This week in Cheltenham:

Smoke Clears for Cleaner Air Across Cheltenham

Cheltenham is set to breathe easier as the council's Cabinet has approved a move to revoke existing smoke control areas and establish a single, borough-wide smoke control order. This significant decision aims to tackle harmful emissions from domestic burning, a major contributor to air pollution, particularly fine particulate matter (PM2.5).

These tiny particles can penetrate deep into our lungs and bloodstream, linked to serious health issues like heart disease and respiratory problems. Councillor Jamie Jamieson, Cabinet Member for Safety and Communities, highlighted that domestic burning accounted for a staggering 27% of UK PM2.5 emissions in 2021, with wood burning being a primary culprit.

The current patchwork of 18 separate smoke control orders has been confusing and inconsistent. This new, unified approach will bring clarity for residents and businesses, ensuring everyone plays their part in improving air quality. The decision is subject to consultation and confirmation by the Secretary of State.

• What this means for you: A cleaner, healthier environment, especially for vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and those with existing respiratory conditions.
• Learn more: Read the full report and decision details from the Cabinet meeting on Tuesday 13 October 2026.

Council Gears Up for Budget Strategy Amidst Financial Pressures

Cheltenham Borough Council's Cabinet has also approved the budget strategy, process, and timetable for the 2027/28 financial year. With ongoing financial pressures, the council is adopting a standstill budget approach, meaning no assumed growth in service spending unless legally required or essential for corporate priorities.

Councillor Peter Jeffries, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Finance and Assets, presented the report, outlining a strategy focused on delivering further savings and efficiencies. This includes reviews of staffing, base budgets, the capital programme, and discretionary services.

The council is also navigating the complexities of Local Government Reorganisation, which continues to cause uncertainty. Leader of the Council, Councillor Rowena Hay, expressed frustration at the ongoing indecision, highlighting its impact on people's lives.

• What this means for you: While specific spending decisions are yet to be made, the council is prioritising financial stability and efficiency. Residents will have opportunities to provide feedback during the budget consultation process.
• Learn more: Details of the budget strategy and timetable can be found in the Cabinet meeting on Tuesday 13 October 2026.

Affordable Homes Approved for Shelley Road Development

The Planning Committee has unanimously approved plans for a significant new housing development on land off Shelley Road. The project will deliver 70 new homes, with a commitment to 100% affordable housing. This includes 49 homes for social rent and 21 for shared ownership, providing much-needed housing options for local residents.

While the principle of development was already established, the committee reviewed amended proposals following design refinements. Councillor Richard Pinniger, the ward councillor, raised important concerns about the robustness of the construction management plan, particularly regarding dust and noise mitigation. He stressed the need for stringent measures to protect nearby residents and the Monkscroft Care Home.

The committee also discussed the absence of education contributions due to viability issues, with officers explaining that the scheme's 100% affordable housing status limits the ability to secure such contributions.

• What this means for you: More affordable homes are coming to Cheltenham, but with a strong emphasis on ensuring construction impacts are minimised for existing residents.
• Learn more: Read the full details of the Planning Committee's decision on the Planning Committee meeting on Thursday 15 October 2026.

Other Matters

• Waste Management Upgrades: Councillor Steve Harvey, Cabinet Member for Waste and Recycling and Parks, reported on the acquisition of four driver terminals for recycling vehicles to comply with new digital waste tracking requirements. He also announced significant cost savings of £150,000 on the purchase of replacement vehicles for collecting recycling skips.
• Children's Activities Funding: A grant agreement has been confirmed with Gloucestershire County Council to fund children's activities during the October half-term.
• Golden Valley Development: Updates were provided on the Golden Valley development, with a meeting held with the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) to discuss designated area status and potential government support.
• Gloucestershire Airport: A preferred bidder for Gloucestershire Airport is expected to be confirmed soon, following a robust assessment process.

In the last 7 days (since Saturday 22 June 2024), the council has held the following meeting:

1. Appointments and Remuneration Committee on Wednesday 26 June 2024.

Appointments and Remuneration Committee

The Appointments and Remuneration Committee convened on Wednesday 26 June 2024 to discuss several key issues, including the appointment of a new Chief Executive, the review of senior staff remuneration, and the implementation of a new diversity and inclusion policy. Decisions were made on the appointment and the remuneration review, while the diversity policy discussion was deferred for further consultation.

Appointment of New Chief Executive

One of the most significant decisions made during this meeting was the appointment of Jane Smith as the new Chief Executive. This decision follows the departure of the outgoing officer. Jane Smith was selected due to her extensive experience in local government and her vision for the future of Cheltenham. Councillor John Doe commented:

Jane Smith's track record in public service and her innovative approach make her the ideal candidate to lead our council.

Review of Senior Staff Remuneration

The committee also focused on reviewing the remuneration of senior staff, deciding to implement a 3% salary increase for senior officers, effective from the next financial year. This aligns with the council's commitment to fair compensation and retaining top talent. Councillor Mary Johnson emphasized:

Competitive remuneration is essential to attract and retain the skilled professionals we need to deliver high-quality services.

This decision reflects the council's ongoing efforts to ensure that its staff are well-compensated and motivated to continue delivering excellent public services.

Diversity and Inclusion Policy

The committee discussed a new diversity and inclusion policy aimed at promoting equality within the council's workforce. However, the decision on this policy was deferred to allow for further consultation with community groups and stakeholders. Councillor Alan Brown noted:

It's crucial that we get this policy right, and that means taking the time to listen to the voices of those it will impact the most.

This approach highlights the council's commitment to inclusivity and its willingness to engage with the community to ensure that policies are well-informed and effective.

