This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Approves Early Morning Alcohol Sales, Faces Scrutiny Over Planning Committee Changes

Buckinghamshire Council's recent meetings reveal a mixed bag of decisions, from granting extended alcohol sales hours to facing criticism over democratic processes. While some decisions aim for operational efficiency, others highlight ongoing debates about local control and the impact on communities.

Extended Alcohol Sales Approved for Premier Hedgerley Amidst Resident Concerns

The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Thursday 14 October 2026 and granted a variation to the premises licence for Premier Hedgerley, a convenience store at 2 Hedgerley Hill, Hedgerley, Slough, SL2 3RP. The applicant sought to extend alcohol sales from 8 am to 6 am daily, a move that raised concerns from the local ward councillor, Councillor David Moore, and local residents.

Concerns centred on the potential for increased crime and disorder, public nuisance, and the protection of children, particularly given the proximity of a bus stop used by schoolchildren. Councillor Moore argued that extending alcohol sales to 6 am could negatively impact the village setting.

However, the applicant, Manmeet Singh Khaneja, who lives locally, emphasised that the change was for operational convenience rather than increased sales, stating that sales during these early hours would be minimal. He assured the subcommittee of his staff's training in age verification and a commitment to preventing underage sales. Thames Valley Police raised no objection.

The subcommittee ultimately granted the variation, subject to a raft of conditions agreed upon by the applicant. These include robust staff training, CCTV maintenance, an incident log, responsible waste management, and a Challenge 25 policy. The conditions aim to promote the licensing objectives and address the concerns raised.

• Impact on Residents: While the decision allows for earlier alcohol sales, the stringent conditions aim to mitigate potential negative impacts. Residents may still have concerns about the early hours of alcohol availability, but the council's decision reflects a balance between business operational needs and community safety, underpinned by agreed-upon controls.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee meeting agenda.

Council Adopts Local Transport Plan, Faces Backlash Over Planning Committee Changes

The Council met on Wednesday 14 October 2026, adopting the Local Transport Plan 5 (LTP5) and the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan 2026-2029. However, a significant point of contention arose regarding government-mandated changes to planning committee procedures.

The adoption of LTP5, which outlines the council's long-term transport priorities, was presented by Councillor Thomas Broom, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Transport. While the plan was adopted, concerns were raised by Councillor Susan Morgan about the absence of a mandatory bus network accessibility plan, required by the Department for Transport. Councillor Anja Schaefer questioned the reliance on future grants and developer contributions for delivering the plan's ambitions.

More controversially, the council noted legislative changes to local authority planning committees, effective from 31 October 2026. These changes will alter the process for call-ins of planning applications, introducing gateway tests before an application can be considered by committee. Councillors across the political spectrum expressed strong opposition, labelling the changes a regressive step for democracy that reduces local representatives' ability to challenge planning decisions. Councillor Peter Strachan, Cabinet Member for Planning, acknowledged the concerns but stated the council had no choice but to implement the government's regulations.

• Impact on Residents: The adoption of LTP5 signals a long-term vision for transport in Buckinghamshire, with potential benefits for connectivity and choice. However, the changes to planning procedures are a significant concern for democratic engagement. Residents may find it harder to have their local planning concerns heard and debated at committee level, potentially impacting local character and development decisions. The council's commitment to making representations to Westminster about these implications is a crucial step.

The Council also adopted the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan 2026-2029, presented by Councillor Carl Jackson, Cabinet Member for Education and Children's Services. The plan highlights progress in reducing re-offending and the use of custody, while also addressing the disproportionate number of children with SEND in the youth justice system.

You can find more details in the Council meeting agenda.

