This week in Wiltshire:

Council Budget Decisions Loom: Community Transport and Second Homes Tax Under Scrutiny

Wiltshire Council's Finance and Procurement Select Committee met on Wednesday, February 18th, to scrutinize proposed amendments and alternative budget proposals for the 2026/27 financial year. These discussions are critical, as they will shape the council's spending priorities and could significantly impact vital community services and the availability of housing. The committee reviewed proposals that could see community transport grants reinstated and considered the potential for introducing council tax premiums on second homes and empty properties. The Finance and Procurement Select Committee meeting highlighted the council's ongoing efforts to manage its finances while responding to the needs of its residents.

One of the most impactful proposals discussed was the potential reinstatement of community transport grants. This would prevent a saving of £0.115 million, ensuring that essential transport services, particularly for older residents and those with mobility issues, can continue to operate. These services are a lifeline for many, enabling them to access healthcare, shopping, and social activities. The funding for this would be redirected from Adult Social Care budgets, with the aim of supporting healthcare journeys and reducing overall costs in that sector. However, the council's S.151 Officer noted a potential risk in delivering these savings in future years, indicating the delicate balance the council must strike.

The committee also delved into proposals to introduce a 100% council tax premium on second homes and to increase the premium on properties that have been empty for one year. These measures, put forward by Councillor Nick Baker, could generate an estimated £1.5 million annually from second homes and £0.705 million from empty properties. The intention is to discourage properties from being left vacant and to increase the availability of housing for local residents. While these measures could boost council revenue and address the housing shortage, the S.151 Officer cautioned that the projected income might be optimistic due to potential challenges and reclassifications. This mirrors previous debates on similar measures, reflecting a persistent focus on housing affordability and council income generation.

The committee also considered an amendment regarding the St Stephen's Multi-Storey Car Park in Trowbridge. The proposal involved replacing a capital scheme for St Stephen's Place with a budget allocation for the freehold transfer of the car park. This could lead to capital financing savings in future years and offer financial and risk transfer benefits.

Furthermore, the committee reviewed proposals to close two Household Recycling Centres (HRCs) at Purton and Lower Compton from August 2026. This decision, part of the Waste Transformation Programme, aims to increase recycling rates and achieve zero landfill by 2030. While the council plans to develop new facilities, the closure of these sites will undoubtedly impact residents in those areas, potentially requiring longer journeys to access recycling services.

Area Boards Focus on Community Funding and Local Improvements

Several Area Boards convened this week, dedicating their efforts to allocating community funding and addressing local infrastructure needs. The Stonehenge Area Board met on Thursday, February 19th, to discuss a range of community and local authority matters. The board was set to review updates from Wiltshire Police and partner organisations, consider grant applications, and examine local highway improvement proposals. The Stonehenge Area Board meeting highlighted the board's commitment to supporting local initiatives and improving community infrastructure.

The board was expected to review progress on its priorities for the 2025/26 council year, with a significant focus on Health and Wellbeing, including plans for a Mental Health pilot workshop. Youth Engagement was also a key area, with planned work involving schools to improve service accessibility and direct engagement with students and parents. Efforts to strengthen the Local Youth Network and improve young people's insight into the military community were also on the agenda. Corporate actions included ongoing support for Operation Lazurite, assisting Afghan Entitled Persons, and initiatives to help people with complex needs gain employment. Discussions were also scheduled on moving food poverty from relief to community resilience.

The Local Highways and Footpath Improvement Group (LHFIG) presented several recommendations for funding, including a 20mph speed limit in Shrewton (£19,800), Amesbury village gates (£6,500), and various other smaller projects in Durrington and Woodford. The board was also to review remaining budgets for Community Area Grants, Youth Grants, and Older and Vulnerable Grants, considering applications from groups such as Wiltshire South Girlguiding, 1st Larkhill Scouts, and Durrington Otters Amateur Swimming Club.

