Basingstoke & Dean Borough Council
Councillors:
53
Wards:
18
Committees:
23
Meetings (2026):
63
Meetings (2025):
75
Meeting
Cabinet - Basingstoke & Dean
Meeting Times
Scheduled Time
Start:
Tuesday, 16th September 2025
6:30 PM
Tuesday, 16th September 2025
6:30 PM
End:
Tuesday, 16th September 2025
9:30 PM
Tuesday, 16th September 2025
9:30 PM
Meeting Status
Status:
Moved
Moved
Date:
16 Sep 2025
16 Sep 2025
Location:
Council Chamber - Deanes
Council Chamber - Deanes
Webcast:
Available
Available
Meeting Attendees
Committee Member
Co-Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Property
Committee Member
Cabinet Member for Sports, Leisure and Culture
Committee Member
Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services and Housing
Chair
Leader
Committee Member
Cabinet Member for Major Projects and Regeneration
Committee Member
Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Infrastructure
Committee Member
Cabinet Member for Communities, Partnerships and Inclusion
Committee Member
Cabinet Member for Climate and Ecological Emergency
Agenda
1
Apologies for absence
Minutes
There were no apologies for absence
2
Declarations of interest
Minutes
There were no declarations of interest.
3
Urgent matters
To consider any items of business, other than those shown on this agenda and which, by reason of special circumstances to be stated at the meeting, in the opinion of the Chairman, should be considered at the meeting as a matter of urgency.
Minutes
There were no urgent matters.
4
Minutes of the meeting held on 8 July 2025
The Chair will move that the minutes of the meeting be signed as a correct record. The only part of the minutes that can be discussed is their accuracy.
Attachments:
- Document Printed minutes 08072025 1830 Cabinet 04 Sep 2025
Minutes
The minutes of the meeting held on 8 July 2025 were confirmed as an accurate record and signed by the Chair.
5
Leader and Portfolio Holders Announcements
Minutes
There were no announcements.
6
Motion referred from Council - Backing Local Voices: Standing Up for Neighbourhood Planning
To consider the resolution referred by Council from its meeting held on 17 July 2025:
Council resolves to:
Express its strong support for Neighbourhood Planning and affirm the importance of continued investment in the process.
Support the position of NALC in calling for central government to reinstate funding for neighbourhood planning.
Request that the Cabinet urgently explores alternative sources of funding or support mechanisms to enable parish and town councils within our area to continue with neighbourhood planning work despite the withdrawal of central government support.
Request the Leader to write to the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities expressing this council’s concern about the impact of the funding cut and urging the government to reconsider its position.
Council resolves to:
Express its strong support for Neighbourhood Planning and affirm the importance of continued investment in the process.
Support the position of NALC in calling for central government to reinstate funding for neighbourhood planning.
Request that the Cabinet urgently explores alternative sources of funding or support mechanisms to enable parish and town councils within our area to continue with neighbourhood planning work despite the withdrawal of central government support.
Request the Leader to write to the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities expressing this council’s concern about the impact of the funding cut and urging the government to reconsider its position.
Minutes
Cabinet considered the following motion:
Council resolves to:
Express its strong support for Neighbourhood Planning and affirm the importance of continued investment in the process.
Support the position of NALC in calling for central government to reinstate funding for neighbourhood planning.
Request that the Cabinet urgently explores alternative sources of funding or support mechanisms to enable parish and town councils within our area to continue with neighbourhood planning work despite the withdrawal of central government support.
Request the Leader to write to the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities expressing this council’s concern about the impact of the funding cut and urging the government to reconsider its position.
The Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Infrastructure responded to the motion. He fully supported the motion and acknowledged that Neighbourhood Plans were a vital element of the planning system in the borough and a key part of the democratic process. He expressed disappointment that government were removing funding which was essential for a neighbourhood plan to progress. He supported the proposal to reaffirm the councils belief in the value of the neighbourhood plan process and to lobby government and had also requested officers to investigate alternate ways to fund future neighbourhood plans.
Resolved: To affirm the importance of neighbourhood plans, lobby government to reinstate funding and investigate alternate ways to fund future neighbourhood plans.
Council resolves to:
Express its strong support for Neighbourhood Planning and affirm the importance of continued investment in the process.
Support the position of NALC in calling for central government to reinstate funding for neighbourhood planning.
Request that the Cabinet urgently explores alternative sources of funding or support mechanisms to enable parish and town councils within our area to continue with neighbourhood planning work despite the withdrawal of central government support.
