Portsmouth City Borough Council
Councillors:
42
Wards:
14
Committees:
37
Meetings (2026):
11
Meetings (2025):
117
Meeting
Full Council - Portsmouth City
Meeting Times
Scheduled Time
Start:
Tuesday, 24th February 2026
2:00 PM
Tuesday, 24th February 2026
2:00 PM
End:
Tuesday, 24th February 2026
6:00 PM
Tuesday, 24th February 2026
6:00 PM
Meeting Status
Status:
Confirmed
Confirmed
Date:
24 Feb 2026
24 Feb 2026
Location:
Council Chamber - The Guildhall, Portsmouth
Council Chamber - The Guildhall, Portsmouth
Webcast:
Available
Available
Meeting Attendees
Committee Member
Cabinet Member for Environmental Services
Committee Member
Cabinet Member for Central Services
Committee Member
Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Greening the City
Committee Member
Group Leader
Committee Member
Cabinet Member for Transport
Committee Member
Committee Member
Committee Member
Cabinet Member for Children, Families & Education
Committee Member
Deputy Group Leader
Committee Member
Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Leisure & Sport
Committee Member
Committee Member
Vice-Chair
Deputy Lord Mayor
Committee Member
Deputy Leader of the Council; Cabinet Member for Housing and Tackling Homelessness
Committee Member
Deputy Group Leader
Committee Member
Chair
Lord Mayor
Committee Member
Cabinet Member for Community Wellbeing, Health & Care
Committee Member
Group Leader
Committee Member
Cabinet Member for Planning Policy & City Development
Committee Member
Councillor Joe Standen
Present, as expected
Committee Member
Leader of the Council (with portfolio responsibility for Culture, Regeneration & Economic Development)
Officer
Chief Executive
Natalie Brahma-Pearl
Present, as expected
Officer
City Solicitor
Peter Baulf
Present, as expected
Officer
Director of Finance & Resources (S151 Officer)
Chris Ward
Present, as expected
Officer
Senior Local Democracy Officer
James Harris
Present, as expected
Officer
Legal Services Business Manager
Peter Smith-Parkyn
Present, as expected
Agenda
1
Declaration of Members' Interests
Minutes
Councillor Joe Standen declared a personal interest in minute 10 (Portsmouth City Council - Budget & Council Tax 2026/27, Medium Term Budget Forecast 2027/28 to 2029/30 & Capital Strategy 2026/2027 to 2035/2036).
The nature of his interest being that he was a veteran and the Reform UK budget amendment in his name proposed a £50,000 Veteran's Hardship Fund.
The nature of his interest being that he was a veteran and the Reform UK budget amendment in his name proposed a £50,000 Veteran's Hardship Fund.
2
To approve as a correct record the Minutes of the Council meeting held on 9 December 2025
To approve as a correct record the Minutes of the Council meeting held on 9 December 2025.
Attachments:
- Document DRAFT 09.12.25 Council Mins 16 Feb 2026
Minutes
It was
Proposed by Councillor Steve Pitt
Seconded by Councillor Joe Standen
That the minutes of the Council meeting held on 9 December 2025 be confirmed as a correct record.
The minutes were agreed by assent.
Proposed by Councillor Steve Pitt
Seconded by Councillor Joe Standen
That the minutes of the Council meeting held on 9 December 2025 be confirmed as a correct record.
The minutes were agreed by assent.
3
Apologies for Absence
Minutes
The Lord Mayor advised that apologies for absence had been received from Councillor Chris Dike.
4
To receive such communications as the Lord Mayor may desire to lay before the Council
Minutes
The Lord Mayor took the opportunity to congratulate Councillor Joe Standen on his appointment as Leader of the Reform UK Group on the council and to his position as main opposition group leader.
5
Deputations from the Public under Standing Order No 24.
Deputations by members of the public may be made on any item where a decision is going to be taken. The request should be made in writing to the contact officer (james.harris@portsmouthcc.gov.uk) by 12 noon of the working day before the meeting (so Monday 23 February 2026 for this meeting), and must include the purpose of the deputation (for example, for or against the recommendations). Email requests are accepted.
Minutes
The Lord Mayor advised that there were no oral deputations for this meeting.
6
Appointments
Attachments:
- Document Review of Political Proportionality Report March 2026 16 Feb 2026
Minutes
Proposed by Councillor George Madgwick
Seconded by Councillor Russell Simpson
It was RESOLVED that Council:
AGREED:
(a) the revised proportionality of the Council and the associated allocation of seats on committees and panels as detailed on the table in paragraph 3.3 of the report; and
(b) the below appointments:
(i) Licensing Committee - Councillor Emily Strudwick, who was previously a Portsmouth Independent Party Group appointment on the committee, be reappointed to the committee as a Reform UK Group councillor.
(ii) Licensing Committee - Councillor Lee Tindal, who was previously a Portsmouth Independent Party Group standing deputy on the committee, be reappointed to the committee as a Reform UK Group standing deputy.
(iii) Education, Children & Young People Scrutiny Panel - Councillor Lee Tindal, previously a Portsmouth Independent Party Group appointment on the panel, be reappointed to the panel as a Reform UK Group councillor.
(iv) Education, Children & Young People Scrutiny Panel - Councillor Emily Strudwick, previously a Portsmouth Independent Party Group standing deputy on the panel, be reappointed to the panel as a Reform UK Group standing deputy.
(v) Traffic, Environment & Community Safety Scrutiny Panel - Councillor Chris Dike, who was appointed to the panel in the gifted Portsmouth Independent Party Group seat, be reappointed to the panel as a Reform UK Group councillor.
(vi) Planning Committee - Councillor Chris Dike to be reappointed to the Reform UK Group seat on the committee, which had previously been gifted by the Portsmouth Independent Party Group to the Reform UK Group.
It was
Proposed by Councillor Joe Standen
Seconded by Councillor Jason Fazackarley
that Councillor Emily Strudwick be reappointed as the Chair of the Licensing Committee.
It was
proposed by Councillor Simon Bosher
Seconded by Councillor Hannah Brent
that Councillor Benedict Swann be appointed as the Chair of the Licensing Committee.
Following votes, the proposal in the name of Councillor Joe Standen was declared LOST and the proposal in the name of Councillor Simon Bosher was declared CARRIED.
It was therefore RESOLVED that Councillor Benedict Swann be appointed Chair of the Licensing Committee.
Seconded by Councillor Russell Simpson
It was RESOLVED that Council:
AGREED:
(a) the revised proportionality of the Council and the associated allocation of seats on committees and panels as detailed on the table in paragraph 3.3 of the report; and
(b) the below appointments:
(i) Licensing Committee - Councillor Emily Strudwick, who was previously a Portsmouth Independent Party Group appointment on the committee, be reappointed to the committee as a Reform UK Group councillor.
(ii) Licensing Committee - Councillor Lee Tindal, who was previously a Portsmouth Independent Party Group standing deputy on the committee, be reappointed to the committee as a Reform UK Group standing deputy.
(iii) Education, Children & Young People Scrutiny Panel - Councillor Lee Tindal, previously a Portsmouth Independent Party Group appointment on the panel, be reappointed to the panel as a Reform UK Group councillor.
(iv) Education, Children & Young People Scrutiny Panel - Councillor Emily Strudwick, previously a Portsmouth Independent Party Group standing deputy on the panel, be reappointed to the panel as a Reform UK Group standing deputy.
(v) Traffic, Environment & Community Safety Scrutiny Panel - Councillor Chris Dike, who was appointed to the panel in the gifted Portsmouth Independent Party Group seat, be reappointed to the panel as a Reform UK Group councillor.
(vi) Planning Committee - Councillor Chris Dike to be reappointed to the Reform UK Group seat on the committee, which had previously been gifted by the Portsmouth Independent Party Group to the Reform UK Group.
