The Council of Rushmoor is scheduled to consider proposals for interim warding arrangements for the new North Hampshire Unitary Council and to appoint representatives to the North Hampshire Joint Committee. These discussions are part of the ongoing local government reorganisation in the region.

Local Government Reorganisation: Interim Warding Arrangements

A significant item on the agenda concerns the proposed interim warding arrangements for the new North Hampshire Unitary Council, which is set to replace Basingstoke & Deane, Hart, Rushmoor, and Hampshire councils. The report, introduced by Councillor Sarah Spall, Chair of the Licensing and Corporate Business Committee, outlines options for the new council's membership, with proposals for either 85 or 88 councillors. The council is invited to consider these options and submit a response to the Government.

The report details how these interim arrangements are intended to ensure that local communities are adequately represented in the election arrangements for the future unitary council. It explains that the Local Government Boundary Commission for England will conduct a full review for long-term warding arrangements for the 2032 election. However, interim arrangements are necessary for the upcoming shadow elections. The report highlights that the 88-councillor model is preferred due to a more even distribution of electors per councillor across the North Hampshire area. Several options for warding arrangements under both the 85 and 88-councillor models are presented, with the council being asked to indicate a preference. The report also notes that the final decision on these arrangements will be made by the Government when preparing the Structural Change Order.

Appointments to the North Hampshire Joint Committee

Another key item for discussion is the appointment of representatives to the North Hampshire Joint Committee. Councillor Gareth Williams, Leader of the Council, will introduce a report that seeks the council's approval to appoint two councillor representatives to this committee, with Councillor Keith Dibble nominated as their deputy. The North Hampshire Joint Committee is being established to help prepare for the new unitary council before shadow authority elections. Its responsibilities will include drafting governance arrangements such as a code of conduct and member allowances scheme, setting up an implementation team, and preparing a high-level implementation plan.

The report clarifies that the Joint Committee will not have the power to make decisions for the new councils but will play a crucial role in influencing their design and operation. The North Hampshire Joint Committee will comprise 12 councillors in total: six from Hampshire County Council and two each from Basingstoke and Deane, Hart, and Rushmoor. The council is being asked to approve participation in these voluntary Joint Committee arrangements before the Structural Changes Order receives final parliamentary approval. This proactive approach is intended to ensure Rushmoor has a voice in shaping the new authority and to facilitate a smooth transition.