Request the Leader to write to the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities expressing this council’s concern about the impact of the funding cut and urging the government to reconsider its position.
The Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Infrastructure responded to the motion. He fully supported the motion and acknowledged that Neighbourhood Plans were a vital element of the planning system in the borough and a key part of the democratic process. He expressed disappointment that government were removing funding which was essential for a neighbourhood plan to progress. He supported the proposal to reaffirm the councils belief in the value of the neighbourhood plan process and to lobby government and had also requested officers to investigate alternate ways to fund future neighbourhood plans.
Resolved: To affirm the importance of neighbourhood plans, lobby government to reinstate funding and investigate alternate ways to fund future neighbourhood plans.
7
Motion referred from Council - Enhancing Local Resilience and Emergency Preparedness
To consider the resolution referred by Council from its meeting held on 17 July 2025:
Council resolves to:
Request that Cabinet review and update existing emergency preparedness and business continuity plans to ensure they remain fit for purpose in today’s evolving risk landscape, including scenarios involving large-scale infrastructure disruption or national security incidents.
Request Cabinet to work closely with the Local Resilience Forum and other Category 1 and 2 responders, where feasible, to:
Test and strengthen joint response protocols.
Ensure that planning takes into account vulnerable populations, public health, and digital inclusion
Identify and protect critical local infrastructure.
Request a report to the Resources Committee (subject to the agreement of the Chair) and to the Cabinet Member for Communities, Partnerships and Inclusion, outlining:
The council’s current state of readiness for major civil emergencies, including, but not limited to, national security events.
Opportunities to improve staff training, public communications, and coordination with partners;
Any gaps in funding, guidance, or support from central government that may need addressing.
Request Cabinet to consider launching a public awareness initiative to help residents better understand how to prepare their households for a range of emergencies (e.g. prolonged power outages, water supply issues, or communication blackouts), working in partnership with national guidance bodies and local emergency services.
Council resolves to:
Request that Cabinet review and update existing emergency preparedness and business continuity plans to ensure they remain fit for purpose in today’s evolving risk landscape, including scenarios involving large-scale infrastructure disruption or national security incidents.
Request Cabinet to work closely with the Local Resilience Forum and other Category 1 and 2 responders, where feasible, to:
Test and strengthen joint response protocols.
Ensure that planning takes into account vulnerable populations, public health, and digital inclusion
Identify and protect critical local infrastructure.
Request a report to the Resources Committee (subject to the agreement of the Chair) and to the Cabinet Member for Communities, Partnerships and Inclusion, outlining:
The council’s current state of readiness for major civil emergencies, including, but not limited to, national security events.
Opportunities to improve staff training, public communications, and coordination with partners;
Any gaps in funding, guidance, or support from central government that may need addressing.
Request Cabinet to consider launching a public awareness initiative to help residents better understand how to prepare their households for a range of emergencies (e.g. prolonged power outages, water supply issues, or communication blackouts), working in partnership with national guidance bodies and local emergency services.
Minutes
Council resolves to:
Request that Cabinet review and update existing emergency preparedness and business continuity plans to ensure they remain fit for purpose in today’s evolving risk landscape, including scenarios involving large-scale infrastructure disruption or national security incidents.
Request Cabinet to work closely with the Local Resilience Forum and other Category 1 and 2 responders, where feasible, to:
1. Test and strengthen joint response protocols.
2. Ensure that planning takes into account vulnerable populations, public health, and digital inclusion
3. Identify and protect critical local infrastructure.
Request a report to the Resources Committee (subject to the agreement of the Chair) and to the Cabinet Member for Communities, Partnerships and Inclusion, outlining:
1. The council’s current state of readiness for major civil emergencies, including, but not limited to, national security events.
2. Opportunities to improve staff training, public communications, and coordination with partners;
3. Any gaps in funding, guidance, or support from central government that may need addressing.
Request Cabinet to consider launching a public awareness initiative to help residents better understand how to prepare their households for a range of emergencies (e.g. prolonged power outages, water supply issues, or communication blackouts), working in partnership with national guidance bodies and local emergency services.
It was reported that the Resources Committee had agreed to include the motion in their work programme and would receive an officer report to enable a debate on the issue of local resilience and the emergency preparedness of the council.
