The Administration Committee was scheduled to consider proposed changes to the Council's Constitution, including updates to its Local Code of Corporate Governance and Contract Regulations. The committee was also scheduled to review the evaluation of the 2026 Borough Elections and discuss preparations for the periodic review of electoral arrangements. Additionally, a significant portion of the meeting was scheduled to be dedicated to discussing the implementation of a National Scheme of Delegation for Planning Applications.

Changes to the Constitution - Local Code of Corporate Governance 2026/2027

The committee was scheduled to consider the Local Code of Corporate Governance for 2026/2027. This code, based on the CIPFA/SOLACE framework, outlines the principles and arrangements for good governance within the council. It is designed to ensure ethical conduct, openness, stakeholder engagement, and effective risk management. The report detailed how compliance with the code is assessed, highlighting areas of good practice and actions for improvement. The code is intended to be a part of the Council's Constitution and is reviewed annually. The report recommended that the Administration Committee approve the code and invite the Full Council to adopt it.

2026 Borough Elections Evaluation

The committee was scheduled to review an evaluation of the 2026 borough elections, presented by the Chief Executive in their capacity as Returning Officer. The report was expected to confirm that the elections were delivered fairly and securely, despite challenges such as a cyberattack in November 2025. It was scheduled to summarise lessons learned and propose improvements, including a potential daytime count for future whole-borough local elections. Feedback from candidates and agents was also to be considered.

Periodic Review of Electoral Arrangements

Preparations for the periodic review of the council's electoral arrangements by the Local Government Boundary Commission for England were scheduled to be discussed. This review, which will come into effect for the 2030 council elections, will consider the total number of councillors, ward boundaries, and ward names. The committee was invited to share emerging views on the number of councillors needed and the considerations that should inform the council's submission to the Commission. The current arrangements involve 50 councillors across 18 wards.

Changes to the Constitution - Contract Regulations

The committee was scheduled to consider proposed amendments to the Council's Contract Regulations, which form part of its Constitution. These changes were intended to clarify existing provisions, ensure consistency with current practices and regulations, and introduce a new approach to awarding works contracts up to £500,000. The report detailed proposed amendments to terminology, the single quote threshold, and the waiver process. The committee was invited to recommend these changes to the Full Council for adoption.

National Scheme of Delegation for Planning Applications and Constitutional Revisions

A significant item on the agenda was the proposed implementation of the National Scheme of Delegation for Planning Applications, which was scheduled to come into effect from 31 October 2026. The committee was scheduled to consider revisions to the Council's Constitution to reflect these new government regulations. These changes aim to ensure greater clarity and consistency in planning decision-making, with a focus on committees dealing with key proposals while officers handle more routine matters. The report outlined the proposed structure, including the establishment of a Member Representation Meeting to allow councillors to provide views on certain applications determined by officers. It also proposed changes to the Planning Committee's terms of reference, including an increase in its membership pool and the removal of the Planning Applications Committee. The appointment of a Nominated Officer and Nominated Member, roles with statutory functions under the new regulations, was also scheduled for discussion.