The Borough Council of Hounslow met on Tuesday, 21 July 2026, to discuss a range of important issues including the updated West London Waste Plan, the new Corporate Plan A Fairer Future, and the Council's Financial Strategy. Key decisions included the approval of the West London Waste Plan for public consultation, the adoption of the A Fairer Future Corporate Plan, and the approval of the One Hounslow Financial Strategy for 2026-2030. The Council also debated and voted on motions concerning fly-tipping, early literacy initiatives, and the protection of private renters, with amendments and resolutions made on each.

West London Waste Plan

The Council discussed the updated West London Waste Plan, which outlines strategies for managing waste across six west London boroughs and the Old Oak and Park Royal Development Corporation area until 2041. Following a Regulation 18 consultation, amendments were made to the plan, including the addition of a policy on wastewater treatment infrastructure and adjustments to capacity figures. The Council approved the recommendation to publish the Regulation 19 Proposed Submission version of the plan for public comment and to submit it to the Secretary of State for examination. This plan aims to ensure sufficient waste management capacity, promote the circular economy, and reduce carbon emissions associated with waste management.

A Fairer Future: Corporate Plan 2026-2030

The Council adopted A Fairer Future, the new Corporate Plan for 2026-2030. This plan sets out the Council's ambitions and priorities, focusing on creating a fairer borough where everyone can live well, the benefits of growth are shared, and every neighbourhood is cared for. It is structured around four strategic themes: A Responsive Council, For Residents (covering Early Childhood, Learning and Opportunity, Work, Community Life, and Healthy Life), For the Borough (encompassing Homes, Neighbourhoods and Town Centres, Inclusive Growth, and Infrastructure and Connectivity), and For the Organisation. The plan emphasizes practical delivery through services, investment, and partnerships, with immediate priorities including expanding early help services, investing in playgrounds, strengthening community hubs, and tackling climate change.

One Hounslow Financial Strategy 2026-2030

The Council approved the One Hounslow Financial Strategy for 2026-2030. This strategy provides a framework for the Council's finances, aiming to deliver corporate plan priorities while ensuring financial sustainability. It acknowledges the challenging macro-economic outlook, including inflation and interest rate pressures, and outlines updated projections for budget gaps. The strategy emphasizes rebuilding reserves, with a target to increase risk reserves to 15% of Core Spending Power by 2028/29. It also details the Council's approach to managing demand-led services, particularly in adult social care and children's services, and outlines investment plans for housing, infrastructure, and neighbourhood improvements. The strategy is supported by a commitment to responsible financial management and value for money.

Tackling Fly-Tipping Effectively

A motion proposed by Councillor Jack Emsley concerning fly-tipping was debated. The motion noted the high rate of fly-tipping in Hounslow and the ineffectiveness of the current £1,000 fixed penalty notices (FPNs) in reducing incidents. It argued that the current policy had led to unjust enforcement actions against residents while real perpetrators escaped. An amendment, proposed by Councillor Amy Croft, was debated and subsequently carried. The amended motion resolved to introduce new enforcement guidelines for APCOA, focusing on warnings for first-time offenders, commit to replacing the current heavy-handed policy with one focused on tackling large-scale fly-tippers, and instruct the Cabinet to develop alternative enforcement policies and review the APCOA contract.

Promoting Early Literacy

The Council debated a motion proposed by Councillor Fiza Ahmed to support early literacy initiatives, including joining the Dolly Parton 'Imagination Library' scheme to provide free books to children under five and ensuring every child receives a library card. An amendment was proposed by Councillor Lyndon Grigg, which sought to focus more on school performance and less on early intervention. After debate, the original motion was approved.

Protecting Private Renters

A motion proposed by Councillor Marcela Benedetti to support the Council's updated Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy and robust use of enforcement powers against rogue landlords was debated. The motion noted the significance of the Renters' Rights Act and the Council's commitment to enforcing these new protections. The Council resolved to welcome the updated policy, support robust enforcement, publicise successful actions, continue investing in enforcement capacity, promote tenants' rights, support responsible landlords, and implement selective licensing.

Members' Scheme of Allowances 2026-27

The Council considered a report proposing revisions to the Members' Allowances Scheme for 2026-27. The revised scheme aimed to improve transparency by linking additional remuneration solely to the additional time commitment required by a role, using the Basic Allowance as a benchmark. After debate, the revised scheme was approved.

Appointments to Committees and Other Bodies

The Council made appointments to various committees and outside bodies for the municipal year 2026/27. Two positions, Vice Chair of the Chiswick Area Forum and Vice Chair of the Heston and Cranford Area Forum, were contested and decided by vote.

Decisions Taken Under Urgency Arrangements

The Council noted decisions taken under urgency arrangements concerning appointments to committees and other bodies.

Date of Next Meeting

The date of the next meeting of the Council was scheduled for Tuesday, 15th September 2026.