Resolved: To refer the motion to the Resources Committee
Request that Cabinet review and update existing emergency preparedness and business continuity plans to ensure they remain fit for purpose in today’s evolving risk landscape, including scenarios involving large-scale infrastructure disruption or national security incidents.
Request Cabinet to work closely with the Local Resilience Forum and other Category 1 and 2 responders, where feasible, to:
1. Test and strengthen joint response protocols.
2. Ensure that planning takes into account vulnerable populations, public health, and digital inclusion
3. Identify and protect critical local infrastructure.
Request a report to the Resources Committee (subject to the agreement of the Chair) and to the Cabinet Member for Communities, Partnerships and Inclusion, outlining:
1. The council’s current state of readiness for major civil emergencies, including, but not limited to, national security events.
2. Opportunities to improve staff training, public communications, and coordination with partners;
3. Any gaps in funding, guidance, or support from central government that may need addressing.
Request Cabinet to consider launching a public awareness initiative to help residents better understand how to prepare their households for a range of emergencies (e.g. prolonged power outages, water supply issues, or communication blackouts), working in partnership with national guidance bodies and local emergency services.
It was reported that the Resources Committee had agreed to include the motion in their work programme and would receive an officer report to enable a debate on the issue of local resilience and the emergency preparedness of the council.
Resolved: To refer the motion to the Resources Committee
8
Recommendations from the Resources Committee - Quarter 4 Key Performance Indicator Review
Report from the Chair of the Resources Committee
Attachments:
- Document Recommendations from the Resources Committee - Quarter 4 Key Performance Indicator Review 04 Sep 2025
- Document Appendix 1 04 Sep 2025
Minutes
Cabinet considered a report which presented two recommendations from the Resources Committee regarding key performance indicators as follows:
That work is undertaken to develop the suite of KPI’s so that, where appropriate, they include a cost benefit analysis whilst balancing the need for both quantitative and qualitative data, taking into consideration the impact on Officer workload and how the information can be reported back to the Committee.
That Cabinet provide the relevant Overview and Scrutiny Committee with the opportunity to provide feedback on how KPI 3.36 could be shaped following any Committee discussions on the Authority Monitoring Report (AMR).
Resolved: Cabinet agreed:
To undertake work with the appropriate officers to develop the suite of KPI’s as recommended by the Resources Committee.
That should the appropriate committee choose to review the AMR, any recommendations made to Cabinet regarding the AMR could be considered as part of considering KPI’s in the future.
That work is undertaken to develop the suite of KPI’s so that, where appropriate, they include a cost benefit analysis whilst balancing the need for both quantitative and qualitative data, taking into consideration the impact on Officer workload and how the information can be reported back to the Committee.
That Cabinet provide the relevant Overview and Scrutiny Committee with the opportunity to provide feedback on how KPI 3.36 could be shaped following any Committee discussions on the Authority Monitoring Report (AMR).
Resolved: Cabinet agreed:
To undertake work with the appropriate officers to develop the suite of KPI’s as recommended by the Resources Committee.
That should the appropriate committee choose to review the AMR, any recommendations made to Cabinet regarding the AMR could be considered as part of considering KPI’s in the future.
9
Local Government Reorganisation
This report seeks approval of the full proposal to submit to government by the deadline of the 26th of September 2025 as required in the letter of the 5th of February 2025.
Recommendation from the Leader of the Council and Co-Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Property
Recommendation from the Leader of the Council and Co-Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Property
Attachments:
- Document LGR Full Proposal Draft Cabinet Council Report September BDBC 04 Sep 2025
- Document Appendix 1 Letter from the Secretary of State Feb 2025 04 Sep 2025
- Document Appendix 2 Interim plan approved by all 15 Councils March 2025 04 Sep 2025
- Document Appendix 3 Interim Plan Feedback May 2025 04 Sep 2025
- Document Appendix 4a - Business Case UPDATED 04 Sep 2025
- Document Appendix 4b - Supporting appendices - Appendix 1 04 Sep 2025
- Document Appendix 4b - Support appendices - Appendices 2-4 04 Sep 2025
- Document Appendix 4b - Supporting appendices - Appendices 5-8 04 Sep 2025
Minutes
The Leader of the Council introduced a report which presented proposals for local government reorganisation setting out how a single tier of local government could be established across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight (HIOW). He further gave a summary of the background to local government reorganisation and work carried out to develop the final proposal under consideration. Members heard that the proposal reflected a collaborative effort among 12 councils for four new unitary councils with a new unitary council for North Hampshire made up of Basingstoke and Deane, Hart and Rushmoor.