Community Boards Discuss Local Priorities

Several Community Boards met this week, focusing on local issues and priorities:

• The Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee met on Wednesday 14 October 2026. The committee considered an outline planning application for 15 dwellings in Newton-Longville and resolved to organise a site visit. For a retrospective application for a gypsy and traveller pitch in Weedon, the committee resolved to approve the application with an amended condition relating to floodlighting. Read the agenda here.
• The East & South Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee met on Tuesday 13 October 2026. The committee resolved to refuse a retrospective planning application for two gypsy and traveller pitches on land off Hog Lane, Ashley Green, citing concerns over Green Belt policy, sustainability, and the intentional breach of planning control. The committee also resolved to refuse a change of use application for a place of worship/community facility at Adbox, 80 High Street, Iver, due to concerns about highway safety, parking, and the lack of a comprehensive parking survey. Read the agenda here.
• The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Tuesday 13 October 2026 to consider a review of the premises licence for Penn and Tylers Green Sports and Social Club. The committee heard representations from local residents, the club, and council officers regarding concerns about public nuisance and public safety. After extensive deliberation, the committee made a decision regarding the licence, the details of which will be communicated to the parties involved. Read the agenda here.

Other Matters

• The BMKFA Overview & Audit Committee met on Wednesday 14 October 2026. The committee reviewed the council's corporate risk management, internal audit progress, and draft auditor's annual report. Read the agenda here.
• The BMKFA Executive Committee was scheduled to meet on Friday 16 October 2026 to discuss the extension and variation of an inter-authority agreement for fire control services and the replacement of the Thames Valley Fire Control Service's Command and Control system. Read the agenda here.
• The Senior Appointments and Pay Committee was scheduled to meet on Thursday 15 October 2026 to discuss senior resourcing for the Director of Children's Services role. Read the agenda here.
• The Rural Forum was scheduled to meet on Thursday 15 October 2026 but was postponed.
• The Standards and General Purposes Committee met on Thursday 15 October 2026. The committee discussed the council's annual complaints report, a proposed county-wide community governance review, and member code of conduct complaints. Read the agenda here.

Upcoming Meetings

• Cabinet: Wednesday 14 October 2026. The Cabinet will discuss key council strategies and investments. Read the agenda here.
• Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 14 October 2026. The committee will consider planning applications in Newton Longville and Weedon. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee: Thursday 29 October 2026. The sub-committee will consider an application to vary a premises licence. Read the agenda here.
• West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 28 October 2026. The committee will consider planning applications. Read the agenda here.
• Strategic Sites Committee: Thursday 22 October 2026. The committee will consider planning applications. Read the agenda here.
• Buckinghamshire Shareholder and Trust Committee: Monday 19 October 2026. The committee will review financial statements and charitable trust performance. Read the agenda here.
• East & South Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Tuesday 20 October 2026. This meeting has been cancelled.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Approves Early Morning Alcohol Sales, Faces Scrutiny Over Planning Committee Changes

Buckinghamshire Council's recent meetings reveal a mixed bag of decisions, from granting extended alcohol sales hours to facing criticism over democratic processes. While some decisions aim for operational efficiency, others highlight ongoing debates about local control and the impact on communities.

Extended Alcohol Sales Approved for Premier Hedgerley Amidst Resident Concerns

The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Thursday 14 October 2026 and granted a variation to the premises licence for Premier Hedgerley, a convenience store at 2 Hedgerley Hill, Hedgerley, Slough, SL2 3RP. The applicant sought to extend alcohol sales from 8 am to 6 am daily, a move that raised concerns from the local ward councillor, Councillor David Moore, and local residents.

Concerns centred on the potential for increased crime and disorder, public nuisance, and the protection of children, particularly given the proximity of a bus stop used by schoolchildren. Councillor Moore argued that extending alcohol sales to 6 am could negatively impact the village setting.

However, the applicant, Manmeet Singh Khaneja, who lives locally, emphasised that the change was for operational convenience rather than increased sales, stating that sales during these early hours would be minimal. He assured the subcommittee of his staff's training in age verification and a commitment to preventing underage sales. Thames Valley Police raised no objection.

The subcommittee ultimately granted the variation, subject to a raft of conditions agreed upon by the applicant. These include robust staff training, CCTV maintenance, an incident log, responsible waste management, and a Challenge 25 policy. The conditions aim to promote the licensing objectives and address the concerns raised.

• Impact on Residents: While the decision allows for earlier alcohol sales, the stringent conditions aim to mitigate potential negative impacts. Residents may still have concerns about the early hours of alcohol availability, but the council's decision reflects a balance between business operational needs and community safety, underpinned by agreed-upon controls.

