Agenda, decisions and draft minutes

Councillors are requested to declare any interests on items included in this agenda. Please refer to the workflow on the preceding page for guidance.

Declarations received will be reported at the meeting.

Councillors Andy Martin and Kieron Wilson declared non-pecuniary interests in Minute No. 50 (Extension to the term of office of the Chair of the Russell-Cotes Management Committee) as Trustee Directors of the Russell-Cotes Museum of the management committee, and left the room for the discussion and voting thereon.

Councillor Richard Herrett declared a non-pecuniary interest in Minute No. 48 (Resident Card) as the director of three BIDs and remained present for the discussion and voting thereon. Councillor Andy Hadley also declared a non-pecuniary interest in this item due to his interest in the Poole BID and also remained present for the discussion and voting thereon.

Further to this the Monitoring Officer reminded members of the dispensation which had been granted to all BCP Councillors in respect of the Community Governance Review agenda item at meetings of the Overview and Scrutiny Board, Cabinet and Council during September and October 2025, to ensure all Councillors were freely able to fully participate in the debate and vote.

To confirm and sign as a correct record the minutes of the Meeting held on 16 July 2025.

The Minutes of the meeting held on 16 July 2025 were confirmed and signed as a correct record.

To receive any public questions, statements or petitions submitted in accordance with the Constitution. Further information on the requirements for submitting these is available to view at the following link:-

https://democracy.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/ieListMeetings.aspx?CommitteeID=151&Info=1&bcr=1

The deadline for the submission of public questions is mid-day on Thursday 25 September 2025 [mid-day 3 clear working days before the meeting].

The deadline for the submission of a statement is mid-day on Tuesday 30 September 2025 [mid-day the working day before the meeting].

The deadline for the submission of a petition is Wednesday 17 September 2025 [10 working days before the meeting].

Cabinet was advised that there had been no petitions or questions submitted by members of the public on this occasion, but that two statements had been received in relation to Agenda Item 7 (Community Governance Review – Final Recommendations).

Public Statement from Councillor Vivienne Charrett (Mayor of Christchurch Town Council) on Agenda Item 7 – Community Governance Review – Final Recommendations

For Christchurch 178 people responded, only 70 of which were residents.  Overall, two thirds of residents approved of keeping the town council as it is, while 60% of those who did not live here, were against it.

I have been both a parish and town councillor for 23 years. My experience of parish councils has been entirely positive. My previous council had existed for over 100 years. It was regarded as a bulwark against the vagaries of the higher councils and always on their side, and, more importantly, created a beautiful and clean town.

I believe strongly in town and parish councils. As unitary and larger authorities get bigger, they move further away from what people on the ground want and need. Parish and town councils are the local face of democracy and deal with the small things that make the lives of residents so much better and more fulfilling.

Public Statement from Councillor Adam Sofianos (Chair of Highcliffe and Walkford Parish Council) Agenda Item 7 – Community Governance Review – Final Recommendations read by Democratic Services

For 6 years, residents around Christchurch have enjoyed the many benefits of town and parish councils. Likewise, the 10,000 similar councils around England.

However, the offer to extend these benefits to Bournemouth and Poole has triggered an extraordinary campaign of misinformation. This has suppressed rational discourse and clearly affected the consultation results.

Sadly, independent, experienced voices from local councils have not been allowed to participate in this process, to balance out this misinformation.  And, in this vacuum, hysteria has prevailed.

As a parish council, we act loyally and exclusively for our immediate residents, providing services, support and dedication which are not deliverable at the unitary level. Sadly, I only have 150 words, which is insufficient to explain this.

I can only recommend that members listen carefully to their colleagues from existing town & parish councils. Make the right decision for your community.

But base it on reality, not on misrepresentation.

To consider recommendations from the Overview and Scrutiny committees on items not otherwise included on the Cabinet Agenda.

Cabinet was advised that there were no additional recommendations from the Overview and Scrutiny Committees on items not otherwise indicated on the Cabinet agenda on this occasion.

This report provides the quarter one 2025/26 projected financial outturn information for the general fund, capital programme, housing revenue account (HRA) and Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG).

The quarter one position reflects the increasing financial challenges facing local government around social care for both adults and children and in making provision for a growing number of children and young adults with special education needs and disabilities (SEND).

The forecast revenue outturn is indicating a £3.7m overspend but officers are continuing to seek mitigations to deliver a balanced budget by the year end.

