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Weekly updates

Wiltshire Council: Mental Health Absences, Policing Reforms

This week in Wiltshire:

Council Staffing Report Reveals Mental Health Absences and Recruitment Struggles

Wiltshire Council's Staffing Policy Committee met to discuss workforce analytics, management development, and recruitment practices. The meeting highlighted a rise in mental health-related absences and ongoing challenges in recruiting individuals with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

  • Mental Health Crisis: The Biannual Workforce Report revealed a 9.5% rise in sickness days lost per full-time employee, with mental health and stress-related absences accounting for 32.3% of all days lost. This could mean increased pressure on remaining staff and potential disruptions to council services.
  • Recruitment Hurdles: Recruitment numbers remain lower than in previous years, particularly for individuals with SEND. Traditional recruitment processes often disadvantage neurodivergent individuals and those with learning difficulties. This could limit the council's ability to provide inclusive employment opportunities and access diverse talent.
  • Management Development Initiative: The committee received an update on LEAD, a new management development initiative designed to improve consistency in management practice and enhance employee experience. LEAD aims to equip managers with the skills, confidence, and mindset needed to lead effectively.
  • Employee Experience Survey: A recent survey revealed high levels of pride and purpose among staff, but also concerns around workload, recognition, and inclusivity. The council is proposing corporate actions to address these concerns, focusing on wellbeing, inclusion, and management capability.

The report underscores the importance of addressing mental health within the council workforce and creating more inclusive recruitment practices.

Royal Wootton Bassett Board Considers Community Governance and Highway Safety

The Royal Wootton Bassett and Cricklade Area Board met to discuss a range of issues, including community governance, local highway improvements, and funding applications. The meeting highlighted the board's role in addressing local needs and priorities.

  • Community Governance Review: The board received a briefing note about the Community Governance Review (CGR), which allows for changes to governance arrangements for town and parish councils. The CGR could lead to alterations in parish areas, electoral arrangements, and council sizes, potentially impacting local representation and decision-making.
  • Highway Improvements: The board considered recommendations from the Local Highway and Footway Improvement Group (LHFIG), including funding for a footway/shared-use path on the B4042 between the Royal Wootton Bassett Rugby Club and Royal Wootton Bassett Sports Club. The LHFIG also provided updates on various priority schemes, such as speed limit reductions and safety improvements.
  • Funding for Vulnerable Adults: The board considered a grant application from Cricklade Memory Cafe for a Christmas party for members and carers. This funding would provide a festive event for older and vulnerable adults, reducing isolation and providing respite for carers.
  • Family Learning Partnerships: Referrals for Family Learning courses grew significantly this year, with Royal Wootton Bassett Academy, Mere School, and Sheldon School being the top referring schools. These courses provide valuable support to families and communities, helping to improve skills and opportunities.

The meeting showcased the Area Board's role in addressing local issues, allocating resources, and supporting community initiatives.

Police and Crime Panel Examines Performance and Governance Reforms

The Wiltshire Police and Crime Panel met to discuss police performance, retail crime, and proposed reforms to policing governance. The meeting included a presentation about Special Constables and their role in Wiltshire Police.

  • Performance Improvements: Wiltshire Police has shown strong improvements and performed consistently better than other similar areas. However, further improvement is required in victim care and investigations. This could mean better support for victims of crime and more effective investigations.
  • Proposed Governance Reforms: The government intends to abolish the Police and Crime Commissioner model in 2028 and transfer police governance functions to Mayors of Strategic Authorities or elected local council leaders. This could significantly alter the landscape of policing governance in Wiltshire.
  • Special Constables: The Panel received a presentation about Special Constables and their role in Wiltshire Police. Special constables are volunteer police officers who have the same powers as regular officers.
  • Retail Crime: The Panel received a presentation about efforts to tackle retail crime, a significant issue for businesses that can include theft, fraud, and violence.

We are safer, people are feeling safer, and that is because we are trusted more than we have been for a long time, said Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson, OBE, MPhil.

The meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts to improve police performance and address key issues such as retail crime, while also raising questions about the future of policing governance in Wiltshire.

