The Policy and Project Advisory Board of Rushmoor Council met on Tuesday, 24 March 2026, to discuss free parking for shoppers and the maintenance of unattached land. The Board also reviewed its work plan.

Free Parking for Shoppers

The Board considered a motion to explore offering free or discounted car parking for shoppers in Aldershot and Farnborough town centres. This initiative stems from a Council motion in October 2025 and a previous discussion by the Board in December 2025. Lee McQuade, Economy and Growth Service Manager, presented findings indicating that while parking costs can influence shopper behaviour, they are not the sole determining factor. Research suggests that a strong retail and leisure offer, ease of parking, town centre attractiveness, and events are also crucial. Evidence from a Welsh Government report highlighted that the link between parking charges and footfall is very weak, and towns perform best when parking policy is integrated with other town centre improvements.

During the discussion, councillors raised several points, including the importance of promoting any parking offers, ensuring town centre infrastructure is adequate, and considering off-peak parking reductions. The green agenda and the encouragement of alternative transport were also highlighted. Some members recalled past free parking initiatives in Aldershot having a limited effect. The discussion also touched upon whether rent and rates might be more impactful for supporting local businesses than parking charges. The Board requested Mr. McQuade to share the data used in his presentation and emphasised focusing on changes to parking charges as per the original motion, rather than other interventions. The potential revenue implications of reduced parking income were noted as a key consideration for the Cabinet. The Board agreed that this item would be revisited at a future meeting.

Maintenance of Unattached Land

The Board also discussed a motion approved by the Council in December 2025 concerning the maintenance of unattached land. James Duggin, Executive Head of Operations, was in attendance to guide the discussion. The motion, proposed by Councillor Steve Harden, requested that the Council write to local MPs and the Chancellor regarding concerns over the management of unattached land and seek support. It also asked the Policy and Project Advisory Board to consider the feasibility and costs of reviewing unattached land to clarify ownership and maintenance responsibilities, assess emergency works needed, and explore the costs and legalities of the Council taking on permanent maintenance. Furthermore, the motion proposed establishing partnerships with Crown land authorities, Hampshire County Council, and other relevant bodies to coordinate land management.

During the discussion, members shared concerns about complaints received regarding damage from poorly maintained trees on unattached land and the unsightly nature of overgrown sites. Potential uses for these land parcels, such as creating biodiversity areas or community assets, were discussed. The financial limitations of the Council in maintaining these areas were acknowledged, with the Council's role seen more as a facilitator between residents and landowners. The motion was put to a vote, with 32 in favour, 0 against, and 2 abstentions, and was declared carried.

Work Plan

The Board noted its current Work Plan. It was agreed that the item concerning Free Parking for Shoppers would be added to the agenda for the meeting on 24 March 2026. The work plan was to be updated following the next meeting of the Programme Management Group. Members were invited to submit any further items for consideration via email.