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, 19th May 2026
10:00 AM
Tuesday, 19th May 2026
10:00 AM
End:
Tuesday, 19th May 2026
2:00 PM
Tuesday, 19th May 2026
2:00 PM
Meeting Status
Status:
Confirmed; Annual General Meeting
Confirmed; Annual General Meeting
Date:
19 May 2026
19 May 2026
Location:
The Main Auditorium - Portsmouth Guildhall
The Main Auditorium - Portsmouth Guildhall
Webcast:
Available
Available
Meeting Attendees
Committee Member
Deputy Group Leader
Committee Member
Chair
Lord Mayor
Committee Member
Cabinet Member for Environmental Services
Committee Member
Leader of the Council (with portfolio responsibility for Culture, Regeneration & Economic Development)
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
Group Leader
Committee Member
Cabinet Member for Planning Policy & City Development
Committee Member
Councillor Steve Andrews
Present, as expected
Committee Member
Councillor Billy Ansell
Present, as expected
Committee Member
Cabinet Member for Central Services
Committee Member
Councillor Sam Coupland
Present, as expected
Committee Member
Committee Member
Councillor Kate Dorrington
Present, as expected
Committee Member
Councillor Lamara Fudge
Present, as expected
Committee Member
Councillor Carl Inman
Present, as expected
Committee Member
Councillor Denise Perry
Present, as expected
Committee Member
Councillor Joe Standen
Present, as expected
Committee Member
Deputy Leader of the Council; Cabinet Member for Housing and Tackling Homelessness
Committee Member
Cabinet Member for Community Wellbeing, Health & Care
Officer
Chief Executive
Natalie Brahma-Pearl
Expected
Officer
City Solicitor
Peter Baulf
Expected
Officer
Director of Finance & Resources (S151 Officer)
Chris Ward
Expected
Officer
Senior Local Democracy Officer
James Harris
Expected
Officer
Legal Services Business Manager
Peter Smith-Parkyn
Expected
Agenda
0
Retiring Lord Mayor's Speech
Minutes
The Lord Mayor, Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson CBE, reported on his year in office.
0
Presentation of Civic Awards
Minutes
Civic Awards were presented to the following recipients by Councillor Steve Pitt:
· Alison Barnes and Sally Salter
· Tally Aslam
· James Ralls and Terri Ralls
Civic Awards were presented to the following recipients by Councillor Simon Bosher:
· Portsmouth Down Syndrome Association
· Sunday Suppers
Civic Awards were presented to the following recipients by Councillor Charlotte Gerada:
· Joanna Toms
· Portsmouth Lifeboat Station & Crew
Civic Awards were presented to the following recipients by Councillor Joe Standen:
· Glenn Turnbull
· John Ryder
In addition, the Chief Executive explained that a Civic Award would also be presented at a later date to Heike Maus, who had unfortunately not been able to attend the ceremony.
· Alison Barnes and Sally Salter
· Tally Aslam
· James Ralls and Terri Ralls
Civic Awards were presented to the following recipients by Councillor Simon Bosher:
· Portsmouth Down Syndrome Association
· Sunday Suppers
Civic Awards were presented to the following recipients by Councillor Charlotte Gerada:
· Joanna Toms
· Portsmouth Lifeboat Station & Crew
Civic Awards were presented to the following recipients by Councillor Joe Standen:
· Glenn Turnbull
· John Ryder
In addition, the Chief Executive explained that a Civic Award would also be presented at a later date to Heike Maus, who had unfortunately not been able to attend the ceremony.
0
Vote of Thanks to Retiring Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoresses
Minutes
It was
Proposed by Councillor Charlotte Gerada
Seconded by Councillor Kimberly Barrett
That a vote of thanks be given to the retiring Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoresses.
It was RESOLVED unanimously that the council places on record its sincere thanks to Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson CBE and Dianna Carruthers, Helena Cole and Leila Ferguson MSc for their outstanding service to the city as Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoresses during their year of office.
That the Council expresses its deep appreciation of the fine qualities which Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson CBE had brought to the conduct of the business of this Council, his devotion to duty and the distinction and goodwill with which he carried out the many and various duties of the office of Lord Mayor.
That the Council also places on record its gratitude to Dianna Carruthers, Helena Cole and Leila Ferguson MSc for the untiring support and help which they have given as Lady Mayoresses to the Lord Mayor.
That this resolution be engrossed and be presented to Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson CBE and his Lady Mayoresses at this ceremony.
The retiring Lord Mayor and his Lady Mayoresses were presented with the Council's gift of an engrossed scroll which signified the Council's appreciation of their time in office.
Proposed by Councillor Charlotte Gerada
Seconded by Councillor Kimberly Barrett
That a vote of thanks be given to the retiring Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoresses.
It was RESOLVED unanimously that the council places on record its sincere thanks to Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson CBE and Dianna Carruthers, Helena Cole and Leila Ferguson MSc for their outstanding service to the city as Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoresses during their year of office.
That the Council expresses its deep appreciation of the fine qualities which Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson CBE had brought to the conduct of the business of this Council, his devotion to duty and the distinction and goodwill with which he carried out the many and various duties of the office of Lord Mayor.
That the Council also places on record its gratitude to Dianna Carruthers, Helena Cole and Leila Ferguson MSc for the untiring support and help which they have given as Lady Mayoresses to the Lord Mayor.