It was
Proposed by Councillor Joe Standen
Seconded by Councillor Jason Fazackarley
that Councillor Emily Strudwick be reappointed as the Chair of the Licensing Committee.
It was
proposed by Councillor Simon Bosher
Seconded by Councillor Hannah Brent
that Councillor Benedict Swann be appointed as the Chair of the Licensing Committee.
Following votes, the proposal in the name of Councillor Joe Standen was declared LOST and the proposal in the name of Councillor Simon Bosher was declared CARRIED.
It was therefore RESOLVED that Councillor Benedict Swann be appointed Chair of the Licensing Committee.
7
Urgent Business - To receive and consider any urgent and important business from Members of the Cabinet in accordance with Standing Order No 26.
Minutes
The Lord Mayor advised that there were no matters of urgent business to consider.
8
Update to Officer Employment Procedure Rules (Part 3D of the Council's Constitution)
To receive and consider the attached report and recommendation from the Governance & Audit & Standards Committee held on 21 January 2026.
Attachments:
- Document G&A&S Cttee Recommendation 21.01.26 16 Feb 2026
- Document GAS Report - Updated Officer Employment Procedure Rules 16 Feb 2026
- Document Appendix A - Updated Part-3D-Officers-Employment-Procedure-Rules 16 Feb 2026
Minutes
Council Agenda Item 8 (Governance & Audit & Standards Committee minute 4)
The recommendations within this report were approved unopposed.
It was therefore RESOLVED that Full Council:
(i) adopts the updated Officer Employment Procedure Rules at Appendix A to this report, to replace the existing Officer Employment Procedure Rules at Part 3D of the council's constitution; and
(ii) authorises the City Solicitor to make the above changes, along with any other necessary minor consequential changes, to the council's constitution resulting from the adoption of the updated Officer Employment Procedure Rules.
The recommendations within this report were approved unopposed.
It was therefore RESOLVED that Full Council:
(i) adopts the updated Officer Employment Procedure Rules at Appendix A to this report, to replace the existing Officer Employment Procedure Rules at Part 3D of the council's constitution; and
(ii) authorises the City Solicitor to make the above changes, along with any other necessary minor consequential changes, to the council's constitution resulting from the adoption of the updated Officer Employment Procedure Rules.
9
Approvals relating to the Hampshire & The Solent Combined County Authority
Council is invited to consider, debate and note for information only, the Cabinet report and its associated recommendations prior to a decision being made by Cabinet at its meeting on 3 March 2026.
Attachments:
- Document Approval of revised SI - Feb 2026 - unsigned 16 Feb 2026
Minutes
The Lord Mayor advised that this item had been included on the Council agenda for debate and noting only, prior to it being considered by the Cabinet on 3 March 2026.
Councillor Simon Bosher opposed the minute to allow debate.
To allow questions to officers, it was:
Proposed by Councillor Simon Bosher
Seconded by Councillor Steve Pitt
That under Standing Order 1 (Suspension of Standing Orders), Standing Order 29 (Oral Questions by Members), be suspended for this item to enable councillors to ask questions of the officers present.
As required by Standing Order 1, this resolution was CARRIED by a majority vote.
Council debated the Cabinet report following an introduction by the Leader.
During the debate, no concerns were raised in respect of the decision to be taken by Cabinet. In response to questions, the powers that would apply prior to the election of a mayor were outlined, and it was explained that approval of the amended statutory instrument by all four upper-tier authorities was essential for the devolution deal to progress. If this approval was not secured, the Secretary of State had the power to designate a minimal 'foundational strategic authority' to oversee a spatial strategy and a strategic growth strategy, albeit without any additional powers or funding.
In response to a further question around the implications to the council's budget going forwards should one of the four upper tier authorities not agree to continue with devolution, the Section 151 Officer explained that some of the key investment opportunities, such as those around housing and transport infrastructure, would likely be delayed or lost.
Following the debate Council NOTED the report.
Councillor Simon Bosher opposed the minute to allow debate.
To allow questions to officers, it was:
Proposed by Councillor Simon Bosher
Seconded by Councillor Steve Pitt
That under Standing Order 1 (Suspension of Standing Orders), Standing Order 29 (Oral Questions by Members), be suspended for this item to enable councillors to ask questions of the officers present.
As required by Standing Order 1, this resolution was CARRIED by a majority vote.
Council debated the Cabinet report following an introduction by the Leader.
During the debate, no concerns were raised in respect of the decision to be taken by Cabinet. In response to questions, the powers that would apply prior to the election of a mayor were outlined, and it was explained that approval of the amended statutory instrument by all four upper-tier authorities was essential for the devolution deal to progress. If this approval was not secured, the Secretary of State had the power to designate a minimal 'foundational strategic authority' to oversee a spatial strategy and a strategic growth strategy, albeit without any additional powers or funding.
In response to a further question around the implications to the council's budget going forwards should one of the four upper tier authorities not agree to continue with devolution, the Section 151 Officer explained that some of the key investment opportunities, such as those around housing and transport infrastructure, would likely be delayed or lost.
Following the debate Council NOTED the report.
10
Portsmouth City Council - Budget & Council Tax 2026/27, Medium Term Budget Forecast 2027/28 to 2029/30 & Capital Strategy 2026/2027 to 2035/2036
To receive and consider the enclosed recommendations of the Cabinet meeting held on 10 February 2026, the report for which is contained within the separate agenda supplement.
Attachments:
- Document Cabinet Budget Recommendation 10.02.26 16 Feb 2026
- Document Revenue & Capital Budget 2026 27 Report Full Council 16 Feb 2026
- Document Appendix A to H 11 Feb 26 16 Feb 2026
- Document Final Revenue Budget Amendment 2026 27 (February 2026 Meeting) - Reform Group 16 Feb 2026
- Document Revenue Budget Amendment 2026 27 (February 2026 Meeting) - Labour Group 16 Feb 2026
- Document Revenue Budget Amendment 2026 27 (February 2026 Meeting) - Conservative Group 16 Feb 2026
- Document App 1 - Budget Amendment - Reform Group 09 Mar 2026
- Document App 2 - Budget Amendment - Labour Group 09 Mar 2026
- Document App 3 - Budget Amendment - Conservative Group 09 Mar 2026
Minutes
The Lord Mayor advised that the recommendations from the Cabinet meeting had previously been circulated and reminded councillors that the speaking time limit did not apply to group leaders on budget items.
The Lord Mayor then called Cabinet Minute 14, Portsmouth City Council - Budget & Council Tax 2026/27, Medium-Term Budget Forecast 2027/28 to 2029/30 & Capital Strategy 2026/27 to 2035/36.
This minute was opposed by Councillor Simon Bosher.
It was therefore
Proposed by Councillor Steve Pitt
Seconded by Councillor Darren Sanders
That the recommendations contained in Cabinet Minute 14, Portsmouth City Council - Budget & Council Tax 2026/27, Medium-Term Budget Forecast 2027/28 to 2029/30 & Capital Strategy 2026/27 to 2035/36.
The Lord Mayor invited the Leader of the Council, Councillor Steve Pitt, to speak to the Cabinet budget recommendations.
The Leader spoke to the administration's budget proposals.
In doing so he emphasised that it was likely the penultimate budget for Portsmouth City Council due to expected local government reorganisation. He confirmed the budget was balanced, with £3 million in efficiencies and income identified to maintain financial stability and protect services and noted that £1 million in annual savings will be required for each of the next three years alongside government-expected council tax increases.
He highlighted the risks posed by reorganisation and referenced a forecasted £67 million savings requirement for a merged authority, which could threaten key local services and assets. He called for members to lobby government to protect Portsmouth’s autonomy and criticised the current funding model, noting that much of the announced increase was derived from council tax rises rather than new government money. The capital programme focussed on safeguarding local assets and services, with investments in IT systems, school maintenance, playgrounds, museums, council buildings, youth services, roads, and housing schemes. The Leader concluded by urging members to consider the legacy of previous budgets and the importance of protecting Portsmouth’s interests. He commended the proposed budget to Council.