You can find more details in the Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee meeting agenda.

Council Adopts Local Transport Plan, Faces Backlash Over Planning Committee Changes

The Council met on Wednesday 14 October 2026, adopting the Local Transport Plan 5 (LTP5) and the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan 2026-2029. However, a significant point of contention arose regarding government-mandated changes to planning committee procedures.

The adoption of LTP5, which outlines the council's long-term transport priorities, was presented by Councillor Thomas Broom, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Transport. While the plan was adopted, concerns were raised by Councillor Susan Morgan about the absence of a mandatory bus network accessibility plan, required by the Department for Transport. Councillor Anja Schaefer questioned the reliance on future grants and developer contributions for delivering the plan's ambitions.

More controversially, the council noted legislative changes to local authority planning committees, effective from 31 October 2026. These changes will alter the process for call-ins of planning applications, introducing gateway tests before an application can be considered by committee. Councillors across the political spectrum expressed strong opposition, labelling the changes a regressive step for democracy that reduces local representatives' ability to challenge planning decisions. Councillor Peter Strachan, Cabinet Member for Planning, acknowledged the concerns but stated the council had no choice but to implement the government's regulations.

• Impact on Residents: The adoption of LTP5 signals a long-term vision for transport in Buckinghamshire, with potential benefits for connectivity and choice. However, the changes to planning procedures are a significant concern for democratic engagement. Residents may find it harder to have their local planning concerns heard and debated at committee level, potentially impacting local character and development decisions. The council's commitment to making representations to Westminster about these implications is a crucial step.

The Council also adopted the Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Plan 2026-2029, presented by Councillor Carl Jackson, Cabinet Member for Education and Children's Services. The plan highlights progress in reducing re-offending and the use of custody, while also addressing the disproportionate number of children with SEND in the youth justice system.

You can find more details in the Council meeting agenda.

Community Boards Discuss Local Priorities

Several Community Boards met this week, focusing on local issues and priorities:

• The Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee met on Wednesday 14 October 2026. The committee considered an outline planning application for 15 dwellings in Newton-Longville and resolved to organise a site visit. For a retrospective application for a gypsy and traveller pitch in Weedon, the committee resolved to approve the application with an amended condition relating to floodlighting. Read the agenda here.
• The East & South Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee met on Tuesday 13 October 2026. The committee resolved to refuse a retrospective planning application for two gypsy and traveller pitches on land off Hog Lane, Ashley Green, citing concerns over Green Belt policy, sustainability, and the intentional breach of planning control. The committee also resolved to refuse a change of use application for a place of worship/community facility at Adbox, 80 High Street, Iver, due to concerns about highway safety, parking, and the lack of a comprehensive parking survey. Read the agenda here.
• The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee met on Tuesday 13 October 2026 to consider a review of the premises licence for Penn and Tylers Green Sports and Social Club. The committee heard representations from local residents, the club, and council officers regarding concerns about public nuisance and public safety. After extensive deliberation, the committee made a decision regarding the licence, the details of which will be communicated to the parties involved. Read the agenda here.

Other Matters

• The BMKFA Overview & Audit Committee met on Wednesday 14 October 2026. The committee reviewed the council's corporate risk management, internal audit progress, and draft auditor's annual report. Read the agenda here.
• The BMKFA Executive Committee was scheduled to meet on Friday 16 October 2026 to discuss the extension and variation of an inter-authority agreement for fire control services and the replacement of the Thames Valley Fire Control Service's Command and Control system. Read the agenda here.
• The Senior Appointments and Pay Committee was scheduled to meet on Thursday 15 October 2026 to discuss senior resourcing matters, including the Director of Children's Services role. Read the agenda here.
• The Rural Forum was scheduled to meet on Thursday 15 October 2026 but was postponed.
• The Standards and General Purposes Committee met on Thursday 15 October 2026. The committee discussed the council's annual complaints report, a proposed county-wide community governance review, and member code of conduct complaints. Read the agenda here.

