Agenda and minutes

The Mayor welcomed all those present to the meeting.

The Mayor reported that, prior to the meeting, an updated version of the Amended Empty Homes Strategy had been submitted. In order to allow Members sufficient time to review the revised document, it was agreed that consideration of the item would be deferred to the next meeting of the Council, scheduled for 21^st September 2026.

Apologies for absence were received on behalf of Councillors William Boyd and David Meredith.

To invite Councillors to declare any Disclosable Pecuniary Interests or Other Disclosable Interests they may have in items on the agenda, and to confirm the nature of those interests.

There were no declarations of interest.

The minutes of the previous Council meeting held on 26^th May 2026 were submitted for Members’ consideration.

During consideration of the minutes, the following amendments were requested in respect of the previous Mayor’s Opening Remarks –

• The reference to ‘welcoming visitors from Gruchet-Le-Valasse’ be amended to ‘visiting Gruchet-Le-Valasse’.
• The reference to ‘hosting representatives from the Kerala community” be amended to “attending events hosted by the Kerala community’.

RESOLVED that

subject to the amendments as detailed in the preamble above, the minutes of the meeting of Council held on 26^th May 2026 be approved as a true and correct record and signed by the Mayor.

To consider Announcements under Procedure Rule 10:

a)           Mayor’s Announcements

b)           The Leader’s Announcements

c)           Chief Executive’s Announcements.

The following announcements were made at the meeting.

a) The Mayor’s Announcements

On behalf of the Council, the Mayor welcomed Councillor Bill Hartnett back to the Chamber following a period of absence.

The Mayor reported that she had undertaken a number of civic and charitable engagements during the previous month, accompanied by her Consort, County Councillor Nick Price. These had included meetings with local charities, attendance at Royal British Legion events to commemorate the eighty-second anniversary of D-Day, and the unveiling of a commemorative plaque as part of the Royal Enfield one-hundred and twenty-fifth anniversary celebrations on 24^th June 2026.

In particular, the Mayor highlighted her attendance at the Royal British Legion ‘Raising the Flag’ event, where she was pleased to support the provision of a new standard and badges for youth cadets through Worcestershire County Council divisional funding.

The Mayor concluded by advising Members that she looked forward to continuing her support for local charities and to hosting a Mayoral Charity Auction in July 2026 in aid of her chosen charities.

b) The Leader’s Announcements

The Leader informed Members that he had attended a meeting of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) Board, during which he had met with the Mayor of the West Midlands, Richard Parker. Following receipt of correspondence from Mr Parker, the Leader had extended an invitation for him to visit Redditch to discuss opportunities for support and investment in the Borough and was awaiting a response.

The Leader also reported that he had met with the West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) and hoped to provide a further update to Members in the coming weeks. He advised that the PCC had agreed to assist in increasing parking enforcement capacity within the Borough.

c) The Chief Executive’s Announcements

The Chief Executive provided an update on Local Government Reorganisation (LGR). Members were advised that contact had been received from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) during the previous week confirming that the Government remained committed to the LGR programme.

The Chief Executive further reported that an announcement was expected before the Parliamentary summer recess began on 16th July 2026. Members were assured that any updates received would be shared with them promptly.

Questions on Notice will be published in a supplementary pack for this meeting.

The following Question on Notice was submitted by a member of the public, Mr T. Burton Fletcher, in advance of the meeting for the consideration of the Mayor:

“As an openly gay father, a parent of a child of mixed heritage, and a Director of Redditch Pride CIC, I am deeply concerned by historic social media posts attributed to the Mayor that have been widely criticised as offensive towards Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer plus (LGBTQ+) people and people from ethnic minority backgrounds. These posts have received significant public attention and have caused concern among many residents.

Given the Mayor’s responsibility to represent all residents of Redditch regardless of their race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or gender identity, what steps has the Mayor taken to rebuild trust with those communities, and why should residents who feel targeted or excluded by these views have confidence in her ability to represent them impartially?”

In responding to the question, the Mayor acknowledged that concerns had been raised regarding a number of her historic social media posts and apologised for any offence or upset caused. The Mayor explained that the posts had been made several years prior to her entering public office, during a period of undertaking grassroots community work and personal difficulty, and she accepted that greater care should have been taken in the choice of language used.

The Mayor advised that holding public office had provided an opportunity for reflection and learning, particularly regarding the impact of words on others. She reaffirmed her commitment to representing all sections of the community with respect and dignity, regardless of faith, background or sexuality, and apologised if the posts had conveyed a different impression.

In concluding her response, the Mayor stated that she remained committed to engaging with individuals and communities who wished to discuss the matter and to continuing to serve all residents of the Borough.