That this resolution be engrossed and be presented to Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson CBE and his Lady Mayoresses at this ceremony.
The retiring Lord Mayor and his Lady Mayoresses were presented with the Council's gift of an engrossed scroll which signified the Council's appreciation of their time in office.
0
Investiture of the new Lady Mayoress
Minutes
Mrs Tahmina Kadir was invested as the new Lady Mayoress and signed a document of office witnessed by the City Solicitor.
0
New Lord Mayor takes the Chair
Minutes
Councillor Abdul Kadir took the chair and thereupon made and subscribed the Declaration of Acceptance of Office witnessed by the City Solicitor.
0
Presentation of the Keys of the City
Minutes
In accordance with the wishes of His Majesty the King, the Lord Mayor received the Keys of the Fortress of Portsmouth into the safe keeping of the city.
0
Presentation of the Portsmouth Sword
Minutes
The Lord Mayor received the Portsmouth Sword, which symbolised the interdependence of the Royal Navy and the City of Portsmouth. The sword was presented to him by the Royal Navy.
0
The Lord Mayor returns thanks to the Council
Minutes
The Lord Mayor thanked members of the Council for his election and detailed his ambitions for the year.
0
Appointment of Chaplains to the City Council
Minutes
The Lord Mayor appointed The Very Reverend Dr Anthony Cane and Mr Md. Liaquat Ali Zaman as Chaplains to the City Council.
0
Appointment of the new Lord Mayor Cadets
Minutes
The Lord Mayor announced his Cadets for the coming municipal year:
· Lillymai Creswell, St John's Ambulance;
· Alexandra Dempster, Combined Cadet Force
· Oliver Greaves, Volunteer Police Cadets (South)
· Hugo Tremayne, Combined Cadet Force
· Hannah Turner , Army Cadet
· Theo Walker, Volunteer Police Cadets (North)
· Lillymai Creswell, St John's Ambulance;
· Alexandra Dempster, Combined Cadet Force
· Oliver Greaves, Volunteer Police Cadets (South)
· Hugo Tremayne, Combined Cadet Force
· Hannah Turner , Army Cadet
· Theo Walker, Volunteer Police Cadets (North)
1
To elect the Lord Mayor for the ensuing Municipal Year
Minutes
Councillor Steve Pitt nominated Councillor Abdul Kadir for election to the office of Lord Mayor for the ensuing municipal year.
The nomination was seconded by Councillor Darren Sanders.
As there were no other nominations, the Lord Mayor put the proposal to the vote, following which it was declared CARRIED that Councillor Abdul Kadir be duly elected Lord Mayor.
Councillor Abdul Kadir then left the room with the retiring Lord Mayor to don the Lord Mayor's robes and chain of office.
The nomination was seconded by Councillor Darren Sanders.
As there were no other nominations, the Lord Mayor put the proposal to the vote, following which it was declared CARRIED that Councillor Abdul Kadir be duly elected Lord Mayor.
Councillor Abdul Kadir then left the room with the retiring Lord Mayor to don the Lord Mayor's robes and chain of office.
2
To appoint the Deputy Lord Mayor for the ensuing Municipal Year
Note in respect of agenda items 1 and 2 - in accordance with the Local Government Act 1972, a member of the Executive may not be elected to the position of either Lord Mayor or Deputy Lord Mayor.
After item 2 the meeting will adjourn, to re-commence in the Council Chamber at 12pm (or shortly after the conclusion of Mayor Making if later) to deal with the remaining items on the agenda.
After item 2 the meeting will adjourn, to re-commence in the Council Chamber at 12pm (or shortly after the conclusion of Mayor Making if later) to deal with the remaining items on the agenda.
Minutes
Councillor Steve Pitt nominated Councillor Suzy Horton as the Deputy Lord Mayor for the ensuing municipal year.
This nomination was seconded by Councillor Lee Hunt.
There being no other nominations, the Lord Mayor put the proposal, which was CARRIED, and declared that Councillor Suzy Horton be duly elected as the Deputy Lord Mayor. Councillor Suzy Horton made and subscribed the Declaration of Acceptance of Office, which was witnessed by the City Solicitor.
The Chief Executive announced that the Deputy Lady Mayoress supporting the Deputy Lord Mayor in carrying out her official duties during the 2026 municipal year would be Jo McDougall.
Witnessed by the City Solicitor, Jo McDougallsubscribed a document undertaking to support the Deputy Lord Mayor in carrying out her official duties.
This nomination was seconded by Councillor Lee Hunt.
There being no other nominations, the Lord Mayor put the proposal, which was CARRIED, and declared that Councillor Suzy Horton be duly elected as the Deputy Lord Mayor. Councillor Suzy Horton made and subscribed the Declaration of Acceptance of Office, which was witnessed by the City Solicitor.
The Chief Executive announced that the Deputy Lady Mayoress supporting the Deputy Lord Mayor in carrying out her official duties during the 2026 municipal year would be Jo McDougall.
Witnessed by the City Solicitor, Jo McDougallsubscribed a document undertaking to support the Deputy Lord Mayor in carrying out her official duties.
3
Declaration of Members' Interests
Minutes
There were no declarations of interest.
