Purpose

New Forest District Council operates an in-house fleet management and vehicle maintenance service at its workshops in Lymington and Hardley.

The Council is competing with neighbouring local authorities and a significant number of private sector operators for a limited pool of qualified mechanics and supervisors.

The recommendation is a necessary and proportionate response to current market conditions and operational demands. It will help safeguard essential services and position the Council to meet future operations effectively.

Decision

To apply the annual pay award of 3.3% to mechanic and workshop supervisor base salaries, and a market forces supplement of 5% from 1 October 2026.