The Bradford on Avon Area Board met on Wednesday, February 18th, to discuss community matters, including updates from the Chief Constable, partner organisations, and area board funding. A significant portion of the agenda was dedicated to local highways and footpath improvements, with numerous schemes proposed and reviewed by the Local Highways and Footpath Improvement Group (LHFIG). The Bradford on Avon Area Board meeting demonstrated the board's active role in addressing local concerns.

The board was scheduled to receive an update from Catherine Roper, Chief Constable of Wiltshire Police, detailing crime data and priorities for 2026. The LHFIG report highlighted numerous proposed schemes, including footway widening in Atworth and Wingfield, and a review of signing on the A363 adjacent to Cumberwell Golf Club. The board was also to consider applications for funding from Community Area Grants, Youth Grants, and Older and Vulnerable People Grants, with applications from The Slipway trees, BOA Area Board for food insecurity, and Winsley Village Hall for redecoration among those listed.

Planning Committee Addresses Public Rights of Way

The Western Area Planning Committee met on Wednesday, February 18th, to consider two applications concerning the modification of definitive maps and statements of public rights of way. These applications, which involve adding a public footpath in Warminster and a diversion order for a footpath in North Bradley, have implications for public access and land use. The Western Area Planning Committee meeting highlighted the committee's role in managing public rights of way.

The committee was scheduled to consider objections regarding the addition of Path No. 94 in Warminster, with evidence of public use over a 20-year period suggesting public footpath rights. However, objections were raised concerning the proposed widths of the footpath sections and potential impacts on neighbouring properties and a historic yew hedge. The report outlined the legal tests for making a Definitive Map Modification Order (DMMO) under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

Additionally, the committee was to consider objections to the North Bradley Path No. 9 Diversion Order and Definitive Map and Statement Modification Order 2021. This order, made under Section 257 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, is linked to a proposed housing development. Objections were received from local residents and The Ramblers, who challenged the necessity of the order and argued for a minimal diversion with a footbridge. Network Rail supported the application due to safety concerns regarding increased use of level crossings. The report noted that the proposed diversion route would be longer than the existing path.

Other Matters

• The Northern Area Licensing Sub Committee met on Wednesday, February 18th. The Northern Area Licensing Sub Committee meeting was scheduled to consider licensing matters.

Upcoming Meetings

Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below:

• Council - Tuesday 24 February 2026 - Meeting Link
• Salisbury Area Board - Thursday 26 February 2026 - Meeting Link
• Wiltshire Pension Fund Committee - Thursday 26 February 2026 - Meeting Link
• Devizes Area Board - Monday 02 March 2026 - Meeting Link
• Northern Area Licensing Sub Committee - Monday 02 March 2026 - Meeting Link
• Children's Select Committee - Wednesday 04 March 2026 - Meeting Link
• Royal Wootton Bassett and Cricklade Area Board - Wednesday 04 March 2026 - Meeting Link
• Environment Select Committee - Thursday 05 March 2026 - Meeting Link
• Corsham Area Board - Thursday 05 March 2026 - Meeting Link
• Standards Assessment Sub-Committee - Thursday 05 March 2026 - Meeting Link

This week in Wiltshire:

Council Budget Decisions Loom: Community Transport and Second Homes Tax Under Scrutiny

Wiltshire Council's Finance and Procurement Select Committee met on Wednesday, February 18th, to scrutinize proposed amendments and alternative budget proposals for the 2026/27 financial year. These discussions are critical, as they will shape the council's spending priorities and could significantly impact vital community services and the availability of housing. The committee reviewed proposals that could see community transport grants reinstated and considered the potential for introducing council tax premiums on second homes and empty properties. The Finance and Procurement Select Committee meeting highlighted the council's ongoing efforts to manage its finances while responding to the needs of its residents.