4
To approve as a correct record the Minutes of the Council meeting held on 17 March 2026
Attachments:
- Document Draft 17.03.26 Council Minutes 11 May 2026
Minutes
It was
Proposed by Councillor Steve Pitt
Seconded by Councillor Emily Strudwick
That the minutes of the ordinary Council meeting held on 18 March 2026 be confirmed and signed as a correct record.
These were agreed by assent.
Proposed by Councillor Steve Pitt
Seconded by Councillor Emily Strudwick
That the minutes of the ordinary Council meeting held on 18 March 2026 be confirmed and signed as a correct record.
These were agreed by assent.
5
Apologies for Absence
Minutes
Apologies for absence were received from Councillor Leonie Oliver.
6
To receive such communications as the Lord Mayor may desire to lay before the Council
Minutes
The Lord Mayor welcomed Frau Edeltraud Klabuhn, the Deputy Mayor of Duisberg, Nicolas Escach, the Deputy Mayor of Caen and Richard Hyslop a Representative of the Falkland Islands to the meeting.
At the invitation of the Lord Mayor, Frau Edeltraud Klabuhn, Nicolas Escach and Richard Hyslop addressed council before being presented with a commemorative Portsmouth 100 plaque.
The Lord Mayor welcomed newly elected Councillors Steve Andrews, Billy Ansell, Sam Coupland, Kate Dorrington, Lamara Fudge, Carl Inman and Denise Perry to the Council and this, their first Council meeting.
The Lord Mayor also congratulated Councillors Simon Bosher, Mark Jeffery, Steve Pitt, Russell Simpson, Joe Standen and Matt Winnington for being returned for another term.
At the invitation of the Lord Mayor, Frau Edeltraud Klabuhn, Nicolas Escach and Richard Hyslop addressed council before being presented with a commemorative Portsmouth 100 plaque.
The Lord Mayor welcomed newly elected Councillors Steve Andrews, Billy Ansell, Sam Coupland, Kate Dorrington, Lamara Fudge, Carl Inman and Denise Perry to the Council and this, their first Council meeting.
The Lord Mayor also congratulated Councillors Simon Bosher, Mark Jeffery, Steve Pitt, Russell Simpson, Joe Standen and Matt Winnington for being returned for another term.
7
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 18 May 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 no deputation requests had been received under the provisions of this standing order.
8
To elect the Leader of the City Council for a four-year term of office (unless their current term of office expires earlier)
Unless:
a) they resign from the office of Leader;
b) they are no longer a Councillor;
c) they are removed from the office of Leader by resolution of the Council; or d) they are otherwise disqualified by law.
This is in accordance with the Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Act 2007.
a) they resign from the office of Leader;
b) they are no longer a Councillor;
c) they are removed from the office of Leader by resolution of the Council; or d) they are otherwise disqualified by law.
This is in accordance with the Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Act 2007.
Minutes
Under the Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Act 2007, the Council is required to elect a Leader of the City Council who will remain in office for four years unless their current term of office as a councillor expires earlier and also subject to the conditions set out on the agenda paper.
The Lord Mayor invited nominations for Leader of the Council.
It was
Proposed by Councillor Darren Sanders
Seconded by Councillor Peter Candlish
That Councillor Steve Pitt be appointed Leader of the City Council.
There were no other nominations for Leader of the Council.
Following a vote, council voted that Councillor Steve Pitt be appointed Leader of Portsmouth City Council.
RESOLVED that Councillor Steve Pitt be appointed as Leader of the City Council.
The Lord Mayor invited nominations for Leader of the Council.
It was
Proposed by Councillor Darren Sanders
Seconded by Councillor Peter Candlish
That Councillor Steve Pitt be appointed Leader of the City Council.
There were no other nominations for Leader of the Council.
Following a vote, council voted that Councillor Steve Pitt be appointed Leader of Portsmouth City Council.
RESOLVED that Councillor Steve Pitt be appointed as Leader of the City Council.
9
Cabinet - In accordance with the Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Act 2007, to receive details from the Leader of the Council regarding Cabinet Members (including Deputy Leader) and portfolios for the ensuing Municipal Year
The Council will also receive details of the appointments from the Leader (as it is within their gift) for the Health and Wellbeing Board, applying the following criteria:
• Leader of the Council (or nominated representative)
• Portfolio holder responsible for Health & Social Care
• Portfolio holder responsible for Children’s Services
• Leader of the largest opposition group (or nominated representative)
A named standing deputy may also be appointed for each position.
• Leader of the Council (or nominated representative)
• Portfolio holder responsible for Health & Social Care
• Portfolio holder responsible for Children’s Services
• Leader of the largest opposition group (or nominated representative)
A named standing deputy may also be appointed for each position.
Attachments:
- Document Appendix 1 - Cabinet & Opp spokespersons for 2026-27 13 Jul 2026
Minutes
The Leader announced his Cabinet; the details of the Cabinet (with opposition spokespersons provided by the respective Group Leaders) are attached to these minutes as Appendix 1.
The Leader also announced the Liberal Democrat Group membership of the Health & Wellbeing Board, being Cllr Nick Dorrington, Cllr Suzy Horton and Cllr Matthew Winnington.
