The Policy and Project Advisory Board was scheduled to review the aims and action plan of the Aldershot & Farnborough Growth Partnership, consider proposed changes to the Street Trading Consent Policy, and discuss the Board's work plan.

Aldershot & Farnborough Growth Partnership

The Board was set to review the aims and action plan of the Aldershot & Farnborough Growth Partnership. This initiative aims to consolidate the area's strengths in aerospace, defence, and advanced technology to foster economic growth, improve career opportunities, and attract investment. The partnership seeks to create a unified voice for the region, amplifying its economic value and influence at regional and national levels. Key priorities include improving awareness of collective business strengths, strengthening growth and connectivity between businesses, enhancing collaboration between businesses and educational institutions on skills development, and renewing town centres to support economic growth. The action plan outlines short, medium, and long-term priorities across these themes, focusing on establishing governance, developing a brand, creating business-led working groups, and promoting the area's innovation assets.

Street Trading Consent Policy

Consideration was scheduled for potential changes to the Council's Street Trading Consent Policy, specifically regarding application requirements and standard conditions. Currently, street trading is prohibited in Rushmoor Borough Council without consent, with all streets designated as 'consent streets'. The report outlined the existing application requirements, which include details about the applicant, products to be sold, proposed location, stall description, and proof of right to work in the UK. It also detailed the standard conditions applied to consents, such as restrictions on causing obstruction or nuisance, adherence to food safety and health and safety legislation, and requirements for public liability insurance.

Work Plan

The Board was also scheduled to discuss its Work Plan for the upcoming period. This included reviewing items previously discussed, such as the Equality Policy and the Playground Improvements Project, and noting upcoming agenda items like the Aldershot & Farnborough Growth Partnership and the Street Trading Consent Policy. The Work Plan also highlighted potential future items for consideration, including Local Government Reorganisation (LGR), the Civil Society Covenant programme, and policies related to animal licensing, sex establishments, and tobacco and vapes. The criteria for selecting items for the work programme were also to be discussed, focusing on aligning with Council Plan priorities, undertaking research and reviews, assisting the Cabinet in decision-making and budget preparation, and ensuring efficient use of time in coordination with other committees.