Other Matters

  • The Health and Wellbeing Board discussed public participation, safeguarding, community safety, the Joint Strategic Needs Assessment, health protection, and the Better Care Fund. The meeting
  • The Pewsey Area Board discussed a workshop on food insecurity, consideration of grant applications, and a review of recommendations from the Local Highways and Footpath Improvement Group (LHFIG). The meeting
  • The Stonehenge Area Board discussed funding applications, recommendations from the Local Highways and Footpath Improvement Group (LHFIG), and local priorities and actions. The meeting

Upcoming Meetings

Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below:

  • Corsham Area Board - Thursday 04 December 2025 - Discuss local priorities, funding requests, and updates from partners and community organisations. Meeting Link
  • Northern Area Planning Committee - Wednesday 03 December 2025 - Consider planning appeals and two planning applications relating to a change of use for holiday accommodation and a permanent rural worker dwelling. Meeting Link
  • South West Wiltshire Area Board - Wednesday 10 December 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
  • Salisbury Area Board - Thursday 04 December 2025 - Discuss funding applications, local priorities, highway improvements, and hear an introduction to Spurgeon's Family Hubs and receive an update on City Hall. Meeting Link
  • Devizes Area Board - Monday 01 December 2025 - Discuss winter highway preparedness, updates on area board priorities, and consider grant funding applications. Meeting Link
  • Eastern Area Planning Committee - Thursday 04 December 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
  • Standards Assessment Sub-Committee - Thursday 04 December 2025 - Assess two complaints regarding the conduct of councillors. Meeting Link
  • Malmesbury Area Board - Tuesday 09 December 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
  • Southern Area Planning Committee - Thursday 11 December 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
  • Schools Forum - Thursday 11 December 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
  • Appeals Sub-Committee (School Transport) - Tuesday 09 December 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
  • Warminster Area Board - Thursday 11 December 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
  • Cabinet - Tuesday 09 December 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link

Wiltshire Pension Investments Spark Ethical Concerns

This week in Wiltshire:

Pension Fund Investments in Weapons Companies Spark Ethical Debate

The Wiltshire Pension Fund Committee reviewed its responsible investment strategy, including holdings in aerospace and defence companies, some of which have links to the Israel-Palestine conflict. The meeting has ignited a debate about the ethical responsibilities of pension funds and the potential for investments to contribute to human rights abuses.

  • Fund's Holdings: The fund holds £16.7 million in aerospace and defence companies, representing 0.47% of its total holdings. Of this, £13.1 million is in companies identified as having a link to the Israel-Palestine conflict.
  • Ethical Concerns: Critics argue that investing in companies that supply weapons to conflict zones is unethical and contradicts the fund's stated commitment to responsible investment.
  • Legal Permissibility: The report noted that investments in A&D companies supplying Israel are permissible under UK law.
  • Engagement with Companies: The fund benefits from collaborative engagement on corporate governance and responsible investment issues through its membership in the Local Authority Pension Fund Forum (LAPFF). LAPFF engaged with luxury goods companies, including LVMH (Luis Vuitton Moët Hennessy), where the Fund holds £4.5 million, due to reports of labour abuses involving a third-tier subcontractor in the Italian supply chain of Loro Piana, a brand owned by LVMH.
  • MiFID II Compliance: The committee confirmed that the fund should retain opted up for professional investor status, which allows it to access a wider range of investment opportunities but also means it loses some of the protections granted to retail investors.

The discussion highlights the complex ethical considerations that pension funds face when balancing financial returns with social and environmental responsibilities.

Council Committee Questions Performance Measurement in Our Wiltshire Plan

The Overview and Scrutiny Management Committee scrutinized the key performance indicators (KPIs) used to measure the success of the Our Wiltshire Plan 2025-2035 . The meeting raised concerns about the alignment of KPIs with the plan's priorities and their accessibility to the public.

  • KPI Alignment: The committee questioned whether the 79 proposed KPIs accurately measured the achievement of the nine priorities set out in the Our Wiltshire Plan.
  • Public Accessibility: The committee found that the language used in the KPIs appeared to be largely for internal reference, using terms that would be unfamiliar to anyone without a working knowledge of relevant areas of council business.
  • Limited Scope: The committee questioned whether some KPIs matched the ambition of the commitment. For example, KPI 34, which measures Total monthly visits to council-run leisure centres based on membership card swipes and walk in payments. Excludes other visitors, seemed to the group to be a narrow measure of the Plan objective, increase in sports, physical activities and leisure opportunities , given the small proportion (15%) of the population actually accessing Council-run leisure centres.
  • Recommendations: The committee recommended that the Leader and Deputy Leader of the Cabinet strengthen accountability to the commitments made in Our Wiltshire Plan by assigning at least one KPI to each commitment, and ensure that the language used in the KPIs is accessible to all.

