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Weekly updates
Cambridgeshire: Bar licence row, council reorganisation & 4-day week
This week in Cambridgeshire:
Licensing Application for The C Bar Faces Objections Over Cumulative Impact and Incomplete Details
Cambridge City Council's Licensing Hearing Panel (Licensing 2003 Act) Sub Committee met to consider a premises licence application for The C Bar on Devonshire Road. Link to the meeting. The application, submitted by Golden Direction Property Limited, faced objections from Cambridgeshire Constabulary and Public Health, primarily due to concerns about the application's quality, its potential impact on the Mill Road Cumulative Impact Area (CIA), and a lack of clarity regarding the premises' intended use.
- The application sought to supply alcohol for consumption on the premises from Monday to Saturday between 11:00 and 22:30.
- Cambridgeshire Constabulary raised concerns about the application's poor quality, questioning whether the premises fell within the Mill Road CIA and noting discrepancies between the plan drawing and the description of the premises.
- Public Health also objected, stating that the applicant had not demonstrated how the establishment would not add to the cumulative impact in the Mill Road CIZ1.
- Environmental Health had no objections but recommended conditions related to collections, deliveries, and noise.
The objections highlight the challenges faced by businesses seeking to operate in areas already experiencing the cumulative impact of multiple licensed premises. The police stated that The poor quality of the application doesn't give sufficient details to allow Responsible Authorities to make an informed decision.
The applicant's failure to address these concerns and provide clear information about the premises' intended use ultimately jeopardized their application.
Council to Decide on Local Government Reorganisation Options
Cambridge City Council was scheduled to discuss the ongoing local government reorganisation (LGR) process in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. Link to the meeting. Councillors were asked to consider which of the proposed geographical options for new unitary councils2 might be most appropriate for the area.
- The government requires proposals to provide a viable solution for the whole geography, not just the area that includes Cambridge City Council.
- Three options were presented, each involving different combinations of existing councils forming new unitary authorities.
- A high-level appraisal of the three options against the government's key reorganisation criteria gave each option a score out of 12, with option B receiving the highest score (11/12) and option C the lowest (8/12).
The decision on which reorganisation option to support will have far-reaching consequences for the future of local government in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. The choice will impact the delivery of public services, the allocation of resources, and the representation of local communities.
Council Considers Four-Day Week Proposal
Cambridge City Council was scheduled to discuss a proposal from South Cambridgeshire District Council to become a permanent 32-hour per week, four-day week employer. Link to the meeting. Because the decision would impact services shared with Cambridge City Council, specifically Greater Cambridge Shared Planning and Shared Waste Services, Cambridge City Council's approval was required.
- A trial of the four-day week had demonstrated increased employee well-being and financial savings, with no statistically significant decreases in performance measures for either shared service.
The four-day week proposal has generated both excitement and skepticism. Proponents argue that it can improve employee well-being, boost productivity, and reduce carbon emissions. Critics, however, worry about the potential impact on service delivery and the cost of implementation.
Other Matters
- The Planning Committee was scheduled to discuss a range of planning applications and related matters, including a pre-application briefing on the redevelopment of Kett House and a review of several planning applications, including a major application for The Paddocks on Cherry Hinton Road. Additionally, the committee was expected to discuss appeals information and a compliance report. Link to the meeting.
- The Council was scheduled to consider recommendations from the Civic Affairs and Audit Committee regarding proposed amendments to member allowances. Link to the meeting.
- The Council was scheduled to review the final outturn position for the General Fund and Housing Revenue Account (HRA)3 for the 2024/25 financial year. Link to the meeting.
- The Council was scheduled to discuss a motion regarding the disrepair of Jesus Lock Island and Baits Bite Lock Island. Link to the meeting.
- The Council was scheduled to discuss a motion regarding the future of Arbury Court as a community hub. Link to the meeting.
Upcoming Meetings
- The Licensing Hearing Panel (Licensing 2003 Act) Sub Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 05 August 2025. Link to the meeting.