One of the most impactful proposals discussed was the potential reinstatement of community transport grants. This would prevent a saving of £0.115 million, ensuring that essential transport services, particularly for older residents and those with mobility issues, can continue to operate. These services are a lifeline for many, enabling them to access healthcare, shopping, and social activities. The funding for this would be redirected from Adult Social Care budgets, with the aim of supporting healthcare journeys and reducing overall costs in that sector. However, the council's S.151 Officer noted a potential risk in delivering these savings in future years, indicating the delicate balance the council must strike.

The committee also delved into proposals to introduce a 100% council tax premium on second homes and to increase the premium on properties that have been empty for one year. These measures, put forward by Councillor Nick Baker, could generate an estimated £1.5 million annually from second homes and £0.705 million from empty properties. The intention is to discourage properties from being left vacant and to increase the availability of housing for local residents. While these measures could boost council revenue and address the housing shortage, the S.151 Officer cautioned that the projected income might be optimistic due to potential challenges and reclassifications. This mirrors previous debates on similar measures, reflecting a persistent focus on housing affordability and council income generation.

The committee also considered an amendment regarding the St Stephen's Multi-Storey Car Park in Trowbridge. The proposal involved replacing a capital scheme for St Stephen's Place with a budget allocation for the freehold transfer of the car park. This could lead to capital financing savings in future years and offer financial and risk transfer benefits.

Furthermore, the committee reviewed proposals to close two Household Recycling Centres (HRCs) at Purton and Lower Compton from August 2026. This decision, part of the Waste Transformation Programme, aims to increase recycling rates and achieve zero landfill by 2030. While the council plans to develop new facilities, the closure of these sites will undoubtedly impact residents in those areas, potentially requiring longer journeys to access recycling services.

Area Boards Focus on Community Funding and Local Improvements

Several Area Boards convened this week, dedicating their efforts to allocating community funding and addressing local infrastructure needs. The Stonehenge Area Board met on Thursday, February 19th, to discuss a range of community and local authority matters. The board was set to review updates from Wiltshire Police and partner organisations, consider grant applications, and examine local highway improvement proposals. The Stonehenge Area Board meeting highlighted the board's commitment to supporting local initiatives and improving community infrastructure.

The board was expected to review progress on its priorities for the 2025/26 council year, with a significant focus on Health and Wellbeing, including plans for a Mental Health pilot workshop. Youth Engagement was also a key area, with planned work involving schools to improve service accessibility and direct engagement with students and parents. Efforts to strengthen the Local Youth Network and improve young people's insight into the military community were also on the agenda. Corporate actions included ongoing support for Operation Lazurite, assisting Afghan Entitled Persons, and initiatives to help people with complex needs gain employment. Discussions were also scheduled on moving food poverty from relief to community resilience.

The Local Highways and Footpath Improvement Group (LHFIG) presented several recommendations for funding, including a 20mph speed limit in Shrewton (£19,800), Amesbury village gates (£6,500), and various other smaller projects in Durrington and Woodford. The board was also to review remaining budgets for Community Area Grants, Youth Grants, and Older and Vulnerable Grants, considering applications from groups such as Wiltshire South Girlguiding, 1st Larkhill Scouts, and Durrington Otters Amateur Swimming Club.

The Bradford on Avon Area Board met on Wednesday, February 18th, to discuss community matters, including updates from the Chief Constable, partner organisations, and area board funding. A significant portion of the agenda was dedicated to local highways and footpath improvements, with numerous schemes proposed and reviewed by the Local Highways and Footpath Improvement Group (LHFIG). The Bradford on Avon Area Board meeting demonstrated the board's active role in addressing local concerns.

The board was scheduled to receive an update from Catherine Roper, Chief Constable of Wiltshire Police, detailing crime data and priorities for 2026. The LHFIG report highlighted numerous proposed schemes, including footway widening in Atworth and Wingfield, and a review of signing on the A363 adjacent to Cumberwell Golf Club. The board was also to consider applications for funding from Community Area Grants, Youth Grants, and Older and Vulnerable People Grants, with applications from The Slipway trees, BOA Area Board for food insecurity, and Winsley Village Hall for redecoration among those listed.

