This week in Rushmoor:

Council Recognises Long-Serving Members with Honorary Alderman Title

Rushmoor Borough Council is set to honour two individuals for their extensive service to the community. The Council met on Thursday, 1 October 2026, to consider conferring the title of Honorary Alderman upon David Edward Clifford and Charles Dennis Fraser-Fleming. This prestigious title is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the council and the borough over many years.

David Edward Clifford is proposed for this honour in recognition of his 33 years of dedicated service to Rushmoor Borough Council. Charles Dennis Fraser-Fleming is similarly recognised for his 27 years of commitment to the council. The conferral of Honorary Alderman status is permitted under Section 249(1) of the Local Government Act, 1972[^1], allowing local authorities to recognise individuals who have rendered outstanding service. This recognition highlights the council's appreciation for the commitment and dedication of its former members.

For more details, see the Council meeting.

Local Government Reorganisation Costs and Government Reimbursement Demanded

The Council met on Thursday, 1 October 2026, to address the significant financial and administrative burden placed on Rushmoor and other local authorities by the government's handling of local government reorganisation (LGR). A notice of motion was put forward to demand reimbursement for the costs incurred by Rushmoor in preparing for LGR, which has now been withdrawn by the government.

The motion highlighted the wasted time and public money spent by councils on LGR preparations, much of which was not requested by residents. It proposed that the Council ask its Chief Executive and Section 151 Officer to publish an assessment of Rushmoor's LGR costs, identify any wasted expenditure, and formally write to the Secretary of State demanding reimbursement. The motion also called for reimbursement for all affected councils and a clear explanation from the government. Crucially, it stressed that Rushmoor residents must have a meaningful say before any new proposals are introduced. This move reflects a strong stance against the perceived mismanagement of a major structural change that has impacted local services and finances.

For more details, see the Council meeting.

Planning Application Decisions to be Streamlined Under New National Scheme

A new national framework for determining planning applications is set to be implemented, impacting how development proposals are processed in Rushmoor. The Council met on Thursday, 1 October 2026, to discuss the introduction of the National Scheme of Delegation for planning applications, which was due to come into effect on 31 October 2026.

This scheme dictates which planning applications are decided by council officers and which are referred to the Planning Committee. The report presented outlined the necessary updates to the Council's Constitution and proposed a new protocol for managing decision-making under these new arrangements. The aim is to create a more consistent and efficient process across the country. The council recommended noting the introduction of the scheme, the new protocol, and the required updates to the Constitution. This change could lead to faster decisions on some applications, but it also means less direct involvement from elected members on a wider range of planning matters.

For more details, see the Council meeting.

Audit and Governance Committee Reviews Financial Health and Compliance

The Audit and Governance Committee met on Tuesday, 29 September 2026, to review the council's financial standing, risk management, and adherence to policies. The committee examined reports on the reserve risk assessment, internal audit progress, and corporate policies, including those related to surveillance powers.

A key discussion point was the Reserve Risk Assessment Update Report from Ernst & Young. This report assessed the risks associated with the council's opening reserve balances, particularly in light of previous audit opinions. It highlighted that while some reserves presented a higher risk due to their size or complexity, the council's readiness to support the historical rebuild process was being evaluated. The implications for the 2025/26 audit were also considered, with a note that prior-year assurance gaps could not be fully addressed within the current audit year.

The committee also received an update on internal audit progress, confirming that no 'limited' or 'no' assurance opinion reports had been issued for the 2026/27 year to date. A review of the council's Corporate Policy and Guidance on Surveillance and the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 (RIPA) indicated that RIPA powers are used infrequently and that the Investigatory Powers Commissioner's Office (IPCO) is satisfied with the council's compliance.