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

(a)        noted the budget monitoring position for quarter one 2025/26;

(b)       agreed the capital budget virements set out in appendix C1 paragraph 2, relating to schemes funded by the bus service improvement grant and the local transport plan funding; and 

(c)       approved the implementation of a freeze on all non-essential expenditure and a vacancy freeze from 1 October 2025 and until such time as the Corporate Management Board have provided Cabinet Members with assurance the forecast outturn for 2025/26 is within the parameters of the approved 2025/26 budget. Officers should also consider the extent to which savings plans can be brought forward from 2026/27.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Finance

Reason

To comply with accounting codes of practice and best practice which requires councils to regularly monitor the annual budget position and take any action to support the sustainability of the council’s financial position.

To comply with the council’s financial regulation concerning approval for budget virements.

The Portfolio Holder for Finance presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'A' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that the report provided the quarter one 2025/26 projected financial outturn information for the general fund, capital programme, housing revenue account (HRA) and Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG).

Cabinet was informed that the quarter one position reflected the increasing financial challenges facing local government around social care for both adults and children and in making provision for a growing number of children and young adults with special education needs and disabilities (SEND).

Cabinet was advised that the forecast revenue outturn is indicating a £3.7m overspend but officers are continuing to seek mitigations to deliver a balanced budget by the year end.

The Chair of the Health and Adult Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee, Councillor Patrick Canavan addressed the Cabinet stressing that demand cannot be controlled but that it is hoped that through the scrutiny process it can be managed effectively. 

The Chair of the Children’s Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee, Councillor Sharon Carr-Brown addressed the Cabinet advising that at their next meeting they will be having a comprehensive view of the budget, and that the Committee were hoping to assist the council in every way they could to look in-depth at how things can be dealt with differently.

Cabinet members discussed the report in detail emphasising that local authorities weren’t designed to fund social care and SEND through the Council tax and expressing concern with regards to discretionary services within their portfolios being affected by finances.

The Leader expressed appreciation for the scrutiny process in this and encouraged all councillors to be part of this process.

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

(a)        noted the budget monitoring position for quarter one 2025/26;

(b)       agreed the capital budget virements set out in appendix C1 paragraph 2, relating to schemes funded by the bus service improvement grant and the local transport plan funding; and 

(c)       approved the implementation of a freeze on all non-essential expenditure and a vacancy freeze from 1 October 2025 and until such time as the Corporate Management Board have provided Cabinet Members with assurance the forecast outturn for 2025/26 is within the parameters of the approved 2025/26 budget. Officers should also consider the extent to which savings plans can be brought forward from 2026/27.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Finance

Reason

To comply with accounting codes of practice and best practice which requires councils to regularly monitor the annual budget position and take any action to support the sustainability of the council’s financial position.

To comply with the council’s financial regulation concerning approval for budget virements.

The Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Act 2007 (Part 4) devolved power from the Secretary of State to principal councils to carry out community governance reviews and put in place or make changes to local community governance arrangements.

The Council commenced a review following the Council decision in October 2024 at which the terms of reference and timetable were approved. The Task and Finish Group has considered the response to the consultation, taking into account all relevant factors, engaged with local ward councillors and existing parish councils before determining these recommendations.

Cabinet is asked to consider the final recommendations of the Task and Finish Group and to make a recommendation to Council.

The Chair of the Community Governance Task and Finish Group, Councillor Oliver Walters presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'B' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that the Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Act 2007 (Part 4) devolved power from the Secretary of State to principal councils to carry out community governance reviews and put in place or make changes to local community governance arrangements.

Cabinet was informed that the Council had commenced a review following the Council decision in October 2024 at which the terms of reference and timetable were approved, and that the Task and Finish Group had considered the response to the consultation, taking into account all relevant factors, engaged with local ward councillors and existing parish councils before determining these recommendations.

Cabinet was asked to consider the final recommendations of the Task and Finish Group and to make a recommendation to Council.

The Leader expressed thanks to Councillor Walters and the other members of the Task and Finish Group for all their hard work emphasising that the work which had gone into this was huge. Thanks were also expressed to the Head of Democratic Services for all his help and support.

The Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Board, Councillor Kate Salmon addressed the Cabinet advising that the Board at their one item agenda meeting the previous evening thoroughly debated this item and had heard from speakers from the Association for Town and Parish Councils and Charter Trustees and representations from a large number of councillors following which the Board had agreed the following recommendations: -

The Overview and Scrutiny Board agreed the following recommendations to Cabinet in relation to recommendation a of this item (area references as contained within the Task and Finish Group report provided for clarity):

1. That the recommendations of the Task and Finish Group relating to proposals for Burton and Winkton (A), Hurn (B), Highcliffe & Walkford (C) Christchurch Town (D) and Throop and Holdenhurst (E) be recommended to Council for approval without amendment.

(Majority Decision)

2. That the recommendations of the Task and Finish Group relating to Broadstone (F) be recommended to Council for approval without amendment.

(Majority Decision)

3. That the recommendations of the Task and Finish Group relating to Redhill and Northbourne (G), Boscombe and Pokesdown (H) and Southbourne (I) be recommended to Council for approval without amendment.

