Councillor Bill Hopkins

Council - Thursday, 11th September, 2025 10.00 am

The Worcestershire County Council met to discuss a range of issues, including treasury management, school places, local government reorganisation, and climate change. Councillors approved a healthcare parking permit scheme, but rejected a motion to withdraw the council's bid for a single unitary authority. They also agreed with the scientific consensus that man-made climate change exists.

West Mercia Police and Crime Panel - Monday, 21st July, 2025 11.00 am

The West Mercia Police and Crime Panel met to discuss the Police and Crime Commissioner's (PCC) activity and police performance, review the draft annual report, and set the work programme for the coming year. The panel heard updates on PCSO deployment, road safety initiatives, cybercrime strategies, and financial challenges facing West Mercia Police. The panel also noted the appointment of Jocelyn Anderson as a Lay Independent Co-opted Member.

Environment Overview and Scrutiny Panel - Monday, 14th July, 2025 10.00 am

The Environment Overview and Scrutiny Panel met to discuss the Streetscape Design Guide, performance and budget monitoring, and the work programme for the coming year. The panel discussed the Streetscape Design Guide at length, and agreed that the Cabinet Member should ensure that the design code for Wychavon is matched up with the Streetscape Design Guide. The panel also requested further information on training for public rights of way, and data on planning applications.

Council - Thursday, 10th July, 2025 10.00 am

The Worcestershire Council meeting included discussion of the Malvern Hills Bill, the revised capital programme, and a summary of decisions taken by the Audit and Governance Committee, the Pensions Committee, and the Planning and Regulatory Committee. Councillors were also scheduled to discuss several notices of motion and answer questions.

Planning and Regulatory Committee - Tuesday, 1st July, 2025 10.00 am

The Planning and Regulatory Committee met to discuss a planning application for sand and gravel extraction at Ripple East, Worcestershire. The committee approved the application, which includes restoration to agriculture and nature conservation, after considering concerns about dust, health impacts, and the loss of agricultural land. The approval is subject to conditions and a Section 106 agreement[^1] for an extended aftercare period.