The Environment, Transport & Growth Cabinet Panel met on Monday 26 January 2026 to discuss the council's budget for 2026/27, proposed changes to the recycling centre service, and the Sustainable Hertfordshire Strategy. Key decisions included the endorsement of the council's budget proposals for the Environment, Transport, Growth, and Sustainability portfolios, and the approval of changes to the recycling centre service to introduce an e-pass system and charges for excess DIY waste.

Budget 2026/27 and Medium Term Financial Strategy

The panel discussed the council's budget for 2026/27 and the Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS), focusing on the Environment, Transport, Growth, and Sustainability portfolios. Mark Pope, presenting the budget, highlighted the challenging financial context, including a £42 million loss in government funding over three years due to the Fair Funding Review. To address this, the council plans to increase income, deliver significant efficiencies and savings (over £50 million in the coming year), and focus on prevention and innovation.

Within the Environment, Transport, and Growth (ETG) portfolio, capital investments include nearly £65 million for the Bus Service Improvement Plan, Active Travel, and the Harlow-Gilston Garden Town Housing Infrastructure Grant. An additional £1.5 million is allocated to extend 20mph zones and expand the Herts Lynx Demand Responsive Transport Service. Revenue pressures include £3 million for inflation in waste disposal contracts and £16 million due to changes in the emissions trading scheme, though it is anticipated that central government will offset these under the new burdens doctrine. Savings of over £5 million are projected from the ETG portfolio, including contributions from reserves and efficiencies in the waste service.

Concerns were raised about the sustainability of the council's reserves, with officers confirming that while reserves are being used appropriately, they are becoming tight, leaving limited flexibility for future financial shocks. The panel ultimately endorsed the budget proposals for the ETG and Sustainability portfolios.

Response to Motion: 20mph Speed Limits Outside All Schools

Alistair Willoughby moved a motion proposing the introduction of a default 20mph speed limit on all roads adjacent to the main entrances of schools in Hertfordshire, subject to appropriate traffic assessments and signage. The report detailed that over the past five years, 764 children had been injured on the county's roads, with 42 injured while walking or cycling within 250 metres of school gates. While acknowledging the vulnerability of children, officers noted that implementing a 20mph limit for all 536 schools would incur significant costs.

The discussion highlighted the potential for using advisory 20mph schemes, which are simpler and quicker to implement, and can be funded through locality budgets. However, some members argued that an area-wide approach was preferable for safety and cost-effectiveness. The panel agreed to consider the motion, with the understanding that the additional £1.5 million allocated in the ETG budget for 20mph schemes would significantly expand the rollout, potentially covering over half the schools in Hertfordshire.

Sustainable Hertfordshire Strategy – Review 2026

Julie Greaves presented the revised and updated Sustainable Hertfordshire Strategy, which reflects the new corporate plan and the administration's aspirations for a more sustainable Hertfordshire. The strategy retains ambitions to reduce the council's own carbon emissions, improve nature on council land, and enhance air quality. It also introduces a new set of guiding principles developed through cross-party working, covering resource efficiency, climate change, nature recovery, healthier air, sound decision-making, and equitable sustainability.

Concerns were raised about the lack of detail in specific areas such as water quality, hedgerows, and flooding, and the potential for income generation through biodiversity net gain obligations. Officers responded that much of this detail would be included in the forthcoming work plan and that investigations into biodiversity net gain on council land were underway. The strategy was praised for its behavioural approach and focus on efficiency, with a particular welcome for the additional £1 million in capital investment for sustainability innovation. The panel recommended the approval of the revised strategy to Cabinet.

Proposed Changes to the Recycling Centre Service

Matt King presented the results of a public consultation on proposed changes to the recycling centre service, aimed at delivering financial savings and supporting staff. Three options were consulted on: restricting access to non-residents, charging for excess DIY waste, and refusing unsorted residual waste. Residents showed a clear preference for restricting non-residents via an e-pass system and charging for excess DIY waste over refusing unsorted residual waste.

The recommendations included implementing an e-pass system for all site users and introducing charges for excess DIY waste. Reciprocal arrangements with neighbouring local authorities were also proposed. Concerns were raised about the impact on the ageing population and digital exclusion, with assurances given that clear communication, multi-lingual support, and a customer contact centre option would be provided. The panel recommended these changes to Cabinet.

Proposed 6 Week Public Consultation on the Draft Air Quality Strategy

Matt Clarke presented the draft Air Quality Strategy, which aims to move beyond traditional cleaner air concepts to a healthier air focus, incorporating biological components like pathogens and toxins. The strategy proposes a new vision: Working together to create healthier air for all, with outcomes focused on increasing awareness, enabling community involvement, fostering innovation, enhancing data collection, and reducing emissions and exposure.

Alistair Willoughby raised concerns about the explicit mention of idling, which was acknowledged as a significant source of pollution, particularly near schools. Officers explained that while not explicitly detailed, idling fits within broader outcomes related to reducing emissions and exposure, especially in areas with vulnerable populations. The panel agreed to the proposed six-week public consultation.

Update on Tree Planting and Woodland Management

Tony presented an update on tree planting and woodland management, highlighting that 128,245 trees had been planted against a target of 100,000, with the season not yet concluded. The 'Your Tree, Our Future' scheme, in partnership with district and borough councils, was a major contributor. Woodland management activities are underway through the 'Rural Estates Nature Enhancement' project, focusing on improving the condition of woodlands for nature. Broxbourne Wood, Hertfordshire's only National Nature Reserve, is undergoing significant restoration.

Concerns were raised about the long-term success of tree planting and the need for ongoing management and survival rates. Officers confirmed that contracts include establishment and aftercare, and volunteer efforts are also monitored. The panel noted the positive community engagement aspects of the tree planting initiatives.

Local Transport Plan

Trevor Mason presented the outcomes of public and key stakeholder engagement on the draft vision and objectives for the new Local Transport Plan. The feedback was largely supportive, with suggestions for minor wording tweaks and the addition of two new objectives: one focusing on freight and another strengthening accessibility across all modes of transport. The revised vision and objectives were endorsed by the panel.

Draft National Planning Policy Framework Consultation

Charlie Thompson outlined the proposed changes to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), highlighting its significant potential implications for future development in Hertfordshire. Key concerns raised by officers included the ambiguity surrounding the relationship between the Spatial Development Strategy (SDS) and Minerals and Waste Local Plans, the potential for reduced infrastructure contributions from developers due to viability appraisals, and the unclear implications for affordable housing provision. The panel was asked to provide views on the issues and stance for the council's formal response to the consultation.

The meeting concluded with the date of the next meeting set for 16 April 2026.