- The Hackney Carriage/Private Hire Vehicle Sub Committee (Licensing Sub Committee) is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 06 August 2025 to discuss regulatory issues relating to taxis in Cambridge. Link to the meeting.
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A Cumulative Impact Zone (CIZ) is a specific area within a Cumulative Impact Area (CIA) where the concentration of licensed premises is particularly high. ↩
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A unitary authority is a local authority that is responsible for all local government functions within its area. This is in contrast to a two-tier system, where responsibilities are divided between a county council and district councils. ↩
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The Housing Revenue Account (HRA) is a ring-fenced account that local authorities use to manage the income and expenditure relating to their council housing stock. ↩
Cambridgeshire: Estate Redevelopment, Shared Services & Planning
This week in Cambridgeshire:
Ekin Road Estate Redevelopment Sparks Debate on Affordable Housing
Cambridge City Council's Planning - Pre-Application Developer Presentations meeting featured a proposal to redevelop the Ekin Road estate in Abbey Ward, demolishing 122 existing homes and constructing 134 new ones, with 58% designated as affordable housing. Link to the meeting.
- The developer's plan exceeds the Cambridge Local Plan 2018's requirement for 40% affordable housing in new developments.
- The council aims to improve accommodation standards, build council homes to meet local needs, and address housing supply issues, including the need for larger family homes.
- The site is not within a conservation area, and while there are trees, none are subject to tree preservation orders.
While the proposal aligns with the council's goals of increasing affordable housing, the demolition of existing homes raises concerns for current residents. The council has stated that the existing homes are in poor condition, but residents may question whether redevelopment is the best solution, especially given the potential disruption and displacement it could cause. The council's wider programme to improve accommodation standards echoes similar discussions in previous meetings, highlighting the ongoing challenges of balancing housing needs with resident well-being.
Cabinet Considers Renewal of Shared Services Amidst Local Government Reorganisation
The Cabinet met to discuss a range of topics, including the renewal of the 3C Shared Services Partnership Agreement, a stock condition survey strategy, and budget updates. Link to the meeting.
- The Cabinet was scheduled to consider a report regarding the renewal of the 3C Shared Services Partnership Agreement, which includes ICT, Legal, and Building Control, shared between Cambridge City, Huntingdonshire District, and South Cambridgeshire District Councils since 2015.
- The report recommended approving the partnership renewal agreement, as any disruption to these services would cause significant risk to the Council.
- The proposed extension of the Partnership Agreement was scheduled to last for another five years, until 2030, and the report stated that while Local Government Reorganisation1 will inevitably create significant change before then, the agreement has a clear exit clause.
The decision to renew the shared services agreement comes at a time of uncertainty surrounding local government reorganisation. While the agreement includes an exit clause, residents may question whether it is the most efficient and effective way to deliver these services in the long term. The financial implications of continuing to share these services were scheduled to be discussed, with the report stating that it will enable the council to deliver cost effective services that have increased resilience by virtue of their size.
Joint Committee Debates Planning Committee Reforms and Developer Briefings
The Joint Development Management Committee discussed a government consultation paper on the reform of planning committees and heard pre-application briefings from developers about upcoming projects at Cambridge Biomedical Campus. Link to the meeting.
- The consultation proposed reforms to modernise planning committees, including a national scheme of delegation, regulations on the size and composition of planning committees, and mandatory training for committee members.
- The committee was scheduled to hear pre-application briefings from Astra Zenica regarding a mixed-use office and conference centre building at 1 Francis Crick Avenue, and from Network Rail regarding a public facility at Cambridge South Station.
The proposed reforms to planning committees could significantly alter the way planning decisions are made in Cambridge. The national scheme of delegation, in particular, could reduce the role of councillors in the decision-making process, potentially leading to concerns about local accountability. The pre-application briefings provide an early look at potential future developments in the area, but residents may question whether these briefings provide sufficient opportunity for public input.
Other Matters
- The Cabinet was scheduled to consider a report outlining a strategy to address gaps in stock condition data across Cambridge City Council's social housing portfolio. Link to the meeting.
