The Spelthorne Borough Council meeting on 10 June 2024 focused on the approval of acquisitions through the Local Authority Housing Fund. The council resolved to proceed with these acquisitions, with 28 councillors voting in favour and four abstaining.

Local Authority Housing Fund Acquisitions

The primary topic of discussion was the Local Authority Housing Fund acquisitions. Councillor Bateson requested a named vote on this matter. The council resolved to approve the acquisitions as outlined in the report. The vote saw 28 councillors in favour, none against, and four abstentions. Councillors Boughtflower, Chandler, Howkins, and Islam abstained from the vote.

The decision to approve these acquisitions was made in a closed session, as it involved sensitive financial information. The council cited paragraph 3 of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972, which allows for the exclusion of the public and press when discussing matters that could affect the financial or business affairs of any particular person, including the authority itself.

Councillor Sexton, who proposed the exclusion of the public and press, argued that disclosing the information could prejudice the financial position of the authority in being able to undertake even-handed negotiations and finalising acceptable contract terms.

Disclosure of Interests

Councillor Sexton disclosed that she is also a Surrey County Councillor, and Councillor Nichols disclosed his position as a Director on the Knowle Green Estates Board.

For more details, you can refer to the printed minutes of the meeting.