Councillor Nick Adams-King, Leader of the Council, approved a series of measures including the adoption of infrastructure plans for cycling and walking in the New Forest and Winchester, a plan to get Hampshire working, and the disposal of surplus sites. He also approved the annual budget and business plan for the Manydown Development Vehicle (MDV) LLP.

Get Hampshire Working Plan

The Executive Member for Hampshire 2050 and Corporate Services approved the adoption and publication of the Get Hampshire Working Plan. The plan is a response to the government's Get Britain Working white paper, which aims to reform employment, health, and skills support to help people into work and achieve a national 80% employment rate.

The Get Hampshire Working Plan identifies local labour market challenges and outlines a coordinated approach to tackling them, in line with government guidance. The plan aligns with Hampshire's Strategic Plan, particularly in promoting economic growth, healthy lives, and resilient communities.

The plan was developed with input from various stakeholders, including local authorities, the NHS, education and training providers, Jobcentre Plus, the voluntary sector, employers, and trade unions. It aims to integrate local work, health, and skills support through initiatives like Connect to Work, Local Skills Improvement Plans, and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund¹.

Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plans

Councillor Nick Adams-King approved the Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plans (LCWIP) for both the New Forest and Winchester City. These plans support Hampshire's Local Transport Plan 4 (LTP4), which aims to create a carbon-neutral, resilient, and inclusive transport system.

The New Forest LCWIP builds on the earlier Waterside LCWIP, adopted in November 2022, to provide complete coverage for the New Forest District area. The Winchester City LCWIP complements the Winchester District LCWIP approved in December 2024, addressing the distinct urban and rural geographies of the district.

The approval also delegates authority to the Director of Hampshire 2050 to make minor amendments to the LCWIPs prior to publication, including adding a foreword and correcting any formatting issues. The alternative option of not having an LCWIP was rejected because it would reduce opportunities for securing additional funding for walking and cycling improvements.

Surplus Sites Programme/Disposal Strategy

The Executive Member approved the disposal strategy for a range of surplus sites across Hampshire. This includes approving the Disposal Framework and proposed disposal strategies for assets identified in the report. The Director of Hampshire 2050, in consultation with relevant officers, is authorised to finalise the selection of preferred purchasers and conclude the disposals, including price adjustments within set parameters.

The decision also authorises the Director of Hampshire 2050 to negotiate planning agreements for offers conditional on planning permission. Additionally, the disposal of the former Bishops Waltham House care home was approved.

Land at Whitmarsh Lane Disposal Strategy

Councillor Nick Adams-King delegated authority to the Director of Hampshire 2050 to finalise the disposal of land at Whitmarsh Lane, Basingstoke, formerly known as Land East of Basingstoke. The Director is also authorised to enter into necessary agreements to facilitate the disposal.

Manydown North - MDV LLP Annual Budget and Business Plan 2025/26

The Executive Member approved the draft 2025/26 Manydown Development Vehicle (MDV) LLP Annual Business Plan and associated budget. He also approved the basis on which the County Council will contribute towards the 2025/26 budget expenditure. The Director of Hampshire 2050 is authorised to finalise the business plan and budget, as well as the detailed arrangements for the council's contribution.

The council could have elected to make no contribution towards the forecast expenditure for 2025/26.

Appointments to Outside Bodies

The Executive Member for Hampshire 2050 and Corporate Services approved appointments to several outside bodies. These appointments are for a term of four years or until the next full County Council election, whichever is sooner. The appointees are:

• Jackie Branson to Making Space, Havant, a charitable organisation that changes lives through craft.
• Joanne Burton (deputy) to the Welborne Community Forum, which fosters communication and understanding about the development of Welborne Garden Village
• Lesley Meenaghan to Energise Me, a charitable organisation that champions physical activity for all.

The decision was made to maintain County Council representation on bodies within the community.

Connect2Hampshire Update

Councillor Nick Adams-King noted the update on Connect2Hampshire's performance during 2024/25, including its role in providing temporary agency workers to the County Council.