Issue - meetings

Council considered recommendations that had been agreed at three separate meetings of the Executive Committee held on 17^th March 2026, 21^st April 2026 and 9^th June 2026. Members were asked to note that the recommendations arising from the meeting of the Executive Committee held on 2^nd March 2026 had already been considered at the Council meeting held later that same day and, therefore, were not included for consideration at this meeting.

Empty Homes Strategy

As previously detailed, this item had been postponed for consideration at the following meeting to allow Members time to review the updated version of the Empty Homes Strategy.

Climate Change Strategy 2026 to 2031

The Portfolio Holder for Climate and Biodiversity presented a report on the Climate Change Strategy 2026 to 2031. In opening the presentation, she thanked the previous Portfolio Holder for her work.

Members were advised that the Climate Change Strategy 2026 to 2031 represented an important step in the Council’s response to the climate emergency declared in 2019 and would ensure that climate considerations were embedded within decision-making across the authority. The Strategy replaced the previous Carbon Reduction Action Plan and set out a clear and deliverable pathway to reduce emissions from the Council’s own operations by fifty per cent by 2030 and achieve net zero by 2040. It was noted that the Strategy directly supported the Council’s priority of creating a Green, Clean and Safe Borough and focused on delivering practical benefits for residents, the environment and the local economy.

During the debate on the report, Members thanked officers involved for their work in developing the Strategy and highlighted the importance of public engagement in delivering positive environmental outcomes. Reference was made to initiatives undertaken to increase public awareness and involvement in climate and biodiversity issues, including engagement events, woodland management communications and awareness campaigns. Members welcomed the progress that had been achieved to date and expressed support for continuing this work. The Strategy was described as a positive and ambitious document which would help the Council play its part in addressing climate change through clear commitments and actions.

The recommendations were proposed by Councillor Gemma Monaco and seconded by Councillor Matthew Dormer.

Renters’ Rights Act 2025

Council considered a report on the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, the purpose of which was to provide an overview of the Act and the changes that would be implemented over three phases, commencing in May 2026. In introducing the item, the Leader thanked officers for their work in preparing the report and described the legislation as a positive step forward.

During consideration of the report, Members discussed the following points:

·       Members welcomed the additional protections introduced through the Act, noting that it would improve security for tenants by eliminating the risk of no-fault evictions and strengthening standards within the private rented sector.

·       Support was expressed for the work undertaken by officers in preparing for the implementation of the legislation and responding to the additional responsibilities arising from it.

·       It was noted  ...  view the full minutes text for item 28