval of the additional revenue implications for years 2 and 3 at £50,000pa based on up to 500 suppliers and standard licensing for up to 5 users.

2.    Authorise the approval of a three-year contract procurement at £150,000 for the relevant CAF compliance tools via the G-Cloud framework for Oldham Council also covering a 36-month term.  To authorise the approval of the additional revenue implications for years 2 and 3 at £50,000pa.

3.    Authorise the capital allocation of £352,000 in total with £220,000 assigned for dedicated resources over a phased period of two years due to the scale of the work required (e.g., specialist consultants such as Local Digital and internal staffing backfill) to systematically work through the National Cyber Security Centre's (NCSC) Cyber Assessment Framework (CAF), ensuring full compliance and maximising cyber security posture.

4.    Notes that over three years the total cost will be £552K.

5.    Notes that the Council’s Commercial Procurement Unit will ensure compliance with the Council’s Contract Procedure Rules.

To consider confidential recommendations.

The Cabinet considered a confidential report of the Director of Digital, which informed Members that since March 2021, Oldham Council had utilised the 8x8 cloud-based telephony system, following the approved migration from the outdated Mitel fixed-desk system. The submitted report outlined the rationale for renewing the contract to ensure continued modern, resilient, and scalable telephony services that support remote working, resident engagement, and key council strategies.

Oldham Council's migration to the 8x8 cloud telephony system in 2021 had delivered enhanced flexibility, reduced cyber risks, and alignment with modern working practices. As the current contract approaches expiry, renewal on a 1+1+1 basis (one-year initial term with two optional one-year extensions) was proposed to maintain service continuity, leverage ongoing efficiencies, and support the Digital, Data and Technology Strategy 2025-2030. This included enabling seamless integration with Microsoft Azure, AI-driven features, and digital inclusion initiatives. The renewal avoided disruption, ensures cost stability, and positions the council for future innovations in resident-focused services.

Resolved:

That the Cabinet approves a Call of Contract via CCS G Cloud 14 Framework RM.1557.14 for the 8x8 telephony contract on a 1+1+1 basis.

To consider confidential recommendations

The Cabinet considered a confidential report of the Director of Digital that sought authorisation of investment in a three-year contract of Microsoft Defender for the Cloud and associated professional services and internal resources for targeted implementation works This would ensure timely, expert-led rollout, maximise the value of prior investments, and align with NCSC recommendations for robust cyber defences. It would deliver immediate benefits like enhanced threat response and optimised performance, supports vendor consolidation, and positions the Council for sustainable, cost-effective operations, mirroring successful approaches in peers like Manchester City Council.

Resolved:

That the Cabinet

1.    Authorise a commitment to a 36-month term contract for the platform costs of Microsoft Defender for the Cloud at £100,000 pa.

2.    Authorise the approval of the additional revenue implications at £100,000 pa from Year two. 

3.    Approve the associated deployment and integration costs of £125,000 covering professional specialist services and internal resource costs. This will also cover targeted implementation work to provide the appropriate level of cyber security for the Cloud, to complete server and database migrations, to provide cloud optimisation of storage and data costs in Azure and to integrate all new cyber systems and security alert and reporting services effectively.

4.    Authorise the allocation of £225,000 IT capital funding for the product and the resource to make all servers secure, utilising a combination of professional services to supplement internal skillsets and internal resources.

5.    Note that over three years the total cost will be £425K.

6.    Direct the Council’s IT team to deploy the funded resources in a phased manner, prioritising high-impact areas like threat detection and cloud integration, while ensuring alignment with NCSC best practices and minimal disruption to operations.

7.    Note that the Council’s Commercial Procurement Unit will ensure compliance with the Council’s Contract Procedure Rules. 

To consider confidential recommendations.

The Cabinet considered a confidential report of the Director of Digital which advised the Council’s XEROX UK LTD MFD print solution contract was approaching the end of its current procured contract, which has been running for 60 months since April 2021. A request was made to approve a new 3-year agreement including a +1 +1 extension with Xerox UK LTD via a procurement compliant Framework Agreement: CCS framework agreement RM6361. Continuing with XEROX UK LTD would maintain essential printing, scanning, and copying services while reducing the fleet size based on usage data, promoting paperless operations, and aligning with the council's digital transformation goals.

The Xerox MFD fleet has provided reliable document management services, but evolving work patterns, including increased remote working and digital adoption, have reduced usage. Approval is sought to enter into a 3-year term (with options for review), incorporating a 30% reduction in devices informed by usage statistics.

Resolved:

That the Cabinet approves a new 3-year term Call off Contract procured via Crown Commercial Services Framework RM6361 Lot 2, Direct award. The continuation with Xerox for the of MFD with a reduced fleet as detailed in section 4, of the Director of Digital’s confidential report.

To consider confidential recommendations

The Cabinet considered a confidential report of the Director of Digital seeking permission to enter into a new contract for a Security Operations Centre (SOC) service under a procurement compliant framework agreement in accordance with Contract Procedure Rules. The new advanced product from the existing provider has been selected for compatibility with ZTNA and Microsoft 365 E5 (contingent on their sign-off) and would enable features like ‘24/7’ monitoring, threat hunting, and integration with approved ZTNA and E5 tools, aligning with NCSC cyber security best practices.

Resolved:

That the Cabinet agrees:

1.    To authorise the approval of a three year contract with Sophos Taegis for £662,778 with the new advanced product from the existing Sophos provider selected for compatibility with ZTNA and Microsoft 365 E5 (contingent on their sign-off) and which will enable features like 24/7 monitoring, threat hunting, and integration with approved ZTNA and E5 tools, while conducting a phased rollout to minimise disruption and align with NCSC cyber security best practices.

2.    To authorise the approval of the additional revenue increase of £41K pa by moving from the existing Sophos system to Sophos Taegis.

3.    To authorise £240,926 IT Capital in Year 1 for the replacement and improvement of Oldham Council's current Sophos SOC service and internal resources to support the implementation in Year 1.

4.    To note that over three years the total cost will be £683K.

5.    To note that the Commercial Procurement Unit will ensure compliance with Council Contract Procedure Rules. 

To consider confidential recommendations

The Cabinet considered a confidential report of the Director of Digital, which sought permission to enter into a new three year contract for a Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) platform for Oldham Council under a procurement compliant framework agreement in accordance with Contract Procedure Rules. This would enhance cyber security in alignment with National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) guidance.

Resolved:

That the Cabinet agrees:

1.    To authorise the approval of a three year contract procurement at £631,740 for a Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) platform for Oldham Council.

2.    To authorise the approval of the additional revenue implications at £210,580 pa. 

3.    To authorise, at a Capital cost of £311,080 for the product in Year 1, implementation by the supplier, supported by professional services and internal IT technicians.

4.    To note that over three years the total cost will be £732,240.

5.    To note that the Commercial Procurement Unit will ensure compliance with Council Contract Procedure Rules.