Planning Committee Addresses Public Rights of Way

The Western Area Planning Committee met on Wednesday, February 18th, to consider two applications concerning the modification of definitive maps and statements of public rights of way. These applications, which involve adding a public footpath in Warminster and a diversion order for a footpath in North Bradley, have implications for public access and land use. The Western Area Planning Committee meeting highlighted the committee's role in managing public rights of way.

The committee was scheduled to consider objections regarding the addition of Path No. 94 in Warminster, with evidence of public use over a 20-year period suggesting public footpath rights. However, objections were raised concerning the proposed widths of the footpath sections and potential impacts on neighbouring properties and a historic yew hedge. The report outlined the legal tests for making a Definitive Map Modification Order (DMMO) under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

Additionally, the committee was to consider objections to the North Bradley Path No. 9 Diversion Order and Definitive Map and Statement Modification Order 2021. This order, made under Section 257 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, is linked to a proposed housing development. Objections were received from local residents and The Ramblers, who challenged the necessity of the order and argued for a minimal diversion with a footbridge. Network Rail supported the application due to safety concerns regarding increased use of level crossings. The report noted that the proposed diversion route would be longer than the existing path.

Other Matters

• The Northern Area Licensing Sub Committee met on Wednesday, February 18th. The Northern Area Licensing Sub Committee meeting was scheduled to consider licensing matters.

Upcoming Meetings

Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below:

• Council - Tuesday 24 February 2026 - Meeting Link
• Salisbury Area Board - Thursday 26 February 2026 - Meeting Link
• Wiltshire Pension Fund Committee - Thursday 26 February 2026 - Meeting Link
• Devizes Area Board - Monday 02 March 2026 - Meeting Link
• Northern Area Licensing Sub Committee - Monday 02 March 2026 - Meeting Link
• Children's Select Committee - Wednesday 04 March 2026 - Meeting Link
• Royal Wootton Bassett and Cricklade Area Board - Wednesday 04 March 2026 - Meeting Link
• Environment Select Committee - Thursday 05 March 2026 - Meeting Link
• Corsham Area Board - Thursday 05 March 2026 - Meeting Link
• Standards Assessment Sub-Committee - Thursday 05 March 2026 - Meeting Link

This week in Wiltshire:

Council Considers Budget Amendments: Community Transport and Second Homes Tax on the Table

Wiltshire Council's Finance and Procurement Select Committee met on Wednesday, February 11th, to discuss proposed amendments to the 2026/27 budget. The discussions, which could significantly impact community services and housing affordability, focused on reinstating community transport grants, potentially introducing council tax premiums on second homes and empty properties, and changes to car park management in Trowbridge. The Finance and Procurement Select Committee meeting highlighted the council's ongoing efforts to balance its budget while responding to community needs.

One of the key proposals was to reinstate community transport grants, which would prevent a saving of £0.115 million. This would ensure continued support for vital transport services, particularly benefiting older residents and those with mobility issues who rely on these services for essential journeys. The funding for this would come from redirected Adult Services budgets, aiming to support healthcare journeys and reduce costs in those areas. However, the S.151 Officer noted a risk associated with delivering these savings in future years.

The committee also considered proposals to introduce a 100% council tax premium on second homes and to increase the premium on properties that have been empty for one year. Councillor Nick Baker proposed these measures, which could generate an additional £1.5 million annually from second homes and £0.705 million from empty properties. The aim is to discourage properties from being left empty and to increase the housing stock available for local residents. While these measures could boost council revenue and address housing shortages, the S.151 Officer cautioned that the estimated income might be overstated due to potential challenges and reclassifications. This echoes previous discussions where similar measures were debated, reflecting a continued focus on housing affordability and council income generation.

Another significant item was an amendment regarding the St Stephen's Multi-Storey Car Park in Trowbridge. The proposal involved replacing a capital scheme for St Stephen's Place with a budget allocation for the freehold transfer of the car park. This could lead to capital financing savings in future years and offer financial and risk transfer benefits.