Councillor Joe Standen (Leader of the opposition) spoke in reply.
As an amendment it was
Proposed by Councillor Joe Standen
Seconded by Councillor Russell Simpson
That the recommendations set out in Appendix 1 attached to these minutes (Reform UK Group budget amendment) be adopted.
Councillor Standen spoke to his group's proposed budget amendment which focused on reducing the proposed council tax increase from 4.99% to 3.49%, thereby aligning it with inflation to ease the financial burden on residents.
The Reform UK Group proposed funding this reduction by ending the Civic Futures Fund and reallocating its uncommitted balance, with £1.6 million used to offset the council tax rise and the remaining £213,000 invested in children’s activities at community centres and in support for veterans. Councillor Standen expressed concern about the high-risk savings proposed in adult social care, asserting that the council’s assumptions about market behaviour could impact vulnerable residents. He concluded by urging members to support the amendment.
Councillor Charlotte Gerada (Labour Group Leader) then spoke in reply.
As an amendment it was
Proposed by Councillor Charlotte Gerada
Seconded by Councillor Graham Heaney
That the recommendations set out in Appendix 2 attached to these minutes (Labour Group budget amendment) be adopted.
Councillor Gerada introduced the Labour Group's amendment which focused on targeted local improvements funded by reducing the City Centre Road budget. She prefaced the amendment by referencing improved national measures, including reduced inflation, increased government funding for the council and the introduction of multi-year financial settlements, which she believed had strengthened the council’s financial position. Key proposals within the amendment included a zebra crossing on Lawrence Road, traffic calming on Highbury Grove, five deployable CCTV units for Charles Dickens Ward, extra accessible play equipment for disabled children, and joint funding for upgrades to the Community Kettle Centre in Cosham. She commended the amendment to Council
Councillor Simon Bosher (Conservative Group Leader) then spoke in reply.
As an amendment it was
Proposed by Councillor Simon Bosher
Seconded by Councillor Benedict Swann
That the recommendations set out in Appendix 3 attached to these minutes (Conservative Group budget amendment) be adopted.
Councillor Bosher introduced the Conservative Group’s budget amendment, expressing thanks to council staff in working with the administration to create the budget and with his group's amendment. He criticised recent government tax and funding policies and he highlighted concerns about the need to increase council tax, along with the financial risks associated with local government reorganisation. The amendment proposed funding for a feasibility study for a one-way system in Kensington and Chelmsford Roads, the refurbishment of Anchorage Lodge community centre and repairs and security shutters for Drayton Park Pavilion. All schemes had been fully costed and funding sources identified. He commended the amendment to Council.
Following debate, the Lord Mayor called upon the Leader of the Council to sum up.
In summing up, the Leader of the Council confirmed that he did not wish to subsume any of the amendments into the Cabinet recommendation.
The Lord Mayor reminded councillors that all votes on the budget would be by recorded to comply the Local Authorities (Standing Orders) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2014.
Council voted in turn on the Reform UK Group amendment, the Labour Group amendment and the Conservative group amendment.
Upon the Reform UK Group amendment standing in the name of Councillor Joe Standen in respect of the Portsmouth City Council - Budget & Council Tax 2026/27, Medium-Term Budget Forecast 2027/28 to 2029/30 & Capital Strategy 2026/27 to 2035/36 being put to the vote:
The following members voted in favour
Councillor Matthew Cordy
Councillor Russell Simpson
Councillor Raymond Dent
Councillor Joe Standen
Councillor Jason Fazackarley
Councillor Emily Strudwick
Councillor George Madgwick
Councillor Lee Tindal
Councillor Derek North
The following members voted against
Councillor Richard Adair
Councillor Graham Heaney
Councillor Yinka Adeniran
Councillor Ian Holder
Councillor Dave Ashmore
Councillor Suzy Horton
Councillor Chris Attwell
Councillor Lee Hunt
Councillor Kimberly Barrett
Councillor Mark Jeffery
Councillor Hannah Brent
Councillor Abdul Kadir
Councillor Stuart Brown
Councillor Hugh Mason
Councillor Peter Candlish
Councillor Leonie Oliver
Councillor Tom Coles
Councillor Steve Pitt
Councillor Cal Corkery
Councillor Darren Sanders
Councillor Nicholas Dorrington
Councillor Asghar Shah
Councillor George Fielding
Councillor Judith Smyth
Councillor Charlotte Gerada
Councillor Mary Vallely
Councillor Rajah Ghosh
Councillor Matthew Winnington
The following members abstained from voting
Councillor Simon Bosher
Councillor Benedict Swann
Councillor Spencer Gardner
Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson
CBE
The Reform UK Group amendment was therefore declared LOST.
Upon the Labour Group amendment standing in the name of Councillor Charlotte Gerada in respect of the Portsmouth City Council - Budget & Council Tax 2026/27, Medium-Term Budget Forecast 2027/28 to 2029/30 & Capital Strategy 2026/27 to 2035/36 being put to the vote:
The following members voted in favour
Councillor Richard Adair
Councillor Graham Heaney
Councillor Yinka Adeniran
Councillor Ian Holder
Councillor Dave Ashmore
Councillor Suzy Horton
Councillor Chris Attwell
Councillor Lee Hunt
Councillor Kimberly Barrett
Councillor Mark Jeffery
Councillor Stuart Brown
Councillor Abdul Kadir
Councillor Peter Candlish
Councillor Hugh Mason
Councillor Tom Coles
Councillor Steve Pitt
Councillor Cal Corkery
Councillor Darren Sanders
Councillor Nicholas Dorrington
Councillor Asghar Shah
Councillor George Fielding
Councillor Judith Smyth
Councillor Charlotte Gerada
Councillor Mary Vallely
Councillor Rajah Ghosh
Councillor Matthew Winnington
No members voted against
The following members abstained from voting
Councillor Simon Bosher
Councillor Derek North
Councillor Hannah Brent
Councillor Leonie Oliver
Councillor Matthew Cordy
Councillor Russell Simpson
Councillor Raymond Dent
Councillor Joe Standen
Councillor Jason Fazackarley
Councillor Emily Strudwick
Councillor Spencer Gardner
Councillor Benedict Swann
Councillor George Madgwick
Councillor Lee Tindal
Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson CBE
The Labour Group amendment was therefore declared CARRIED.
Upon the Conservative Group amendment standing in the name of Councillor Simon Bosher in respect of the Portsmouth City Council - Budget & Council Tax 2026/27, Medium-Term Budget Forecast 2027/28 to 2029/30 & Capital Strategy 2026/27 to 2035/36 being put to the vote:
The following members voted in favour
Councillor Richard Adair
Councillor Ian Holder
Councillor Dave Ashmore
Councillor Suzy Horton
Councillor Kimberly Barrett
Councillor Lee Hunt
Councillor Simon Bosher
Councillor Mark Jeffery
Councillor Hannah Brent
Councillor Abdul Kadir
Councillor Stuart Brown
Councillor Steve Pitt
Councillor Peter Candlish
Councillor Darren Sanders
Councillor Cal Corkery
Councillor Benedict Swann
Councillor Spencer Gardner
No members voted against
The following members abstained from voting
Councillor Yinka Adeniran
Councillor Hugh Mason
Councillor Chris Attwell
Councillor Derek North
Councillor Tom Coles
Councillor Leonie Oliver
Councillor Matthew Cordy
Councillor Asghar Shah
Councillor Raymond Dent
Councillor Russell Simpson
Councillor Nicholas Dorrington
Councillor Judith Smyth
Councillor Jason Fazackarley
Councillor Joe Standen
Councillor George Fielding
Councillor Emily Strudwick
Councillor Charlotte Gerada
Councillor Lee Tindal
Councillor Rajah Ghosh
Councillor Mary Vallely
Councillor Graham Heaney
Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson
Councillor George Madgwick
Councillor Matthew Winnington
The Conservative Group amendment was therefore declared CARRIED.