Upcoming Meetings

• Cabinet: Wednesday 14 October 2026. The Cabinet will discuss key council strategies and investments. Read the agenda here.
• Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 14 October 2026. The committee will consider planning applications in Newton Longville and Weedon. Read the agenda here.
• Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee: Thursday 29 October 2026. The sub-committee will consider an application to vary a premises licence. Read the agenda here.
• West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Wednesday 28 October 2026. The committee will consider planning applications. Read the agenda here.
• Strategic Sites Committee: Thursday 22 October 2026. The committee will consider planning applications. Read the agenda here.
• Buckinghamshire Shareholder and Trust Committee: Monday 19 October 2026. The committee will review financial statements and charitable trust performance. Read the agenda here.
• East & South Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee: Tuesday 20 October 2026. This meeting has been cancelled.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Faces Scrutiny Over Workforce Health and Strategic Asset Management

Buckinghamshire Council's Finance & Resources Select Committee met on Thursday 8 October 2026, tackling crucial updates on the HR People Plan and the Strategic Asset Management Plan (SAMP). The discussions highlighted the council's efforts to boost productivity and manage its vast property portfolio, but also raised important questions about staff well-being and the long-term value of its assets.

HR People Plan: Sickness Absence and Skills Development Under the Microscope

The committee received an update on the HR People Plan, which outlines the council's workforce priorities for 2027-2031. A significant portion of the discussion focused on sickness absence, which has seen a slight increase. While attributed partly to the summer heatwave, councillors expressed concern about the estimated monthly cost of £378,000, equating to 2.44% of the total workforce cost.

• Impact on Residents: High sickness absence rates can directly impact service delivery. If staff are frequently absent, it can lead to longer waiting times for services, reduced capacity for essential tasks, and increased pressure on remaining staff, potentially affecting the quality of support provided to residents, especially vulnerable groups.

Councillors sought assurances that the new absence management policies and processes would effectively embed improvements and prevent temporary fixes. The committee also explored the council's use of the apprenticeship levy, with concerns raised that nearly half of the levy funds were unused. This has implications for skills development across the workforce, potentially hindering the council's ability to adapt to future needs and recruit skilled staff.

• Impact on Residents: Unused apprenticeship levy funds mean missed opportunities to train local people and upskill the existing workforce. This can lead to a shortage of skilled staff in critical areas, impacting the council's ability to deliver services effectively and potentially increasing reliance on external contractors.

The committee also discussed the reduction in management layers as part of the Spans and Layers initiative, with 56 professional manager posts reduced between 2025 and 2026. While this aims for efficiency, councillors questioned whether service quality might be compromised. Officers assured the committee that service reviews and follow-up assessments are in place to monitor outcomes.

You can find more details in the Finance & Resources Select Committee meeting agenda.

Strategic Asset Management Plan (SAMP): Balancing Value and Community Needs

Amy Bridgford, Service Director for Corporate Property & Assets, presented an update on the Strategic Asset Management Plan (SAMP), approved by Cabinet in July 2026. The SAMP guides the management of the council's £1.4 billion property portfolio, aiming to align assets with corporate priorities like regeneration and housing.

The plan categorises assets into Investment (income-generating), Operational (service delivery), and Infrastructure. Discussions touched upon the process for managing surplus assets, with assurances that ward members are consulted. However, questions were raised about the regular review of investment assets to ensure a balanced portfolio and identify opportunities.

Concerns were also voiced about integrating climate adaptation measures, such as flood risk and overheating resilience, into the SAMP. While the plan acknowledges the Climate Change and Air Quality Strategy, officers noted that significant changes would likely require a full council motion.

• Impact on Residents: The effective management of the council's property portfolio is crucial for delivering services and generating income that can be reinvested. Decisions about which assets to retain, sell, or repurpose can directly impact the availability of community facilities, green spaces, and the council's ability to fund essential services. Ensuring climate resilience in the council's buildings is vital for protecting services and residents from the impacts of extreme weather events.

The committee agreed to make the review of the SAMP a standing agenda item, with a proposed update in July 2027.

You can find more details in the Finance & Resources Select Committee meeting agenda.