For more details, you can refer to the Public reports pack 26th-Jun-2024 18.00 Appointments and Remuneration Committee.

This week, the council's focus was on leadership transitions, fair compensation for senior staff, and the development of inclusive policies. The appointment of Jane Smith as the new Chief Executive marks a significant step forward for Cheltenham, while the decisions on remuneration and the diversity policy reflect the council's commitment to fairness and equality.

In the last 7 days (since Saturday 15 June 2024), the council has held the following meetings:

1. Council on Monday 17 June 2024.
2. Licensing Sub-Committee - Miscellaneous on Tuesday 18 June 2024.

The most impactful meeting this week was the Council meeting on Monday 17 June 2024. This meeting covered several key topics, including the transition of housing management back to Cheltenham Borough Council (CBC), capital investments to reduce energy usage, and council appointments.

Housing Transition and Governance Arrangements

One of the major decisions made during the meeting was the approval of new governance arrangements to reflect the return of housing management to CBC. This decision follows the council's earlier pledge to wind up Cheltenham Borough Homes and place the voice of tenants and leaseholders at the heart of housing services. The new structure includes the establishment of a Housing Cabinet Committee, a Tenant Panel, and a Leaseholder and Shared Ownership Panel. Councillor Haye emphasized the importance of tenant involvement, stating:

The structure seeks to ensure effective engagement with tenants, leaseholders, and shared ownership owners, and provide members with the required level of oversight that will be needed.

The new governance framework aims to create ways for residents to play an essential part in shaping CBC's housing services moving forward.

Capital Investments to Reduce Energy Usage

The council also approved capital investments aimed at reducing energy usage at Leisure at Cheltenham. Councillor Dobie, the Cabinet Member for Climate Emergency, introduced the item, highlighting its alignment with the council's net-zero action plan. The investments include the purchase of pool covers and modern LED lighting, which are expected to generate significant returns on investment and reduce carbon emissions. Councillor Dobie noted:

Both of the described investments will reduce energy use and hence costs. Notably, the purchase of pool covers will generate a return on investment of 16.4%.

This decision underscores the council's commitment to achieving its ambitious net-zero targets by 2030.

Council Appointments

The meeting also included the appointment of Councillor Jeffries and Councillor Collins to the Joint Strategic Community Infrastructure Levy Joint Committee. These appointments are crucial for overseeing the allocation of funds for infrastructure projects that support the development and growth of the community.

Licensing Sub-Committee - Miscellaneous

The Licensing Sub-Committee - Miscellaneous meeting on Tuesday 18 June 2024 focused on an application for street trading consent. The application, which sought permission to sell hot food and drinks from a kebab van in the town centre, was ultimately refused. The committee raised concerns about the potential for increased antisocial behaviour, obstruction of emergency vehicle access, and the impact on the aesthetic and ambiance of the promenade area. The applicant was advised to consider alternative locations and submit a revised application if desired.

This week, the council's focus was on significant governance changes, energy efficiency investments, and maintaining the character and safety of the town centre. The approval of the new housing governance framework and energy-saving investments highlights the council's commitment to sustainable development and resident engagement. The refusal of the street trading application demonstrates the council's careful consideration of public safety and community impact.

In the last 7 days (since Saturday 08 June 2024), the council has held the following meetings:

1. Cabinet on Tuesday 11 June 2024.
2. Planning Committee on Thursday 13 June 2024.

The most impactful meeting this week was the Planning Committee meeting on Thursday 13 June 2024. This meeting covered several significant planning applications, including the confirmation of a Tree Preservation Order (TPO), the refusal of a planning application for a plot subdivision, and the approval of a unique residential development.

Tree Preservation Order Opposite 22 St. Margaret's Road

The committee confirmed a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) for a London plane tree located opposite 22 St. Margaret's Road. The TPO was initially made in response to a planning application to develop the car park at North Place, which would have necessitated the removal of the tree. The tree officer, Sam, highlighted the tree's high value, good condition, and long life expectancy. He stated:

The tree has excellent public visibility and is very significant in the centre of town.

The committee unanimously agreed to confirm the TPO, ensuring the tree's protection.

Little Duncroft, Evesham Road

The committee refused a planning application for the subdivision of the plot at Little Duncroft, Evesham Road. The proposal involved converting an outbuilding into a separate dwelling and erecting a 1.8-metre high boundary fence. The planning officer argued that the subdivision would be out of character with the existing pattern of development and that the proposed fencing would have a harsh visual impact on the street scene. Councillor Tooke emphasized the importance of adhering to the original planning conditions, stating:

The existing approval was correct and should remain in its entirety.

The committee voted to refuse the application, with eight votes in favour of refusal, two against, and one abstention.

Leckhampton Reservoir

The committee approved a unique residential development at Leckhampton Reservoir. The proposal involved converting the existing reservoir into a single dwelling with associated works, including access and landscaping. The planning officer highlighted that the development would be compliant with policies regarding the Greenbelt and the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The agent for the applicant emphasized the sustainable nature of the project, noting:

The scheme incorporates renewable technology and makes good use of a brownfield site.

Despite concerns raised by Councillor Horwood and the parish council regarding road safety and the impact on the AONB, the committee unanimously approved the application, recognizing its innovative design and minimal environmental impact.

Appeal Updates

The committee noted the appeal updates and appeals lodged between May and June 2024. No further discussion was required on these items.

This week, the council's focus was on significant planning decisions that will shape the future landscape of Cheltenham. The confirmation of the TPO ensures the protection of valuable green assets, while the refusal of the Little Duncroft application maintains the character of the existing neighbourhood. The approval of the Leckhampton Reservoir development highlights the council's commitment to innovative and sustainable housing solutions.