- The Cabinet was scheduled to consider a report regarding the Public Health Contract for Tier 1 & 2 Services. Link to the meeting.
- The Cabinet was scheduled to consider the Budget Outturn 2024-25 report, which explained the final outturn position for the General Fund and Housing Revenue Account (HRA) for the 2024/25 financial year. Link to the meeting.
- The Cabinet was scheduled to consider a report providing early strategic direction for setting the council's 2026/27 budgets. Link to the meeting.
- The Cabinet was scheduled to consider a report regarding the future format of the Cambridge Folk Festival. Link to the meeting.
- The Cabinet was scheduled to consider the Annual Customer Feedback Report 2024-25, which gives an overview of the complaints and compliments the Council has received and how they have been dealt with. Link to the meeting.
- The Cabinet was scheduled to consider a report providing a quarterly update on the City Council's housing delivery and development programme. Link to the meeting.
- The Cabinet was scheduled to consider a report regarding the application made by Cambridgeshire County Council for The Cambridge South East Transport Order under the Transport and Works Act (1992). Link to the meeting.
- The Cabinet was scheduled to consider a report regarding S106 Projects for Sports, Communities and Open Spaces. Link to the meeting.
Upcoming Meetings
- The Licensing Hearing Panel (Licensing 2003 Act) Sub Committee is scheduled to meet on Monday 21 July 2025 to consider an application for a premises licence to be granted for The C Bar, and to deal with preliminary matters. Link to the meeting.
- The Planning Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 23 July 2025. Link to the meeting.
- The Council is scheduled to meet on Thursday 24 July 2025 to discuss local government reorganisation, the financial outturn for 2024/25, proposed changes to member allowances and a four-day week trial at South Cambridgeshire District Council. Link to the meeting.
- The Licensing Hearing Panel (Licensing 2003 Act) Sub Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 29 July 2025. Link to the meeting.
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Local Government Reorganisation is the restructuring of local government bodies, often involving mergers, creation of new entities, or changes to responsibilities. ↩
Cambridgeshire Council Reviews Housing, Focuses on Compliance
This week in Cambridgeshire:
Council Housing Policies Under Review Amidst Compliance Concerns
The Cambridge City Council Housing Engagement Board met to discuss a range of policies and performance metrics related to council housing, with a strong focus on regulatory compliance and tenant engagement. Link to the meeting.
- The board discussed the Housing Performance Report 2024-25, which highlighted areas of both success and concern, including rising non-decency in council homes and challenges in former tenant arrears.
- The board also reviewed the Housing Compliance Policy Manual, which includes policies on fire safety, gas safety, electrical safety, water hygiene, asbestos management, and lift and equipment safety.
- Tenant engagement plans were discussed, aiming to ensure tenants are informed and actively involved in maintaining a safe living environment.
- The board also considered the Rent and Service Charge Policy, and a Housing Service Improvement Plan designed to meet the standards set by The Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023.
The discussions underscore the council's commitment to providing safe, compliant, and well-maintained housing for its tenants. The focus on regulatory compliance, particularly in areas like fire safety and asbestos management, reflects the council's efforts to protect residents from potential hazards. The emphasis on tenant engagement suggests a desire to involve residents in shaping housing policies and services. The Housing Service Improvement Plan is designed to ensure that Cambridge is meeting the Consumer Standards set by The Social Housing (Regulation) Act 20231.
Joint Staff Employer Forum Convenes
The Joint Staff Employer Forum met, though no transcript or summary of the meeting is currently available. Link to the meeting.
Upcoming Meetings
- The Planning - Pre-Application Developer Presentations are scheduled to meet on Thursday 17 July 2025 to discuss the redevelopment of Ekin Road. Link to the meeting.
- The Cabinet is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 15 July 2025 to discuss shared services, housing, public health, budget setting, the Cambridge Folk Festival, transport, and community projects. Link to the meeting.
- The Joint Development Management Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 16 July 2025 to discuss reforms to planning committees and pre-application developer briefings. Link to the meeting.