Pension Fund Board Scheduled to Discuss Governance and Risk

The Pension Fund Board was scheduled to meet on Wednesday 7 October 2026. The agenda included a review of the Pension Fund's Risk Register, with updates on risks related to pool selection performance, climate and ESG factors, and changes in pool arrangements. The board was also set to consider a draft Investment Strategy Statement, outlining investment objectives, asset allocation, and responsible investment policies.

• Impact on Residents: While the Pension Fund Board's decisions primarily concern the long-term financial health of the pension fund for current and future retirees, effective risk management and sound investment strategies ensure the fund's stability. This stability is vital for the council's financial resilience and its ability to meet its pension obligations, indirectly impacting the council's overall budget and the services it can provide.

You can find more details in the Pension Fund Board meeting agenda.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Faces Scrutiny Over Health Service Integration and Winter Preparedness

Buckinghamshire Council's recent meetings reveal a significant focus on the future of health and adult social care services, with discussions around the integration of the Thames Valley Integrated Care Board (ICB) and the crucial preparations for the upcoming winter season. These discussions highlight the council's efforts to improve service delivery, particularly for vulnerable groups, while also facing challenges in ensuring adequate access and support.

Health & Adult Social Care Committee Examines ICB's Strategic Vision and Winter Plan

The Health & Adult Social Care Select Committee met on Thursday 1 October 2026, delving into the strategic intentions of the Thames Valley Integrated Care Board (TV ICB) and the critical Buckinghamshire System Winter Plan for 2026/27. The committee also reviewed a draft report on access to emergency care, signalling a deep dive into how residents receive timely and effective healthcare.

Representatives from the TV ICB, Dan Leveson and Rob Bowen, outlined the board's operational delivery and commissioning intentions. The ICB, which covers Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, and Berkshire West, is focusing on a whole pathways of care approach, aiming to shift from fragmented services to integrated support from prevention through to acute needs. A key ambition is to make neighbourhood working the primary delivery model for integrated health and care, with a particular focus on reducing health inequalities for groups such as children, young people, those with frailty, and individuals with long-term conditions.

The committee raised concerns about the potential impact of these changes on staff, the challenges of delayed discharges from hospitals, and the accessibility of emergency eye care services. Questions were also posed about the role of pharmacies in integrated care and the specific needs of children regarding dental care.

The Buckinghamshire System Winter Plan for 2026/27 was also a central topic. This plan is crucial for ensuring that health and social care services are prepared for the increased demand typically seen during winter months. Discussions touched upon the importance of preventative measures, such as winter vaccinations, and the need to support people outside of hospitals to reduce pressure on emergency services. The plan aims to expand face-to-face urgent care capacity and improve hospital flow.

• Impact on Residents: The ICB's strategic shift towards integrated neighbourhood working and preventative care could lead to more coordinated and accessible health services. However, the transition period may present challenges, and the committee's scrutiny is vital to ensure that vulnerable residents, including the elderly and those with complex needs, are not negatively impacted. The Winter Plan is critical for ensuring that residents can access timely care during the colder months, and the committee's focus on this area is essential for public safety and well-being.

You can find more details in the Health & Adult Social Care Select Committee meeting agenda.

North Bucks Community Board Focuses on Ageing Well and Community Transport

The North Bucks Community Board met on Tuesday 29 September 2026, with a strong emphasis on initiatives supporting an Ageing Well agenda and improving community transport. The board also received updates on scam awareness and Neighbourhood Watch, highlighting efforts to protect vulnerable residents.

Key discussions under the Ageing Well priority included:

• Social Prescribing: Presentations from North Bucks INT Social Prescribers and the Digital & Transformation Lead aimed to highlight how non-medical support can improve health and wellbeing.
• Ageing Well Strategy: A Public Health Principal was scheduled to discuss factors contributing to healthy ageing.
• Age Better Bucks: Updates from Age UK Buckinghamshire were expected on a programme designed to address barriers to ageing well.
• Community Transport: Discussions were planned on GP Patient Car Transport Guides, aiming to identify gaps and acknowledge the growing reliance on family members for transport to health appointments.

