The Wiltshire Council Cabinet is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 3 February 2026 to discuss a range of important financial and service-related matters. Key decisions are expected regarding the council's budget for the upcoming financial year, including proposed Council Tax increases and savings plans. The Cabinet will also review the Housing Revenue Account budget, dwelling rent settings, and the 30-year business plan, alongside the capital programme for the next seven years. Additionally, the procurement of future sexual health services and the school admissions policies for 2027-28 are scheduled for discussion.

Budget and Financial Strategy

The Cabinet will consider proposals for the 2026/27 Budget and the Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) 2026/27 to 2028/29. This includes a proposed net general fund budget of £567.660m for 2026/27 and a Council Tax requirement of £389.328m, which represents an increase of £1.81 per week for a Band D property. This increase comprises a 2.99% general rise and an additional 2% levy specifically for Adult Social Care. The report outlines significant savings proposals totalling £45.806m over the MTFS period, with £29.4m targeted for 2026/27. The council's financial position is considered sound, with reserves maintained at a level to mitigate identified risks, although the growing deficit in the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) remains a significant concern. The provisional Local Government Finance Settlement indicates a 4.5% increase in the council's Core Spending Power for 2026/27, but this is noted as being lower than the national average and a real-terms decrease when accounting for inflation.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA)

The Cabinet will review the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Business Plan, Budget, and associated housing funding decisions for 2026/27, including proposed rent settings. A key proposal is an average actual rent increase of 4.8% for social and affordable rents, effective from 1 April 2026. Garage rents are also set to increase. The report details revisions to the HRA 30-year business plan, which has been updated to reflect rising cost pressures, regulatory changes, and a reassessed development programme. The proposed capital programme for the HRA in 2026/27 is £40.507m, with a total over the period to 2032/33 of £194.058m.

Capital Programme

The Capital Programme for 2026/27 to 2032/33 is presented for approval, totalling £1.042bn. This programme includes significant investment across various directorates, with a substantial portion allocated to Highways & Transport (£599.839m), Children & Education (£105.699m), and Resources (£127.268m). New capital schemes are proposed, including investments in the Churchfields Depot, pedestrian bridge repairs in Salisbury, highway maintenance, fleet vehicles, and waste management infrastructure. The HRA capital programme is also detailed, with a significant focus on the Council House Build Programme and refurbishment of existing stock.

School Admissions Policies

The Cabinet will consider the School Admissions Policies for 2027-28, which include proposed co-ordinated schemes for secondary and primary school admissions, as well as admission arrangements for Voluntary Controlled and Community schools. These policies are a legal requirement and aim to ensure a fair and transparent process for allocating school places. The proposed timetables for applications and appeals are outlined, along with criteria for admissions, including provisions for Looked After Children, vulnerable children, and siblings.

Procurement of Energy Supply Contract

A key decision regarding the Procurement of an Energy Supply Contract from April 2027 will be discussed. The current contract expires on 31 March 2027, and the Cabinet is asked to approve a strategy to award a new contract through a Public Sector Framework for up to 5 years. This approach is recommended for its cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and the ability to procure green tariff electricity. The provider, West Mercia Energy (WME), has demonstrated strong performance in the current contract, achieving competitive rates and providing valuable administrative support.

Procurement of Sexual Health Services

The Cabinet will consider the Procurement of Sexual Health Services, which are a statutory public health function. The current integrated sexual health and HIV treatment service contract expires on 31 March 2027. The report proposes commencing a procurement process to secure future services, with a view to commissioning sexual health and HIV treatment services separately to ensure greater financial clarity and market agility. The service is funded by the Public Health grant, and the procurement aims to ensure comprehensive, open-access care for all residents.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy for 2026/27 will be presented, including Prudential and Treasury Indicators for the next three years, debt management decisions, the Minimum Revenue Provision Policy, and the Annual Investment Strategy. The strategy aims to ensure the council operates within defined borrowing limits, manages financial risks prudently, and seeks optimal returns on investments while prioritising security and liquidity. The report highlights the council's current under-borrowed position and outlines a cautious approach to treasury operations in light of economic forecasts.

Other Discussions

The Cabinet will also receive updates on Corporate Performance and Risk Monitoring for 2025/26 Quarter Three, providing an overview of progress against the Council's Our Wiltshire Plan priorities and the current strategic risk landscape. The report includes proposed updates to risk appetite levels for six categories of risk.

The meeting will also cover the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Budget Setting 2026/27, including dwelling rent settings and a review of the 30-year business plan. This aims to ensure the long-term financial sustainability of the HRA while continuing to invest in existing homes and deliver new affordable housing.

Finally, the Cabinet will consider the School Admissions Policies for 2027-28, which outline the procedures for applying for school places in maintained schools and academies. These policies are a legal requirement and aim to ensure a fair and transparent admissions process.

The meeting is scheduled to take place in the Kennet Room at County Hall, Trowbridge, BA14 8JN, commencing at 10:00 am.