The Overview and Scrutiny Committee of Hart Council met on Tuesday 11 June 2024. Key discussions included the election of a Vice-Chairman, the establishment of the Gypsy and Traveller Temporary Pitches Task and Finish Group, feedback from service panels, and updates on climate change and the Multi-Agency Flood Forum.

Gypsy and Traveller Temporary Pitches Task and Finish Group

The committee confirmed the terms of reference for the Gypsy and Traveller Temporary Pitches Task and Finish Group, with minor amendments. Councillors Butler, Cockarill, and Harwood were nominated and agreed upon unanimously. The group will inform policy development under the Overview and Scrutiny function, with any planning approvals to be considered by the Development Management Committee.

Feedback from Service Panels

Corporate Service Panel

The Executive Director, Corporate, reported good progress on most plan priorities and performance indicators by the end of quarter 4, though acknowledged ongoing work on climate change. Quarter 1 updates will be presented to the committee shortly.

Place Service Panel

Members were informed that the review of the Local Plan had started unofficially. A new Fly-tipping Officer has been appointed on a fixed-term 6-month post, funded during the February budget process. The risk register was discussed, particularly concerning staff retention and recruitment.

Election of Members to Service Panels

Members were reminded of the structure and purpose of the service panels. Nominations were agreed unanimously for the following panels:

• Communities: Councillors Butler, Taylor, Worlock
• Place: Councillors Cockarill, Highley, Jones
• Corporate: Councillors Farmer, Harward, Thomas

Election of Hart Property Management Company Scrutiny Panel Members

The committee elected Councillors Davies, Farmer, and Worlock to the Hart Property Management Company Scrutiny Panel, which will meet once per annum unless additional meetings are deemed necessary.

Climate Change Update

The committee received an update on the progress against the Climate Change Action Plan. Updates will be provided to the committee on a six-monthly basis to ensure full scrutiny.

Multi-Agency Flood Forum

The committee reviewed the minutes from the Multi-Agency Flood Forum held on 26 March 2024. Members agreed to work with the Chief Executive to review the future purpose and workings of the forum and the Parish Flood Forum, with a report to be presented at the July meeting.

Cabinet Work Programme

The committee noted the Cabinet Work Programme without comments.

Overview and Scrutiny Work Programme

Members considered the Overview and Scrutiny Work Programme. Queries were raised about the timing of the Car Park Policy review and changes to the planning application process, with written answers to be provided.

The meeting closed at 7.43 pm.