In a supplementary statement, Mr Burton Fletcher welcomed the Mayor’s apology and extended an invitation for her to attend a community event on 4th July 2026 focusing on the history of LGBTQ+ people. He expressed the hope that the Mayor would attend this and similar events as an opportunity to engage with and learn from communities affected by the historic social media posts.

The following Question on Notice was submitted by Councillor Monica Stringfellow in advance of the meeting for the consideration of the Leader of the Council:

“Will the Leader join me in condemning the racist, homophobic, divisive remarks made by The Mayor and what steps will you take to reassure our diverse community that these comments do not reflect the values of our town?”

In response, the Leader stated that he unequivocally condemned racism, antisemitism, homophobia and discrimination in all its forms, noting that such behaviour had no place in society, local communities or public life. He reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to serving all residents fairly and equally and advised that this principle would continue to guide the administration. The Leader further emphasised the importance of  ...  view the full minutes text for item 20.

The following Motion on Notice was presented by Councillor Jane Spilsbury at the meeting:

“This Council notes:

·       The murder of Jo Cox MP on 16 June 2016 and the 10th anniversary of her death in 2026.

·       The murder of Sir David Amess MP on 15 October 2021 whilst carrying out a constituency surgery on behalf of his constituents.

·       The continuing abuse, intimidation and threats directed towards elected representatives at all levels of government.

·       Research showing that a significant number of councillors have experienced abuse, intimidation or harassment whilst carrying out their public duties.

This Council further notes:

·       That democracy is strengthened when people with differing political views can engage in robust but respectful debate.

·       That, as Jo Cox said in her maiden speech, "we have far more in common than that which divides us."

·       That public service should never place an individual at risk of abuse, intimidation or violence.

·       That elected representatives from all political parties, and those with no political affiliation, deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.

·       That abuse, intimidation and threats have no place in local government, national politics or wider public life.

This Council resolves:

·       To mark the lives and public service of Jo Cox MP and Sir David Amess MP through a minute's silence and reflection at this meeting.

·       To reaffirm its commitment to respectful political discourse and democratic engagement.

·       To stand united against abuse, intimidation and violence directed towards all elected representatives, regardless of political party or personal beliefs.

·       To encourage all those involved in public debate, both online and offline, to engage respectfully and constructively with those holding different views.”

The Motion was proposed by Councillor Spilsbury and seconded by Councillor Sharon Harvey.

In proposing the Motion, Councillor Spilsbury reflected on the tenth anniversary of the murder of Jo Cox MP on 16th June 2016 and the impact her death had on her family, friends, colleagues and the wider public. Reference was also made to the violent murder of Sir David Amess MP whilst undertaking similar constituency duties.

Members were reminded of the increasing levels of abuse, intimidation and harassment experienced by elected representatives at all levels of government. It was noted that public servants should be held accountable for their actions, but that threats, harassment and intimidation were unacceptable and risked creating further division within communities. Councillor Spilsbury encouraged all Members to join in condemning such behaviour and to support efforts to promote respectful democratic engagement.

Following the presentation of the Motion, Members discussed a number of points relating to the subject in detail:

·       Members discussed their own personal experiences with online abuse, harassment and intimidation and highlighted the significant increase in such behaviour directed at elected representatives in recent years, particularly through social media.

·       Noted that all elected representatives should be able to undertake their public duties without fear or intimidation.

·       Incidents of other politically and ideologically motivated violence, such as the murder of Lee Rigby and the Sousse attacks in 2015 in Tunisia, were discussed with Members stressing that  ...  view the full minutes text for item 21.

Council considered a report on proposals for the appointment of Charter Trustees for Redditch as part of the Structural Change Orders (SCO) associated with Local Government Reorganisation (LGR).

Members were advised that, whilst the final decision from Government regarding LGR was still awaited on the date of the meeting, there was the opportunity to take steps to protect Redditch’s civic identity and ceremonial traditions as part of the transition process. Members were reminded that Redditch had been granted Borough status in 1980, enabling the appointment of a Mayor and the establishment of civic traditions which had continued since that time.

It was noted that, once the Borough Council ceased to exist, these arrangements would not automatically continue unless specific provision was made within the SCO. Members were advised that the report sought Council’s support for a request to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) for the establishment of Charter Trustees for the unparished areas of Redditch. It was explained that Charter Trustees were a recognised mechanism used to preserve civic and ceremonial functions following LGR and would be responsible for matters such as the Borough Charter, civic regalia and ceremonial property.

Members were further advised that additional work would be required during the transition period to identify relevant civic and ceremonial assets and to consider the associated governance, financial and administrative arrangements.

Following presentation of the report, Members discussed the item in detail and commented on the following points:

·       Members highlighted the importance of preserving the role of Mayor as a non-political civic representative for the Borough and maintaining Redditch’s civic identity and traditions.

·       The contribution made by successive Mayors in supporting local charities, community organisations and civic events, both during and after their term of office was recognised.

