Agenda item

Report of the Executive Director of Environment.

The Committee received a report of the Executive Director of Environment, concerning the recommendation of the Byelaws for the Heathrow Animal Reception Centre (HARC), and the approval for the listed fees for the licensing services delivered by the Animal Health Team.

It was noted that at previous meetings, Members had raised concerns that there was a lack of flexibility with the fees. Therefore, the Byelaws listed the maximum chargeable fees and sought agreement for a delegated authority for the Executive Director of Environment to amend the fee structure, up to twice a year, by up to 20% (but not exceeding the maximum). This would be 20% per annum.

In terms of whether the fees could be increased further, the response was that the way in which agents operated and potentially competing European Border Control Posts needed to be taken into account, to provide fees that were the best option for all stakeholders. Officers were satisfied that the proposed fees were appropriate. Later, the Committee heard that there were some charges for additional administration and practical work, but there were no surcharges to offset other costs. The byelaws would need to be amended if the Corporation wished to charge beyond the agreed maximum charge, which would require approval from the Court of Common Council.

The Corporation was obliged under legislation to publicly list fees for its services relating to HARC. Additional materials were produced for customers.

RESOLVED – That Members:

·       Approve the HARC Byelaws as listing the maximum chargeable fees from April 2025 (Appendix 1).

·       Recommend to the Court of Common Council that the Byelaws be made, and that the Comptroller and City Solicitor be instructed to seal the Byelaws accordingly.

·       Approve the listed fees for licensing services delivered by the Animal Health Team (Appendix 2).

·       Approve delegated authority for the Executive Director of Environment to amend the fee structure, up to twice a year, by up to 20% (not exceeding the maximum).