Thanks were expressed to the officer team for the immense amount of work undertaken to develop the proposal which would be considered by Council on 25 September and submitted to government on 26 September 2025.
Thanks were also expressed to the Resources Overview and Scrutiny Committee for their contribution following a full discussion on the proposal. The Leader of the Council highlighted an important aspect raised in discussion by the committee concerning harmonisation of council tax and the future of council tax. He clarified that the management of council tax for the new authorities was set down in legislation. Other aspects discussed included connectivity, connection to community, sense of place, economy and delivery of new services through transformation.
The committee made the following recommendations for consideration by Cabinet:
1. The Boroughs and Districts in Hampshire should play a key role on the Combined County Authority with the Strategic Mayor until the vesting of the new unitary authorities on 1 April 2028.
2. Democratic engagement with town and parish councils and wider community groups is important during the public consultation and preparations for the vesting of the new unitary authority.
Visiting speaker Mr Beevers was invited to speak. He spoke in relation to consideration of a Basingstoke Town Council and was particularly concerned regarding acceleration of development, new planning policy and the erosion of neighbourhood plans. He questioned the ownership of assets and revenues needed to pay for a Basingstoke Town Neighbourhood Plan as well as those for parishes and whether it would be Basingstoke Town or the new authority that would make those decisions. He further referred to stronger communities and engagement which he supported from the bottom up to restore nature and local community life in ways that bring about more engaged, resilient and stronger communities. He did not agree with more centralised development planning and felt the need for less council and more local decision making to encourage community engagement, identity and diversity.
The Leader of the Council responded stating that a motion had been considered by Council regarding a town council and had been rejected by members as it was considered that the matter should be considered by the new unitary authority, however there were many different forms of community engagement that could be encouraged under a new system. The reference made to planning and the importance of neighbourhood plans was acknowledged. He added that through the process of LGR many questions would need to be answered however the proposal under consideration for submission to government was the best proposal developed by 12 councils in Hampshire that addressed the government’s criteria.
Members discussed the proposal and:
Acknowledged the constraints on local government imposed by central government which would not change through reorganisation. Acknowledged the collaborative working across most authorities within Hampshire to develop the proposal. Recognised the importance of working with neighbouring councils, Hart and Rushmoor, to create a new authority for a better future for residents. Considered the proposal was the best option to ensure local decision making and that local people still had a voice. Raised concern regarding issues not fully addressed by LGR such as roads and social care but acknowledged the opportunity for service innovation and new ways of service delivery for residents in north Hampshire. Suggested the focus for the unitary authority be on place, infrastructure, development and housing as the current two tier system had impeded outcomes. Recognised there was an opportunity to do things differently and work collaboratively at all levels e.g. community centres and ward level. Acknowledged the two tier system was not fit for purpose. Recognised the challenges that LGR would bring such as social care.
The Leader of the Council confirmed the proposal would be considered by Council and submitted to government on 26 September 2025. Similar meetings had been held across the other 11 authorities who had collectively formed the join submission. Government would then consult on their chosen proposals later in the year with a decision on LGR likely in the new year. He thanked residents for engaging in the surveys that had been conducted which overwhelmingly supported the proposal for a North Hampshire authority and the council’s political groups for their contributions.
Resolved: Cabinet
1. Approve the full proposal to government at appendix 4 of the report, including the Council’s primary support for option 1 within the proposal, for submission to government by the 26th September 2025 deadline.
2. Delegate authority to the Chief Executive in liaison with the Leader of the Council to make any final amendments to the full proposal in advance of submission to the government.
Thanks were expressed to the officer team for the immense amount of work undertaken to develop the proposal which would be considered by Council on 25 September and submitted to government on 26 September 2025.
Thanks were also expressed to the Resources Overview and Scrutiny Committee for their contribution following a full discussion on the proposal. The Leader of the Council highlighted an important aspect raised in discussion by the committee concerning harmonisation of council tax and the future of council tax. He clarified that the management of council tax for the new authorities was set down in legislation. Other aspects discussed included connectivity, connection to community, sense of place, economy and delivery of new services through transformation.
The committee made the following recommendations for consideration by Cabinet:
1. The Boroughs and Districts in Hampshire should play a key role on the Combined County Authority with the Strategic Mayor until the vesting of the new unitary authorities on 1 April 2028.