The Annual Ombudsman Complaint Review Letter for 2025/26 showed that Rushmoor Borough Council received nine complaints, with only one proceeding to a full investigation and not being upheld. This suggests a generally positive response to complaints. The committee also reviewed the unaudited Statement of Accounts and the Annual Governance Statement for 2025/26, ensuring that the council's financial position and governance processes are robust. Concerns were raised about the hiatus of the Corporate Governance Group, with advice that its terms of reference were under review. The committee also discussed the status of the Financial Recovery Working Group, noting that actions to balance the budget are largely complete, with the focus now shifting to maintaining service delivery and financial sustainability during the Local Government Reorganisation.

For more details, see the Audit and Governance Committee meeting.

Other Matters

Wellington Ward By-Election Result Noted

The Council met on Thursday, 1 October 2026, and received the Returning Officer's report on the Wellington Ward By-Election held on 16 July 2026. Fouzia Tanveer Khan was elected as the candidate for Wellington Ward.

For more details, see the Council meeting.

Appointments to Council Committees

The Council met on Thursday, 1 October 2026, and considered changes to appointments to various committees for the remainder of the Municipal Year 2026/27 to ensure political balance.

For more details, see the Council meeting.

This week in Rushmoor:

Council Faces Crucial Decision on SERCO Contract Extension

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Monday, 21 September 2026, to scrutinise a significant proposal that could impact a wide range of council services. The committee was tasked with pre-decision scrutiny of a draft report recommending the extension of the contract with SERCO, a company responsible for delivering various essential services.

This contract extension is a critical decision, as SERCO's services touch many aspects of daily life for Rushmoor residents. The committee's review of the draft report, designated OS2623, will inform the Cabinet and the full Council before any final decision is made. The report was presented by Ruth Whaymand, Service Manager for Environmental Contracts, and James Duggin, Chief Operating Officer, who provided insights into the proposed extension.

The SERCO Contract Working Group had already met to review the proposals, and their recommendations were to be considered by the Cabinet on 1 October 2026, followed by a full Council meeting. The Overview and Scrutiny Committee's role was to provide comments and recommendations that would be taken into account by the Cabinet. Councillor Christine Guinness, the Cabinet Member for Pride in Place and Neighbourhood Services, was present to answer questions, highlighting the council's commitment to transparency in this important decision-making process.

The committee also considered the need to exclude the public from discussions concerning SERCO's financial and business affairs, a standard procedure when dealing with commercially sensitive information under Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972. This ensures that confidential business information is protected while still allowing for public oversight of the decision-making process.

For more details, see the Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.

Safer North Hampshire Partnership Performance Under Review

The Joint Crime and Disorder Overview and Scrutiny Committee (Basingstoke/Hart/Rushmoor) convened on Wednesday, 23 September 2026, to assess the effectiveness of the Safer North Hampshire Strategic Community Safety Partnership. This partnership plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of residents across three local authority areas.

The committee reviewed the partnership's performance for the 2025-26 period, examining its progress against key priorities. These priorities are crucial for maintaining public safety and include improving feelings of safety, tackling serious violence, addressing domestic abuse, combating anti-social behaviour, and reducing crime in town centres. The report presented detailed the partnership's efforts in these areas, as mandated by Section 17 of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998¹.

The report revealed a mixed picture. While overall recorded crime saw a 3% reduction, with decreases in theft and criminal damage, there were concerning increases in sexual offences, robbery, drug offences, and possession of weapon offences. Antisocial behaviour incidents also rose by a significant 19%. These figures highlight the ongoing challenges faced in keeping communities safe and the need for continued vigilance and effective strategies.

The partnership's work streams included initiatives to improve feelings of safety through Safe and Well visits and community engagement. Efforts to combat serious violence involved the implementation of the Serious Violence Duty and collaboration with the Violence Reduction Unit (VRU). Support for victims of domestic abuse and plans to address Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) were also detailed. For anti-social behaviour, the partnership focused on early intervention with young people and neighbour disputes.

Looking ahead, the report identified risks such as funding and resource challenges, the need for enhanced member knowledge, and the importance of continued engagement with non-statutory partners and the VRU. The need for consistent, high-quality data was also stressed. The committee's review is essential for ensuring that the partnership remains effective in its mission to build safer communities.