The scrutiny highlights the importance of clear, measurable, and publicly accessible performance indicators to ensure that the council is held accountable for delivering on its strategic goals.

Area Boards Allocate Funds to Community Projects Amidst Diverse Local Concerns

Area Boards across Wiltshire met to discuss local issues and allocate funding to community projects. The meetings highlighted the diverse needs and priorities of different communities within the county.

Southern Wiltshire Area Board

The Southern Wiltshire Area Board discussed funding requests, highway improvements, and updates from partner organizations. The meeting focused on addressing local needs and priorities.

  • Community Grants: The board considered applications for funding from the Community Area Grants, Young People, and Older & Vulnerable budgets, supporting projects such as a replacement minibus for a youth charity, a digital inclusion project for older people, and creative arts activities for vulnerable adults.
  • Highway Improvements: The board discussed a range of local highways issues, including requests for dropped kerbs, warning signage, and parking restrictions.
  • Police Update: The board received updates from the Neighbourhood Policing Team, including information on road safety and violence against women and girls.

Bradford on Avon Area Board

The Bradford on Avon Area Board discussed community grants, highway improvements, and updates from partner organizations. The meeting focused on addressing local needs and priorities.

  • Community Grants: The board considered applications for funding from the Community Area Grant, Older & Vulnerable, and Young People budgets, supporting projects such as sewing and painting workshops, a community farm, and the refurbishment of a multi-use games area.
  • Highway Improvements: The board discussed a range of local highways issues, including a prohibition of motor vehicles on Wine Street, visibility improvements at a junction in South Wraxall, and a request for a 20mph speed limit in South Wraxall Village.
  • Police Update: The board received updates from the Neighbourhood Policing Team, including crime data for Bradford-on-Avon and information on the team's priorities.

Marlborough Area Board

The Marlborough Area Board discussed community grants, local highway improvements, and updates from partner organizations. The meeting focused on addressing local needs and priorities.

  • Community Grants: The board considered applications for funding from the Community Area Grant, Older & Vulnerable, and Young People budgets, supporting projects such as an interactive touchscreen at the Merchant's House, an activity fund for a scout group, and youth engagement at the Marlborough Festival.
  • Highway Improvements: The board discussed a range of local highways issues, including a 'No Through Road' sign on Vespasian Road, a proposal to reduce the speed limit on Frees Avenue, and a request for a new footway in Mildenhall.
  • Police Update: The board received updates from the Neighbourhood Policing Team, including information on crime rates and local priorities.

Other Matters

  • The Southern Wiltshire Area Board discussed funding requests, updates from partner organisations, and local highways maintenance. The meeting
  • The Bradford on Avon Area Board discussed community grants, updates from partner organisations, and local highway improvements. The meeting
  • The Marlborough Area Board met on Tuesday 18 November 2025 at Minal Village Hall. The agenda included updates from partners such as Wiltshire Police, and the Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, as well as discussions around highway improvements, grant applications, and the local action plan. The meeting

Upcoming Meetings

Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below:

  • Devizes Area Board - Monday 01 December 2025 - Discuss winter highway preparedness, updates on area board priorities, and consider grant funding applications. Meeting Link
  • Northern Area Planning Committee - Wednesday 03 December 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
  • Westbury Area Board - Wednesday 03 December 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
  • Standards Assessment Sub-Committee - Thursday 04 December 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
  • Eastern Area Planning Committee - Thursday 04 December 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
  • Salisbury Area Board - Thursday 04 December 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
  • Corsham Area Board - Thursday 04 December 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
  • Staffing Policy Committee - Wednesday 26 November 2025 - Discuss workforce analytics, management development, employee experience, exit interviews, and recruitment practices for individuals with special educational needs and disabilities. Meeting Link
  • Royal Wootton Bassett and Cricklade Area Board - Wednesday 26 November 2025 - Discuss local highway improvements, neighbourhood plans, and consider a funding application for the Cricklade Memory Cafe. Meeting Link
  • Pewsey Area Board - Monday 24 November 2025 - Discuss local grant applications, recommendations arising from the Local Highways and Footpath Improvement Group (LHFIG), and a workshop on food insecurity. Meeting Link
  • Wiltshire Police and Crime Panel - Tuesday 25 November 2025 - Discuss updates from Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson, the Police and Crime Plan, special constables, retail crime, the forward work plan and panel communications. Meeting Link
  • Health and Wellbeing Board - Thursday 27 November 2025 - Discuss the Safeguarding Vulnerable People Partnership annual report, the Community Safety Partnership strategy, the Joint Strategic Needs Assessment, the Health Protection Annual Report, and a Better Care Fund update. Meeting Link
  • Stonehenge Area Board - Thursday 27 November 2025 - Discuss local priorities and actions, consider recommendations from the Local Highways and Footpath Improvement Group (LHFIG), and review area board funding applications. Meeting Link

Wiltshire funds flood relief amidst budget concerns.