- The Development Control Forum is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 22 July 2025. Link to the meeting.
- The Planning Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 23 July 2025. Link to the meeting.
- The Licensing Hearing Panel (Licensing 2003 Act) Sub Committee is scheduled to meet on Monday 21 July 2025. Link to the meeting.
- The Council is scheduled to meet on Thursday 24 July 2025. Link to the meeting.
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The Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023 aims to strengthen the regulation of social housing and improve the quality of homes and services for tenants. ↩
Council considers allowance increase for top roles
This week in Cambridgeshire:
Council to Consider Increasing Allowances for Top Roles
The Civic Affairs and Audit Committee met on Monday to discuss proposed changes to the Member Allowance Scheme, potentially increasing the Special Responsibility Allowance (SRA) for the Leader of the Council to four times the basic allowance. Link to the meeting.
- The proposed increase would add £7,819 to the Leader's allowance, bringing the total to £31,276.
- The committee also considered amending the overall number of SRAs that can be claimed to a maximum of three, which could increase the budget by around £20,000.
- A proposed removal of the allowance paid by the City Council to members of the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA) for those sitting on the CPCA Overview & Scrutiny and Audit & Governance Committees, as these positions are now paid by the CPCA, would save £3,516.
- The report pack noted that all of the above changes would increase the cost by around £25,000.
These proposed changes come at a time when many residents are struggling with the cost of living, and could prove controversial. While proponents may argue that the increased allowances are necessary to attract and retain talented individuals to these important roles, critics may question whether the additional expense is justified, especially given the council's ongoing financial challenges. The Independent Remuneration Panel (IRP) is scheduled to review member allowances in December/January as part of their work to align how the new governance structures are working in practice.
Internal Audit Finds Areas for Improvement
The Civic Affairs and Audit Committee also received an update on the work of the Internal Audit team, including the outcomes of recent audit work. Link to the meeting.
- The progress report included summaries of finalised reviews on topics ranging from tenant satisfaction measures to safeguarding and fraud prevention.
- The committee also approved the forward plan of internal audit work, the Internal Audit Charter, and the Code of Ethics.
- The report pack stated that in 2024, the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) issued new Global Internal Audit Standards.
The internal audit update provides valuable insights into the council's performance and areas for improvement. By identifying weaknesses in internal controls and compliance, the audit team helps to ensure that the council is operating efficiently and effectively, and that public funds are being used appropriately.
Scrutiny Committee Discusses Oversight Role and Updates
The Services, Climate and Communities Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday to discuss the role of overview and scrutiny in local authorities, updates on the Folk Festival, and the work of the Environment, Economy and Climate Department. Link to the meeting.
- The committee was scheduled to discuss guidance on the overview and scrutiny function in local government, based on statutory guidance from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.
- The committee was also scheduled to consider a report outlining the committee's work planning arrangements for the municipal year.
- The committee was scheduled to receive verbal updates on the Folk Festival and the work of the Environment, Economy and Climate Department.
The scrutiny committee plays a vital role in holding the council to account and ensuring that decisions are made in the best interests of residents. By scrutinizing the council's policies and performance, the committee helps to promote transparency and accountability, and to improve the quality of public services.
Upcoming Meetings
- The Housing Engagement Board is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 08 July 2025 to discuss housing performance, policy reviews, and an improvement plan for the Housing Revenue Account. Link to the meeting.
- The Joint Staff Employer Forum is scheduled to meet on Thursday 10 July 2025. Link to the meeting.
- The Cabinet is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 15 July 2025. Link to the meeting.
- The Joint Development Management Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 16 July 2025. Link to the meeting.
- The Planning - Pre-Application Developer Presentations are scheduled to meet on Thursday 17 July 2025. Link to the meeting.
Cambridgeshire Approves City Smoke Control, Council Homes Boost
This week in Cambridgeshire:
City-Wide Smoke Control Approved Despite Equity Concerns
Cambridge City Council's Cabinet approved expanding the smoke control area1 to cover the entire city, excluding permanently moored vessels, despite concerns about the impact on low-income households. Link to the meeting.