(Majority Decision)

4. That the recommendations of the Task and Finish Group relating to Poole Town (J) be recommended to Council for approval without amendment.

(Majority Decision)

5. That the recommendations of the Task and Finish Group relating to Bournemouth Town (K) be recommended to Council for approval without amendment.

(Majority Decision)

In relation to recommendations b and c of the report, that these be recommended to Council for approval without amendment.

In presenting the recommendations the Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Board highlighted that the voting in respect  ...  view the full minutes text for item 47.

The Resident Card is a commitment to residents across the conurbation to support household incomes at a time when cost of living is increasing. The Council intends to introduce a scheme which gives residents access to become “Resident Card” holders, offering a free hour of parking in council-owned car parks, discounts at our seaside kiosks and one swim per month at our BCP Leisure centres, to support the wellbeing of local people. Additionally, work is underway with our leisure partners and local businesses across our high streets to build an offer which gives residents more for their money and supports the growth of our economy. The scheme is intended to be accessed digitally and with a physical card and making it truly accessible for all from Summer 2026.

This report details the BCP Resident Card offer, what the benefits are to residents and the opportunity to phase in offers or services as the scheme matures. This approach also means the scheme remains flexible and adaptable in line with financial forecasts.

Subject to Cabinet approval, the intention is that the offer outlined in this report will set out the requirements for a technology provider. This will form the basis of a detailed specification and contract terms to enable the Council to progress to call off a supplier by direct award.

RESOLVED that: -

(a)          Cabinet agrees the introduction of a Resident Card scheme, the initial offer as described in paragraph 13 onwards and the associated financial assessment.  

(b)         Cabinet approves to delegate authority to the Chief Operating Officer in consultation with Director of Finance and Portfolio Holders Councillor Herrett and Councillor Cox to direct award and associated contracts for the technical solution, in readiness for a summer 2026 go live.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Destination Leisure and Commercial Operations

Reason

Key activity in the Corporate Strategy to deliver for residents. Supports key aims in the Corporate Strategy including our inclusive, vibrant and sustainable economy supports our communities to thrive. Supports the Council’s UKSPF Investment Plan and existing interventions.

The Portfolio Holder for Destination, Leisure and Commercial presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'C' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that the Resident Card is a commitment to residents across the conurbation to support household incomes at a time when cost of living is increasing, and that the Council intends to introduce a scheme which gives residents access to become “Resident Card” holders, offering a free hour of parking in council-owned car parks, discounts at our seaside kiosks and one swim per month at our BCP Leisure centres, to support the wellbeing of local people.

Cabinet was informed that additionally, work is underway with our leisure partners and local businesses across our high streets to build an offer which gives residents more for their money and supports the growth of our economy.

Cabinet was advised that the scheme is intended to be accessed digitally and with a physical card and making it truly accessible for all from Summer 2026.

Cabinet was informed that the report detailed the BCP Resident Card offer, what the benefits are to residents and the opportunity to phase in offers or services as the scheme matures, and that this approach also means the scheme remains flexible and adaptable in line with financial forecasts.

In relation to this Cabinet was advised that subject to Cabinet approval, the intention is that the offer outlined in this report will set out the requirements for a technology provider, and that this will form the basis of a detailed specification and contract terms to enable the Council to progress to call off a supplier by direct award.

In presenting the report the Portfolio Holder referenced the recent meeting of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, thanked the Board for their discussion and advised that as a result of this an additional appendix had been included within the report to help address the request for financial details and that recommendation (b) had been amended to include consultation with himself and the Portfolio Holder for Finance which had also been requested by the Board during their meeting.

The Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Board, Councillor Kate Salmon addressed the Cabinet advising that at their recent meeting the Board had discussed this report in detail but that the Board did not support the recommendations due to what was felt to be a lack of financial information.

Councillor Salmon advised that the Board had proposed the following recommendation: -

RESOLVED that the Overview and Scrutiny Board do not support the recommendation as outlined in the report as the Board did not feel that the Cabinet report included sufficient financial details and details of the scheme offers to enable it to make an informed decision. The Board recommend to Cabinet that the report is deferred to allow details of the financial modelling that has been done to be added, including a cost/benefit analysis and a sensitivity  ...  view the full minutes text for item 48.

BCP Council adopted ‘A shared vision for Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole 2024-28’ in May 2024. 

The shared vision is the corporate strategy which sets out the council’s vision, priorities and ambitions as well as the principles which underpin the way the council works as it develops and delivers its services. 

Incorporated in the vision is a set of measures of progress for achieving the vision, priorities and ambitions. 

This is the performance monitoring report for Quarter One 25-26, presenting an update on the progress measures. 

