James Smith

...the Housing Revenue Account budget and housing public sector capital expenditure programme for 2026/27, including dwelling rent increases of 4.8%, garage rent increases of 4.8%, shared ownership rent increases in line with lease provisions, and a total capital programme of £31.550 million.

...approved the Medium Term Financial Plan and set the 2026/27 budget, including a 2.99% increase in Council Tax.

...the Lymington and Pennington Neighbourhood Plan was adopted, becoming part of the statutory Development Plan for New Forest District (Outside the National Park).

... approved community grants totalling £157,500 in revenue and £97,949 in capital for the 2026/27 budget, alongside £44,359 for Community Transport schemes.

... the current scheme of members' allowances be adopted to apply from 1 April 2026, with no changes recommended.