The Communities Housing and Environment Cabinet Advisory Board is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 8 September 2026. The meeting's agenda includes discussions on a new planning validation checklist, an update on the maintenance of The Pantiles Colonnade, and the establishment of a West Kent Joint Committee for local government reorganisation.

New Updated Planning Validation Checklist

A significant item on the agenda is the consideration of a new, updated Planning Validation Checklist. This checklist outlines the information required when submitting planning applications. The report pack indicates that the checklist has been reviewed and updated following a public consultation period. The proposed changes aim to ensure that planning applications can be validated and assessed effectively and efficiently, taking into account recent updates to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and new legislation regarding Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG). The report will seek a recommendation to Cabinet on the adoption of this updated list.

Update on The Pantiles Colonnade Maintenance

The board is also scheduled to receive an update regarding the maintenance of The Pantiles Colonnade. This follows a Full Council motion agreed on 22 April 2026, which called for dialogue between stakeholders, including the owner Targetfollow, tenants, residents, the Civic Society, and the Council, to develop a specific and measurable maintenance and renovation programme. The report indicates that a Listed Building Consent application for repairs to the colonnade columns and supporting structures was approved on 23 June 2026, and that Targetfollow has indicated repair work is expected to commence before the end of September. The report will also cover engagement with stakeholders regarding a long-term vision for The Pantiles as part of the emerging Town Centre Plan.

Local Government Reorganisation - Establishment of West Kent Joint Committee

A key discussion point will be the establishment of a West Kent Joint Committee. This committee is proposed to manage transitional responsibilities related to local government reorganisation until a Shadow Unitary Authority for the West Kent area is formed. The report notes that the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government has confirmed the decision to proceed with four unitary councils for Kent and Medway, with West Kent comprising the areas of Maidstone Borough Council, Sevenoaks District Council, Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council, and Tunbridge Wells Borough Council. The Joint Committee is intended to provide strategic and political oversight of this transition, preparing for the transfer of functions, property, rights, and liabilities. The board will consider recommendations for the approval of the establishment of this committee, its terms of reference, and procedural rules.

The meeting will also include noting forthcoming items in the Forward Plan, and considering any urgent business.