The council’s delivery against its priorities and ambitions can also be monitored through a performance dashboardwhich is available on the council’s website providing up-to-date real time information on the progress measures.

RESOLVED that: -

(a)           Consider the Quarter One performance

(b)            Note that work continues to expand the data available on the interactive performance dashboard

(c)           Note the positive activities highlighted in the report

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Leader of the Council

Reason

Our shared vision for Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole sets out the priorities and ambitions against which the council’s performance will be judged, and as such is a vital component of the council’s performance management framework.

An understanding of performance against targets, goals and objectives helps the council to assess and manage service delivery and identify emerging business risks.

The Leader of the Council presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'D' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that BCP Council adopted ‘A shared vision for Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole 2024-28’ in May 2024, and that the shared vision was the corporate strategy which set out the council’s vision, priorities and ambitions as well as the principles which underpin the way the council works as it develops and delivers its services.

In relation to this Cabinet was informed that incorporated in the vision is a set of measures of progress for achieving the vision, priorities and ambitions, and that this is the performance monitoring report for Quarter One 25-26, presenting an update on the progress measures.

Cabinet was advised that the council’s delivery against its priorities and ambitions can also be monitored through a performance dashboard which is available on the council’s website providing up-to-date real time information on the progress measures.

RESOLVED that: -

(a)           Consider the Quarter One performance

(b)            Note that work continues to expand the data available on the interactive performance dashboard

(c)           Note the positive activities highlighted in the report

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Leader of the Council

Reason

Our shared vision for Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole sets out the priorities and ambitions against which the council’s performance will be judged, and as such is a vital component of the council’s performance management framework.

An understanding of performance against targets, goals and objectives helps the council to assess and manage service delivery and identify emerging business risks.

The Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum (charity Number 306288) is going through a highly complex governance change which was started in 2018 and will require an Order of State through Parliament to complete.  Through the prolonged and complex process, Professor Stuart Bartholomew has been the Chair of the Management Committee, to which Cabinet delegate the responsibility for oversight of the charity.

Professor Bartholomew was appointed in 2017 and Cabinet agreed exceptionally to appoint him for a third 3 year term because the governance change had reached a critical juncture. That further term is due to end in September 2025 and a further limited extension is advised rather than lose Professor Bartholomew’s experience as independence for the Russell-Cotes is anticipated to be achieved by 1 April 2026.

RESOLVED that: -

(a)           the Chair of the Management Committee’s term of office be extended until the transfer of the Museum to the new sole trustee is completed or for a further 3 years (whichever is soonest) to provide vital continuity at the pivotal moment in the process of externalisation.

(b)           it is noted that as soon as Vesting Day is achieved the Management Committee will cease to exist and the appointment will be concluded; and

(c)           it is noted that this decision will not set any precedent for this or any other BCP Council Committee.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Customer, Communications and Culture

Reason

The externalisation of the Russell-Cotes is on track to be achieved this financial year, subject to the parliamentary timetable. This long and complex project would be put at risk by changing a key individual at this moment.

The Portfolio Holder for Customer, Communications and Culture presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'E' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum (charity Number 306288) is going through a highly complex governance change which was started in 2018 and will require an Order of State through Parliament to complete, and that through the prolonged and complex process, Professor Stuart Bartholomew has been the Chair of the Management Committee, to which Cabinet delegate the responsibility for oversight of the charity.

In relation to this Cabinet was informed that Professor Bartholomew was appointed in 2017 and Cabinet agreed exceptionally to appoint him for a third 3 year term because the governance change had reached a critical juncture, that further term is due to end in September 2025 and a further limited extension is advised rather than lose Professor Bartholomew’s experience as independence for the Russell-Cotes is anticipated to be achieved by 1 April 2026.

RESOLVED that: -

(a)           the Chair of the Management Committee’s term of office be extended until the transfer of the Museum to the new sole trustee is completed or for a further 3 years (whichever is soonest) to provide vital continuity at the pivotal moment in the process of externalisation.

(b)           it is noted that as soon as Vesting Day is achieved the Management Committee will cease to exist and the appointment will be concluded; and

(c)           it is noted that this decision will not set any precedent for this or any other BCP Council Committee.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Customer, Communications and Culture

Reason

The externalisation of the Russell-Cotes is on track to be achieved this financial year, subject to the parliamentary timetable. This long and complex project would be put at risk by changing a key individual at this moment.

Councillors Andy Martin and Kieron Wilson declared interests in this item as Trustee Directors of the Russell-Cotes Museum and left the room for the discussion and voting thereon.

AFC Bournemouth have approached BCP Council in relation to their plans to expand the Vitality Stadium.  Whilst this requires planning permission, this report focuses on the opportunity for existing leases, management agreements/licences AFC Bournemouth has with the Council at Kings Park, to be regeared.  This report recommends a preferred option to Cabinet, presents the alternatives, and requests authority to negotiate Heads of Terms for each section of land, which will be brought back to Cabinet and Council for decision.

