Julie Smethurst

...approved the implementation approach for the Pride in Place Impact Fund, including its immediate launch for a funding call to services for initial investment projects, with the Executive Cabinet serving as the final decision-maker on project allocations.

...the report on the significant business rates changes for 2026-2027, including new national multipliers, sector-specific rates, and updated valuation lists, was noted.

...recommend to Council the approval of the continuation of the Modified Scheme for Housing Benefit for the financial year 2026/2027, which disregards war disablement or war widow's pensions when calculating entitlement.