2. Democratic engagement with town and parish councils and wider community groups is important during the public consultation and preparations for the vesting of the new unitary authority.
Visiting speaker Mr Beevers was invited to speak. He spoke in relation to consideration of a Basingstoke Town Council and was particularly concerned regarding acceleration of development, new planning policy and the erosion of neighbourhood plans. He questioned the ownership of assets and revenues needed to pay for a Basingstoke Town Neighbourhood Plan as well as those for parishes and whether it would be Basingstoke Town or the new authority that would make those decisions. He further referred to stronger communities and engagement which he supported from the bottom up to restore nature and local community life in ways that bring about more engaged, resilient and stronger communities. He did not agree with more centralised development planning and felt the need for less council and more local decision making to encourage community engagement, identity and diversity.
The Leader of the Council responded stating that a motion had been considered by Council regarding a town council and had been rejected by members as it was considered that the matter should be considered by the new unitary authority, however there were many different forms of community engagement that could be encouraged under a new system. The reference made to planning and the importance of neighbourhood plans was acknowledged. He added that through the process of LGR many questions would need to be answered however the proposal under consideration for submission to government was the best proposal developed by 12 councils in Hampshire that addressed the government’s criteria.
Members discussed the proposal and:
Acknowledged the constraints on local government imposed by central government which would not change through reorganisation. Acknowledged the collaborative working across most authorities within Hampshire to develop the proposal. Recognised the importance of working with neighbouring councils, Hart and Rushmoor, to create a new authority for a better future for residents. Considered the proposal was the best option to ensure local decision making and that local people still had a voice. Raised concern regarding issues not fully addressed by LGR such as roads and social care but acknowledged the opportunity for service innovation and new ways of service delivery for residents in north Hampshire. Suggested the focus for the unitary authority be on place, infrastructure, development and housing as the current two tier system had impeded outcomes. Recognised there was an opportunity to do things differently and work collaboratively at all levels e.g. community centres and ward level. Acknowledged the two tier system was not fit for purpose. Recognised the challenges that LGR would bring such as social care.
The Leader of the Council confirmed the proposal would be considered by Council and submitted to government on 26 September 2025. Similar meetings had been held across the other 11 authorities who had collectively formed the join submission. Government would then consult on their chosen proposals later in the year with a decision on LGR likely in the new year. He thanked residents for engaging in the surveys that had been conducted which overwhelmingly supported the proposal for a North Hampshire authority and the council’s political groups for their contributions.
Resolved: Cabinet
1. Approve the full proposal to government at appendix 4 of the report, including the Council’s primary support for option 1 within the proposal, for submission to government by the 26th September 2025 deadline.
2. Delegate authority to the Chief Executive in liaison with the Leader of the Council to make any final amendments to the full proposal in advance of submission to the government.
10
Adoption of North Wessex Downs National Landscape Management Plan 2025-30
The purpose of this report is to adopt the updated management plan for the North Wessex Downs National Landscape, covering the period 2025-2030. The National Landscape designation (formally known as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) stretches across parts of Hampshire, Wiltshire, Berkshire and Oxfordshire, and covers about a third of the borough. The report sets out options regarding the Plan and recommends its adoption as a suitable framework for the stewardship of the area.
Recommendation from the Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Infrastructure
Recommendation from the Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Infrastructure
Attachments:
- Document NWDMP Cabinet Report 04 Sep 2025
- Document Appendix 1 - NWD Management Plan for Adoption 04 Sep 2025
- Document Appendix 2 - Officer Response to the consultation 04 Sep 2025
Minutes
Cabinet considered a report which presented an updated management plan to set a suitable framework for guiding the future management, protection and enhancement of the North Wessex Downs National Landscape. In adopting the Plan, the council would meet its statutory requirement to have an up-to-date Management Plan in place.
Resolved: To agree and adopt the revised management plan, noting that it is consistent with the council’s continued commitment to managing the borough’s natural environment.
Resolved: To agree and adopt the revised management plan, noting that it is consistent with the council’s continued commitment to managing the borough’s natural environment.
11
Local Nutrient Mitigation Funding for project to upgrade three council-owned wastewater treatment works to create nutrient credits to provide mitigation for new development
This report seeks agreement for the council to become a Benefiting and Host authority to receive funding to enable the upgrading of three council owned wastewater treatment works and any additional maintenance costs beyond that required for standard specification.