The committee also reviewed the potential closure of two Household Recycling Centres (HRCs) at Lower Compton and Purton. An amendment was proposed to keep these sites open, which would require funding from Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) funding. This decision highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing service provision with budget constraints, particularly for essential waste management facilities that serve local communities.

Planning Committee Approves Major M4 Rest Area and Chippenham Redevelopment

The Strategic Planning Committee met on Tuesday, February 10th, to make significant decisions on two major development projects: a new Motorway Rest Area at Junction 16 of the M4 near Swindon and the redevelopment of the Emery Gate Shopping Centre in Chippenham. The committee also deferred a decision on a data centre expansion in Neston due to outstanding concerns. The Strategic Planning Committee meeting demonstrated the committee's role in shaping the county's infrastructure and urban landscape.

Outline planning permission was granted for the Motorway Rest Area, proposed by Moto Hospitality Ltd. This development will provide much-needed secure HGV parking, an amenity building, a fuel station, and EV charging facilities. The project is expected to create around 150 jobs and represents a significant investment. While National Highways raised no objection subject to mitigation works, concerns were raised about highway safety and traffic impact on local roads. These will be addressed through a Section 106 agreement and planning conditions. The development also considered amenity impacts on nearby residents, with mitigation measures to control noise and lighting.

Full planning permission was also granted for the redevelopment of the Emery Gate Shopping Centre in Chippenham. This project by Chippenham Riverside Limited will introduce new buildings for commercial, community, and residential uses, aiming to revitalize the town centre. The development will include 225 homes and commercial space. A key challenge was the scheme's viability, which meant it could not support policy-compliant contributions for affordable housing and other community benefits. However, the development will be subject to Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) contributions and a Section 106 agreement for waste and recycling. The design aims to enhance the town centre's vitality, though concerns were raised about the reduction in retail floor space and potential disruption during construction. The impact on the Chippenham Conservation Area was also a consideration, with some less than substantial harm identified to heritage assets, which was considered outweighed by the regeneration benefits.

A decision on a data centre expansion at Land South of Westwells Road, Neston, was deferred. Local residents and groups raised significant objections concerning drainage, flood risk, and environmental impacts. Despite officers' recommendations to grant permission subject to conditions, the committee voted to defer the decision to allow for further assessment of outstanding information, particularly regarding drainage and flood risk. This highlights the committee's commitment to ensuring that developments are environmentally sound and do not pose undue risks to residents.

Area Boards Focus on Community Funding and Local Improvements

Several Area Boards convened this week, focusing on allocating community funding and addressing local infrastructure needs. The Warminster Area Board met on Thursday, February 12th, to discuss applications for Community Area Grants, Youth Grants, and Older and Vulnerable People Grants. The board's Community Area Grants and Youth Grants budgets were reported as being at £0.00, with only £244.18 remaining in the Older and Vulnerable Grants pot, indicating high demand for local funding. The Warminster Area Board meeting also included updates from Wiltshire Police and the Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, alongside discussions on local highways and footpath improvements.

The Chippenham and Villages Area Board met on Monday, February 9th, to consider grant applications for projects including an outfield mower for Chippenham Cricket Club, roadway surface improvements for the Wilts and Berks Canal Trust, and support for youth programmes like Doorway Wiltshire Ltd. and The RISE Trust. The Chippenham and Villages Area Board meeting also received updates on road safety and local infrastructure from the Local Highways and Footpath Improvement Group (LHFIG).

