The Cabinet of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council met on Thursday, 23 July 2026, approving the continuation of the Council Tax Reduction Scheme with only minor adjustments, and agreeing to proceed with the relocation of the crematorium lodge depot. The meeting also saw the adoption of the Kent and Medway Local Nature Recovery Strategy and the noting of various financial and operational reports.

Council Tax Reduction Scheme 2027-28

The Cabinet approved the continuation of the income-banded Council Tax Reduction Scheme (CTRS) for the 2027-28 financial year. No significant changes were made to the scheme, with the exception of a percentage increase to the income bands to align with the Department for Work and Pensions' annual uplift. Councillor Christopher Hall, Cabinet Member for Finance and Property, explained that maintaining the current system simplifies the claiming process and that any changes to the bands were deferred due to the upcoming Local Government Reorganisation, aiming for a coordinated approach with neighbouring West Kent authorities. This decision was made to continue with the existing simplified system and to maintain consistency during the period of reorganisation.

Crematorium Lodge Depot Re-location

Approval was given to proceed with the works to relocate the cemetery depot to the Crematorium Lodge site. This decision, deemed urgent and therefore not subject to call-in, will see the conversion and adaptation of the existing Crematorium Lodge to serve as the new depot. Councillor Chris Hall highlighted that this approach is more economical and less risky than the previously considered new-build option at Benhall Mill Road, and it also supports the disposal of the Benhall Mill site. The approved budget for these works is £853,000, which is part of the Council's Capital Programme.

Adoption of Local Nature Recovery Strategy

The Cabinet formally noted the publication of the Kent and Medway Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) and agreed to have regard to it in future decision-making, in line with Section 40 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006, as amended by the Environment Act 2021. Councillor Matt Lowe, Cabinet Member for Planning, explained that this strategy, developed by Kent County Council, aims to define priorities for nature recovery and propose actions to achieve it across England. Authority to consider the LNRS within development management procedures and plan-making was delegated to the Head of Planning. The Council will continue to engage with the LNRS team to ensure ongoing compliance with its statutory duties.

Strategic Risk Register

The Cabinet noted the strategic risk register and the arrangements for managing strategic risk. Councillor Chris Hall stated that the register had been reviewed, with discussions focusing on risks with elevated status, such as the Royal Victoria Place development project and the capacity to deliver the transition to a new unitary authority. Lee Colyer, Director of Finance, Growth and Delivery, added that the Audit and Governance Committee would oversee the register, and that further details on water-related risks for the local plan would be developed. The Cabinet also requested any further information that would enhance their understanding of how the council manages its risks.

Annual Corporate Health and Safety Report

The Cabinet noted the contents of the Annual Corporate Health and Safety Report for 2025-26 and approved the corporate Health and Safety priorities for 2026-27. Councillor Rob Wormington, Cabinet Member for Environment and Sustainability, in a statement read by Councillor Justine Rutland, Deputy Leader, highlighted the Council's commitment to a safe working environment and the positive trajectory of safety interventions. The report indicated a reduction in conflict and violence incidents, particularly at the Amelia Scott building, and a slight increase in slips, trips, and falls, which remain at low numbers relative to public attendance. The new priorities for the upcoming year include reviewing personal protective equipment, assessing the impact of Martyn's Law, reviewing property-specific health and safety policies, and implementing a training schedule.

Property Transaction Report January to June 2026

The Cabinet noted the Property Transaction Report, which details property transactions undertaken under delegated authorities between January and June 2026. Councillor Chris Hall, Cabinet Member for Finance and Property, presented the report, which was taken as read. The report indicated no property disposals or transfers by the Council during this period, but noted several lease and licence renewals, rent reviews, and the acquisition of the TN2 Community Centre.

RVP Investment Transactions April to June 2026

The Cabinet noted the Royal Victoria Place (RVP) Investment Transactions report for April to June 2026. Councillor Chris Hall introduced David Candlin, Head of Economic Development and Major Projects, who presented the report. The transactions included three lease renewals and one new lease, along with a deed of agreement, tenancy at will letters, and licences for short-term occupation. Questions were raised regarding the tenancy at will process, which was explained as a temporary measure to protect the Council's legal position while lease renewal terms are negotiated.

Civic Award

The Cabinet recommended to Full Council that an individual be awarded a Civic Medallion. Councillor Corinna Keefe, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, stated that the nomination, detailed in an exempt appendix, was richly deserved, citing decades of service to the borough. It was noted that this might be one of the last Civic Awards issued before Local Government Reorganisation.

Appointments to Outside Bodies

The Cabinet approved appointments to various outside bodies for the 2026-27 period. Councillor Justine Rutland, Deputy Leader, noted that there were two vacant posts: the Gatwick Noise Management Board and the TW Twinning and Friendship Association, and that Cabinet members would discuss these further to seek appointments. The decision ensures the Council maintains beneficial relationships with external organisations.

Urgent Business

There was no urgent business to consider.

Date of Next Meeting

The next scheduled meeting of the Cabinet will be held on Thursday, 24 September 2026.