Upon the recommendations in Cabinet minute 14 Portsmouth City Council - Budget & Council Tax 2026/27, Medium-Term Budget Forecast 2027/28 to 2029/30 & Capital Strategy 2026/27 to 2035/36 incorporating the agreed amendments in the names of Councillor Charlotte Gerada and Councillor Simon Bosher being put to the vote:
The following members voted in favour
Councillor Richard Adair
Councillor Graham Heaney
Councillor Yinka Adeniran
Councillor Ian Holder
Councillor Dave Ashmore
Councillor Suzy Horton
Councillor Chris Attwell
Councillor Lee Hunt
Councillor Kimberly Barrett
Councillor Mark Jeffery
Councillor Simon Bosher
Councillor Abdul Kadir
Councillor Hannah Brent
Councillor Hugh Mason
Councillor Stuart Brown
Councillor Leonie Oliver
Councillor Peter Candlish
Councillor Steve Pitt
Councillor Tom Coles
Councillor Darren Sanders
Councillor Cal Corkery
Councillor Asghar Shah
Councillor Nicholas Dorrington
Councillor Judith Smyth
Councillor George Fielding
Councillor Benedict Swann
Councillor Spencer Gardner
Councillor Mary Valley
Councillor Charlotte Gerada
Councillor Matthew Winnington
Councillor Rajah Ghosh
The following members abstained from voting
Councillor Matthew Cordy
Councillor Raymond Dent
Councillor Jason Fazackarley
Councillor George Madgwick
Councillor Derek North
Councillor Russell Simpson
Councillor Joe Standen
Councillor Emily Strudwick
Councillor Lee Tindal
The recommendations in Cabinet minute 14 Portsmouth City Council - Budget & Council Tax 2026/27, Medium-Term Budget Forecast 2027/28 to 2029/30 & Capital Strategy 2026/27 to 2035/36 incorporating the agreed amendments in the names of Councillor Charlotte Gerada and Councillor Simon Bosher therefore APPROVED were therefore declared CARRIED.
It was therefore RESOLVED:
3.1 That the following be approved in respect of the Council's Budget:
1. The revised Revenue Estimates for the financial year 2025/26 and the Revenue Estimates for the financial year 2026/27 as set out in the General Fund Summary (Appendix A)
2. The Portfolio Cash Limits for the Revised Budget for 2025/26 and the Budget 2026/27 incorporating the savings amounts for each Portfolio and amounting to £3.0m as set out in Sections 7 and 11, respectively
3. To maintain the overall financial resilience of the Council, any underspends arising at the year-end (outside of those made by Portfolios) be transferred either to Capital Resources to fund future Capital Programmes, the MTRS Reserve or General Reserves with the level of each transfer to be determined by the S.151 Officer
4. Any variation to the Council's funding arising from the final Local Government Finance Settlement be accommodated by a transfer to or from General Reserves
5. The S.151 Officer be given delegated authority to make any necessary adjustments to Cash Limits within the overall approved Budget and Budget Forecasts
6. That the level of Council Tax be increased by 2.99% for general purposes in accordance with the referendum threshold for 2026/27 announced by Government (as calculated in recommendation 3.4 (d))
7. That the level of Council Tax be increased by a further 2.0% beyond the referendum threshold (as calculated in recommendation 3.4 (d)) to take advantage of the flexibility offered by Government to implement a "Social Care Precept", and that in accordance with the conditions of that flexibility, the full amount of the associated sum generated of £2,143,800 is passported direct to Adult Social Care
8. Managers be authorised to incur routine expenditure against the Cash Limits for 2026/27 as set out in Section 11
9. That a minimum savings requirement of £1m for 2027/28 be set at this stage but that this is kept under review, pending any significant impact on the Council's future Revenue Forecast that may arise during 2026/27
10. That the S.151 Officer be given delegated authority to make transfers to and from reserves to ensure that they are maintained as necessary and in particular, adjusted when reserves are no longer required or need to be replenished
11. The minimum level of General Reserves as at 31 March 2027 be maintained at £12.0m to reflect the known and expected budget and financial risks to the Council
12. The Revised Capital Programme 2025/26 to 2030/31 attached as Appendix E and which includes all additions, deletions and amendments for slippage and re-phasing be amended by tables i) and ii) below and approved
i) Reductions to the Capital Programme (Appendices D & E)
Scheme Deletions / Reductions
2026/27
£
2027/28
£
Culture, Regeneration & Economic Development Portfolio
Reduce
DLTC Urban Spaces - Inclusive Design
10,000
Reduce
Cumberland House Natural History Museum
10,000
Transport Portfolio
Reduce
City Centre Road
227,500
Community Safety, Leisure & Sport Portfolio
Reduce
Horsea Lane Allotments Toilet
10,000
Reduce
Southsea Rose Gardens
10,000
Total
267,500
ii) Additions to Capital Programme (Appendices D & E)
Scheme Additions / Increases
2026/27
£
2027/28
£
Community Safety, Leisure & Sport Portfolio
Increase
Play Equipment Replacement
(To increase funding for accessible play improvements to £80,000)
30,000
Add
Deployable CCTV Monitors for Charles Dickens Ward (x 5)
35,000
Add
College Park - Dog Gate
5,000
Add
Canoe Lake - Bollards to prevent private vehicle entry
5,000
Add
Drayton Park - Repair and installation of security shutters
14,500
Transport Portfolio
Add
Raised Zebra Crossing for Lawrence Road
(£90,000 contribution to a £120,000 overall Scheme, remaining balance to be funded from Neighbourhood CIL)
90,000
Add
Highbury Grove Traffic Calming Measures
56,000
Add
Feasibility Study for a One Way system at Kensington Rd / Chelmsford Rd
6,000
Culture, Regeneration & Economic Development Portfolio
Add
Anchorage Lodge (Community Centre) - Redecorations and refurbishments
20,000
Add
Bench seating x 2 - Allaway Avenue shops, Paulsgrove
5,000
Add
New Refuse Bin at Drayton Road Shops
1,000
Total
267,500
13. The S.151 Officer be given delegated authority to determine how each source of finance is used to fund the overall Capital Programme and to alter the overall mix of financing, as necessary, to maximise the flexibility of capital resources used and minimise the ongoing costs of borrowing to the Council
14. That the S.151 Officer in consultation with the Leader of the Council be given delegated authority to release capital resources held back for any contingent items that might arise, and for any match funding requirements that may be required of the City Council in order to secure additional external capital funding (e.g. bids for funding from Government or any other external source)
15. Subject to a satisfactory financial appraisal approved by the S.151 Officer, the schemes described in Appendix D (as amended by tables i) and ii) above) be reflected within the recommended Capital Programme 2025/26 to 2030/31
16. Subject to a satisfactory financial appraisal approved by the S.151 Officer, that delegated authority to borrow up to £15m per year be granted in order that the Council can enter into transactions in an efficient and timely fashion and avoid the risk of lost opportunities which may be of a time critical nature
17. That the S.151 Officer be given delegated authority to amend the Prudential Indicators set out in Appendix F to accommodate any changes arising from the agreed amendments.
18. Part 1 of the Capital Strategy (Capital Expenditure and Aspirations) set out in Appendix G be approved.
19. Part 2 of the Capital Strategy (Borrowing and Investing) set out in Appendix G be approved.
20. Members have had regard for the Statement of the S.151 Officer in accordance with the Local Government Act 2003 as set out in Section 17.
