Rachel Bishop-Firth

The Executive of Wokingham Council on Thursday 30 July 2026 resolved to approve recommendations. Councillors Stephen Conway, Lou Timlin and David Hare declared a Discloseable Pecuniary Interest in agenda item 40 and left the meeting room for its consideration.

The Executive decided to approve the appointment of external consultants using the Westworks DPS to facilitate projects for disabled adaptations in domestic properties. The decision was made on 30/07/2026. The contract award will be delegated to the Executive Director for Adults, Children, Housing and Health in consultation with the Executive Member for Housing, Partnerships and the Local Plan.

The Shareholder Committee satisfied itself that the information presented provided assurance as to the effective ongoing management of the group of companies. The committee noted updates on the consolidated provisional outturn position, quarter four performance data, the 30-year business plan working model, community benefit society conversion status, the housing improvement plan, and development pipeline updates. This decision was made on 30/07/2026.

The Shareholder Committee satisfied itself that the information presented provided assurance as to the effective ongoing management of the group of companies. The committee noted updates on the consolidated provisional outturn position, quarter four performance data, the 30-year business plan working model, community benefit society conversion status, the housing improvement plan, and development pipeline updates.

The Executive approved the procurement of electricity and gas supplies via a call-off from the LASER Energy Framework. This includes a one-year contract commencing April 2027, with an option to extend for a further year, and delegates authority to the Deputy Chief Executive (S151 Officer) to finalise and award the contract.

The Executive noted the content of the report and the continued collaboration between Optalis Ltd and Wokingham Borough Council. It also ensured ongoing oversight and transparency of Optalis Ltd by incorporating a bi-annual report into its regular reporting cycle.

The Executive of Wokingham Council decided on 30/07/2026 to note the commencement of the Renters' Rights Act 2025 update and the Council's progress in preparing for its implementation. They also approved proposed amendments to the Environment And Safety Enforcement Policy 2023 and approved the proposed Private Housing Enforcement Policy (2026) and Private Housing Civil Penalties Policy (2026), all to take effect from 1 August 2026.