Recommendation from the Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Infrastructure
Recommendation from the Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Infrastructure
Attachments:
- Document FINAL Cabinet report_BDBC stw upgrades 04 Sep 2025
- Document Appendix 1 - Report to Partnership for Hampshire Joint Committee 04 Sep 2025
- Document Appendix 2 - Inter Authority Agreement for Solent Local Nutrient Mitigation Fund projects 04 Sep 2025
- Document Appendix 3 MOU between DLUHC and Fareham BC 04 Sep 2025
Minutes
The Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Infrastructure introduced the report which sought agreement for the council to become a ‘Benefiting’ and ‘Host’ authority to benefit from available grant funding to upgrade three of its wastewater treatment plants. He explained that through the Local Nutrient Mitigation Fund the council could receive up to £600,000 for a project that was estimated to cost £470,000 to deliver and maintain into the future. The council did not have the necessary funds so improvements could not be made without participating in the project.
Resolved: Cabinet
1. Authorise the council to become a ‘Benefiting Authority’ and ‘Host Authority’ under the Inter- Authority Agreement and receive LNMF payment for the upgrade of three council-owned wastewater treatment plants.
2. Delegate authority:
a) to the Head of Planning and Infrastructure to take all necessary steps to give effect to the decision that the council becomes a Host Authority and a Benefiting Authority and to agree the details of any scheme to be secured by legal agreement
b) to the Head of Law and Governance to enter into all legal agreements, on behalf of the Council, with Fareham Borough Council acting on behalf of PfSH, and any other benefiting authorities in respect of procurement of goods and services, grant funding and to give effect to working arrangements to implement the project and sell credits generated.
c) To the Director of Resident Services to award contracts and agree the terms of agreements for the procurement of any works.
Resolved: Cabinet
1. Authorise the council to become a ‘Benefiting Authority’ and ‘Host Authority’ under the Inter- Authority Agreement and receive LNMF payment for the upgrade of three council-owned wastewater treatment plants.
2. Delegate authority:
a) to the Head of Planning and Infrastructure to take all necessary steps to give effect to the decision that the council becomes a Host Authority and a Benefiting Authority and to agree the details of any scheme to be secured by legal agreement
b) to the Head of Law and Governance to enter into all legal agreements, on behalf of the Council, with Fareham Borough Council acting on behalf of PfSH, and any other benefiting authorities in respect of procurement of goods and services, grant funding and to give effect to working arrangements to implement the project and sell credits generated.
c) To the Director of Resident Services to award contracts and agree the terms of agreements for the procurement of any works.
12
Disposal of Joule Road Industrial Estate, Basingstoke
This report seeks approval to dispose of land at Joule Road Industrial Estate at less than open market value to Greenham Trust (GT) who have agreed, once the site has been redeveloped, to provide new premises to the Community Furniture Project (CFP) by granting a lease for 15 years at a discounted rent without excluding the security of tenure provisions.
Recommendation from the Co-Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Property
Recommendation from the Co-Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Property
Attachments:
- Document Cabinet report Joule Road disposal Sept 2025 FINAL 04 Sep 2025
- Document Appendix 1 Site Plan 04 Sep 2025
- Document Appendix 2 - Property and Financial Information EXEMPT 04 Sep 2025
- Document Appendix 3 Charitable Information 04 Sep 2025
- Document Appendix 4 - Timeframe EXEMPT 04 Sep 2025
Minutes
The Cabinet Member for Finance and Property presented a report which set out details of the disposal of land at Joule Road. He explained that the building occupied by the Community Furniture Project (CFP) was reaching the end of its natural life and several options had been considered to ensure that the CFP could continue to provide a valued community service in the borough. He added that ensuring the future of the CFP supported council plan priorities which included the anti-poverty strategy, waste strategy and skills strategy. The proposal to sell the land to Greenham Trust would ensure the long term future of the CFP.
Visiting speaker, Phelim O’Hagan from the CFP was invited to speak. He explained that the CFP was established 21 years ago with support from the council to provide affordable and free furniture for those in need and support and training for vulnerable people. He added that the CFP was instrumental in reducing tons of waste by recycling furniture and carried out the collection of white goods on behalf of BDBC and Hart DC resulting in a quarter of white goods being diverted from landfill. The importance of the location of the site at Joule road was also highlighted as central to the ongoing success of the CFP’s services as it was well serviced by public transport. Relocation to another site would create significant barriers particularly for those people with disabilities, low income and limited mobility. Furthermore there were no alternative premises suitable to meet the unique requirements of the CFP for a large storage capacity for furniture and electrical goods, workshops and training spaces for expanding programs and easy public transport access. The CFP would also benefit from a rental subsidy should Greenham Trust become the landlord, which would allow expansion to increase the volume of furniture available, provide opportunities to grow training and volunteering programmes and support more people in need in the borough.