3.2 That the following be noted in respect of the Council's Revenue Budget and Capital Programme:
1. The Budget Consultation 2025 at Appendix H
2. The Revenue Estimates 2026/27 as set out in Appendix A have been prepared on the basis of a 2.0% tax increase for the "Social Care Precept" (amounting to £2,143,800) and that this is passported to Adult Social Care in order to provide for otherwise unfunded budget pressures
3. The decision on the amount at which to set the Adult Social Care precept will be critical for the Social Care and wider health system in the City; in the event that the additional flexibility of the "Social Care Precept" and associated 2.0% tax increase is not taken, then equivalent savings will need to be made in Adult Social Care in 2026/27
4. In general, any reduction to the proposed increase in the level of Council Tax for 2026/27 will require equivalent offsetting savings to be made for the Budget 2026/27 to be approved. Each 1% reduction requires additional savings of £1,071,900 to be made
5. The indicative savings proposals set out in Appendix C which are provided for the purpose of demonstrating to the Council that the Portfolio savings as recommended in paragraph 3.1 2) above, are robust and deliverable
6. The likely impact of savings as set out in Appendix C
7. That the responsibility of the Council is to approve the overall Budget and the associated cash limits of its Portfolios and Committees; it is not the responsibility of the Council to approve any individual savings within those Portfolios / Committees
8. That it is the responsibility of the individual Portfolio Holders (not Full Council) to approve the individual savings proposals and the Portfolio Holder can therefore, in response to any consultation, alter, amend or substitute any of the indicative savings proposal(s) set out in Appendix C with alternative proposal(s) amounting to the same value within their Portfolio
9. Managers will commence the implementation of the approved savings required and any necessary consultation process or notice process
10. The future Revenue Forecast for 2027/28 to 2029/30 as set out in Section 13 and Appendix B
11. That, at this stage, the Council's future Revenue Forecast for the 3 Year Period 2027/28 to 2029/30 is estimated to be a £3m Deficit; this is the Council's "central base case scenario" but due to the uncertainty associated with inflation, unavoidable cost pressures that may arise (particularly in Care Services and SEND) and business rate appeals, this could vary by +/- £6m
12. The MTRS Reserve held to fund the upfront costs associated with Spend to Save Schemes, Invest to Save Schemes and redundancies will hold an uncommitted balance of £4.9m and will only be replenished in future from an approval to the transfer of any underspends, contributions from the Revenue Budget or transfers from other reserves which may no longer be required.
13. The Council will need to make further contributions to the MTRS Reserve in future years to meet the full costs associated with LGR implementation.
14. The Council's share of the Council Tax element of the Collection Fund deficit for 2025/26 is estimated to be £1,490,143
15. The Council's share of the Business Rate element of the Collection Fund surplus for 2025/26 is estimated to be £4,023,928
16. The Retained Business Rate income for 2026/27 is based on the estimated Business Rate element of the Collection Fund surplus as at March 2026, the Non Domestic Rates poundage for 2026/27 and estimated rateable values for 2026/27 and has been determined at £68,134,709
17. That Cabinet Members, in consultation with the S.151 Officer, have authority to vary Capital Schemes and their associated funding within or across Portfolios to manage any potential overspending or funding shortfall or to respond to emerging priorities
18. That Cabinet Members, in consultation with the S.151 Officer, have authority to vire funding between Portfolios (both Revenue and Capital Budgets) to manage any potential overspending or funding shortfall or to respond to emerging priorities
19. The City Council note that Prudential Borrowing can only be used as a source of capital finance for Invest to Save Schemes.
3.3 That the S.151 Officer has determined that the Council Tax base for the financial year 2026/27 will be 58,973.4 [item T in the formula in Section 31 B(1) of the Local Government Finance Act 1992, as amended (the “Act”)].
3.4 That the following amounts on the next page be now calculated by the Council for the financial year 2026/27 in accordance with Section 31 and Sections 34 to 36 of the Local Government Finance Act 1992:
(a)
£626,487,414
Being the aggregate of the amounts which the Council estimates for the items set out in Section 31A(2) of the Act.
(b)
£513,941,988
Being the aggregate of the amounts which the Council estimates for the items set out in Section 31A(3) of the Act.
(c)
£112,545,426
Being the amount by which the aggregate at 3.4(a) above exceeds the aggregate at 3.4(b) above, calculated by the Council in accordance with Section 31A(4) of the Act as its Council Tax requirement for the year. (Item R in the formula in Section 31B(1) of the Act.
(d)
£1,908.41
Being the amount at 3.4(c) above (Item R), all divided by Item 3.3 above (Item T), calculated by the Council, in accordance with Section 31B(1) of the Act, as the basic amount of its Council Tax for the year.
(e) Valuation Bands (Portsmouth City Council)
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
1,272.27
1,484.32
1,696.36
1,908.41
2,332.50
2,756.59
3,180.68
3,816.82
Being the amounts given by multiplying the amount at 3.4(d) above by the number which, in the proportion set out in Section 5 (1) of the Act, is applicable to dwellings listed in a particular valuation band divided by the number which in that proportion is applicable to dwellings listed in Valuation Band D, calculated by the Council, in accordance with Section 36 (1) of the Act, as the amounts to be taken into account for the year in respect of categories of dwellings in different valuation bands.
3.5 That it be noted that for the financial year 2026/27, the Hampshire Police & Crime Commissioner is considering the following amounts for the precept to be issued to the Council in accordance with Section 40 of the Local Government Finance Act 1992, for each of the categories of the dwellings shown below:
Valuation Bands (Hampshire Police & Crime Commissioner)
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
193.64
225.91
258.19
290.46
355.01
419.55
484.10
580.92
3.6 That it be noted that for the financial year 2026/27, for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Authority will be recommended to consider that the following amounts for the precept issued to the Council in accordance with Section 40 of the Local Government Finance Act 1992, for each of the categories of the dwellings shown on the next page:
Valuation Bands (Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Authority)
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
61.89
72.21
82.52
92.84
113.47
134.10
154.73
185.68
3.7 That having calculated the aggregate in each case of the amounts at 3.4(e), 3.5 and 3.6 above, the Council, in accordance with Sections 31A, 31B and 34 to 36 of the Local Government Finance Act 1992 as amended, hereby sets the following amounts as the amounts of Council Tax for the financial year 2026/27 for each of the categories of dwellings shown below:
Valuation Bands (Total Council Tax)
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
1,527.80
1,782.44
2,037.07
2,291.71
2,800.98
3,310.24
3,819.51
4,583.42
3.8 The Council determines in accordance with Section 52ZB of the Local Government Finance Act 1992 that the Council’s basic amount of Council Tax for 2026/27, which represents a 4.99% increase, is not excessive in accordance with the principles approved by the Secretary of State under Section 52ZC of the Act; and it be noted that:
i) The 4.99% increase includes a 2.0% increase to support the delivery of Adult Social Care
ii) As the billing authority, the Council has not been notified by a major precepting authority (the Hampshire Police & Crime Commissioner or the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Authority) that its relevant basic amount of Council Tax for 2026/27 is excessive and that the billing authority is not required to hold a referendum in accordance with Section 52ZK of the Local Government Finance Act 1992.
3.9 The S.151 Officer be given delegated authority to implement any variation to the overall level of Council Tax arising from the final notification of the Hampshire Police & Crime Commissioner and Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Authority precepts.
The Lord Mayor then called Cabinet Minute 14, Portsmouth City Council - Budget & Council Tax 2026/27, Medium-Term Budget Forecast 2027/28 to 2029/30 & Capital Strategy 2026/27 to 2035/36.
This minute was opposed by Councillor Simon Bosher.
It was therefore
Proposed by Councillor Steve Pitt
Seconded by Councillor Darren Sanders
That the recommendations contained in Cabinet Minute 14, Portsmouth City Council - Budget & Council Tax 2026/27, Medium-Term Budget Forecast 2027/28 to 2029/30 & Capital Strategy 2026/27 to 2035/36.
The Lord Mayor invited the Leader of the Council, Councillor Steve Pitt, to speak to the Cabinet budget recommendations.
The Leader spoke to the administration's budget proposals.