The Portfolio Holder for Finance presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'F' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that AFC Bournemouth have approached BCP Council in relation to their plans to expand the Vitality Stadium, and that whilst this requires planning permission, this report focuses on the opportunity for existing leases, management agreements/licences AFC Bournemouth has with the Council at Kings Park, to be regeared. 

Cabinet was informed that this report recommended a preferred option to Cabinet, presents the alternatives, and requests authority to negotiate Heads of Terms for each section of land, which will be brought back to Cabinet and Council for decision.

RECOMMENED that Council: -

a.              Notes the confidential minutes and the recommendations of the Cross-Party Asset Disposal Working Group meeting held on the 13 July 2025.

b.              Approves the negotiation and agreement in principle of Heads of Terms for the leasehold disposal of the two parcels of land at Kings Park to AFC Bournemouth shown in Option C.

c.              Requires officers to return to Cabinet and Council with the proposed Heads of Terms for decision as soon as possible.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Finance

Reason

Obtaining approval to negotiate and agree in principle Heads of Terms for the leasehold disposal of land at Kings Park to AFC Bournemouth will ensure the Council receives best consideration and market value, which can then be considered by Cabinet and Council in line with BCP Council’s constitution.

The report seeks approval for an updated strategy for the management of nitrogen mitigation for Poole Harbour and withdrawal of the current Supplementary Planning Document (SPD). The report also seeks authority for temporary use of up to £1m of Strategic CIL if the nitrogen CIL cash received is not timely with the need to spend.

RESOLVED that Cabinet agreed: -

(a)           to cease use of and withdraw the Nitrogen Mitigation for Poole Harbour Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) and to replacement of the SPD with Natural England’s approved approach involving the nutrient neutrality calculator and developer credit purchases;

(b)           that the withdrawal of the SPD is to be implemented as soon as is practicable, with the replacement process in place, details published on the Council’s website and developers and agents advised at least 21 days in advance; and

(c)           to give authority to temporarily use up to £1m from strategic CIL if the nitrogen CIL cash received is not timely with the need to spend, providing that Strategic CIL has received sufficient income to service the new demands.

RESOLVED that Cabinet noted: -

(d)           regular (at least 6 monthly) reports being prepared for the Leader of the Council and Chair of Cabinet to monitor the Council’s position in relation to the delivery of nutrient mitigation and transition from using the SPD to use of developer led mitigation.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Leader of the Council

Reason

Since Natural England updated their advice on nutrient neutrality in March 2022, the Nitrogen Reduction in Poole Harbour SPD is no longer considered to offer a robust mechanism for delivering nitrogen mitigation in the Poole Harbour catchment. The SPD therefore needs to be formally withdrawn and an alternative approach introduced.

Dorset Council is the lead authority for co-ordinating nitrogen mitigation work for the Poole Harbour Catchment. Mitigation delivery projects are evaluated in accordance with Dorset Council’s assessment and prioritisation criteria for securing nutrient mitigation projects. The nutrient reduction and suitability of land for mitigation is agreed by Natural England’s discretionary advice. The Local Nutrient Mitigation Fund (LNMF) Steering Group with officers from both BCP and Dorset Councils provides the Governance for the fund.

The Leader of the Council presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'G' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that the report sought approval for an updated strategy for the management of nitrogen mitigation for Poole Harbour and withdrawal of the current Supplementary Planning Document (SPD), and that the report also sought authority for temporary use of up to £1m of Strategic CIL if the nitrogen CIL cash received is not timely with the need to spend.

RESOLVED that Cabinet agreed: -

(a)           to cease use of and withdraw the Nitrogen Mitigation for Poole Harbour Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) and to replacement of the SPD with Natural England’s approved approach involving the nutrient neutrality calculator and developer credit purchases;

(b)           that the withdrawal of the SPD is to be implemented as soon as is practicable, with the replacement process in place, details published on the Council’s website and developers and agents advised at least 21 days in advance; and

(c)           to give authority to temporarily use up to £1m from strategic CIL if the nitrogen CIL cash received is not timely with the need to spend, providing that Strategic CIL has received sufficient income to service the new demands.

RESOLVED that Cabinet noted: -

(d)           regular (at least 6 monthly) reports being prepared for the Leader of the Council and Chair of Cabinet to monitor the Council’s position in relation to the delivery of nutrient mitigation and transition from using the SPD to use of developer led mitigation.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Leader of the Council

Reason

Since Natural England updated their advice on nutrient neutrality in March 2022, the Nitrogen Reduction in Poole Harbour SPD is no longer considered to offer a robust mechanism for delivering nitrogen mitigation in the Poole Harbour catchment. The SPD therefore needs to be formally withdrawn and an alternative approach introduced.