This week in Wiltshire:

Council Approves Increased Funding for Chippenham Flood Relief Amidst Financial Concerns

Wiltshire Council's Cabinet has approved an increase in Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding for the Chippenham Avon Project to £1.8 million, up from the previously planned £1 million. The meeting aims to alleviate flood risk and enhance Chippenham town centre, but the decision comes amidst concerns about the council's overall financial health.

  • Flood Risk Alleviation: The Chippenham River Avon Project aims to protect the town from flooding, a growing concern due to climate change.
  • Financial Strain: The Cabinet also reviewed a report forecasting a revenue budget overspend of £6.658m by the end of the financial year, raising questions about the council's ability to fund essential services.
  • Reserve Drawdowns: To address financial pressures, the Cabinet approved drawdowns from various reserves, including those earmarked for supporting families, adult care, and public health.
  • DSG Deficit: The council is facing a significant overspend against Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) budgets, with a total deficit forecast of £49.404m for the year.

The decision to increase funding for the Chippenham Avon Project highlights the council's commitment to addressing flood risk, but the move comes at a time of significant financial challenges, raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of council services.

Melksham Board Considers Funding for Community Projects and Highway Improvements

The Melksham Area Board met to discuss funding applications, highway improvements, and updates from partner organizations and community groups. The meeting focused on addressing local needs and priorities.

  • Highway Improvements: The board considered recommendations from the Local Highways and Footpath Improvement Group (LHFIG), including funding for a pedestrian refuge island on Eastern Way and a dropped kerb crossing in Bader Park.
  • Community Grants: The board considered applications for funding from the Community Area Grant, Older & Vulnerable, and Young People budgets, supporting projects such as music development in primary schools, a new sports pavilion, and services for older people.
  • Police Update: Wiltshire Police provided an update on road safety, including information on the Fatal Five offences and drug driving.

The Melksham Area Board's meeting highlights the importance of local decision-making in addressing community needs and priorities.

Chippenham Board Approves Crime Reduction Camera Amidst Rural Crime Concerns

The Chippenham and Villages Area Board approved funding for an Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) camera in Burton, in response to a rise in rural crime. The meeting highlighted the growing concerns about organized crime in rural areas.

  • Rural Crime Surge: Intelligence from Wiltshire Police indicated that many burglaries were being carried out by organized gangs operating across county borders.
  • ANPR Camera: The camera aims to assist Wiltshire Police in identifying and tracking vehicles used by organized criminal groups, strengthening cross-border policing efforts and improving response times and detection rates.
  • Community Initiative: The initiative originated in the Chippenham Community Area Parish Forum, with funding split between local contributions and a grant from the Area Board.

The decision to fund the ANPR camera reflects the community's concern about rising rural crime and the need for proactive measures to protect residents and property.

Environment Committee Focuses on Electric Vehicle Infrastructure and Streetscene Maintenance

The Environment Select Committee met to discuss the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) project, streetscene maintenance, and updates from various task groups. The meeting highlighted the council's efforts to promote sustainable transportation and maintain public spaces.

  • Electric Vehicle Infrastructure: The committee received an update on the LEVI project, which aims to increase the availability of public residential electric vehicle charging infrastructure across Wiltshire.
  • Streetscene Maintenance: The committee received an update on the Streetscene and Grounds Maintenance contract performance for 2024/25, noting savings of £1.137 million and good performance by the contractor.
  • Task Group Updates: The committee received updates from the Waste Transformation Task Group and the Climate Emergency Task Group.

The Environment Select Committee's meeting underscores the council's commitment to environmental sustainability and maintaining the quality of public spaces.

