Decision details

The report of the Director of Social Services incorporating the Full Business Case (FBC) for the Aethwy Extra Care and Residential Care Home scheme was presented for the Executive’s consideration.

The report was presented by the Programme Manager who provided an update confirming that the scheme is now well developed with the detailed design completed and a main contractor appointed under a two stage design and build contract. Tendering for sub-contractor packages is expected to take place over the next three months. Discussions have been ongoing with Welsh Government to agree a process for presenting, challenging and approving the Full Business Case. A proposed timeline includes submitting the draft FBC to Welsh Government in July based on estimated costs with an update in November following receipt of the tender prices. The final FBC to be considered by the Welsh Government’s Investment Panel in December 2025, with a grant approval letter anticipated in January 2026 if the FBC is accepted. Subject to the Executive’s approving the recommendations, the dates  will be discussed with Welsh Government. The reason for agreeing this process is to ensure that grant funding is secured within the period in which the tender price is still available. The business case is to seek funding towards the combined cost of developing  the residential care home and community resource team elements of the scheme. A separate application will be submitted for social housing grant/housing with care funding towards the extra care costs. Remaining costs will be funded through HRA  borrowing.

The Head of Adult Services emphasised the importance of making timely progress in order to maximise the available grant funding opportunities.

The Executive acknowledged the considerable effort invested in developing the Full Business Case and recognised the scheme as a major strategic investment for the Council. In light of  changing demographics and an ageing population, the scheme was acknowledged as an important step in adult  social care provision.

Responding to a query regarding delegated authority for officers to amend and update the FBC, the Programme Manager clarified that such authority would apply only to non-material changes.

It was resolved –

·      To approve the Full Business Case (FBC) for the Aethwy Extra Care/ Residential Care Home scheme.

·      To approve the submission of the FBC to Welsh Government.

·      To delegate authority to the Director of Social Services in consultation with the Deputy Leader and Portfolio Member for Finance and Housing, Chief Executive, Director of Function (Resources)/Section 151 Officer, and the Director of Function (Council Business)/Monitoring Officer to amend and/or update the FBC as required – providing the changes do not result in material changes (in terms of policy, principles, financial contribution [other than HRA contribution – if the project returns a positive NPV], risks and harm to third parties.

·      To commit to funding the Council’s capital requirement - towards the project cost – via the Housing Revenue Account.

*The realisation of the scheme will be subject to the decision of the Planning Committee and other statutory consents required.