Dorset Council is the lead authority for co-ordinating nitrogen mitigation work for the Poole Harbour Catchment. Mitigation delivery projects are evaluated in accordance with Dorset Council’s assessment and prioritisation criteria for securing nutrient mitigation projects. The nutrient reduction and suitability of land for mitigation is agreed by Natural England’s discretionary advice. The Local Nutrient Mitigation Fund (LNMF) Steering Group with officers from both BCP and Dorset Councils provides the Governance for the fund.

The Events Framework provides clear, auditable process linked to both council and non-council delivered and managed events on outdoor council land to ensure transparency, aligning all processes and policies into one clear document alongside easy to use updated guidance for community event organisers.  The paper also explores the current levels of safety related paperwork checked by officers and recommends a future approach to third party paperwork.

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

(a)           noted the contents or the framework and agrees the process and policies for events;

(b)           agreed to option 2 with regards to the future approach for safety related paperwork for external event organisers;

(c)           noted the detail in the summary of legal implications; and

(d)           delegates to the Director of Commercial Operations in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Destination, Leisure and Commercial Operations, the implementation of these decisions

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Destination, Leisure & Commercial Operations

Reason

The development of the Events Framework is in line with audit recommendations for a clear auditable approach to events. The council has a duty of care to ensure events on its land are safe and well managed reducing risk whilst also ensuring the process enables communities to deliver events.

The Portfolio Holder for Destination, Leisure & Commercial Operations presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'H' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that the Events Framework provides clear, auditable process linked to both council and non-council delivered and managed events on outdoor council land to ensure transparency, aligning all processes and policies into one clear document alongside easy to use updated guidance for community event organisers. 

Further to this Cabinet was informed that the paper also explores the current levels of safety related paperwork checked by officers and recommends a future approach to third party paperwork.

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

(a)           noted the contents or the framework and agrees the process and policies for events;

(b)           agreed to option 2 with regards to the future approach for safety related paperwork for external event organisers;

(c)           noted the detail in the summary of legal implications; and

(d)           delegates to the Director of Commercial Operations in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Destination, Leisure and Commercial Operations, the implementation of these decisions

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Destination, Leisure & Commercial Operations

Reason

The development of the Events Framework is in line with audit recommendations for a clear auditable approach to events. The council has a duty of care to ensure events on its land are safe and well managed reducing risk whilst also ensuring the process enables communities to deliver events.

Neighbourhood forums are organisations empowered to lead on the preparation of a neighbourhood plan within a defined area.

Neighbourhood planning involves the local community in developing a shared vision to help shape the future development and growth of their local area. A neighbourhood plan must proceed through several statutory stages before it can be formally ‘made’ (adopted) by the Council.

BCP Council has received an application for designation of the Lilliput Neighbourhood Forum and Area. The area forms part of the Canford Cliffs ward, a small area southeast of the Parkstone Ward and the southern section of the Penn Hill Ward.

The application was subject to a statutory public consultation inviting representations. The consultation ran between 14 July and 25 August 2025. 64 representations were received by BCP Council.

A prospective forum can determine what area is most suitable to plan for. However, the Local Planning Authority must first formally designate the forum (as a ‘qualifying body’) and designate the neighbourhood area, having regard to a range of factors including comments received from consultation. It is recommended that the Lilliput Neighbourhood Forum and Area are both designated and no amendment to the area is proposed.

RESOLVED that Cabinet approved the application by the Lilliput Neighbourhood Forum and designates both the forum and area.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Leader of the Council

Reason

To meet the statutory obligations including provisions set out in (i) the Localism Act 2011 (ii) the Town & Country Planning Act 1990 and the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 (as amended by the Neighbourhood Planning Act 2017) and (iii) the Neighbourhood Planning Regulations 2012 (as amended).

The Leader of the Council presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'I' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that neighbourhood forums are organisations empowered to lead on the preparation of a neighbourhood plan within a defined area, and that neighbourhood planning involves the local community in developing a shared vision to help shape the future development and growth of their local area. A neighbourhood plan must proceed through several statutory stages before it can be formally ‘made’ (adopted) by the Council.

In relation to this Cabinet was informed that BCP Council has received an application for designation of the Lilliput Neighbourhood Forum and Area, and that the area forms part of the Canford Cliffs ward, a small area southeast of the Parkstone Ward and the southern section of the Penn Hill Ward.

Further to this Cabinet was advised that the application was subject to a statutory public consultation inviting representations, and that the consultation ran between 14 July and 25 August 2025 during which 64 representations were received by BCP Council.