RESOLVED that Council noted:
(i) the 10 portfolios (including the Leader) for the ensuing municipal year; and
(ii) the membership of the Health & Wellbeing Board for the ensuing municipal year, as set out in Appendix 1 attached to these minutes.
The Leader also announced the Liberal Democrat Group membership of the Health & Wellbeing Board, being Cllr Nick Dorrington, Cllr Suzy Horton and Cllr Matthew Winnington.
RESOLVED that Council noted:
(i) the 10 portfolios (including the Leader) for the ensuing municipal year; and
(ii) the membership of the Health & Wellbeing Board for the ensuing municipal year, as set out in Appendix 1 attached to these minutes.
10
Proportional Representation on Panels and Committees, Committee and Panel memberships and Appointments for the 2026/27 Municipal Year
Under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989, the City Council is required at each Annual Meeting to review the representation of different political groups, to determine the allocation of seats to different political groups for the forthcoming municipal year based on the group strengths on the council and to appoint members in accordance with the decisions of the council as to allocation and according to the wishes of the groups as to the identities of the members to be appointed.
The appointment of members is dealt with separately under Item 11 below.
The representation of groups must be in accordance with the rules set out in the relevant legislation.
The proposed allocation of seats for 2026/27 and details of the proposed allocation of places on panels and committees will be circulated under separate cover.
Principle 2 within Section 15 of the Local Government and Housing Act 1989 requires the majority of seats on committees and panels to be allocated to the group having the majority of seats on the City Council. A group is defined in the regulations as comprising two or more persons.
The proposed 2026/27 municipal appointments will be presented at the meeting.
RECOMMENDED:
(i) That the total number of seats on committees and panels be divided amongst the political groups and individual members as applicable in accordance with Table 1; and
(ii) that any other bodies subject to the political proportionality rules also be appointed in accordance with proportions shown in Table 1.
The appointment of members is dealt with separately under Item 11 below.
The representation of groups must be in accordance with the rules set out in the relevant legislation.
The proposed allocation of seats for 2026/27 and details of the proposed allocation of places on panels and committees will be circulated under separate cover.
Principle 2 within Section 15 of the Local Government and Housing Act 1989 requires the majority of seats on committees and panels to be allocated to the group having the majority of seats on the City Council. A group is defined in the regulations as comprising two or more persons.
The proposed 2026/27 municipal appointments will be presented at the meeting.
RECOMMENDED:
(i) That the total number of seats on committees and panels be divided amongst the political groups and individual members as applicable in accordance with Table 1; and
(ii) that any other bodies subject to the political proportionality rules also be appointed in accordance with proportions shown in Table 1.
Minutes
The Lord Mayor proposed and the Council agreed to take agenda items 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15 together regarding proportional representation on committees and panels and consequent appointment of members and standing deputies, chairs and vice-chairs and other appointments.
A copy of the proposed membership of each committee was circulated at the meeting, which contained one contested position and a number of vacant Vice Chair positions.
Council voted upon the nominations for the contested seat on the Hampshire & The Solent Combined County Authority Economic Growth and Regeneration Advisory Board.
Following the vote, it was RESOLVED that Councillor Steve Pitt and Councillor Mark Jeffery be proposed for the two positions on the Hampshire & The Solent Combined County Authority Economic Growth and Regeneration Advisory Board.
Council received the below nominations from the floor in respect of the following vacant positions:
· Vice Chair of the Planning Committee - Councillor Mary Vallely
· Vice Chair of the Scrutiny Management Panel - Councillor Lee Tindal
· Vice Chair of the Employment Committee - Councillor Cal Corkery
· Vice Chair of the Health Overview & Scrutiny Panel - Councillor Denise Perry
· Vice Chair of the Traffic, Environment & Community Safety Scrutiny Panel - Councillor Charlotte Gerada
It was
Proposed by Councillor Steve Pitt
Seconded by Councillor Emily Strudwick
(i) To adopt the overall political balance of the Council; and
(ii) Agree the membership of the committees and panels, standing deputies, Chairs and Vice Chairs of Committees and Panels, including appointments and other appointments.
