The Renewal, Recreation and Housing Information Briefing was scheduled to cover updates on the Digital Infrastructure Work Plan, the performance of the library service contract, and progress on the Armed Forces Covenant. The meeting was intended to provide information only, with discussions to be held only if a member requested it.

Digital Infrastructure Work Plan Update

The meeting was scheduled to receive an update on the Digital Infrastructure Work Plan (DIWP), which was adopted by the Council in February 2021. The report was intended to outline progress in improving digital connectivity across the borough, including the rollout of gigabit-capable broadband and 4G/5G mobile networks.

Key points scheduled for discussion included:

• National Connectivity Targets: The report was expected to reference national targets for gigabit connectivity, aiming for 99% nationwide coverage by 2032, and 4G mobile connectivity of 95% of all areas by the end of 2025. It was also to note the target for standalone 5G to be available in all populated areas by 2030.
• Full-Fibre Broadband: The update was to highlight improvements in full-fibre broadband coverage in Bromley, which stood at 74% compared to the London average of 80%. This improvement was attributed to the increased pace of Openreach's commercial rollout programme. The report was also to mention the Council's Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Openreach, established in 2021 to facilitate their rollout.
• 4G/5G Mobile Networks: The report was to cover the deployment of small cells on lamp columns, which had generated income for the Council and supported increased network coverage. It was also to discuss the proposed replacement of some BT telephone kiosks with new digital BT Street Hubs, which offer benefits such as free Wi-Fi, charging points, and digital information screens. Discussions were also scheduled regarding macro cells on masts and towers, with a meeting with Cornerstone to address gaps in local 4G/5G mobile connectivity following the 3G shutdown.

Provision of Library Service: Contract Performance Report

The meeting was scheduled to receive a report on the performance of the library service contract, managed by Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL). The report was to cover the period up to April 2026 and analyse key performance indicators (KPIs) since the last report in November 2025.

Key aspects of the library service performance scheduled for discussion included:

• Contract Overview: The contract, valued at over £43 million over ten years, commenced in November 2017, with an option for a five-year extension. GLL manages frontline operational and virtual library services, strategic management, community support centres, Bromley Historic Collections, and facilities management.
• Service Performance: The report was to detail performance against 30 bespoke KPIs, with financial penalties for breaches. It was to note six incidents of KPI failure between July and December 2025, including issues with ICT facilities due to a leaking ceiling, late openings due to faulty locks, and unexpected staff absence. No penalties were applied as GLL was deemed to have acted appropriately and reported issues promptly.
• Issues and Visits: An increase in monthly issues of library items was noted, with a 7.8% rise compared to the previous year and a 30% increase compared to pre-COVID levels. Visits to libraries also saw a notable increase of 22% compared to the previous year.
• Digital Issues: The popularity of digital items, such as eBooks and eAudiobooks, continued to grow, with the digital library accounting for 25.6% of all issues.
• Activities and Events: Over 2,100 activities were run between July and December 2025 for children, adults, and families, with over 44,800 attendees.
• Bromley Historic Collections: The report was to update on the management and display of museum, archives, and local studies collections, including their involvement in library refurbishment projects and the relocation of collections to a new storage facility.
• Plans for Improvement: The report was to outline ongoing plans for improvement, including initiatives to reduce loneliness and isolation, enhance digital inclusion, and improve value for money through building improvements and the library repair programme. The relocation of Bromley Central Library and the development of a new historic collection store were also to be discussed.

Armed Forces Covenant - Progress Update

The meeting was scheduled to receive an update on the progress of work related to the Armed Forces Covenant (AFC), which was renewed in June 2023. The report was to summarise ongoing efforts to support Bromley's Armed Forces Community.

Key areas of focus for the update included:

• Covenant Commitments: The report was to detail seven commitments made by the Council, including demonstrating an Armed Forces-friendly organisation, strengthening links with the community, supporting employment for veterans and service leavers, supporting families, supporting reservists, ensuring housing support for those with urgent needs, and remembering sacrifices.
• Armed Forces Footprint in Bromley: The report was to present data on the veteran population in Bromley, noting that it has the highest percentage of military veterans in London. It was to highlight the establishment of a community hub for veterans by Bromley FC Community Trust and efforts to encourage local businesses and organisations to sign the AFC.
• Employment Support: The 'Connect to Work' programme, funded by the Department for Work and Pensions, was to be mentioned as a new employment service supporting residents with complex barriers, including former members of HM Armed Forces.
• Community Development: Initiatives such as veterans connecting with park Friends Groups, a local care home achieving Veteran Friendly Framework status, and support for cadet groups were to be discussed.
• Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (MOD ERS): The report was to highlight Bromley Council's achievement of the MOD ERS Silver Award in July 2025 and its application for the Gold Award. This recognition acknowledges the Council's work in delivering the priorities of the Armed Forces Covenant.
• Next Steps: The report was to outline future plans, including continuing to fulfil the Council's obligations to the Armed Forces Community, working towards the Gold Award, raising awareness of the AFC, and securing funding for veteran-specific activities.