Cabinet was informed that a prospective forum can determine what area is most suitable to plan for, however, the Local Planning Authority must first formally designate the forum (as a ‘qualifying body’) and designate the neighbourhood area, having regard to a range of factors including comments received from consultation.

Cabinet was advised that it was recommended that the Lilliput Neighbourhood Forum and Area are both designated and no amendment to the area is proposed.

RESOLVED that Cabinet approved the application by the Lilliput Neighbourhood Forum and designated both the forum and area.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Leader of the Council

Reason

To meet the statutory obligations including provisions set out in (i) the Localism Act 2011 (ii) the Town & Country Planning Act 1990 and the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 (as amended by the Neighbourhood Planning Act 2017) and (iii) the Neighbourhood Planning Regulations 2012 (as amended).

The Environment Act 2021 introduces Local Nature Recovery Strategies (LNRS) as a new system of spatial strategies for nature in England. These strategies, created at a county level by responsible authorities, will map out actions needed to restore nature, working with local stakeholders. The LNRS will play a crucial role in delivering Biodiversity Net Gain and meeting national environmental targets

Dorset’s LNRS is co-produced, led by Dorset Council on our joint behalf, through working with large numbers of stakeholders. It provides a comprehensive framework for restoring nature across the whole of Dorset and has a series of maps that will help target efforts to achieve the greatest gains for nature and the wider environment.

The purpose of the report is to seek pre-publication approval of the Dorset LNRS by Cabinet, following completion of public consultation and formal engagement with Natural England. As per Defra guidance, this will allow for the lead authority Dorset Council to adopt and publish the final strategy in December 2025. 

RECOMMENDED/RESOLVED that

(a)           Cabinet gives pre-publication approval of the Dorset Local Nature Recovery Strategy for publication in December 2025 by Dorset Council, recognising its role as LNRS lead authority;

(b)           Commits to integrating the LNRS into relevant BCP council policies and decision-making, including planning, land management, climate adaptation, and public health.

(c)           Supports ongoing monitoring and review of the strategy every 3 to 10 years, ensuring it remains evidence-based, inclusive, and responsive to environmental change.

(d)           Acknowledges the contributions of stakeholders, led by Dorset Council and including Natural England, community groups, and residents, in shaping the strategy through consultation and co-production.

Voting: Unanimous/Nem. Con. X:Y (Z abstentions)

Portfolio Holder: Climate Mitigation, Energy and Environment

Reason

The reason for these recommendations is to ensure BCP Council formally supports and integrates the Local Nature Recovery Strategy as a statutory framework for reversing biodiversity decline, enhancing climate resilience, and guiding sustainable land use across the county. It also meets the DEFRA requirements as set out by the Environment Act 2021.

The Portfolio Holder for Climate Mitigation, Energy and Environment presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'J' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that the Environment Act 2021 introduced Local Nature Recovery Strategies (LNRS) as a new system of spatial strategies for nature in England, and that these strategies, created at a county level by responsible authorities, will map out actions needed to restore nature, working with local stakeholders.

In relation to this Cabinet was informed that the LNRS will play a crucial role in delivering Biodiversity Net Gain and meeting national environmental targets, and that Dorset’s LNRS is co-produced, led by Dorset Council on our joint behalf, through working with large numbers of stakeholders. Further to this Cabinet was advised that it provides a comprehensive framework for restoring nature across the whole of Dorset and has a series of maps that will help target efforts to achieve the greatest gains for nature and the wider environment.

Cabinet was further advised that the purpose of the report was to seek pre-publication approval of the Dorset LNRS by Cabinet, following completion of public consultation and formal engagement with Natural England, and that as per Defra guidance, this will allow for the lead authority Dorset Council to adopt and publish the final strategy in December 2025. 

RESOLVED that: -

(a)           Cabinet gives pre-publication approval of the Dorset Local Nature Recovery Strategy for publication in December 2025 by Dorset Council, recognising its role as LNRS lead authority;

(b)           Commits to integrating the LNRS into relevant BCP council policies and decision-making, including planning, land management, climate adaptation, and public health.

(c)           Supports ongoing monitoring and review of the strategy every 3 to 10 years, ensuring it remains evidence-based, inclusive, and responsive to environmental change.

(d)           Acknowledges the contributions of stakeholders, led by Dorset Council and including Natural England, community groups, and residents, in shaping the strategy through consultation and co-production.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Climate Mitigation, Energy and Environment

Reason

The reason for these recommendations is to ensure BCP Council formally supports and integrates the Local Nature Recovery Strategy as a statutory framework for reversing biodiversity decline, enhancing climate resilience, and guiding sustainable land use across the county. It also meets the DEFRA requirements as set out by the Environment Act 2021.

