Issue - meetings

That:

·       The Policy and Resources Committee notes that the Administration will publish its final recommendations on Financial Planning 2026/27 to 2028/29 five working days prior to the Council meeting on 24 February 2026 and present them at this meeting.

The Committee considered Items 6-8 together. Officers confirmed that the Capital Strategy and Treasury Management Policy had been considered by Audit Committee. The Council had low external borrowing and no affordability concerns. Cash Balances were being managed effectively, benefiting from higher interest rates. Capital programme monitoring showed savings and additional grant income.

Members explored the adequacy of planning related budgets and reserves, particularly in light of anticipated costs associated with Local Plan examination, potential planning appeals and public inquiries and historic expectations around conservation area appraisals.

Officers advised that a planning reserve had been created to manage variable and unpredictable planning costs. Exact examination costs could not be predicted in advance. Budgets would continue to be monitored, with in-year adjustment made if required. Additional reserves and potential external funding opportunities could be considered if necessary. Members noted the explanation and indicated that budget sufficiency could be revisited during the forthcoming budget process.

The motions for Items 6 and 7 were declared CARRIED by the Chair with the voting being by General Assent.

The substantive motion was put to the vote and declared CARRIED by the Chair with the voting being by General Assent.

RESOLVED:

That:

• The Policy and Resources Committee notes that the Administration will publish its final recommendations on Financial Planning 2026/27 to 2028/29 five working days prior to the Council meeting on 24 February 2026 and present them at this meeting.