Councillor Melody Thorpe

The Strategy and Resources Committee, Council approved recommendations regarding the council's financial performance and budget outturn for 2025/26 on 22 June 2026. The committee noted a general fund revenue outturn underspend of £3.19m, which was used to create a high needs block repayment reserve and increase general fund reserves. They also noted Dedicated Schools Grant and Housing Revenue Account outturn overspends, and approved capital programme budget adjustments.

The Strategy and Resources Committee approved recommendations on 22 June 2026. The committee noted its role and remit as set out in the report.

The Strategy and Resources Committee approved recommendations for appointments to outside bodies on 22 June 2026. The committee delegated authority to the Director of Law and Governance to authorise appointments arising from in-year vacancies.

The Strategy and Resources Committee approved recommendations for the Electric Vehicle Charging Point (EVCP) Procurement on 22 June 2026. The decision delegates the award of the contract to the Strategic Director of Resources. This involves a fifteen-year concession contract for the installation and maintenance of approximately 180 new EV chargers.

The Strategy and Resources Committee approved an increase to the Belmont Station Rail Enhancement project's capital budget of £3.98 million on 22 June 2026. A lobbying strategy will be initiated to seek match funding and reduce the financial burden on the council.