Other Matters

  • The Children's Select Committee discussed the Safety Valve Programme, school attendance, education performance outcomes, safeguarding, and adoption. The meeting
  • The Trowbridge Area Board discussed highway improvements, the St Stephen's multi-storey car park, the Trowbridge Leisure Centre development, and a request for a legal wall in the Hilperton Road underpass. The meeting
  • The Officer Appointments Committee met to discuss the appointment of a Director of Adult Social Care. The meeting
  • The Health Select Committee discussed adult social care complaints, community care contracts, sexual health services, safeguarding, and the Healthwatch Wiltshire annual report. The meeting
  • The Southern Area Planning Committee discussed planning appeals and a planning application for the demolition of a house and garage and its replacement with a new dwelling. The meeting

Upcoming Meetings

Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below:

  • Pewsey Area Board - Monday 24 November 2025 - Discuss local grant applications, recommendations arising from the Local Highways and Footpath Improvement Group (LHFIG), and a workshop on food insecurity. Meeting Link
  • Wiltshire Police and Crime Panel - Tuesday 25 November 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
  • Staffing Policy Committee - Wednesday 26 November 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
  • Royal Wootton Bassett and Cricklade Area Board - Wednesday 26 November 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
  • Health and Wellbeing Board - Thursday 27 November 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
  • Stonehenge Area Board - Thursday 27 November 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
  • Wiltshire Pension Fund Committee - Thursday 20 November 2025 - Discuss responsible investment, compliance with MiFID II, and a training item on the Stewardship Code. Meeting Link
  • Overview and Scrutiny Management Committee - Wednesday 19 November 2025 - Discuss an update from the Wiltshire Community Strategic Partnership, a report on key performance indicators, and motions relating to ready to use screenwash and bill posting. Meeting Link
  • Marlborough Area Board - Tuesday 18 November 2025 - Discuss community grants, local highway improvements, and updates from partner organizations. Meeting Link

Wiltshire Council: Conduct Complaints, Green Tariffs, Footpaths

This week in Wiltshire:

Council Committee Divided Over Conduct Complaint Confidentiality

The Standards Assessment Sub-Committee met this week to address complaints against councillors, but the public was excluded from discussions, citing privacy concerns. The meeting has raised questions about transparency in local government and the public's right to know about potential misconduct by elected officials.

  • Complaint Details: The Sub-Committee assessed two complaints (COC52964 and COC53219) regarding councillor conduct, but details remain confidential.
  • Public Exclusion: Citing Paragraph 1 of Part I of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972, the council excluded the public to protect information relating to an individual.
  • Transparency Concerns: Critics argue that while individual privacy is important, the public has a right to know about allegations of misconduct against their elected representatives.
  • Past Cases: The Sub-Committee reviewed minutes from a previous meeting where complaints involved alleged Facebook posts of confidential information and conduct at town council meetings.

The decision highlights the ongoing tension between privacy rights and the public's need for transparency in local government, particularly when it comes to ethical conduct.

Footpath Upgrade Sparks Debate Over Landowner Rights and Public Access

The Eastern Area Planning Committee agreed to forward an order concerning a footpath in Wilcot and Huish with Oare to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (SoSEFRA) for confirmation, with a modification to the width of the path. The meeting highlighted the complexities of balancing public access with landowner rights.

  • Path History: The application to add a bridleway to the definitive map was made by Wilcot and Huish with Oare Parish Council in 2019, based on user evidence.
  • Objection: A landowner, Mr Mark Lovelace of Cocklebury Farm, objected to the width of the recorded route through his farm, requesting a reduction from 4 meters to 3.5 meters.
  • Officer Recommendation: The Definitive Map Officer recommended modifying the order to reflect the landowner's requested width, as there was no other evidence to dispute it.
  • Committee Decision: The committee voted to forward the order to SoSEFRA with the recommendation that it is confirmed with the modification.

The decision underscores the importance of balancing public access to the countryside with the rights and concerns of landowners.

Council Committee to Discuss Green Electricity Tariffs Amid Cost Concerns

The Finance and Procurement Select Committee is set to discuss a motion regarding green electricity tariffs, raising questions about the council's commitment to environmental sustainability versus cost savings. The meeting will explore whether the council should continue paying a premium for green energy.

  • Motion Origin: The motion, presented by Councillor Mike Sankey and Councillor Boaz Barry, requests the cabinet to remove any green tariff with immediate effect to save additional annual fees.
  • Council's Position: The council has been procuring electricity on a green tariff since 2019 and is under contract until March 2027.
  • Financial Implications: Terminating the contract would incur penalties, raising questions about the cost-effectiveness of switching away from green energy.
  • Council's Manifesto: The council's manifesto pledges to make Wiltshire carbon neutral by 2030, and to promote environmental sustainability.

The discussion highlights the challenges of balancing environmental goals with financial constraints, particularly in the context of rising energy costs.

