The Policy and Project Advisory Board of Rushmoor Council was scheduled to discuss a new Equalities Policy and Action Plan, and consider proposals for playground improvements across the borough. The Board was also set to review the Council's approach to maintaining unattached land and discuss the appointment of members to the Elections Group.

Equality Policy

The Board was scheduled to review a proposed draft Equalities Policy and Action Plan. This policy aims to ensure that the Council considers the needs of all residents and promotes equality across its services. Alex Shiell, Service Manager – Policy, Strategy and Transformation, and Martin Iyawe, Policy and Projects Officer, were expected to be present to guide the discussion. The Board's feedback and recommendations were to be provided to the Cabinet.

Playground Improvements Project

Consideration was to be given to the prioritisation of refurbishment and renewal works for Council-owned playgrounds, with an allocated investment of £400,000 over the next two years. Andy Ford, Parks, Play & Open Spaces Manager and Transformation, and Ruth Whaymand, Service Manager Environmental Contract, were scheduled to attend to discuss the project. The Board was expected to make recommendations regarding which playgrounds should benefit from this investment.

Appointments to Elections Group 2026/27

The Board was scheduled to appoint members to the Elections Group for the 2026/27 municipal year. The group is intended to be politically balanced, comprising seven cross-party members. This includes the Cabinet Member with responsibility for electoral issues, the Chair or Vice-Chair of the Licensing and Corporate Business Committee, the Chair or Vice-Chair of the Policy and Project Advisory Board, and four representatives from other political groups. Nominations from political groups were to be presented at the meeting.

Work Plan

The Board was scheduled to discuss its Work Plan for the upcoming period. This plan outlines the items that the Board intends to address, aligning with the Council Plan priorities and ensuring efficient use of time. The work plan is developed in coordination with other committees, such as the Overview and Scrutiny Committee (OSC) and the Audit and Governance Committee (AGC).

Maintenance of Unattached Land

The Board was scheduled to consider the maintenance of unattached or unregistered land within the Borough. This discussion stemmed from a motion approved at the December 2025 Council meeting. The report pack indicated that the Board was to consider the feasibility and costs of reviewing such land to confirm ownership and maintenance responsibilities. It was also to explore the extent of emergency works needed for neglected areas and the potential costs and legal considerations of the Council taking on permanent maintenance responsibilities. Proposals for formal partnerships with bodies such as Crown land authorities and Hampshire County Council were also to be discussed to coordinate land management and clarify ownership.

Free Parking for Shoppers

Although not explicitly listed as a separate agenda item for this meeting, the report pack from a previous meeting on 24th March 2026 detailed discussions regarding a motion to consider free or discounted parking for shoppers in Aldershot and Farnborough town centres. This previous discussion involved exploring options such as free parking after 3 pm at specific car parks, £1 parking after 3 pm, and free parking on Sundays. The potential financial implications, including lost income and additional costs for reprogramming machines, were outlined. Members had raised points about the suitability of car parks, the need for cost-benefit analysis, and the potential impact of seasonal changes on trial results. Officers were requested to return with further or amended options.

Previous Meeting Minutes

The Board was scheduled to confirm the Minutes of its previous meeting held on 21st March 2026. These minutes would have detailed the discussions and any recommendations made at that earlier session.