- The decision aims to reduce PM2.5 emissions, a major source of air pollution, and improve public health.
- A public consultation showed 55% support, but 40% opposed due to cost concerns for low-income residents and scepticism about air pollution levels.
- An impact study found the expansion could reduce PM2.5 emissions by 69%, but also noted that permanently moored vessels, often occupied by vulnerable individuals, could be disproportionately affected.
- The council will now notify DEFRA2 and publish notices, allowing six weeks for objections.
This decision highlights the tension between environmental goals and social equity. While the city-wide SCA aims to improve air quality for all residents, critics worry that it could place an undue burden on those least able to afford cleaner heating alternatives. The council's decision to exclude permanently moored vessels acknowledges this concern, but questions remain about how best to support vulnerable communities in transitioning to cleaner energy sources.
Council Homes to Get Energy Efficiency Boost
The Cabinet also approved a plan to spend £15-25 million on energy efficiency upgrades to council homes over the next three to five years. Link to the meeting.
- The goal is to upgrade all council homes rated EPC3 'D' or below to a minimum of 'C' by 2035.
- The council has allocated £3.8 million per year, supplemented by government grants.
- Upgrades will include insulation, ventilation, new doors and windows, and potentially replacing gas boilers with air source heat pumps.
- The council expects the contract to have a positive impact across all demographics, by improving thermal comfort and indoor air quality, reducing bills, and reducing exposure to cold, damp, and mould-prone environments.
This investment aims to improve the living conditions for council tenants, reduce carbon emissions, and tackle fuel poverty. By upgrading council homes, the council hopes to create warmer, healthier, and more affordable living spaces for some of its most vulnerable residents.
Taxi Driver's Licence Under Review in Private Hearing
The Hackney Carriage/Private Hire Vehicle Sub Committee (Licensing Sub Committee) met to consider the standing of a licensed taxi driver, Driver A, with Cambridge City Council. Link to the meeting.
- The press and public were excluded from the meeting due to the confidential nature of the information to be discussed.
- The sub-committee was expected to consider whether Driver A is a
fit and proper person
to hold a taxi licence, based on an investigation by council officers. - The sub-committee was also expected to consider sections 60 and 61 of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 19764, which detail the grounds on which a council can suspend, revoke, or refuse to renew a vehicle or driver's licence.
The decision to hold this hearing in private raises questions about transparency and accountability. While the need to protect confidential information is understandable, it also limits the public's ability to scrutinize the sub-committee's decision-making process. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for Driver A's livelihood and the safety of passengers.
Planning Committee to Decide on Sturton Street Trees and Ditton Walk Housing
The Planning Committee is set to decide on several key planning applications, including the fate of three London Plane trees on Sturton Street and a proposal for 12 new homes on Ditton Walk. Link to the meeting.
- The Sturton Street tree application involves a request to remove the trees due to concerns about subsidence affecting a nearby property.
- The Ditton Walk application has been recommended for refusal due to environmental health and tree concerns.
These decisions will have a direct impact on the local environment and the availability of housing in Cambridge. The committee's deliberations will likely weigh the competing interests of property owners, residents, and the environment.
Other Matters
- The Hackney Carriage/Private Hire Vehicle Sub Committee (Licensing Sub Committee) also met on Monday 23 June 2025 to appoint a chair and to consider the standing of a licensed driver with Cambridge City Council. Link to the meeting.
Upcoming Meetings
- The Civic Affairs and Audit Committee is scheduled to meet on Monday 30 June 2025 to discuss proposed changes to member allowances and receive an update on internal audit work. Link to the meeting.
- The Services, Climate and Communities Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 01 July 2025 to discuss the role of overview and scrutiny in local authorities and the Cambridge Folk Festival. Link to the meeting.
- The Housing Engagement Board is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 08 July 2025. Link to the meeting.
- The Joint Staff Employer Forum is scheduled to meet on Thursday 10 July 2025. Link to the meeting.