In doing so he emphasised that it was likely the penultimate budget for Portsmouth City Council due to expected local government reorganisation. He confirmed the budget was balanced, with £3 million in efficiencies and income identified to maintain financial stability and protect services and noted that £1 million in annual savings will be required for each of the next three years alongside government-expected council tax increases.
He highlighted the risks posed by reorganisation and referenced a forecasted £67 million savings requirement for a merged authority, which could threaten key local services and assets. He called for members to lobby government to protect Portsmouth’s autonomy and criticised the current funding model, noting that much of the announced increase was derived from council tax rises rather than new government money. The capital programme focussed on safeguarding local assets and services, with investments in IT systems, school maintenance, playgrounds, museums, council buildings, youth services, roads, and housing schemes. The Leader concluded by urging members to consider the legacy of previous budgets and the importance of protecting Portsmouth’s interests. He commended the proposed budget to Council.
Councillor Joe Standen (Leader of the opposition) spoke in reply.
As an amendment it was
Proposed by Councillor Joe Standen
Seconded by Councillor Russell Simpson
That the recommendations set out in Appendix 1 attached to these minutes (Reform UK Group budget amendment) be adopted.
Councillor Standen spoke to his group's proposed budget amendment which focused on reducing the proposed council tax increase from 4.99% to 3.49%, thereby aligning it with inflation to ease the financial burden on residents.
The Reform UK Group proposed funding this reduction by ending the Civic Futures Fund and reallocating its uncommitted balance, with £1.6 million used to offset the council tax rise and the remaining £213,000 invested in children’s activities at community centres and in support for veterans. Councillor Standen expressed concern about the high-risk savings proposed in adult social care, asserting that the council’s assumptions about market behaviour could impact vulnerable residents. He concluded by urging members to support the amendment.
Councillor Charlotte Gerada (Labour Group Leader) then spoke in reply.
As an amendment it was
Proposed by Councillor Charlotte Gerada
Seconded by Councillor Graham Heaney
That the recommendations set out in Appendix 2 attached to these minutes (Labour Group budget amendment) be adopted.
Councillor Gerada introduced the Labour Group's amendment which focused on targeted local improvements funded by reducing the City Centre Road budget. She prefaced the amendment by referencing improved national measures, including reduced inflation, increased government funding for the council and the introduction of multi-year financial settlements, which she believed had strengthened the council’s financial position. Key proposals within the amendment included a zebra crossing on Lawrence Road, traffic calming on Highbury Grove, five deployable CCTV units for Charles Dickens Ward, extra accessible play equipment for disabled children, and joint funding for upgrades to the Community Kettle Centre in Cosham. She commended the amendment to Council
Councillor Simon Bosher (Conservative Group Leader) then spoke in reply.
As an amendment it was
Proposed by Councillor Simon Bosher
Seconded by Councillor Benedict Swann
That the recommendations set out in Appendix 3 attached to these minutes (Conservative Group budget amendment) be adopted.
Councillor Bosher introduced the Conservative Group’s budget amendment, expressing thanks to council staff in working with the administration to create the budget and with his group's amendment. He criticised recent government tax and funding policies and he highlighted concerns about the need to increase council tax, along with the financial risks associated with local government reorganisation. The amendment proposed funding for a feasibility study for a one-way system in Kensington and Chelmsford Roads, the refurbishment of Anchorage Lodge community centre and repairs and security shutters for Drayton Park Pavilion. All schemes had been fully costed and funding sources identified. He commended the amendment to Council.
Following debate, the Lord Mayor called upon the Leader of the Council to sum up.
In summing up, the Leader of the Council confirmed that he did not wish to subsume any of the amendments into the Cabinet recommendation.
The Lord Mayor reminded councillors that all votes on the budget would be by recorded to comply the Local Authorities (Standing Orders) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2014.
Council voted in turn on the Reform UK Group amendment, the Labour Group amendment and the Conservative group amendment.
Upon the Reform UK Group amendment standing in the name of Councillor Joe Standen in respect of the Portsmouth City Council - Budget & Council Tax 2026/27, Medium-Term Budget Forecast 2027/28 to 2029/30 & Capital Strategy 2026/27 to 2035/36 being put to the vote:
The following members voted in favour
Councillor Matthew Cordy
Councillor Russell Simpson
Councillor Raymond Dent
Councillor Joe Standen
Councillor Jason Fazackarley
Councillor Emily Strudwick
Councillor George Madgwick
Councillor Lee Tindal
Councillor Derek North
The following members voted against
Councillor Richard Adair
Councillor Graham Heaney
Councillor Yinka Adeniran
Councillor Ian Holder
Councillor Dave Ashmore
Councillor Suzy Horton
Councillor Chris Attwell
Councillor Lee Hunt
Councillor Kimberly Barrett
Councillor Mark Jeffery
Councillor Hannah Brent
Councillor Abdul Kadir
Councillor Stuart Brown
Councillor Hugh Mason
Councillor Peter Candlish
Councillor Leonie Oliver
Councillor Tom Coles
Councillor Steve Pitt
Councillor Cal Corkery
Councillor Darren Sanders
Councillor Nicholas Dorrington
Councillor Asghar Shah
Councillor George Fielding
Councillor Judith Smyth
Councillor Charlotte Gerada
Councillor Mary Vallely
Councillor Rajah Ghosh
Councillor Matthew Winnington
The following members abstained from voting
Councillor Simon Bosher
Councillor Benedict Swann
Councillor Spencer Gardner
Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson
CBE
The Reform UK Group amendment was therefore declared LOST.
Upon the Labour Group amendment standing in the name of Councillor Charlotte Gerada in respect of the Portsmouth City Council - Budget & Council Tax 2026/27, Medium-Term Budget Forecast 2027/28 to 2029/30 & Capital Strategy 2026/27 to 2035/36 being put to the vote:
The following members voted in favour
Councillor Richard Adair
Councillor Graham Heaney
Councillor Yinka Adeniran
Councillor Ian Holder
Councillor Dave Ashmore
Councillor Suzy Horton
Councillor Chris Attwell
Councillor Lee Hunt
Councillor Kimberly Barrett
Councillor Mark Jeffery
Councillor Stuart Brown
Councillor Abdul Kadir
Councillor Peter Candlish
Councillor Hugh Mason
Councillor Tom Coles
Councillor Steve Pitt
Councillor Cal Corkery
Councillor Darren Sanders
Councillor Nicholas Dorrington
Councillor Asghar Shah
Councillor George Fielding
Councillor Judith Smyth
Councillor Charlotte Gerada
Councillor Mary Vallely
Councillor Rajah Ghosh
Councillor Matthew Winnington
No members voted against
The following members abstained from voting
Councillor Simon Bosher
Councillor Derek North
Councillor Hannah Brent
Councillor Leonie Oliver
Councillor Matthew Cordy
Councillor Russell Simpson
Councillor Raymond Dent
Councillor Joe Standen
Councillor Jason Fazackarley
Councillor Emily Strudwick
Councillor Spencer Gardner
Councillor Benedict Swann
Councillor George Madgwick
Councillor Lee Tindal
Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson CBE
The Labour Group amendment was therefore declared CARRIED.
Upon the Conservative Group amendment standing in the name of Councillor Simon Bosher in respect of the Portsmouth City Council - Budget & Council Tax 2026/27, Medium-Term Budget Forecast 2027/28 to 2029/30 & Capital Strategy 2026/27 to 2035/36 being put to the vote:
The following members voted in favour
Councillor Richard Adair
Councillor Ian Holder
Councillor Dave Ashmore
Councillor Suzy Horton
Councillor Kimberly Barrett
Councillor Lee Hunt
Councillor Simon Bosher
Councillor Mark Jeffery
Councillor Hannah Brent
Councillor Abdul Kadir
Councillor Stuart Brown
Councillor Steve Pitt
Councillor Peter Candlish
Councillor Darren Sanders
Councillor Cal Corkery
Councillor Benedict Swann
Councillor Spencer Gardner
No members voted against
The following members abstained from voting
Councillor Yinka Adeniran
Councillor Hugh Mason
Councillor Chris Attwell
Councillor Derek North
Councillor Tom Coles
Councillor Leonie Oliver
Councillor Matthew Cordy
Councillor Asghar Shah
Councillor Raymond Dent
Councillor Russell Simpson
Councillor Nicholas Dorrington
Councillor Judith Smyth
Councillor Jason Fazackarley
Councillor Joe Standen
Councillor George Fielding
Councillor Emily Strudwick
Councillor Charlotte Gerada
Councillor Lee Tindal
Councillor Rajah Ghosh
Councillor Mary Vallely
Councillor Graham Heaney
Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson
Councillor George Madgwick
Councillor Matthew Winnington
The Conservative Group amendment was therefore declared CARRIED.