For more details, see the Joint Crime and Disorder Overview and Scrutiny Committee (Basingstoke/Hart/Rushmoor) meeting.

Growth Partnership and Street Trading Policy Under Review

The Policy and Project Advisory Board met on Tuesday, 22 September 2026, to discuss key initiatives aimed at fostering economic growth and regulating local trading activities. The board reviewed the aims and action plan of the Aldershot & Farnborough Growth Partnership, a significant project designed to boost the region's economy.

The Aldershot & Farnborough Growth Partnership aims to leverage the area's strengths in aerospace, defence, and advanced technology to drive economic growth, create better career opportunities, and attract investment. The partnership seeks to present a unified voice for the region, enhancing its economic influence. Key priorities include raising awareness of the area's business strengths, fostering stronger business connections, improving collaboration between businesses and educational institutions on skills development, and revitalising town centres to support economic growth. The action plan outlines a clear roadmap for achieving these objectives.

In addition, the board considered proposed changes to the Council's Street Trading Consent Policy. This policy governs where and how street traders can operate within Rushmoor. The current policy prohibits street trading without consent, with all streets designated as 'consent streets'. The discussion focused on potential adjustments to application requirements and standard conditions, ensuring a fair and effective regulatory framework that balances the needs of traders with the public interest.

The board also reviewed its own Work Plan, considering past discussions and upcoming agenda items. This forward-looking approach ensures that the board's activities remain aligned with the council's strategic priorities and that resources are used effectively. Potential future items for discussion included Local Government Reorganisation (LGR), the Civil Society Covenant programme, and policies related to animal licensing, sex establishments, and tobacco and vapes.

For more details, see the Policy and Project Advisory Board meeting.

This week in Rushmoor:

Council Tackles Crime and Safety with Community Focus

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday, 17 September 2026, to discuss policing and community safety across the borough. The meeting provided a detailed look at the work of the Community Safety Team, highlighting their efforts to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour (ASB), and their vital role in safeguarding residents.

The committee heard that the Community Safety Team is actively using a range of tools, from early intervention methods like warning letters and home visits to more formal measures such as Community Protection Warnings and Notices. These actions are crucial for addressing issues that can significantly impact the quality of life for residents, particularly those in vulnerable situations. The team also completed 94 safeguarding referrals this year, demonstrating their commitment to protecting those most at risk.

The report presented detailed statistics on the team's work, including the number of police 101 reports triaged and direct enquiries received. It also highlighted specific projects like the Think Safe initiative for Year 6 pupils, aimed at educating young people about safety, and upgrades to CCTV systems in Aldershot and Farnborough town centres, which are vital for deterring crime and providing evidence.

However, the update also flagged concerns about an increasing workload and capacity issues within the team. These challenges, alongside concerns about mental health and social care, community cohesion, and youth ASB in Aldershot town centre, could potentially affect the speed and effectiveness of the team's response. Funding for youth outreach sessions was also identified as a concern, with the council actively exploring options for further funding.

The results of the 2026 Community Safety Survey revealed that while residents feel safer than in previous years, feelings of safety decrease at night. In response, the council is increasing patrolling hours, upgrading CCTV, and focusing on youth outreach in hotspot areas. Drug use and dealing remain prominent concerns for residents.

The committee also reviewed the work of the Safer North Hampshire Community Safety Partnership (CSP), which includes Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, Hart District Council, and Rushmoor Borough Council. Their priorities for 2026/27 include improving feelings of safety, addressing serious violence, domestic abuse, and anti-social behaviour.

The committee also began planning its work for the upcoming year, with policing and community safety identified as a key topic. Potential future items for discussion include updates on SERCO, the Farnborough Exhibition Centre's community impact, and the Asset Disposal Plan.

For more details, see the Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.

New Fund to Support Residents Through Difficult Times

The Cabinet met on Tuesday, 15 September 2026, and noted information on the new Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF). This national fund, which replaced the Household Support Fund, is designed to provide crucial financial assistance to individuals on low incomes facing unexpected financial difficulties.

