The Tidworth Area Board met to appoint a chair and vice-chair, and to appoint a representative to the Local Highways and Footpath Improvement Group (LHFIG). Councillor Dave Lumsden was elected as Chairman, Councillor Christopher Williams as Vice-Chairman, and Councillor Keith Allen as the lead member for LHFIG for 2025/26.

Appointment of LHFIG Representative

Councillor Keith Allen was appointed as the Lead Member for the Tidworth LHFIG for 2025/26. Councillor Christopher Williams proposed the motion, which was seconded by Councillor Dave Lumsden.

The LHFIG operates as an informal working group that makes recommendations to the Area Board for approval, concerning local highways and footpaths. The terms of reference for the LHFIG are set out in the Public reports pack.

The LHFIG's terms of reference include:

• Small-scale transport schemes – discretionary funding
• Small scale transport schemes – substantive funding

The LHFIG can fund pedestrian and cycle improvements, bus infrastructure, traffic signage, new road markings, speed limits, waiting restrictions, footpath improvements, drainage and street lighting. It cannot fund routine maintenance, service subsidies, promotional campaigns, SID equipment¹ or improvements for individuals and properties.

Appointment of Chairman and Vice-Chairman

Councillor Dave Lumsden was elected as Chairman of the Tidworth Area Board for 2025/26. The Democratic Services Officer called for nominations, and Councillor Dave Lumsden nominated himself, with Councillor Keith Allen seconding the motion.

Councillor Christopher Williams was then elected as Vice Chairman of the Area Board, following a nomination by Councillor Dave Lumsden, which was seconded by Councillor Keith Allen.

The constitution states the procedure for electing the Chairman:

In the event of only one valid nomination being received the person presiding will declare the nominated Member elected.