Upon the recommendations in Cabinet minute 14 Portsmouth City Council - Budget & Council Tax 2026/27, Medium-Term Budget Forecast 2027/28 to 2029/30 & Capital Strategy 2026/27 to 2035/36 incorporating the agreed amendments in the names of Councillor Charlotte Gerada and Councillor Simon Bosher being put to the vote:
The following members voted in favour
Councillor Richard Adair
Councillor Graham Heaney
Councillor Yinka Adeniran
Councillor Ian Holder
Councillor Dave Ashmore
Councillor Suzy Horton
Councillor Chris Attwell
Councillor Lee Hunt
Councillor Kimberly Barrett
Councillor Mark Jeffery
Councillor Simon Bosher
Councillor Abdul Kadir
Councillor Hannah Brent
Councillor Hugh Mason
Councillor Stuart Brown
Councillor Leonie Oliver
Councillor Peter Candlish
Councillor Steve Pitt
Councillor Tom Coles
Councillor Darren Sanders
Councillor Cal Corkery
Councillor Asghar Shah
Councillor Nicholas Dorrington
Councillor Judith Smyth
Councillor George Fielding
Councillor Benedict Swann
Councillor Spencer Gardner
Councillor Mary Valley
Councillor Charlotte Gerada
Councillor Matthew Winnington
Councillor Rajah Ghosh
The following members abstained from voting
Councillor Matthew Cordy
Councillor Raymond Dent
Councillor Jason Fazackarley
Councillor George Madgwick
Councillor Derek North
Councillor Russell Simpson
Councillor Joe Standen
Councillor Emily Strudwick
Councillor Lee Tindal
The recommendations in Cabinet minute 14 Portsmouth City Council - Budget & Council Tax 2026/27, Medium-Term Budget Forecast 2027/28 to 2029/30 & Capital Strategy 2026/27 to 2035/36 incorporating the agreed amendments in the names of Councillor Charlotte Gerada and Councillor Simon Bosher therefore APPROVED were therefore declared CARRIED.
It was therefore RESOLVED:
3.1 That the following be approved in respect of the Council's Budget:
1. The revised Revenue Estimates for the financial year 2025/26 and the Revenue Estimates for the financial year 2026/27 as set out in the General Fund Summary (Appendix A)
2. The Portfolio Cash Limits for the Revised Budget for 2025/26 and the Budget 2026/27 incorporating the savings amounts for each Portfolio and amounting to £3.0m as set out in Sections 7 and 11, respectively
3. To maintain the overall financial resilience of the Council, any underspends arising at the year-end (outside of those made by Portfolios) be transferred either to Capital Resources to fund future Capital Programmes, the MTRS Reserve or General Reserves with the level of each transfer to be determined by the S.151 Officer
4. Any variation to the Council's funding arising from the final Local Government Finance Settlement be accommodated by a transfer to or from General Reserves
5. The S.151 Officer be given delegated authority to make any necessary adjustments to Cash Limits within the overall approved Budget and Budget Forecasts
6. That the level of Council Tax be increased by 2.99% for general purposes in accordance with the referendum threshold for 2026/27 announced by Government (as calculated in recommendation 3.4 (d))
7. That the level of Council Tax be increased by a further 2.0% beyond the referendum threshold (as calculated in recommendation 3.4 (d)) to take advantage of the flexibility offered by Government to implement a "Social Care Precept", and that in accordance with the conditions of that flexibility, the full amount of the associated sum generated of £2,143,800 is passported direct to Adult Social Care
8. Managers be authorised to incur routine expenditure against the Cash Limits for 2026/27 as set out in Section 11
9. That a minimum savings requirement of £1m for 2027/28 be set at this stage but that this is kept under review, pending any significant impact on the Council's future Revenue Forecast that may arise during 2026/27
10. That the S.151 Officer be given delegated authority to make transfers to and from reserves to ensure that they are maintained as necessary and in particular, adjusted when reserves are no longer required or need to be replenished
11. The minimum level of General Reserves as at 31 March 2027 be maintained at £12.0m to reflect the known and expected budget and financial risks to the Council
12. The Revised Capital Programme 2025/26 to 2030/31 attached as Appendix E and which includes all additions, deletions and amendments for slippage and re-phasing be amended by tables i) and ii) below and approved
i) Reductions to the Capital Programme (Appendices D & E)
Scheme Deletions / Reductions
2026/27
£
2027/28
£
Culture, Regeneration & Economic Development Portfolio
Reduce
DLTC Urban Spaces - Inclusive Design
10,000
Reduce
Cumberland House Natural History Museum
10,000
Transport Portfolio
Reduce
City Centre Road
227,500
Community Safety, Leisure & Sport Portfolio
Reduce
Horsea Lane Allotments Toilet
10,000
Reduce
Southsea Rose Gardens
10,000
Total
267,500
ii) Additions to Capital Programme (Appendices D & E)
Scheme Additions / Increases
2026/27
£
2027/28
£
Community Safety, Leisure & Sport Portfolio
Increase
Play Equipment Replacement
(To increase funding for accessible play improvements to £80,000)
30,000
Add
Deployable CCTV Monitors for Charles Dickens Ward (x 5)
35,000
Add
College Park - Dog Gate
5,000
Add
Canoe Lake - Bollards to prevent private vehicle entry
5,000
Add
Drayton Park - Repair and installation of security shutters
14,500
Transport Portfolio
Add
Raised Zebra Crossing for Lawrence Road
(£90,000 contribution to a £120,000 overall Scheme, remaining balance to be funded from Neighbourhood CIL)
90,000
Add
Highbury Grove Traffic Calming Measures
56,000
Add
Feasibility Study for a One Way system at Kensington Rd / Chelmsford Rd
6,000
Culture, Regeneration & Economic Development Portfolio
Add
Anchorage Lodge (Community Centre) - Redecorations and refurbishments
20,000
Add
Bench seating x 2 - Allaway Avenue shops, Paulsgrove
5,000
Add
New Refuse Bin at Drayton Road Shops
1,000
Total
267,500
13. The S.151 Officer be given delegated authority to determine how each source of finance is used to fund the overall Capital Programme and to alter the overall mix of financing, as necessary, to maximise the flexibility of capital resources used and minimise the ongoing costs of borrowing to the Council
14. That the S.151 Officer in consultation with the Leader of the Council be given delegated authority to release capital resources held back for any contingent items that might arise, and for any match funding requirements that may be required of the City Council in order to secure additional external capital funding (e.g. bids for funding from Government or any other external source)
15. Subject to a satisfactory financial appraisal approved by the S.151 Officer, the schemes described in Appendix D (as amended by tables i) and ii) above) be reflected within the recommended Capital Programme 2025/26 to 2030/31
16. Subject to a satisfactory financial appraisal approved by the S.151 Officer, that delegated authority to borrow up to £15m per year be granted in order that the Council can enter into transactions in an efficient and timely fashion and avoid the risk of lost opportunities which may be of a time critical nature
17. That the S.151 Officer be given delegated authority to amend the Prudential Indicators set out in Appendix F to accommodate any changes arising from the agreed amendments.