Following a vote it was RESOLVED that:
(i) the total number of seats on committees and panels be divided among the political groups and individual members as applicable in accordance with Table 1 below;
1
2
3
4
5
6
Groups
No of Cllrs
Total No of Cttee Seats
Licensing Committee
(15 Members)
Planning Committee
(10 Members)
7 committees and panels (see note)
(6 Members each)
Scrutiny Management Panel
(9 Members)
Liberal Democrats
22
40
8
5
22
5
Reform UK
12
22
4
3
12
3
Labour
4
7
1
1
4
1
Conservative
3
5
1
1
3
0
Non-aligned independent member
1
2
1
0
1
0
42
76
15
10
42
9
(ii) any other bodies subject to the political proportionality rules be appointed in accordance with the proportions shown in Table 1; and
(iii) the allocation of seats schedule and the membership of the committees, panels, appointments and other appointments below be AGREED:
Licensing Committee Appointments
Group
Position
2026-27
Appointments
1. Liberal Democrat
Chair
Cllr Richard Adair
2. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Chris Attwell
3. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Kimberly Barrett
4. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Stuart Brown
5. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Ian Holder
6. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Lee Hunt
7. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Leonie Oliver
8. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson CBE
9. Reform UK
Cllr Chris Dike
10. Reform UK
Cllr Lamara Fudge
11. Reform UK
Vice-Chair
Cllr George Madgwick
12. Reform UK
Cllr Emily Strudwick
13. Labour (Gifted to Reform UK)
Cllr Russell Simpson
14. Conservative
Cllr Hannah Brent
15. Non-aligned Independent member
VACANCY
Liberal Democrat X 3
Standing Deputy
Cllr Nick Dorrington
Cllr Hugh Mason
Cllr Steve Pitt
Reform UK
Standing Deputy
Cllr
Cllr
Cllr
Planning Committee Appointments
Group
Position for
2026-27
Appointments
1. Liberal Democrat
Chair
Cllr Suzy Horton
2. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Lee Hunt
3. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Hugh Mason
4. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Denise Perry
5. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson CBE
6. Reform UK
Cllr Matthew Cordy
7. Reform UK
Cllr Carl Inman
8. Reform UK
Cllr Joe Standen
9. Labour
Vice-Chair
Cllr Mary Vallely
10.Conservative
VACANCY
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Chris Attwell
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Peter Candlish
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Mark Jeffery
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Steve Pitt
Reform UK
Standing Deputy
Cllr Raymond Dent
Reform UK
Standing Deputy
Cllr Chris Dike
Reform UK
Standing Deputy
Cllr George Madgwick
Reform UK
Standing Deputy
Cllr Derek North
Reform UK
Standing Deputy
Cllr Russell Simpson
Labour
Standing Deputy
Cllr Charlotte Gerada
Scrutiny Management Panel Appointments
Group
Position for
2026-27
Appointments
1. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Kate Dorrington
2. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Ian Holder
3. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Suzy Horton
4. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Denise Perry
5. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson CBE
6. Reform UK
Cllr Matthew Cordy
7. Reform UK
Cllr Carl Inman
8. Reform UK
Vice-Chair
Cllr Lee Tindal
9. Labour
Chair
Cllr Mary Vallely
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Richard Adair
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Mark Jeffery
Labour
Standing Deputy
Cllr Graham Heaney
Governance & Audit & Standards Committee Appointments
Group
Position for
2026-27
Appointments
1. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Dave Ashmore
2. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Kate Dorrington
3. Liberal Democrat
Chair
Cllr Ian Holder
4. Conservative
Cllr Simon Bosher
5. Reform UK
Vice-Chair
Cllr Matthew Cordy
6. Reform UK
Cllr Carl Inman
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Steve Andrews
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Billy Ansell
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Mark Jeffery
Employment Committee Appointments
Group
Position for
2026-27
Appointments
1. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Dave Ashmore
2. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Darren Sanders
3. Liberal Democrat
Chair
Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson CBE
4. Reform UK
Cllr Russell Simpson
5. Labour
Cllr Charlotte Gerada
6. Independent Member
Vice-Chair
Cllr Cal Corkery
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Stuart Brown
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Kate Dorrington
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Matthew Winnington
Labour
Standing Deputy
Cllr Graham Heaney
Health Overview & Scrutiny Panel Appointments
Group
Position for
2026-27
Appointments
1. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Suzy Horton
2. Liberal Democrat
Chair
Cllr Mark Jeffery
3. Liberal Democrat
Vice-Chair
Cllr Denise Perry
4. Reform UK
Cllr Joe Standen
5. Labour
Cllr Graham Heaney
6. Conservative
Vacancy
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Kate Dorrington
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Leonie Oliver
Labour
Standing Deputy
Cllr Mary Vallely
Economic Development, Culture & Leisure Scrutiny Panel Appointments
Group
Position for
2026-27
Appointments
1. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Billy Ansell
2. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Suzy Horton
3. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Mark Jeffery
4. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Leonie Oliver
5. Reform UK
Vice-Chair
Cllr Matthew Cordy
6. Reform UK
Chair
Cllr Russell Simpson
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Richard Adair
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Ian Holder
Education, Children & Young People Scrutiny Panel Appointments
Group
Position for
2026-27
Appointments
1. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Steve Andrews
2. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Suzy Horton
3. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Leonie Oliver
4. Reform UK
Cllr Sam Coupland
5. Reform UK
Vice-Chair
Cllr Lamara Fudge
6. Conservative
Chair
Cllr Hannah Brent
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson CBE
Housing & Social Care Scrutiny Panel Appointments
Group
Position for
2026-27
Appointments
1. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Kate Dorrington
2. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Denise Perry
3. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Steve Andrews
4. Reform UK
Cllr Sam Coupland
5. Reform UK
Vice-Chair
Cllr Raymond Dent
6. Labour
Chair
Cllr Graham Heaney
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Richard Adair
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Mark Jeffery
Labour
Standing Deputy
Cllr Rajah Ghosh
Traffic, Environment & Community Safety Scrutiny Panel
Appointments
Group
Position for
2026-27
Appointments
1. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Steve Andrews
2. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Dave Ashmore
3. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Richard Adair
4. Reform UK
Cllr Chris Dike
5. Reform UK
Chair
Cllr Joe Standen
6. Labour
Vice-Chair
Cllr Charlotte Gerada
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Mark Jeffery
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Suzy Horton
Labour
Standing Deputy
Cllr Graham Heaney
Appointments and Other Appointments
Hampshire Fire & Rescue Authority (1 member)
Nomination
Cllr Billy Ansell
Police and Crime Panel (1 Member & 1 Deputy)
Nomination
Cllr Lee Hunt
Deputy: Kimberly Barrett
Local Government Association General Assembly (4 Members)
Nominations
Cllr Steve Pitt
Cllr Darren Sanders
Cllr Emily Strudwick
Cllr Mary Vallely
Langstone Harbour Board (6 Members)
Note - Should be politically proportional.