Thanks were expressed to Phelim O’Hagan for the important work carried out by the CFP. The importance of the work of the CFP to the borough was acknowledged particularly in supporting adults with additional needs. The importance of the location of the site with regards to accessibility and transport links was also acknowledged. Members expressed support for the proposal to secure the future of the CFP and enable the CFP to deliver and develop services in the future.
Resolved: Cabinet
1. Approve in principle the disposal of council owned land at Joule Road Industrial Estate as shown in appendix 1 to the Greenham Trust (GT) for a consideration less than the best that can reasonably be obtained pursuant to section 123 (2) and the Local Government Act 1972: General Disposal Consent 2003 upon the basis that the disposal is likely to contribute to the improvement of the economic, social and environmental wellbeing of the area and its residents by facilitating the delivery of new improved premises by GT for the Community Furniture Project (CFP) subject to:
a) the undervalue being £2m or less under the terms of the General Disposal Consent
b) agreement of head of terms
c) s123 valuation report
d) the amount of the undervalue being notified in accordance with the Subsidy Control Act
2. Delegate authority to the Director of Regeneration, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder, to:
a) finalise heads of terms for the disposal of the site
b) enter into a contract for sale of the site to GT on terms requiring the deferred payment of the difference between the price and the open market value in the event that the council’s objectives (on the basis of which the undervalue disposal is made) are not achieved
c) set out the justification for the award of the subsidy equivalent the amount of the undervalue under the Subsidy Control Act and complete the appropriate notification and to receive advice on whether any discounted rent is a subsidy and if so, consider appropriate notification or exemptions
d) do anything that is conducive to the delivery of the social and economic wellbeing benefits of the land disposal
Visiting speaker, Phelim O’Hagan from the CFP was invited to speak. He explained that the CFP was established 21 years ago with support from the council to provide affordable and free furniture for those in need and support and training for vulnerable people. He added that the CFP was instrumental in reducing tons of waste by recycling furniture and carried out the collection of white goods on behalf of BDBC and Hart DC resulting in a quarter of white goods being diverted from landfill. The importance of the location of the site at Joule road was also highlighted as central to the ongoing success of the CFP’s services as it was well serviced by public transport. Relocation to another site would create significant barriers particularly for those people with disabilities, low income and limited mobility. Furthermore there were no alternative premises suitable to meet the unique requirements of the CFP for a large storage capacity for furniture and electrical goods, workshops and training spaces for expanding programs and easy public transport access. The CFP would also benefit from a rental subsidy should Greenham Trust become the landlord, which would allow expansion to increase the volume of furniture available, provide opportunities to grow training and volunteering programmes and support more people in need in the borough.
Thanks were expressed to Phelim O’Hagan for the important work carried out by the CFP. The importance of the work of the CFP to the borough was acknowledged particularly in supporting adults with additional needs. The importance of the location of the site with regards to accessibility and transport links was also acknowledged. Members expressed support for the proposal to secure the future of the CFP and enable the CFP to deliver and develop services in the future.
Resolved: Cabinet
1. Approve in principle the disposal of council owned land at Joule Road Industrial Estate as shown in appendix 1 to the Greenham Trust (GT) for a consideration less than the best that can reasonably be obtained pursuant to section 123 (2) and the Local Government Act 1972: General Disposal Consent 2003 upon the basis that the disposal is likely to contribute to the improvement of the economic, social and environmental wellbeing of the area and its residents by facilitating the delivery of new improved premises by GT for the Community Furniture Project (CFP) subject to:
a) the undervalue being £2m or less under the terms of the General Disposal Consent
b) agreement of head of terms
c) s123 valuation report
d) the amount of the undervalue being notified in accordance with the Subsidy Control Act
2. Delegate authority to the Director of Regeneration, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder, to:
a) finalise heads of terms for the disposal of the site
b) enter into a contract for sale of the site to GT on terms requiring the deferred payment of the difference between the price and the open market value in the event that the council’s objectives (on the basis of which the undervalue disposal is made) are not achieved
c) set out the justification for the award of the subsidy equivalent the amount of the undervalue under the Subsidy Control Act and complete the appropriate notification and to receive advice on whether any discounted rent is a subsidy and if so, consider appropriate notification or exemptions
d) do anything that is conducive to the delivery of the social and economic wellbeing benefits of the land disposal
13
Manydown North - MDV LLP Annual Budget 2025/26
This report seeks approval for the MDV LLP 2025/26 budget as an update to the MDV LLP Overarching Business Plan and approval of the MDV LLP Annual Business Plan.