Other Matters

  • The Officer Appointments Committee met to discuss the appointment of a Director – Commissioning, who will be responsible for strategic commissioning across Adult Social Care, Children’s Social Care and Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND). The meeting
  • The Local Pension Board reviewed key performance indicators, financial controls, and compliance matters related to the Wiltshire Pension Fund. The meeting
  • The Tidworth Area Board discussed funding requests, highway improvements, and received updates from partner organizations, including Age UK Wiltshire. The meeting
  • The Calne Area Board discussed highway improvements, grant applications, and received updates from partners, including Wiltshire Police and Age UK. The meeting
  • The Northern Area Planning Committee discussed planning appeals, including decisions on traveller sites, housing developments, and sand and gravel extraction. The meeting
  • The Finance and Procurement Select Committee discussed the council's financial performance and proposed fees and charges for 2026/27, including increases for animal boarding licences, pest control services, library fines, and leisure activities. The meeting

Upcoming Meetings

Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below:

  • Cabinet - Tuesday 11 November 2025 - Discuss financial monitoring reports and the Chippenham Avon Project. Meeting Link
  • Melksham Area Board - Wednesday 12 November 2025 - Discuss highway improvements, community grants, and updates from partner organisations. Meeting Link
  • Health Select Committee - Wednesday 12 November 2025 - Discuss adult social care complaints, community based care, sexual health services, and the Healthwatch Wiltshire annual report. Meeting Link
  • Chippenham and Villages Area Board - Monday 10 November 2025 - Discuss the Chippenham Avon Project, the re-establishment of Chippenham Carnival, and feedback from the Chippenham Teen Takeover weekend. Meeting Link
  • Environment Select Committee - Thursday 13 November 2025 - Discuss the Streetscene and Grounds Maintenance contract and the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure project. Meeting Link
  • Children's Select Committee - Thursday 13 November 2025 - Discuss the Safety Valve Programme, school attendance, and the Wiltshire Council Annual Adoption Report. Meeting Link
  • Trowbridge Area Board - Thursday 13 November 2025 - Discuss the St Stephens multi-storey car park, the Trowbridge Leisure Centre, and consider a request for a legal wall in the Hilperton Road underpass. Meeting Link
  • Southern Area Planning Committee - Thursday 13 November 2025 - Discuss planning appeals and a planning application for the demolition of a dwelling and garage and replacement with a new dwelling. Meeting Link
  • Officer Appointments Committee - Friday 14 November 2025 - Discuss the appointment of a Director of Adult Social Care. Meeting Link
  • Marlborough Area Board - Tuesday 18 November 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
  • Overview and Scrutiny Management Committee - Wednesday 19 November 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
  • Bradford on Avon Area Board - Wednesday 19 November 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
  • Wiltshire Pension Fund Committee - Thursday 20 November 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
  • Southern Wiltshire Area Board - Thursday 20 November 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link

Wiltshire Solar Farm Debate, Council Plan Approved, Audit Concerns

This week in Wiltshire:

Solar Farm Divides Committee Over Land Use and Visual Impact

The Strategic Planning Committee met to discuss a planning application for a solar farm at Townsend Farm, Poulshot. The meeting highlighted the ongoing debate about balancing renewable energy goals with concerns about agricultural land and landscape preservation.

  • Application Details: Devizes Solar Ltd sought permission to install a 13.5 MW solar farm on 29 hectares of agricultural land for 40 years. The proposal included solar panels, a substation, inverters, cabling, fencing, and CCTV.
  • Councillor Referral: Councillor Tamara Reay requested the application be brought before the committee due to concerns about visual impact, environmental implications, highway safety, and drainage.
  • Site Specifics: The site consists of a mix of Grade 3 and 4 agricultural land, located near a listed farmhouse and the Poulshot Conservation Area. Archaeological investigations have revealed Romano-British remains on the site.
  • Policy Considerations: The report pack identified various policies and guidance, including the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), the Wiltshire Core Strategy, and National Policy Statements for energy infrastructure.
  • Consultation Responses: While Wiltshire Council's archaeology, landscape, highways, and ecology departments raised no objections subject to conditions, Poulshot Parish Council objected to the proposal.
  • Planning Officer Recommendation: Despite the objections, the planning officer's report recommended granting planning permission subject to conditions.
  • Key Issues: The committee was asked to consider the principle of the development, the use of agricultural land, cumulative impacts of solar developments, archaeological and heritage impact, landscape impact, neighbour amenity, highway safety, flood risk, and ecology.

The decision underscores the challenges of balancing renewable energy targets with the need to protect agricultural land, preserve landscapes, and address local concerns.

