The Full Council meeting on Thursday, 15 October 2026, saw councillors grant planning permission for new staff accommodation on Tresco and a replacement dwelling on St Martin's, subject to conditions and local occupancy agreements. The council also approved reforms to its planning committee structure to align with new national regulations, and discussed updates on early years childcare provision, the proposed disposal of land at Wet Meadow for sewage treatment works, and revised regulations for Old Town Cemetery.

Planning Application: Top Staff Annexe, Tresco

The council granted planning permission for an extension to Top Staff Annexe on Tresco. The development will provide four additional en-suite staff bedrooms and communal facilities. Councillor Lynn Blackwell, Lead Member for Planning and Regulatory Services, supported the application, noting its economic value to the island's tourism industry and the modest nature of the build. No objections were received from statutory consultees or the public.

Planning Application: Corner Cottage Chalets, St Martin's

Full planning permission was granted for the demolition of two existing chalets at Corner Cottage on St Martin's and their replacement with a two-bedroom dwelling for permanent residential occupation. This decision was made subject to a Section 106 agreement to secure local occupancy in perpetuity. Councillor Lynn Blackwell proposed the recommendations, highlighting that the applicant had addressed local concerns and that the Section 106 agreement would ensure the property serves local housing needs. Councillor Geoff White, Vice-Chairman of the Scrutiny Committee, seconded the proposal, acknowledging the significant public interest but emphasising that only material planning concerns were considered. Councillor Avril Mumford, Lead Member for Adults and Chairman of the Scrutiny Committee, raised concerns about the applicant's connection to the island and the potential for the property to become a second home, but ultimately the recommendations were carried.

Planning Committee Reforms and Implementation of the National Scheme of Delegation

The council approved recommendations related to reforms to its planning committee structure to comply with new national regulations coming into effect on 31 October 2026. A new Planning Committee will be established, comprising 13 elected members, with mandatory planning training required for all participants. Meetings will generally be held before Full Council meetings to minimise disruption. The Chief Planning Officer, Lisa Walton, and the Lead Member for Planning, Councillor Lynn Blackwell, were designated as the Nominated Officer and Nominated Member respectively for the Gateway Test process, which will determine which applications are significant enough for member determination. Public speaking at planning committees will not be permitted, maintaining the current practice. Councillor Lynn Blackwell proposed the recommendations, stating that the reforms are statutory and the council's focus is on effective local implementation. Councillor Dan Marcus, Vice Chairman of the Council, seconded the proposal, noting the report answered previous questions and supported the proposed structure.

Children's Services: Early Years Sufficiency Action Plan and Update

The council discussed the Early Years Sufficiency Action Plan, highlighting challenges in childcare provision across the islands, including recruitment and retention difficulties, staff housing, and fluctuating cohort sizes. Cherry Blossom Nursery, the principal provider on St Mary's, is expected to close in July 2027, posing a significant challenge. Councillor Joel Williams, Councillor for St Mary's and Chairman of the Council, welcomed the report and the work undertaken, but expressed concerns about timelines and requested a further report in December. He also emphasised the importance of securing a successor provider and exploring all practical options, including housing for staff. Councillor Geoff White seconded the recommendations, noting that a prospective childminder on St Martin's had withdrawn their registration. Councillor Dan Marcus expressed frustration with the lack of a detailed action plan with dates and financial information, stating he needed more to hold officers accountable. The council agreed to reach out to staff, establish the childcare steering group, and bring a report back in December.

Proposed Disposal of Land at Wet Meadow, St Mary's

The council agreed in principle to the disposal of land at Wet Meadow, St Mary's, to South West Water for £35,000. The land is required for new sewage treatment works. Councillor Dan Marcus proposed the recommendation, suggesting a condition for the land to revert to the council if South West Water does not develop it. Councillor Lynn Blackwell seconded this, proposing a condition that the land be used exclusively for sewage treatment works and that the council be given first refusal on any onward sale. The delegated authority was given to the Strategic Director for Place, Economy and Environment to finalise agreements, incorporating these conditions.

Old Town Cemetery Regulations 2026

The council approved recommendations related to revised regulations for Old Town Cemetery, aiming to provide clearer guidance for residents, grave owners, funeral directors, and council staff. The changes include updated responsibilities for grave maintenance, clearer rules on memorials, and a new fee of £200 for a 10-year lease of memorial plaques on the Wall of Remembrance. Councillor Lynn Blackwell proposed the recommendations, noting the welcome clarification for the community. Councillor Harry Legg, Councillor for St Agnes, seconded the proposal, echoing the need for clear management and balance between cemetery care and wildlife. The revised regulations and an accompanying information leaflet were approved.