Decision details

To consider the schedule of projects for inclusion in the 2026/27 budget

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet:

a)    endorsed the schedule of projects, as included within the report and summarised via Appendix 1 and Appendix 2, noting that final approval will come through Council consideration of the 2026/27 budget;

b)    noted that this programme commits the Council to expenditure beyond 2026/27 whereby a project commences in 2026/27 and extends into future years; and

c)     recommend to Council that the Vehicle and Plant replacement programme be approved for a 2-year period, covering purchases due in 2026/27 and 2027/28.

KEY DECISION:

Report to Cabinet and Council

PORTFOLIO:

Finance and Corporate

ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS CONSIDERED/REJECTED:

As set out in the report.

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST:

None

DISCUSSION:

The Portfolio Holder Finance and Corporate introduced the report and explained that the programmes enabled the Council to maintain and replace assets where needed. He reported that there had been an increase of £210,000 into the overall budget for the year which brought the total to £3.1million, of which £500,000 relates to the HRA. 

The programme concerns the assets that enable the Council to deliver their essential services to residents. The Portfolio Holder explained that much of the programme would be unseen by the public but was pleased to report that the Eling Tide Mill major works was an example of a visible project that had recently benefitted from NFDC funding and support to bring it back into use, with further works required and so included within the proposed programme. Much of the programme’s efforts were on maintaining the leisure centres and replacing waste carts.  The Portfolio Holder explained that despite financial pressures on Local Government, NFDC were still able to secure funding to support these projects.

The Strategic Director Corporate Resources and S151 Officer confirmed that the process had been rigorous and that the report had been considered and discussed by the Resources and Transformation Overview and Scrutiny Panel. He explained that there was a new Project Management Office in place which would provide oversight of the prioritised programme over next year. 

A non-executive member commented on public convenience refurbishment across the district and highlighted the issue of additional facilities for people with disabilities. He reported that he had had productive and positive conversations with Officers and encouraged Cabinet to continue to add these facilities, given that the great benefit to many New Forest residents. The Portfolio Holder recognised the importance of these facilities and explained that the Council had installed additional, specialist pods for disabled residents.

A non-executive member thanked the Council for supporting the industrial heritage asset of the Eling Tide Mill which was deemed unique asset type that had widespread support.