Recommendation from the Cabinet Member for Major Projects and Regeneration
Recommendation from the Cabinet Member for Major Projects and Regeneration
Attachments:
- Document Cabinet Report - Manydown North - MDV LLP Budget and Annual Business Plan 030925 04 Sep 2025
- Document Appendix 1 - Manydown North - MDV LLP Annual Budget and Business Plan 2025-26 EXEMPT 04 Sep 2025
Minutes
The Cabinet Member for Major Projects and Regeneration introduced the report which presented the annual budget as an update to the MDV LLP Overarching Business Plan and sought approval of the MDV LLP Annual Business Plan for 2025/26
A brief history of the project was provided. The Cabinet Member for Major Projects and Regeneration stressed the importance of master planning for the whole site not just North Manydown and that it was essential to take into account the cumulative impact of the whole site and side developments with regard to cumulative infrastructure requirements.
She added that the MDV LLP Board had met on 10 September and approved the 2025/26 budget and completion of a loan facility agreement was imminent however should the loan facility not be not completed by the end of October both BDBC and HCC had elected not to continue to fund the shortfall in relation to infrastructure costs and S106 payments, however Urban&Civic would continue to meet any shortfall. An error in the report was highlighted in paragraph 3.2.2 where the budget should read £20.95 million not £18.9 million as stated.
She added that the business plan built on the partnerships mobilisation since securing the freehold of the Manydown development site in October 2024. She highlighted a number of activities that had taken place which included the construction and technical works for access junctions, progressed the discharge of key phase 1 planning conditions with the LPA, contracting with SSE, completed archaeological investigations on key phase 1a, agreed an in principle loan facility with Homes England to support investment in infrastructure and undertaken tree works in Worting Woods to improve safety and accessibility.
She concluded that in the coming year, the business plan would deliver the first main access into Manydown, commence construction of the second access off the B3400, commence design of the first primary school and community centre ensuring that infrastructure and housing are in tandem, continue work to create the country park and commence the marketing and sale of the first housing parcels.
She expressed thanks to officers and partners for their hard work to reach the current position of the project.
Resolved: Cabinet
1. Approve the MDV LLP 2025/26 Annual Budget as an update to the MDV LLP Overarching Business Plan.
2. Approve the MDV LLP 2025/26 Annual Business Plan.
A brief history of the project was provided. The Cabinet Member for Major Projects and Regeneration stressed the importance of master planning for the whole site not just North Manydown and that it was essential to take into account the cumulative impact of the whole site and side developments with regard to cumulative infrastructure requirements.
She added that the MDV LLP Board had met on 10 September and approved the 2025/26 budget and completion of a loan facility agreement was imminent however should the loan facility not be not completed by the end of October both BDBC and HCC had elected not to continue to fund the shortfall in relation to infrastructure costs and S106 payments, however Urban&Civic would continue to meet any shortfall. An error in the report was highlighted in paragraph 3.2.2 where the budget should read £20.95 million not £18.9 million as stated.
She added that the business plan built on the partnerships mobilisation since securing the freehold of the Manydown development site in October 2024. She highlighted a number of activities that had taken place which included the construction and technical works for access junctions, progressed the discharge of key phase 1 planning conditions with the LPA, contracting with SSE, completed archaeological investigations on key phase 1a, agreed an in principle loan facility with Homes England to support investment in infrastructure and undertaken tree works in Worting Woods to improve safety and accessibility.
She concluded that in the coming year, the business plan would deliver the first main access into Manydown, commence construction of the second access off the B3400, commence design of the first primary school and community centre ensuring that infrastructure and housing are in tandem, continue work to create the country park and commence the marketing and sale of the first housing parcels.
She expressed thanks to officers and partners for their hard work to reach the current position of the project.
Resolved: Cabinet
1. Approve the MDV LLP 2025/26 Annual Budget as an update to the MDV LLP Overarching Business Plan.
2. Approve the MDV LLP 2025/26 Annual Business Plan.
Previous Meetings
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