Group
Nominations
1. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Steve Andrews
2. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Billy Ansell
3. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Nick Dorrington
4. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson CBE
5. Reform UK
Cllr Raymond Dent
6. Labour
Cllr Graham Heaney
Liberal Democrat (Deputy)
Cllr Kimberly Barrett
Liberal Democrat (Deputy)
Cllr Steve Pitt
Twinning Advisory Group
Current Membership: 8 Members (not required to be politically proportional)
1. (Chair) - Cllr Chris Attwell
2. Vice-Chair, (ex-officio Lord Mayor) - Cllr Abdul Kadir
3. Cllr Billy Ansell
4. Cllr Stuart Brown
5. Cllr Suzy Horton
6. Cllr Russell Simpson
7. Cllr Joe Standen
8. Cllr Charlotte Gerada
Hampshire and the Solent Combined County Authority:
(i) The Cabinet Member with the responsibility for Transport to the Transport Committee: Cllr Peter Candlish.
(ii) 2 members and 2 deputy members to theEconomic Growth and Regeneration Advisory Board.
Appointment
Deputy Member
Cllr Steve Pitt
Cllr Hugh Mason
Cllr Mark Jeffery
Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson CBE
(iii) 1 member and 1 deputy member to thePlanning Advisory Board
Appointment
Deputy Member
Cllr Hugh Mason
Cllr Chris Attwell
(iv) 1 member and 1 deputy member to the Skills and Employment Support Advisory Board.
Appointment
Deputy Member
Cllr Suzy Horton
Cllr Kimberly Barrett
(v) 2 members and 2 deputy members to theOverview & Scrutiny Committee.
Appointment
Deputy Member
Cllr Darren Sanders
Cllr Kate Dorrington
Cllr Joe Standen
Cllr Emily Strudwick
(vi) 2 members and 2 deputy members to theGovernance and Audit Committee.
Appointment
Deputy Member
Cllr Stuart Brown
Cllr Ian Holder
Cllr Russell Simpson
Cllr Emily Strudwick
A copy of the proposed membership of each committee was circulated at the meeting, which contained one contested position and a number of vacant Vice Chair positions.
Council voted upon the nominations for the contested seat on the Hampshire & The Solent Combined County Authority Economic Growth and Regeneration Advisory Board.
Following the vote, it was RESOLVED that Councillor Steve Pitt and Councillor Mark Jeffery be proposed for the two positions on the Hampshire & The Solent Combined County Authority Economic Growth and Regeneration Advisory Board.
Council received the below nominations from the floor in respect of the following vacant positions:
· Vice Chair of the Planning Committee - Councillor Mary Vallely
· Vice Chair of the Scrutiny Management Panel - Councillor Lee Tindal
· Vice Chair of the Employment Committee - Councillor Cal Corkery
· Vice Chair of the Health Overview & Scrutiny Panel - Councillor Denise Perry
· Vice Chair of the Traffic, Environment & Community Safety Scrutiny Panel - Councillor Charlotte Gerada
It was
Proposed by Councillor Steve Pitt
Seconded by Councillor Emily Strudwick
(i) To adopt the overall political balance of the Council; and
(ii) Agree the membership of the committees and panels, standing deputies, Chairs and Vice Chairs of Committees and Panels, including appointments and other appointments.