·       The value of the Mayor in promoting civic pride, raising the profile of Redditch and acting as an ambassador for the Borough and the King’s representative.

·       Members expressed concern that LGR could result in smaller towns losing their identity and visibility within a larger authority area.

·       It was suggested that retaining a civic head would help provide representation, influence and advocacy for Redditch within future local government structures.

·       Questions were raised regarding the future ownership and management of civic and ceremonial assets, including regalia, gifts and other items associated with the office of Mayor. Officers confirmed that an inventory would need to be made.

·       Members requested further information regarding the likely costs of establishing Charter Trustees and the level of any future precept. Officers advised that the estimated precept was expected to be low and that further details would be established as part of the transition process. It was noted that the unitary authority would provide financial support in the first year while expenses were being established and that the additional precept would be implemented in the following year.

·       Concern was expressed about the impact of any additional precept on residents, particularly those experiencing financial hardship.

·       It was questioned whether a ceremonial mayoral function remained necessary with a  ...  view the full minutes text for item 22.

West Mercia Police and Crime Panel

Members are asked to note that following the Annual Council meeting the Council was advised that the authority’s representative on the West Mercia Police and Crime Panel needs to be a Labour Group member, in accordance with the political balance for the panel.

Therefore, Council is invited to agree appointments to the following positions on the West Mercia Police and Crime Panel from the Labour Group to replace the Members appointed at the Annual Council meeting.

·             Lead Member

·             Substitute Member

Members were asked to note that following the Annual Council meeting on 26^th May 2026, the Council was advised that the authority’s representative on the West Mercia Police and Crime Panel needed to be a Labour Group member, in accordance with the political balance for the panel.

RESOLVED that

1)    Councillor Jane Spilsbury be appointed as the Lead Member on the West Mercia Police and Crime Panel for the remainder of the 2026/27 municipal year; and

2)    Councillor Andy Fry be appointed as the Substitute Member on the West Mercia Police and Crime Panel for the remainder of the 2026/27 municipal year.

Council is asked to note a change to the Conservative Group’s nomination to the Planning Committee.

Councillor Brandon Clayton is nominated to replace Councillor Matthew Dormer on the Planning Committee.

Council was asked to note a change to the Conservative Group’s nomination to the Planning Committee for the 2026/27 municipal year.

Councillor Brandon Clayton was replacing Councillor Matthew Dormer on the Committee.

The Mayor advised that the Overview and Scrutiny Committee Annual Report 2025/26 had originally been scheduled to be considered at the Council meeting held on 2^nd March 2026. However, consideration had been deferred due to the absence of the then Chair and Vice-Chair of the Committee. It was noted that, following their subsequent election as Leader and Deputy Leader of the Council, they were no longer able to participate in the scrutiny process. The Mayor therefore proposed that the report be noted.

On behalf of the Council, the Mayor thanked the Overview and Scrutiny Committee and all Members who had served on the Committee during 2025/26 for their hard work and contribution throughout the municipal year.

Members highlighted the importance of effective scrutiny and governance in holding the administration to account and expressed their appreciation to the Chair, Vice-Chair and all Members who had served on the Overview and Scrutiny Committee during 2025/26. Support was also expressed for the continuation of this work under the newly appointed Committee.

RESOLVED that

the Overview and Scrutiny Committee Annual Report for 2025-2026 be noted.

Council considered a recommendation from the Licensing Committee meeting held on 4th June 2026.

In considering the recommendation, Members noted that the Licensing Committee had taken account of representations received from taxi operators regarding proposed fee increases. It was recognised that taxi firms continued to face financial pressures, including increased fuel costs and the rising cost of living, and that freezing fees demonstrated acknowledgement of the challenging circumstances experienced by local operators. Members also highlighted the high standards required of licensed drivers and vehicles within the Borough and considered it appropriate to maintain the fee freeze at the present time.

Concerns were expressed regarding the impact of licensing arrangements in neighbouring authorities. It was suggested that the current funding model and fee structure should be reviewed in greater detail in future to ensure that licensing costs remained sustainable.

The recommendation was proposed by Councillor Nic Pioli and seconded by Councillor Matthew Dormer.

RESOLVED that

the licence fee in respect of Hackney Carriage and Private Hire vehicle licences and operator licences for 2026/27 remain at the current fee level.

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.

To note any decisions taken in accordance with the Council’s Urgency Procedure Rules.

(None to date).

The Mayor advised that no urgent decisions had been taken since the previous Council meeting.

To consider any additional items exceptionally agreed by the Mayor as Urgent Business in accordance with the powers vested in him by virtue of Section 100(B)(4)(b) of the Local Government Act 1972.

(This power should be exercised only in cases where there are genuinely special circumstances which require consideration of an item which has not previously been published on the Order of Business for the meeting.)

There was no urgent business for consideration on this occasion.