Other Matters

• The Electoral Review Committee met on Tuesday, February 10th. The Electoral Review Committee meeting was scheduled to discuss electoral reviews.
• The Marlborough Area Board met on Tuesday, February 10th. The board was set to consider grant applications for various community groups, including the 2nd Marlborough Scout Group, Avebury Cricket Club, and Age UK Wiltshire. The Marlborough Area Board meeting also included updates from Wiltshire Police and the Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service.
• The Northern Area Planning Committee met on Wednesday, February 11th. The committee was scheduled to consider planning applications, including a retrospective change of use for an agricultural building to commercial use, and the erection of a new dwelling in the countryside. The Northern Area Planning Committee meeting also reviewed planning appeals.
• The Local Pension Board met on Thursday, February 12th. The board was scheduled to review the Wiltshire Pension Fund's performance, budget, and investment strategy. The Local Pension Board meeting also discussed upcoming regulatory changes impacting the Local Government Pension Scheme.

Upcoming Meetings

Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below:

• Malmesbury Area Board - Tuesday 17 February 2026 - Meeting Link
• Bradford on Avon Area Board - Wednesday 18 February 2026 - Meeting Link
• Finance and Procurement Select Committee - Wednesday 18 February 2026 - Meeting Link
• Western Area Planning Committee - Wednesday 18 February 2026 - Meeting Link
• Stonehenge Area Board - Thursday 19 February 2026 - Meeting Link
• Council - Tuesday 24 February 2026 - Meeting Link
• Salisbury Area Board - Thursday 26 February 2026 - Meeting Link
• Wiltshire Pension Fund Committee - Thursday 26 February 2026 - Meeting Link

This week in Wiltshire:

Council Faces Budget Squeeze: Key Decisions on Council Tax and Services Ahead

Wiltshire Council's Cabinet met on Tuesday, February 3rd, to discuss critical financial plans that will shape services for the next three years. The proposed budget for 2026/27 and the Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) for 2026/27 to 2028/29 were on the agenda, alongside decisions on Council Tax levels and savings plans. These decisions have a direct impact on the council's ability to fund essential services, particularly for vulnerable residents. The Cabinet meeting was set to address a net general fund budget of £567.660m for 2026/27, with proposals including a 2.99% increase in Council Tax, plus an additional 2% levy for Adult Social Care. This means households could see their council tax bills rise significantly, impacting those on fixed incomes and potentially straining household budgets.

The council faces significant demand pressures, especially in Adult Social Care and Children's Services, which are vital for supporting some of Wiltshire's most vulnerable residents. The proposed savings plans total £45.806m over the MTFS period. The report highlighted that Wiltshire is receiving a lower than average increase in its Core Spending Power from the government, adding to the financial challenge.

The Cabinet was also due to consider proposals for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget, including a proposed dwelling rent increase of 4.8% (CPI + 1%) for social and affordable rents. This increase will affect council tenants, impacting their household finances. The report detailed plans for refurbishing council stock and the Housing Energy Efficiency Programme, aiming to improve living conditions and energy efficiency.

Other key items included the Treasury Management Strategy for 2026/27, outlining the council's approach to borrowing and investment, and the procurement of an energy supply contract from April 2027. The School Admissions Policies for 2027-28 were also presented for approval, ensuring a fair process for families seeking school places.

Shaftesbury Recycling Centre Charge Sparks Concern for Wiltshire Residents

The South West Wiltshire Area Board met on Wednesday, February 4th, to discuss the implications of Dorset Council's proposed charge for non-Dorset residents using the Shaftesbury Household Recycling Centre (HRC). This decision could mean Wiltshire residents face additional costs or longer journeys to dispose of their waste. The South West Wiltshire Area Board meeting heard that approximately 20% of users at the Shaftesbury HRC are from Wiltshire, many living in villages close to the Dorset border.

Dorset Council plans to introduce a booking system with an £8.50 charge per visit for non-Dorset residents from November 3rd. This means Wiltshire residents will have to choose between paying this fee or travelling to Wiltshire's own HRCs in Warminster or Salisbury, which could be a significant inconvenience and cost for those with limited transport or time.

Wiltshire Council officers acknowledged that charging for out-of-county HRC use is becoming common due to budget pressures. While discussions between Wiltshire and Dorset councils are ongoing, Wiltshire Council itself is also proposing to charge residents bringing waste from outside the county from 2026/27. This situation highlights the complex inter-council financial arrangements and the potential impact on residents when services cross local authority boundaries.

