The Economy and Environment Overview and Scrutiny Commission was scheduled to discuss priorities for the Transport and Infrastructure portfolio, review the Local Area Energy Plan, and receive an update on major projects and infrastructure. The Commission was also due to consider its work programme for the upcoming year.

Transport and Infrastructure Portfolio Priorities 2026-27

Councillor Ieronimo, Portfolio Holder for Transportation and Highways, was scheduled to outline his priorities for the year ahead. The report detailing these priorities focused on protecting and improving Hull's highway and transport assets, including road resurfacing, bridge refurbishments, and the maintenance of statues and fountains. It also highlighted plans to improve safety and traffic flow, such as progressing the Kingswood Roundabout improvement programme and delivering the A165 Road Safety Programme. Furthermore, the priorities included improving travel choice and regional connectivity through the Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan and working with bus operators. Finally, the portfolio holder was expected to discuss improving network management, parking, and customer experience, as well as seeking investment and strengthening regional partnerships.

Local Area Energy Plan Final Report and Action Plan

The Commission was scheduled to undertake pre-decision scrutiny of the final Hull and East Riding Local Area Energy Plan (HERLAEP) and its accompanying Action Plan. This plan, developed by City Science for Hull City Council and East Riding of Yorkshire Council, outlines how the energy system needs to adapt to meet net-zero targets. It includes projections for electric vehicles, low and zero-carbon heating, and renewable energy generation. The HERLAEP identifies fourteen action areas and eleven priority projects across four categories: Energy and Networks, Buildings and Heat, Transport, and Cross-cutting themes. The report highlighted that Hull and East Riding are among the leading councils in developing such a plan, positioning them well for discussions with Northern Powergrid and the National Energy System Operator. The report recommended endorsing the HERLAEP as a key strategic document and delegating final agreement on lead delivery partners for priority projects.

Major Projects and Infrastructure Update

Angela Blake, Assistant Director for Major Projects, Culture & Place, was scheduled to provide an update on the progress of major projects and infrastructure schemes being delivered by the service. The report detailed the completion of the Hull Maritime Museum, which opened on 8th August 2026 after a £20 million investment, attracting 50,000 visitors in its first month. The relocation of the Arctic Corsair to the North End Shipyard was also noted, with the fit-out of the visitor centre and ship to be progressed, anticipating an opening in spring 2027. Wider heritage projects, including the South Blockhouse, Pier and Boardwalk, the Banksy artwork, and the King William III Statue, were also mentioned, with site investigations and refurbishment plans underway. Key completions included public realm improvements at Princes Dock Street and Humber Dock Street, conservation works at the National Picture Theatre, the transformation of Queen's Gardens, and the restoration of the Greenwich Time Ball. The update also covered major highway capital schemes, such as the Freetown Way cycle scheme and the Kingswood (Phase 1) development, as well as the planned highway asset investment programme for 2026/27, encompassing carriageway, surface dressing, footway maintenance, and sustainable transport infrastructure. Major bridges capital schemes, including Drypool Bridge and Hessle Road Flyover, were also detailed. The Albion Square Regeneration project was progressing with demolition and the erection of a steel frame, with a preferred lead development partner announced and pre-development stages expected to commence. The East Bank Urban Village development, aiming to deliver 850 residential units, was also progressing, with planning submitted and Phase 1 start on site anticipated in Q2 2027. Energy infrastructure updates included the Hull District Heating Network, with the Energy Centre due for completion in May 2027, and solar rooftop PV installations on council buildings, which were generating significant annual energy savings. Schools investment totalling £38 million was also highlighted. Wider capital project delivery included refurbishments at City Treasury, the Guildhall Roof/Coroner's Court, Albemarle Music Centre, and the construction of the Oak Road WaterPlay facility. The Community Highstreets Programme was also continuing. Strategic transport developments included the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Strategy, LEVI procurement, and the development of the Local Transport Plan and Parking Strategy. Finally, the report outlined governance improvements, including the role of the Programme Management Office (PMO) and various officer and member meetings.

Work Programme 2026-27

The Commission was scheduled to review and agree the latest version of its work programme for 2026-27. The document outlined scheduled items for future meetings, including updates on Transport and Highways, Major Projects and Infrastructure, and the Hull and East Riding Energy Plan. It also detailed the process for submitting items and the responsibilities of Portfolio Holders. The work programme included standing items such as Revenue Budget Monitoring and Economic Outlook updates, alongside themed reports on specific projects and policies. Future items for consideration included Electric Vehicle Infrastructure, the Living with Water Annual Update, and the Climate Change Strategy Action Plan Update. The Commission's terms of reference, covering areas such as the city economy, regeneration, transport, climate change, energy, and flood risk management, were also provided.