18. Part 1 of the Capital Strategy (Capital Expenditure and Aspirations) set out in Appendix G be approved.
19. Part 2 of the Capital Strategy (Borrowing and Investing) set out in Appendix G be approved.
20. Members have had regard for the Statement of the S.151 Officer in accordance with the Local Government Act 2003 as set out in Section 17.
3.2 That the following be noted in respect of the Council's Revenue Budget and Capital Programme:
1. The Budget Consultation 2025 at Appendix H
2. The Revenue Estimates 2026/27 as set out in Appendix A have been prepared on the basis of a 2.0% tax increase for the "Social Care Precept" (amounting to £2,143,800) and that this is passported to Adult Social Care in order to provide for otherwise unfunded budget pressures
3. The decision on the amount at which to set the Adult Social Care precept will be critical for the Social Care and wider health system in the City; in the event that the additional flexibility of the "Social Care Precept" and associated 2.0% tax increase is not taken, then equivalent savings will need to be made in Adult Social Care in 2026/27
4. In general, any reduction to the proposed increase in the level of Council Tax for 2026/27 will require equivalent offsetting savings to be made for the Budget 2026/27 to be approved. Each 1% reduction requires additional savings of £1,071,900 to be made
5. The indicative savings proposals set out in Appendix C which are provided for the purpose of demonstrating to the Council that the Portfolio savings as recommended in paragraph 3.1 2) above, are robust and deliverable
6. The likely impact of savings as set out in Appendix C
7. That the responsibility of the Council is to approve the overall Budget and the associated cash limits of its Portfolios and Committees; it is not the responsibility of the Council to approve any individual savings within those Portfolios / Committees
8. That it is the responsibility of the individual Portfolio Holders (not Full Council) to approve the individual savings proposals and the Portfolio Holder can therefore, in response to any consultation, alter, amend or substitute any of the indicative savings proposal(s) set out in Appendix C with alternative proposal(s) amounting to the same value within their Portfolio
9. Managers will commence the implementation of the approved savings required and any necessary consultation process or notice process
10. The future Revenue Forecast for 2027/28 to 2029/30 as set out in Section 13 and Appendix B
11. That, at this stage, the Council's future Revenue Forecast for the 3 Year Period 2027/28 to 2029/30 is estimated to be a £3m Deficit; this is the Council's "central base case scenario" but due to the uncertainty associated with inflation, unavoidable cost pressures that may arise (particularly in Care Services and SEND) and business rate appeals, this could vary by +/- £6m
12. The MTRS Reserve held to fund the upfront costs associated with Spend to Save Schemes, Invest to Save Schemes and redundancies will hold an uncommitted balance of £4.9m and will only be replenished in future from an approval to the transfer of any underspends, contributions from the Revenue Budget or transfers from other reserves which may no longer be required.
13. The Council will need to make further contributions to the MTRS Reserve in future years to meet the full costs associated with LGR implementation.
14. The Council's share of the Council Tax element of the Collection Fund deficit for 2025/26 is estimated to be £1,490,143
15. The Council's share of the Business Rate element of the Collection Fund surplus for 2025/26 is estimated to be £4,023,928
16. The Retained Business Rate income for 2026/27 is based on the estimated Business Rate element of the Collection Fund surplus as at March 2026, the Non Domestic Rates poundage for 2026/27 and estimated rateable values for 2026/27 and has been determined at £68,134,709
17. That Cabinet Members, in consultation with the S.151 Officer, have authority to vary Capital Schemes and their associated funding within or across Portfolios to manage any potential overspending or funding shortfall or to respond to emerging priorities
18. That Cabinet Members, in consultation with the S.151 Officer, have authority to vire funding between Portfolios (both Revenue and Capital Budgets) to manage any potential overspending or funding shortfall or to respond to emerging priorities
19. The City Council note that Prudential Borrowing can only be used as a source of capital finance for Invest to Save Schemes.
3.3 That the S.151 Officer has determined that the Council Tax base for the financial year 2026/27 will be 58,973.4 [item T in the formula in Section 31 B(1) of the Local Government Finance Act 1992, as amended (the “Act”)].
3.4 That the following amounts on the next page be now calculated by the Council for the financial year 2026/27 in accordance with Section 31 and Sections 34 to 36 of the Local Government Finance Act 1992:
(a)
£626,487,414
Being the aggregate of the amounts which the Council estimates for the items set out in Section 31A(2) of the Act.
(b)
£513,941,988
Being the aggregate of the amounts which the Council estimates for the items set out in Section 31A(3) of the Act.
(c)
£112,545,426
Being the amount by which the aggregate at 3.4(a) above exceeds the aggregate at 3.4(b) above, calculated by the Council in accordance with Section 31A(4) of the Act as its Council Tax requirement for the year. (Item R in the formula in Section 31B(1) of the Act.
(d)
£1,908.41
Being the amount at 3.4(c) above (Item R), all divided by Item 3.3 above (Item T), calculated by the Council, in accordance with Section 31B(1) of the Act, as the basic amount of its Council Tax for the year.
(e) Valuation Bands (Portsmouth City Council)
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
1,272.27
1,484.32
1,696.36
1,908.41
2,332.50
2,756.59
3,180.68
3,816.82
Being the amounts given by multiplying the amount at 3.4(d) above by the number which, in the proportion set out in Section 5 (1) of the Act, is applicable to dwellings listed in a particular valuation band divided by the number which in that proportion is applicable to dwellings listed in Valuation Band D, calculated by the Council, in accordance with Section 36 (1) of the Act, as the amounts to be taken into account for the year in respect of categories of dwellings in different valuation bands.
3.5 That it be noted that for the financial year 2026/27, the Hampshire Police & Crime Commissioner is considering the following amounts for the precept to be issued to the Council in accordance with Section 40 of the Local Government Finance Act 1992, for each of the categories of the dwellings shown below:
Valuation Bands (Hampshire Police & Crime Commissioner)
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
193.64
225.91
258.19
290.46
355.01
419.55
484.10
580.92
3.6 That it be noted that for the financial year 2026/27, for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Authority will be recommended to consider that the following amounts for the precept issued to the Council in accordance with Section 40 of the Local Government Finance Act 1992, for each of the categories of the dwellings shown on the next page:
Valuation Bands (Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Authority)
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
61.89
72.21
82.52
92.84
113.47
134.10
154.73
185.68
3.7 That having calculated the aggregate in each case of the amounts at 3.4(e), 3.5 and 3.6 above, the Council, in accordance with Sections 31A, 31B and 34 to 36 of the Local Government Finance Act 1992 as amended, hereby sets the following amounts as the amounts of Council Tax for the financial year 2026/27 for each of the categories of dwellings shown below:
Valuation Bands (Total Council Tax)
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
1,527.80
1,782.44
2,037.07
2,291.71
2,800.98
3,310.24
3,819.51
4,583.42
3.8 The Council determines in accordance with Section 52ZB of the Local Government Finance Act 1992 that the Council’s basic amount of Council Tax for 2026/27, which represents a 4.99% increase, is not excessive in accordance with the principles approved by the Secretary of State under Section 52ZC of the Act; and it be noted that:
i) The 4.99% increase includes a 2.0% increase to support the delivery of Adult Social Care
ii) As the billing authority, the Council has not been notified by a major precepting authority (the Hampshire Police & Crime Commissioner or the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Authority) that its relevant basic amount of Council Tax for 2026/27 is excessive and that the billing authority is not required to hold a referendum in accordance with Section 52ZK of the Local Government Finance Act 1992.
3.9 The S.151 Officer be given delegated authority to implement any variation to the overall level of Council Tax arising from the final notification of the Hampshire Police & Crime Commissioner and Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Authority precepts.
11
Questions from Members under Standing Order No 17.
No questions from members have been received under the provisions of this standing order.
Minutes
The Lord Mayor advised that no questions had been submitted under the provisions of this standing order.
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