The Cabinet of Rushmoor Borough Council met on Tuesday 30 June 2026, approving a new Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy and Action Plan, and a priority list for playground renewals. The Cabinet also noted progress and approved the acceptance and administration of funding for the Pride in Place programme in the Mayfield area.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy and Action Plan

The Cabinet approved a new Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Policy and noted the associated Equality Action Plan. Councillor Sophie Porter, Healthy Communities & Active Lives Portfolio Holder, presented the report, highlighting that the policy had been developed through extensive engagement with stakeholders, analysis of local insight, and organisational learning. It aligns with the Equality Framework for Local Government and fulfils the Council's duties under the Equality Act 2010. The action plan details specific actions to deliver the policy's five strategic goals: understanding inequality and community experience, accessible and inclusive services, inclusive communities and cohesion, an inclusive workforce and organisational culture, and leadership, governance, and accountability. A phased approach to 2028 is planned, with initial quick wins to be implemented within six months. Members expressed strong support for the policy, emphasising the importance of accurately measuring and monitoring its impact. The Leader of the Council, Councillor Gareth Williams, agreed to discuss incorporating this into regular performance management reports. The contribution of the Policy and Projects Advisory Board to the development of the policy was also acknowledged. The Cabinet resolved to approve the EDI Policy, note the Action Plan, and note the upcoming publication of the annual Public Sector Equality Duty Update report in October 2026.

Playground Renewals 2026-28

A priority list for the renewal and refurbishment of Council-owned playgrounds was approved by the Cabinet. Councillor Christine Guinness, Pride in Place/Neighbourhood Services Portfolio Holder, explained that £400,000 in capital finance has been secured over the next two financial years (£200,000 for 2026-27 and £200,000 for 2027-28) for this purpose. For many years, playground renewals were dependent on Section 106 developer contributions, which are geographically limited. The priority list has been developed based on the overall condition of the sites, their size, and the catchment areas they serve. The Policy and Project Advisory Board had previously endorsed the proposed approach. Members supported the plan, stressing the importance of local community involvement in the renewal process. It was confirmed that the allocated funding is insufficient to improve all Council-owned playgrounds, and Section 106 contributions will continue to supplement the budget. The Cabinet resolved to approve the playground renewal/refurbishment priority list and to note the playgrounds on the Playground Priority Upgrade Order List for consideration by the new authority from 2028-29 onwards.

Pride in Place Programme

The Cabinet noted the progress and approved the acceptance and administration of funding for the Pride in Place programme in the Mayfield area. Councillor Sophie Porter presented the report, outlining that Mayfield had been awarded £20 million over ten years as part of Phase Two of the government's Pride in Place programme. A Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board will be established to provide strategic oversight, engage with local communities and stakeholders, and develop a 10-year plan for investment. The Council will nominate one representative to the Board, which will have between 8 and 12 members, with at least 51% living or working in the area. The Chair of the Board will be independent. The Cabinet expressed strong support for this funding, recognising its potential to benefit one of the Borough's most deprived areas. They also recommended that the Board adopt a Strategic Communications Plan to ensure effective communication. The Cabinet resolved to note the objectives and progress of the programme, approve the management of expenditure in accordance with funding conditions and Council financial procedures, and agree to accept and administer the grant.