The CRF is a three-year programme, offering a more stable and predictable source of support compared to previous annual funding. It is structured to provide Crisis Payments, Housing Payments, Resilience Services, and Community Coordination, directly aligning with the council's commitment to community wellbeing. This fund is a vital lifeline for residents struggling with the rising cost of living, helping to prevent hardship and support those most in need.

For more details, see the Cabinet meeting.

Young People's Plan Aims to Enhance Opportunities

Also discussed at the Cabinet meeting was the development of the Rushmoor Young People's Plan (YPP) for 2026-2028. This plan focuses on improving opportunities for children and young people across the borough, with priorities centred on safety, health, aspirations, and community connection.

The plan has been developed with significant input from young people themselves, ensuring it reflects their needs and experiences. The Cabinet endorsed the approach to its production and requested a young person friendly version. This initiative is crucial for empowering young residents and ensuring they have the support and opportunities to thrive.

For more details, see the Cabinet meeting.

Aldershot Property Disposal Approved

The Cabinet also approved the disposal of the freehold interest in 1 Wyndham Street, Aldershot. This decision, made after considering its financial implications, will see the council receive a welcome increase to its cash reserves.

For more details, see the Cabinet meeting.

This week in Rushmoor:

Council Prepares for Major Local Government Overhaul: Powers Delegated to Joint Committee

Rushmoor Borough Council is moving forward with the significant structural changes ahead of the creation of a new North Hampshire Unitary Council. The Council met on Thursday, 10 September 2026, to discuss the delegation of powers to the North Hampshire Future Unitary Joint Committee. This committee is essential for managing the complex transition to a new unitary authority that will eventually replace Basingstoke & Deane, Hart, Rushmoor, and Hampshire councils.

The core of the discussion focused on a report recommending the council approve the delegation of necessary duties and powers to the Joint Committee. This will enable the committee to oversee the development of an implementation plan for the new authority, establish a shared Implementation Team, and prepare proposals for the new council's constitution, code of conduct, and meeting schedules. These are crucial steps that will shape how local services are delivered to residents across the region.

The report explicitly states that the Joint Committee cannot make decisions on behalf of the future unitary council. However, the proposed delegations, made under the Local Government Act 1972[^1] and the Local Authorities (Arrangements for the Discharge of Functions) (England) Regulations 2000 and 2012[^2], are vital for a smooth and effective transition. The council's own Delivery Plan highlights the importance of securing the best outcomes from this reorganisation for Rushmoor residents and businesses, making these preparatory steps essential.

An Equality Impact Assessment screening tool indicated that the proposal would have a neutral impact on people with protected characteristics, and a Climate Change Impact Assessment screening tool also showed no significant impact.

For more details, see the Council meeting.

Wellington Ward By-Election Result Noted

The council also received the Returning Officer's Report on the result of the Wellington Ward By-Election held on 16th July 2026. Fouzia Tanveer Khan was elected as the candidate for Wellington Ward. The total number of electors was 5,296, with 972 ballots completed, representing an 18.4% turnout.

For more details, see the Council meeting.

Committee Appointments Reviewed

The meeting agenda included a proposal to approve changes to appointments to various committees for the remainder of the Municipal Year 2026/27, to ensure political balance. These changes included:

• Audit and Governance Committee: Councillor Fouzia Khan was proposed for appointment to fill a Labour Group vacancy.
• Development Management Committee: Councillor Fouzia Khan was proposed for appointment to fill a Labour Group vacancy, replacing Councillor Becky Williams. Councillor Becky Williams was proposed for appointment as a Standing Deputy to fill a Labour Group vacancy.
• Licensing and Corporate Business Committee: Councillor Becky Williams was proposed for appointment to fill a Labour Group vacancy.

For more details, see the Council meeting.

Other Matters

Development Management Committee Cancelled

The Development Management Committee meeting, scheduled for Wednesday, 09 September 2026, was cancelled.