The Growth, Environment & Transport Cabinet Committee is scheduled to convene on Wednesday, 09 September 2026. The meeting's agenda includes discussions on the transition of Active Kent & Medway to an independent entity, updates on the installation of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) by Southern Water, and a review of the council's performance dashboard. Other topics include the procurement of waste transfer services for Folkestone & Hythe, the replacement of the Chestfield Tunnel ventilation system, and updates on Extended Producer Responsibility and environmental achievements.

Active Kent & Medway Transition to Independence

A significant item scheduled for discussion is the transition of Active Kent & Medway (AKM) to an independent legal entity. Currently hosted by Kent County Council (KCC), AKM is Sport England's recognised Active Partnership for Kent and Medway. The report outlines proposals for KCC to conclude its hosting and funding accountable body arrangements, facilitating AKM's move to independence. This move is intended to provide AKM with clearer accountability, stronger governance, and greater long-term organisational resilience, aligning with the predominant operating model for Active Partnerships nationally. The transition is expected to be managed through officer delegation, ensuring a lawful, safe, and efficient conclusion of KCC's current role and a smooth handover to AKM's new operating model.

Southern Water's Sustainable Drainage Systems Update

The committee is set to receive a six-monthly update from Southern Water regarding the installation of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS). SuDS are designed to manage surface water run-off in a more natural way, helping to reduce flood risk and improve water quality. This update will likely cover progress made in implementing these systems across the region and any challenges encountered.

Performance Dashboard Review

A review of the council's Performance Dashboard is scheduled. This report details performance against Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for the 2026/27 financial year. It will highlight which KPIs have met their targets (rated green), which are performing above the minimum standard but not yet meeting targets (rated amber), and those performing below the minimum standard (rated red). The dashboard provides an overview of the council's effectiveness across various service areas.

Waste Transfer Services for Folkestone & Hythe

The committee will consider the procurement for waste transfer services for the Folkestone & Hythe district. KCC, as the Waste Disposal Authority, has a statutory duty to dispose of household waste collected by district councils. Current interim arrangements at Ross Way, Folkestone, are insufficient in capacity and capability, and are due to expire in 2028. The report highlights material changes in the viability of a previously considered capital scheme at Junction 11 of the M20, making a procured commercial solution the most viable alternative. This procurement aims to secure a sustainable, long-term solution to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure KCC meets its statutory obligations.

Chestfield Tunnel Ventilation Replacement

A key discussion point will be the proposed replacement of the Chestfield Tunnel ventilation system. This safety-critical system has reached the end of its serviceable life, with a history of failures causing significant disruption to the A299 Thanet Way. The report outlines the need for renewal to maintain safety standards and network resilience. Option 2B, involving the replacement of existing jet fans with new units fitted with angled louvre deflectors and relocation of one fan per bank to improve maintenance access, is presented as the preferred approach due to its balance of safety, efficiency, maintainability, and value for money. The estimated capital cost for this option is approximately £2.8 million.

Extended Producer Responsibility and National Waste Reforms

An update will be provided on national waste reforms, focusing on the implications of Packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR), the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), and the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) for KCC's waste disposal function. pEPR is already providing significant funding towards managing household packaging waste. The forthcoming DRS is expected to alter the composition of household waste by diverting drinks containers, while the ETS, though its implementation timeline for waste incineration is now uncertain, continues to represent a potential future cost pressure. The report will detail the financial implications and KCC's ongoing actions in response to these reforms.

Environment Plan Annual Report

The committee will receive the first annual report on the Kent Environment Plan, covering April 2025 to March 2026. This report details achievements against the plan's six environmental goals: delivering green energy and reducing carbon emissions; adapting to a changing climate; reducing flood risk and managing water resources; protecting and improving the natural and built environment; managing resources through a circular economy; and conserving and promoting Kent's natural beauty and heritage. The report also outlines environmental work priorities for the upcoming year and notes proposed amendments to the Environment Plan to align with the authority's 2026 Energy Efficiency Plan.

Specialist Highway Support Services Framework

Approval will be sought to procure a new Specialist Highway Support Services Framework. This framework will replace the existing Independent Cost Consultancy contract, which expires in March 2027, and will expand the services to include specialist utility support and programme review. The framework aims to provide ongoing independent cost consultancy, improve cost certainty, enhance programme assurance, and strengthen governance across highway and transportation schemes. The estimated total value of the framework is £4 million over its contractual period.

Work Programme

Finally, the committee will review its Work Programme, outlining future topics scheduled for discussion.