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Smoke Control Areas are areas where restrictions are in place regarding the emission of smoke from chimneys. ↩
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DEFRA is the UK government's Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. ↩
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EPC stands for Energy Performance Certificate, a rating that indicates the energy efficiency of a building. ↩
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The Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976 is an act of Parliament that includes provisions about the licensing of hackney carriages and private hire vehicles. ↩
Recent meetings
This meeting will not be live streamed, Licensing Hearing Panel (Licensing 2003 Act) Sub Committee - Tuesday, 29th July, 2025 10.00 am
This meeting has been cancelled.
Council - Thursday, 24th July, 2025 6.00 pm
Cambridge City Council was scheduled to discuss local government reorganisation, proposed changes to member allowances, and the 2024/25 outturn report at its meeting. Councillors were also expected to discuss a proposal for a four-day week at South Cambridgeshire District Council, and the urgent need for funding to repair the islands at Jesus Lock and Baits Bite Lock.
Planning - Wednesday, 23rd July, 2025 11.00 am
Cambridge City Council's planning committee scheduled a meeting to discuss a range of planning applications and related matters. The agenda included a pre-application briefing on the redevelopment of Kett House and a review of several planning applications, including a major application for The Paddocks on Cherry Hinton Road. Additionally, the committee was expected to discuss appeals information and a compliance report.
Development Control Forum - Tuesday, 22nd July, 2025 10.00 am
This meeting has been cancelled.
This meeting will not be live streamed, Licensing Hearing Panel (Licensing 2003 Act) Sub Committee - Monday, 21st July, 2025 10.00 am
The Licensing Hearing Panel (Licensing 2003 Act) Sub Committee of Cambridge City Council met to consider an application for a premises licence to be granted for The C Bar, 1A Devonshire Road, Cambridge. The application was made by Golden Direction Property Limited. Councillors were scheduled to discuss the representations received regarding the application, and consider the applicant's proposal with reference to the council's statement of licensing policy and the four licensing objectives[^2].
Planning - Pre-Application Developer Presentations - Thursday, 17th July, 2025 2.00 pm
The Cambridge City Council Planning - Pre-Application Developer Presentations meeting was scheduled to include a briefing on the redevelopment of Ekin Road. The proposal involves demolishing existing buildings and constructing 134 new homes, with 58% designated as affordable housing. Councillors were invited to attend the meeting to provide feedback to the developer before a formal planning application is submitted.
Joint Development Management Committee - Wednesday, 16th July, 2025 10.00 am
The Joint Development Management Committee were scheduled to discuss reforms to planning committees and pre-application developer briefings at their meeting. The committee was expected to review a government consultation paper on the reform of planning committees and provide feedback. They were also scheduled to hear pre-application briefings from developers about upcoming projects at Cambridge Biomedical Campus.
Cabinet - Tuesday, 15th July, 2025 5.00 pm
Here is a summary of the scheduled discussions for the Cambridge City Council Cabinet meeting on 15 July 2025.
Joint Staff Employer Forum - Thursday, 10th July, 2025 5.00 pm
We have not been able to find a video broadcast of this meeting.
Housing Advisory Board - Tuesday, 8th July, 2025 5.00 pm
The Cambridge City Council Housing Advisory Board was scheduled to meet to discuss the terms of reference for the board, housing performance, regulatory compliance and tenant engagement policies, rent and service charge policies, and a housing revenue account improvement plan.
Upcoming meetings
This meeting will not be live streamed, Licensing Hearing Panel (Licensing 2003 Act) Sub Committee - Tuesday, 5th August, 2025 10.00 am
Taxi (Private Hearing), Hackney Carriage/Private Hire Vehicle Sub Committee (Licensing Sub Committee) - Wednesday, 6th August, 2025 10.00 am
Taxi Application (Private Meeting), Hackney Carriage/Private Hire Vehicle Sub Committee (Licensing Sub Committee) - Tuesday, 12th August, 2025 10.00 am
Development Control Forum - Thursday, 14th August, 2025 2.00 pm
Planning - Pre-Application Developer Presentations - Thursday, 14th August, 2025 10.00 am