The Area Board also received updates on potential fire station closures in Mere and Wilton, and considered several funding applications for community projects, including a Sing Out for Lung Health project in Wilton and a New Memory Support Project for Mere Community Area. These projects aim to support vulnerable residents, but their funding is dependent on the Area Board's decisions.

Street Trading Consent Appeal Highlights Enforcement Challenges

A Licensing Sub Committee met on Wednesday, February 4th, to consider an appeal against a decision to refuse a street trading consent for a kebab van in Devizes. The case of Mr B Turak, who appealed the refusal to extend his consent for a van in the Central Car Park, sheds light on the challenges of enforcing street trading regulations and the importance of adhering to consent conditions. The Licensing Sub Committee - Appeal Against Street Trading Consent Decision meeting heard that Mr Turak's initial consent was refused due to objections from Devizes Town Council concerning site safety, public order, existing businesses, and the occupation of EV charging bays.

Although a three-month trial consent was granted, subsequent issues arose, including complaints about trading after permitted hours, trading in unauthorized locations, and alleged misleading information. Mr Turak appealed, citing misunderstandings and mistakes. The report indicated that the council's Authorised Officer maintained the refusal, citing Mr Turak's inability to adhere to consent conditions. This case underscores the importance of clear communication and adherence to regulations for businesses operating on public land, impacting the local streetscape and public amenity.

Other Matters

• The Tidworth Area Board met on Monday, February 2nd. Discussions included updates from local police and fire services, and the consideration of several grant applications for community projects, such as a Detached Youth Work Project and a community transport initiative. The Tidworth Area Board meeting also noted minutes from the Local Highway and Footway Improvement Group.
• The Calne Area Board held two meetings this week. On Tuesday, February 3rd, the board was scheduled to discuss partner updates, information items, and the future model of Area Boards. The Calne Area Board meeting also reviewed recommendations from the Local Highway and Footway Improvement Group and considered grant applications for youth and older/vulnerable adult projects. On Thursday, February 5th, another Calne Area Board meeting was scheduled to focus on changes to waste service delivery, specifically the planned closure of the household recycling centre at Lower Compton from August 2026. The Calne Area Board meeting aimed to gather feedback from residents on this significant change.
• The Wiltshire Police and Crime Panel met on Wednesday, February 4th, to discuss the Police and Crime Commissioner's budget settlement and precept proposal for 2026/27. The panel reviewed public consultation findings and discussed the panel's communications strategy and forward work plan. The Wiltshire Police and Crime Panel meeting highlighted the financial pressures facing policing and the proposed Council Tax increase to maintain services.
• The Officer Appointments Committee met on Thursday, February 5th, to discuss the appointment of a Corporate Director for the Place directorate. This senior role is crucial for the strategic direction and operational management of key council services. The Officer Appointments Committee meeting involved reviewing candidates for this significant leadership position.
• The Standards Dispensation Sub-Committee met on Thursday, February 5th, to consider a request for dispensation from Councillor Brian Dalton regarding a disclosable pecuniary interest. This relates to the council's code of conduct and the management of potential conflicts of interest. The Standards Dispensation Sub-Committee meeting focused on ensuring fair and transparent decision-making processes.

Upcoming Meetings

Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below:

• Chippenham and Villages Area Board - Monday 09 February 2026 - Meeting Link
• Electoral Review Committee - Tuesday 10 February 2026 - Meeting Link
• Marlborough Area Board - Tuesday 10 February 2026 - Meeting Link
• Strategic Planning Committee - Tuesday 10 February 2026 - Meeting Link
• Finance and Procurement Select Committee - Wednesday 11 February 2026 - Meeting Link
• Northern Area Planning Committee - Wednesday 11 February 2026 - Meeting Link
• Local Pension Board - Thursday 12 February 2026 - Meeting Link
• Warminster Area Board - Thursday 12 February 2026 - Meeting Link