‘Get Britain Working’ is a national initiative from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). The ‘Get Britain Working White Paper’ (Nov 2024), seeks to promote higher employment and reduced economic inactivity, whilst supporting individuals to enhance and improve their skills to transition into higher quality jobs.

All areas of England must develop local ‘Get Britain Working’ plans. Dorset Council, as Accountable Body, must deliver the plan across the Dorset Council (DC) and Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole Council (BCP) geographies in partnership with BCP Council, Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and the Integrated Care Board (ICB).

This Cabinet report seeks approval of the draft GD&BCPWP (see Appendix 1) for publication. 

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

(a)          approved the draft ‘Get Dorset & BCP Working Plan’ (GD&BCPWP) for publication;

(b)           delegated authority to the Director, Investment and Development, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Destination, Leisure & Commercial Operations, to undertake any minor changes to the Working Plan that are identified by Cabinet; and 

(c)         delegated authority to the Director, Investment and Development, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Destination, Leisure & Commercial Operations, to assign any remaining funding from the Government allocation to deliver projects identified in the Plan    

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder(s): Destination, Leisure & Commercial Operations

 Health & Wellbeing

 Children, Young People, Education and Skills

Reason

The draft Get Dorset & BCP Working Plan (GD&BCPWP) will enable BCP Council to help address the challenges related to labour market participation and progression. As such, the GD&BCPWP will help deliver the Council’s Corporate Strategy and wider economic and social objectives.

·      Skills are continually developed, and people can access lifelong learning

·      Employment is available for everyone and helps create value in our communities

·      Those who need support receive it when and where they need it

·      High quality of life for all, where people can be active, healthy and independent

·      Our inclusive, vibrant and sustainable economy supports our communities to thrive

The Portfolio Holder for Destination, Leisure & Commercial Operations presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'K' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that ‘Get Britain Working’ is a national initiative from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), and that the ‘Get Britain Working White Paper’ (Nov 2024), seeks to promote higher employment and reduced economic inactivity, whilst supporting individuals to enhance and improve their skills to transition into higher quality jobs.

In relation to this Cabinet was informed that all areas of England must develop local ‘Get Britain Working’ plans, and that Dorset Council, as Accountable Body, must deliver the plan across the Dorset Council (DC) and Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole Council (BCP) geographies in partnership with BCP Council, Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and the Integrated Care Board (ICB).

Cabinet was advised that the Cabinet report sought approval of the draft GD&BCPWP (see Appendix 1) for publication. 

The Chair of the Health and Adult Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee addressed the Cabinet advising that at their recent meeting the Committee had discussed the report in detail and had resolved to make the following recommendations in support: -

The Health and Adult Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee agreed the following recommendation to Cabinet on this item:

1)    The recommendation as outlined in the report be approved by Cabinet.

2)    The Health and Adult Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee recommends that Cabinet agree for the Get Dorset & BCP Working Plan to return to an Overview and Scrutiny Committee at an appropriate stage for further scrutiny, to enable Members to review its delivery, assess its impact in supporting individuals to return to work, and consider whether intended outcomes are being achieved.

(Agreed Unanimously)

The Portfolio Holder thanked Scrutiny for their discussion of this and further to this expressed thanks to all those involved in the plan. Further to this the Portfolio Holder advised that he was more than happy for the report to go back Scrutiny at a future appropriate stage.

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

(a)          approved the draft ‘Get Dorset & BCP Working Plan’ (GD&BCPWP) for publication;

(b)           delegated authority to the Director, Investment and Development, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Destination, Leisure & Commercial Operations, to undertake any minor changes to the Working Plan that are identified by Cabinet; and 

(c)         delegated authority to the Director, Investment and Development, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Destination, Leisure & Commercial Operations, to assign any remaining funding from the Government allocation to deliver projects identified in the Plan    

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder(s): Destination, Leisure & Commercial Operations

 Health & Wellbeing

 Children, Young People, Education and Skills

Reason

The draft Get Dorset & BCP Working Plan (GD&BCPWP) will enable BCP Council to help address the challenges related to labour market participation and progression. As such, the GD&BCPWP will help deliver the Council’s Corporate Strategy and wider economic and social  ...  view the full minutes text for item 56.

The Chief Executive to report on any decisions taken under urgency provisions in accordance with the Constitution.

The Chief Executive advised Cabinet that he had taken one urgent decision in accordance with the Constitution since the last meeting of the Cabinet, the details of which were published on the Council’s website, had been reported at the recent Council meeting and are summarised below: -

• Acting Up Arrangements – Interim Monitoring Officer and Director of Law and Governance

An urgent decision has been taken to implement acting up arrangements for the Director of Law & Governance and Monitoring Officer role.

To consider the latest version of the Cabinet Forward Plan for approval.

The Leader advised that the latest Cabinet Forward Plan had been published on the Council’s website.