Council Approves Our Wiltshire Plan Amid Tourism and Investment Questions

Wiltshire Council convened to discuss and approve the Our Wiltshire Plan 2025-2035, a strategic document outlining the council's vision and priorities for the next decade. The meeting also addressed questions from members regarding tourism data, council investments in Israel, and other local issues.

  • Strategic Vision: The Our Wiltshire Plan sets out the council’s vision and priorities for the next decade. It is a key policy framework document that guides the council's decision-making and resource allocation.
  • Climate Emergency Update: The council received an update on its response to the climate emergency, including progress in reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable practices.
  • Tourism Data Discrepancy: Councillor Richard Clewer, Conservative Group Leader, questioned the accuracy of tourism data cited by the council, highlighting a discrepancy between figures from VisitEngland and the council's claims.
  • Investment Scrutiny: Councillor John Wells questioned Councillor Gavin Grant, Cabinet Member for Finance, about whether Wiltshire Council funds are invested in Israel, given the recent atrocities committed by Israeli forces in Gaza and the West Bank . Councillor Grant confirmed that none of the council's funds are directly invested in Israeli banks or organisations.
  • A361 Road Closure Diversion: Councillor Philip Whitehead questioned Councillor Ian Thorn and Councillor Martin Smith, Cabinet Member for Highways, Streetscene and Flooding, regarding the impact of a planned closure of the A361 on the village of Bishops Cannings.
  • Household Recycling Centre Access: Councillor Bridget Wayman questioned Councillor Paul Sample JP, Cabinet Member for Environment, Climate Change, and Waste, about Wiltshire residents potentially being charged for using the Shaftesbury Household Recycling Centre (HRC) in Dorset.
  • Potential Conflict of Interest: Councillor Sven Hocking questioned Councillor Ian Thorn about a potential conflict of interest, given that Councillor Thorn is the Chairman of The Community Communications Partnership (CCP), a consultancy organisation that helps developers overcome difficult planning applications.

The meeting highlighted the council's commitment to strategic planning and addressing key issues facing the county, while also underscoring the importance of transparency and accountability in its operations.

Council Faces Scrutiny Over Delayed Financial Statements

Wiltshire Council was called to consider a report regarding a statutory recommendation from its external auditors, Grant Thornton, due to delays in the production of the council's financial statements. The meeting focused on addressing the capacity and capability constraints that have hindered the timely publication of these crucial documents.

  • Auditor's Recommendation: Grant Thornton issued a statutory recommendation under Section 24 Schedule 7 of the Local Audit and Accountability Act 2014, urging the council to address capacity and capability constraints preventing timely financial statement publication.
  • Management Response: The council acknowledged the delays and recognized that its performance in meeting statutory deadlines was unacceptable.
  • Audit and Governance Committee Input: The Audit and Governance Committee requested regular progress reports and updates to be added to the management response, emphasizing the need for a detailed project plan to resolve the issues.
  • Council Approval: The council was asked to approve the response to the statutory recommendation from the external auditor, as outlined in the report.

The situation underscores the importance of sound financial management and the need for Wiltshire Council to address the issues hindering the timely production of its financial statements.

Other Matters

  • The Eastern Area Licensing Sub Committee was scheduled to convene to consider an application for a premises licence for Bromham Community Hub, and to elect a chair for the meeting. The meeting

Upcoming Meetings

Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below:

  • Tidworth Area Board - Monday 03 November 2025 - Discuss community safety, updates from partner organisations, and funding applications. Meeting Link
  • Calne Area Board - Tuesday 04 November 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
  • Northern Area Planning Committee - Wednesday 05 November 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
  • Officer Appointments Committee - Thursday 06 November 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
  • Local Pension Board - Thursday 06 November 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
  • Eastern Area Planning Committee - Thursday 06 November 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
  • Standards Assessment Sub-Committee - Thursday 06 November 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
  • Finance and Procurement Seelct Committee - Thursday 06 November 2025 - Details for this meeting are not yet available. Meeting Link
Corsham Area Board

Corsham Area Board - Thursday 4 December 2025 7.00 pm

The Corsham Area Board was scheduled to meet to discuss local priority updates, area board grant funding requests, and updates from partners and community representatives. The board was also due to receive updates on rights of way and the Local Highways and Footpath Improvement Group (LHFIG).