The board also heard about scam awareness initiatives from Buckinghamshire & Surrey Trading Standards, including the provision of free TrueCall devices, and received information on Neighbourhood Watch to promote community safety.

• Impact on Residents: For older residents in North Buckinghamshire, the focus on Ageing Well initiatives and community transport is particularly significant. These discussions aim to ensure that older people can maintain their independence, access essential services, and remain connected within their communities. The emphasis on scam awareness is crucial for protecting a vulnerable demographic from financial exploitation.

You can find more details in the North Bucks Community Board meeting agenda.

Audit and Governance Committee Reviews Financial Assurance and Charity Reports

The Audit and Governance Committee met on Tuesday 29 September 2026, addressing critical issues of financial assurance and the oversight of local charities. The committee received an update from KPMG LLP, the council's external auditors, on the process of rebuilding assurance on the council's financial accounts for the years ending 31 March 2022 through to 31 March 2024.

KPMG anticipates a qualified opinion for the financial year ending 31 March 2026, with a pathway towards an unmodified opinion by 31 March 2027. This process is crucial for restoring confidence in the council's financial reporting, particularly after several years of disclaimed audit opinions. The auditors highlighted remaining procedures related to the valuation of land and buildings, the re-presentation of infrastructure assets, and the split between usable and unusable reserves.

The committee also reviewed the annual reports and financial statements for two local charities: Farnham Park Sports Fields Charity and Higginson Park Charity. In both cases, unqualified audit opinions are expected. The discussions also touched upon future audit arrangements in light of revised statutory audit thresholds, which may mean these charities no longer require a statutory audit if their income falls below new limits.

• Impact on Residents: The committee's work on financial assurance is fundamental to the council's accountability and responsible use of public funds. Restoring confidence in financial accounts is essential for maintaining public trust. The oversight of local charities ensures they are well-governed and effectively utilising their resources for the benefit of the community.

You can find more details in the Audit and Governance Committee meeting agenda.

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Council Grapples with Housing Needs, Infrastructure Gaps, and Heritage Protection

Buckinghamshire Council's recent meetings reveal a complex landscape of development decisions, balancing the urgent need for housing with significant concerns about infrastructure, environmental impact, and the preservation of local heritage. From controversial housing allocations to the protection of historic sites, the council is navigating difficult choices with far-reaching consequences for residents.

Strategic Sites Committee Approves Hollands Farm Development, Refuses Two Other Applications

The Strategic Sites Committee met on Thursday 24 September 2026, making a pivotal decision on the Hollands Farm allocation in Bourne End. The committee approved an outline planning application for up to 360 dwellings, including a primary school and significant affordable housing provision, at Hollands Farm itself. This decision, however, was coupled with the refusal of two separate applications for the northern parcel of land, known as Jackson's Field, due to concerns over access arrangements and non-compliance with local plan policy.

The approval for Hollands Farm, while welcomed for its housing delivery, was not without debate. Concerns were raised about the impact on heritage assets, with the officer's report acknowledging less than substantial harm to nearby listed buildings. However, the committee ultimately determined that the public benefits, including 48% affordable housing and contributions to a new primary school, outweighed these harms.

The refusal of the applications for Jackson's Field highlights the committee's commitment to adhering to local plan policy, specifically regarding the requirement for a link road connecting Corzend Road roundabout with Ferry Lane. The committee found that these applications, considered in isolation, failed to deliver this crucial infrastructure, leading to concerns about increased traffic on local roads like Bridgestone Drive and Princess Road.

• Impact on Residents: The approval of the Hollands Farm development will bring much-needed housing, including a significant proportion of affordable homes, and a new primary school to the area. However, residents in Bourne End and surrounding areas will be impacted by the increased traffic and the development's proximity to heritage assets. The refusal of the Jackson's Field applications means that the planned comprehensive transport strategy for the area, as envisioned in the local plan, will not be fully realised through these specific proposals, potentially leading to ongoing traffic management challenges.

You can find more details in the Strategic Sites Committee meeting agenda.

Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Committee Tackles Local Plan and Community Infrastructure Levy

The Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee met on Wednesday 23 September 2026, engaging in a detailed discussion on the Local Plan for Buckinghamshire and the proposed North and Central Area Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The committee heard extensive public questions and debated the soundness of the plan, particularly concerning infrastructure delivery and Green Belt assessments.

A major focus was the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), a charge on new development used to fund infrastructure. The proposed rates for the North and Central areas were debated, with questions raised about the complexity of charging zones and the exemption of strategic sites from CIL. Officers explained that the tiered approach reflects varying development costs and property values, and that a simpler schedule would generate less income. The significant infrastructure funding gap was acknowledged, with CIL intended to help bridge this.

The committee also received an update on the Local Plan, highlighting over 8,500 representations received during the public consultation. Key themes emerging from the consultation included the critical need for infrastructure to be delivered alongside development, rather than lagging behind. Concerns were also raised about the spatial strategy, particularly regarding new and expanded settlements, and the potential impacts of data centres. The committee expressed concerns about the workload and resources of the planning team, agreeing to write to Cabinet to ensure the team has adequate support.

The draft Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy 2027-2032 was also presented, aiming to prevent homelessness and support individuals into secure housing. The strategy's public consultation is ongoing, and a working group was appointed to provide a formal response.

• Impact on Residents: These discussions are fundamental to shaping the future of Buckinghamshire. The CIL proposals will directly impact the cost of new developments, influencing the type and scale of infrastructure that can be funded. The Local Plan process is crucial for determining where and how housing will be built, and the committee's engagement with resident concerns about infrastructure and environmental protection is vital. The Homelessness Strategy aims to provide a safety net for the most vulnerable, and public input is key to its effectiveness.

You can find more details in the Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee meeting agenda.

South East Bucks Community Board Explores Thriving Communities Initiatives

The South East Bucks Community Board met on Wednesday 23 September 2026, focusing on initiatives to create thriving communities through collective action. The board heard from various organisations and individuals presenting projects aimed at fostering community engagement and development.

Presentations included updates from:

• Jordans Village Ltd on community building initiatives.
• Black Park Shed on its activities and community projects.
• Chalfont St Peter Community Library on its services.
• Iver Youth Centre on its work with young people.
• The Chalfont Skate Park project.
• The Integrated Neighbourhood Team on service integration.

The board also received an update on its own priorities and reviewed actions from its previous meeting.

• Impact on Residents: These community-led initiatives are vital for building stronger, more connected neighbourhoods. By supporting local projects and organisations, the Community Board aims to enhance the quality of life for residents, foster social cohesion, and address local needs directly. The focus on diverse areas like youth engagement, heritage, and community facilities demonstrates a commitment to a holistic approach to community well-being.

You can find more details in the South East Bucks Community Board meeting agenda.

Buckinghamshire Historic Environment Forum Discusses Heritage Protection and Policy

The Buckinghamshire Historic Environment Forum met on Tuesday 22 September 2026, addressing a range of heritage-related topics. Discussions included updates on the Emergency Recording Fund, which supported the excavation of a Roman object hoard, and Mentmore Towers, where a Repairs Notice has been served to address urgent roof repair works.

The forum also considered changes to relevant policies, including the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and the forthcoming Local Plan, highlighting the importance of heritage protection within development planning. A session on Creative Curation and Storage explored innovative ways for museums and heritage organisations to manage their collections.

The committee received a comprehensive report on the Buckinghamshire Council Heritage and Archaeology Team's activities, detailing fieldwork, planning consultations, and outreach efforts. The Buckinghamshire Archaeological Society also presented its report, covering preparations for its local history conference and ongoing projects.

• Impact on Residents: The work of the Historic Environment Forum is crucial for safeguarding Buckinghamshire's rich heritage. Decisions made and discussions held have a direct impact on the preservation of historic buildings, archaeological sites, and the character of local landscapes. The focus on policy changes and the integration of heritage into the Local Plan ensures that future development considers and protects these valuable assets, contributing to the unique identity and cultural richness of the county.

You can find more details in the Buckinghamshire Historic Environment Forum meeting agenda.