Following a vote it was RESOLVED that:
(i) the total number of seats on committees and panels be divided among the political groups and individual members as applicable in accordance with Table 1 below;
1
2
3
4
5
6
Groups
No of Cllrs
Total No of Cttee Seats
Licensing Committee
(15 Members)
Planning Committee
(10 Members)
7 committees and panels (see note)
(6 Members each)
Scrutiny Management Panel
(9 Members)
Liberal Democrats
22
40
8
5
22
5
Reform UK
12
22
4
3
12
3
Labour
4
7
1
1
4
1
Conservative
3
5
1
1
3
0
Non-aligned independent member
1
2
1
0
1
0
42
76
15
10
42
9
(ii) any other bodies subject to the political proportionality rules be appointed in accordance with the proportions shown in Table 1; and
(iii) the allocation of seats schedule and the membership of the committees, panels, appointments and other appointments below be AGREED:
Licensing Committee Appointments
Group
Position
2026-27
Appointments
1. Liberal Democrat
Chair
Cllr Richard Adair
2. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Chris Attwell
3. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Kimberly Barrett
4. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Stuart Brown
5. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Ian Holder
6. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Lee Hunt
7. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Leonie Oliver
8. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson CBE
9. Reform UK
Cllr Chris Dike
10. Reform UK
Cllr Lamara Fudge
11. Reform UK
Vice-Chair
Cllr George Madgwick
12. Reform UK
Cllr Emily Strudwick
13. Labour (Gifted to Reform UK)
Cllr Russell Simpson
14. Conservative
Cllr Hannah Brent
15. Non-aligned Independent member
VACANCY
Liberal Democrat X 3
Standing Deputy
Cllr Nick Dorrington
Cllr Hugh Mason
Cllr Steve Pitt
Reform UK
Standing Deputy
Cllr
Cllr
Cllr
Planning Committee Appointments
Group
Position for
2026-27
Appointments
1. Liberal Democrat
Chair
Cllr Suzy Horton
2. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Lee Hunt
3. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Hugh Mason
4. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Denise Perry
5. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson CBE
6. Reform UK
Cllr Matthew Cordy
7. Reform UK
Cllr Carl Inman
8. Reform UK
Cllr Joe Standen
9. Labour
Vice-Chair
Cllr Mary Vallely
10.Conservative
VACANCY
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Chris Attwell
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Peter Candlish
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Mark Jeffery
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Steve Pitt
Reform UK
Standing Deputy
Cllr Raymond Dent
Reform UK
Standing Deputy
Cllr Chris Dike
Reform UK
Standing Deputy
Cllr George Madgwick
Reform UK
Standing Deputy
Cllr Derek North
Reform UK
Standing Deputy
Cllr Russell Simpson
Labour
Standing Deputy
Cllr Charlotte Gerada
Scrutiny Management Panel Appointments
Group
Position for
2026-27
Appointments
1. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Kate Dorrington
2. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Ian Holder
3. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Suzy Horton
4. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Denise Perry
5. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson CBE
6. Reform UK
Cllr Matthew Cordy
7. Reform UK
Cllr Carl Inman
8. Reform UK
Vice-Chair
Cllr Lee Tindal
9. Labour
Chair
Cllr Mary Vallely
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Richard Adair
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Mark Jeffery
Labour
Standing Deputy
Cllr Graham Heaney
Governance & Audit & Standards Committee Appointments
Group
Position for
2026-27
Appointments
1. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Dave Ashmore
2. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Kate Dorrington
3. Liberal Democrat
Chair
Cllr Ian Holder
4. Conservative
Cllr Simon Bosher
5. Reform UK
Vice-Chair
Cllr Matthew Cordy
6. Reform UK
Cllr Carl Inman
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Steve Andrews
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Billy Ansell
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Mark Jeffery
Employment Committee Appointments
Group
Position for
2026-27
Appointments
1. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Dave Ashmore
2. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Darren Sanders
3. Liberal Democrat
Chair
Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson CBE
4. Reform UK
Cllr Russell Simpson
5. Labour
Cllr Charlotte Gerada
6. Independent Member
Vice-Chair
Cllr Cal Corkery
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Stuart Brown
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Kate Dorrington
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Matthew Winnington
Labour
Standing Deputy
Cllr Graham Heaney
Health Overview & Scrutiny Panel Appointments
Group
Position for
2026-27
Appointments
1. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Suzy Horton
2. Liberal Democrat
Chair
Cllr Mark Jeffery
3. Liberal Democrat
Vice-Chair
Cllr Denise Perry
4. Reform UK
Cllr Joe Standen
5. Labour
Cllr Graham Heaney
6. Conservative
Vacancy
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Kate Dorrington
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Leonie Oliver
Labour
Standing Deputy
Cllr Mary Vallely
Economic Development, Culture & Leisure Scrutiny Panel Appointments
Group
Position for
2026-27
Appointments
1. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Billy Ansell
2. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Suzy Horton
3. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Mark Jeffery
4. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Leonie Oliver
5. Reform UK
Vice-Chair
Cllr Matthew Cordy
6. Reform UK
Chair
Cllr Russell Simpson
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Richard Adair
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Ian Holder
Education, Children & Young People Scrutiny Panel Appointments
Group
Position for
2026-27
Appointments
1. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Steve Andrews
2. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Suzy Horton
3. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Leonie Oliver
4. Reform UK
Cllr Sam Coupland
5. Reform UK
Vice-Chair
Cllr Lamara Fudge
6. Conservative
Chair
Cllr Hannah Brent
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson CBE
Housing & Social Care Scrutiny Panel Appointments
Group
Position for
2026-27
Appointments
1. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Kate Dorrington
2. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Denise Perry
3. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Steve Andrews
4. Reform UK
Cllr Sam Coupland
5. Reform UK
Vice-Chair
Cllr Raymond Dent
6. Labour
Chair
Cllr Graham Heaney
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Richard Adair
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Mark Jeffery
Labour
Standing Deputy
Cllr Rajah Ghosh
Traffic, Environment & Community Safety Scrutiny Panel
Appointments
Group
Position for
2026-27
Appointments
1. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Steve Andrews
2. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Dave Ashmore
3. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Richard Adair
4. Reform UK
Cllr Chris Dike
5. Reform UK
Chair
Cllr Joe Standen
6. Labour
Vice-Chair
Cllr Charlotte Gerada
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Mark Jeffery
Liberal Democrat
Standing Deputy
Cllr Suzy Horton
Labour
Standing Deputy
Cllr Graham Heaney
Appointments and Other Appointments
Hampshire Fire & Rescue Authority (1 member)
Nomination
Cllr Billy Ansell
Police and Crime Panel (1 Member & 1 Deputy)
Nomination
Cllr Lee Hunt
Deputy: Kimberly Barrett
Local Government Association General Assembly (4 Members)
Nominations
Cllr Steve Pitt
Cllr Darren Sanders
Cllr Emily Strudwick
Cllr Mary Vallely
Langstone Harbour Board (6 Members)
Note - Should be politically proportional.