December 04, 2025
Standards Assessment Sub-Committee

Standards Assessment Sub-Committee - Thursday 4 December 2025 1.30 pm

The Standards Assessment Sub-Committee is scheduled to meet to review the minutes of their previous meeting and to consider two complaints regarding the conduct of councillors. During the meeting, the public may be excluded while the complaints are discussed, because the published agenda indicates that the discussion is likely to include exempt information.

December 04, 2025
Salisbury Area Board

Salisbury Area Board - Thursday 4 December 2025 6.00 pm

The Salisbury Area Board is scheduled to meet on Thursday 4 December 2025, at City Hall, Malthouse Lane, Salisbury. The agenda includes updates from partners such as the police and Salisbury City Council, funding applications, and discussions on local priorities and highway improvements. The board will also hear an introduction to Spurgeon's Family Hubs and receive an update on City Hall.

December 04, 2025
Eastern Area Planning Committee

Eastern Area Planning Committee - Thursday 4 December 2025 3.00 pm

We do not yet have a summary for this meeting. Since it is very recent, this may be because we have not yet processed it. Please check back later.

December 04, 2025
Westbury Area Board

Westbury Area Board - Wednesday 3 December 2025 7.00 pm

The Westbury Area Board is scheduled to meet to discuss community funding, updates from partners, and local highways improvements. The meeting will include a motion from Councillor Gordon King, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, regarding area board funding. Councillors will also receive updates from lead councillors on area board priorities.

December 03, 2025
Northern Area Planning Committee

Northern Area Planning Committee - Wednesday 3 December 2025 2.00 pm

The Northern Area Planning Committee is scheduled to meet to discuss planning appeals and updates, and to consider planning applications for a change of use at Oaksey Park Golf and Leisure and a permanent rural worker dwelling near East Kennett.

December 03, 2025
Committee

Devizes Area Board - Monday 1 December 2025 6.30 pm

The Devizes Area Board met to discuss community grants, updates from partner organisations such as Wiltshire Police and Age UK Wiltshire, and to review the area board's priorities. Councillors were also scheduled to hear a presentation on winter highway preparedness and to discuss the upcoming Wiltshire Youth Council elections.

December 01, 2025
Stonehenge Area Board

Stonehenge Area Board - Thursday 27 November 2025 6.30 pm

The Stonehenge Area Board were scheduled to meet on 27 November 2025 at Shrewton Village Hall. The agenda included updates on local priorities, consideration of funding applications, and a discussion of highway improvement projects. The board was also expected to note updates from partners such as Wiltshire Police and Age UK Wiltshire.

November 27, 2025
Health and Wellbeing Board

Health and Wellbeing Board - Thursday 27 November 2025 10.00 am

The Wiltshire Council Health and Wellbeing Board is scheduled to meet on Thursday, 27 November 2025, to discuss a range of topics including public participation, safeguarding, community safety, the Joint Strategic Needs Assessment, health protection, and the Better Care Fund.

November 27, 2025
Royal Wootton Bassett and Cricklade Area Board

Royal Wootton Bassett and Cricklade Area Board - Wednesday 26 November 2025 6.30 pm

The Royal Wootton Bassett and Cricklade Area Board were scheduled to meet to discuss highway improvements, funding applications, and updates from local partners such as Wiltshire Police and Age UK. Councillors were also expected to discuss the future of area boards in Wiltshire.

November 26, 2025
Licensing Committee CANCELLED

Licensing Committee - Monday 8 December 2025 10.30 am

December 08, 2025
Electoral Review Committee CANCELLED

Electoral Review Committee - Tuesday 9 December 2025 10.30 am

December 09, 2025
Malmesbury Area Board

Malmesbury Area Board - Tuesday 9 December 2025 7.00 pm

December 09, 2025
Cabinet

Cabinet - Tuesday 9 December 2025 10.00 am

December 09, 2025
Appeals Sub-Committee (School Transport)

School Transport Appeal - BF, Appeals Sub-Committee (School Transport) - Tuesday 9 December 2025 10.00 am

December 09, 2025
South West Wiltshire Area Board

South West Wiltshire Area Board - Wednesday 10 December 2025 6.30 pm

December 10, 2025
Southern Area Planning Committee

Southern Area Planning Committee - Thursday 11 December 2025 3.00 pm

December 11, 2025
Schools Forum

Schools Forum - Thursday 11 December 2025 1.30 pm

December 11, 2025
Warminster Area Board

Warminster Area Board - Thursday 11 December 2025 7.00 pm

December 11, 2025
Strategic Planning Committee

Strategic Planning Committee - Tuesday 16 December 2025 10.30 am

December 16, 2025