Group
Nominations
1. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Steve Andrews
2. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Billy Ansell
3. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Nick Dorrington
4. Liberal Democrat
Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson CBE
5. Reform UK
Cllr Raymond Dent
6. Labour
Cllr Graham Heaney
Liberal Democrat (Deputy)
Cllr Kimberly Barrett
Liberal Democrat (Deputy)
Cllr Steve Pitt
Twinning Advisory Group
Current Membership: 8 Members (not required to be politically proportional)
1. (Chair) - Cllr Chris Attwell
2. Vice-Chair, (ex-officio Lord Mayor) - Cllr Abdul Kadir
3. Cllr Billy Ansell
4. Cllr Stuart Brown
5. Cllr Suzy Horton
6. Cllr Russell Simpson
7. Cllr Joe Standen
8. Cllr Charlotte Gerada
Hampshire and the Solent Combined County Authority:
(i) The Cabinet Member with the responsibility for Transport to the Transport Committee: Cllr Peter Candlish.
(ii) 2 members and 2 deputy members to theEconomic Growth and Regeneration Advisory Board.
Appointment
Deputy Member
Cllr Steve Pitt
Cllr Hugh Mason
Cllr Mark Jeffery
Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson CBE
(iii) 1 member and 1 deputy member to thePlanning Advisory Board
Appointment
Deputy Member
Cllr Hugh Mason
Cllr Chris Attwell
(iv) 1 member and 1 deputy member to the Skills and Employment Support Advisory Board.
Appointment
Deputy Member
Cllr Suzy Horton
Cllr Kimberly Barrett
(v) 2 members and 2 deputy members to theOverview & Scrutiny Committee.
Appointment
Deputy Member
Cllr Darren Sanders
Cllr Kate Dorrington
Cllr Joe Standen
Cllr Emily Strudwick
(vi) 2 members and 2 deputy members to theGovernance and Audit Committee.
Appointment
Deputy Member
Cllr Stuart Brown
Cllr Ian Holder
Cllr Russell Simpson
Cllr Emily Strudwick
16
To receive and consider any urgent and important business in accordance with Standing Order No 26.
Minutes
There was no urgent business notified under the provisions of this standing order.
17
To approve the following dates for meetings of the Council during 2026/27 municipal year to commence at 2pm unless otherwise indicated
14 July 2026
13 October 2026
10 November 2026
8 December 2026
12 January 2027 (provisional)
23 February 2027
16 March 2027
18 May 2027 (Annual) (10am)
To provisionally agree the following Council meeting dates for 2027/28
13 July 2027
12 October 2027
9 November 2027
7 December 2027
18 January 2028 (provisional)
22 February 2028
14 March 2028
13 October 2026
10 November 2026
8 December 2026
12 January 2027 (provisional)
23 February 2027
16 March 2027
18 May 2027 (Annual) (10am)
To provisionally agree the following Council meeting dates for 2027/28
13 July 2027
12 October 2027
9 November 2027
7 December 2027
18 January 2028 (provisional)
22 February 2028
14 March 2028
Minutes
It was
Proposed by Councillor Steve Pitt
Seconded by Councillor Emily Strudwick
That the dates and times for the Council meetings for the next municipal year (2026/27) as set out in agenda item 17, be approved and that the provisional dates for 2027/28 Council meetings also set out in agenda item 17, be agreed in principle, subject to later ratification.
Upon being put to the vote this was declared CARRIED.
RESOLVED that:
(1) the meetings of the Council be held on the following dates in the 2026/27 municipal year to commence at 2.00 pm unless otherwise indicated:
14 July 2026
13 October 2026
10 November 2026
8 December 2026
12 January 2027 (provisional)
23 February 2027
16 March 2027
18 May 2027 (Annual) (10am)
(2) the following provisional council meeting dates for 2027/28 be agreed in principle subject to later ratification:
13 July 2027
12 October 2027
9 November 2027
7 December 2027
18 January 2028 (provisional)
22 February 2028
14 March 2028
Proposed by Councillor Steve Pitt
Seconded by Councillor Emily Strudwick
That the dates and times for the Council meetings for the next municipal year (2026/27) as set out in agenda item 17, be approved and that the provisional dates for 2027/28 Council meetings also set out in agenda item 17, be agreed in principle, subject to later ratification.
Upon being put to the vote this was declared CARRIED.
RESOLVED that:
(1) the meetings of the Council be held on the following dates in the 2026/27 municipal year to commence at 2.00 pm unless otherwise indicated:
14 July 2026
13 October 2026
10 November 2026
8 December 2026
12 January 2027 (provisional)
23 February 2027
16 March 2027
18 May 2027 (Annual) (10am)
(2) the following provisional council meeting dates for 2027/28 be agreed in principle subject to later ratification:
13 July 2027
12 October 2027
9 November 2027
7 December 2027
18 January 2028 (provisional)
22 February 2028
14 March 2028
Previous Meetings
Future Meetings
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