The Growth, Environment & Transport Cabinet Committee of Kent County Council met on Tuesday 13 January 2026 to discuss a range of important issues. Key topics included the final draft budget for the upcoming financial year, updates on the Gravesend Tilbury Ferry service, and proposals for highway verge improvements to enhance biodiversity. The committee also reviewed the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy, considered the implementation of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework, and discussed the Infrastructure Funding Statement. Additionally, the meeting addressed highways enforcement policies, the A28 Sturry Link Road project, and the future of library provision in Folkestone town centre.

Final Draft Budget

The committee was scheduled to consider the final draft budget proposals for the council's Growth, Environment and Transport directorate. This report outlined key policy considerations within the draft revenue and capital budget proposals for 2026-27 and the Medium-Term Financial Plan for 2026-29. The budget strategy aims to ensure affordability, reflect strategic priorities, fulfil statutory responsibilities, and maintain financial resilience within resource constraints. The Growth, Environment and Transport (GET) directorate faced spending pressures of +£24.76 million, with proposals for savings and income amounting to -£6.38 million. A significant portion of the spending growth pressures, £15 million, was attributed to 'service strategies and improvements', indicating policy-led choices.

Gravesend Tilbury Ferry Petition Update

An update was scheduled regarding the Gravesend Tilbury Ferry service, which ceased operation in April 2024 due to Thurrock Council withdrawing its funding. Kent County Council (KCC) had received a petition with over 1,000 signatories requesting the service's reintroduction. The report was expected to outline the history of the service, the reasons for its cessation, and the ongoing study work led by the Thames Estuary Growth Board to assess the viability of reinstating the service. KCC was noted as being engaged with the board, which includes partners such as Thurrock Council, Gravesham Council, the Port of London Authority, the Port of Tilbury, and prospective ferry operators.

Highway Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was set to receive a report detailing the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road management. Two policies were proposed: a general enforcement policy and a specific policy for street works. These measures are intended to improve compliance, reduce disruption, and enhance safety on Kent's road network, with enforcement and prosecution considered last resorts.

A28 Sturry Link Road

An update was planned regarding the A28 Sturry Link Road scheme, a critical infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion at the Sturry level crossing and improve journey reliability. The scheme involves constructing a viaduct over the River Stour and the Ashford-Ramsgate railway. Funding for the project is secured through S106 agreements and government funding, but a gap remains. The council was in discussions with Homes England regarding the provision of Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land (BIL) funding to cover this gap and forward fund S106 contributions. The report was expected to seek approval to accept this funding and progress with construction.

Folkestone Library Long Term Location

The committee was to discuss the future of library and registration service provision in Folkestone town centre and the next steps for the 2 Grace Hill building. This paper followed a previous Cabinet Member decision in January 2025 and was expected to outline the current position regarding the Grace Hill building, temporary library provision at 14 Sandgate Road, review remaining options, and confirm next steps to ensure a sustainable service. The report was expected to recommend confirming 14 Sandgate Road as the location for the library and registration service for the foreseeable future and progressing with the open market disposal of the Grace Hill building.

Infrastructure Funding Statement (IFS)

The committee was to receive a summary of the 2024/2025 Infrastructure Funding Statement. KCC is statutorily required to publish this annual statement, which details financial and non-financial developer contributions related to Section 106 (s106) agreements, Section 278 (s278) of the Highways Act 1980, and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The statement was expected to provide a breakdown of secured, received, and spent contributions across various service areas, including education, highways, and adult social care, as well as CIL contributions from specific local planning authorities.

Highways Verge Improvements for Biodiversity

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's work to improve biodiversity within the highway network. The Soft Landscape Team within Highways and Transportation manages green assets along approximately 5,500 miles of road in Kent. While the primary aim of maintenance is highway safety, the scale of these assets offers significant opportunities for biodiversity improvements, aligning with Kent's Plan Bee, the Pollinator Action Plan, and the Environment Act 2021. The report was expected to outline the council's approach to managing biodiversity, including initiatives like Bee Roads and B-lines in partnership with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Buglife, as well as Roadside Nature Reserves (RNRs) managed in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust.

Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES) Amendments

An update paper was scheduled regarding the implementation plan for the Energy and Low Emissions Strategy (ELES). This strategy, developed in 2020 by partners across Kent and Medway, aims to drive a clean, resilient economy. The implementation plan, originally updated every three years, had been refined in February 2025 with a focus on deliverability, measurability, and relevance. Officers from across Kent's local authorities had worked to streamline the plan, reducing the number of actions from 79 to 24, ensuring a more focused approach to energy resilience, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation.

Kent and Medway Economic Framework - Ambition 1

The committee was to receive an overview of the progress in implementing Ambition 1 of the Kent and Medway Economic Framework (KMEF), titled Enable innovative, productive and creative businesses. This ambition focuses on developing an enhanced place-based innovation partnership, supporting businesses in productivity and innovation, attracting investors, and fostering conditions for growth. Key areas of discussion were expected to include the emerging Kent & Medway Innovation Partnership (KMIP) and its bid for the Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF), the Kent & Medway Growth Hub service, the transition of the inward investment service, the Kent & Medway Business Fund (KMBF), and the development of the Kent & Medway Local Growth Plan.

Highways Enforcement Policies

The committee was scheduled to consider and endorse proposed new enforcement policies for highways. These policies aim to allow Kent County Council (KCC) to enforce compliance when landowners or utility companies breach the law or disrupt road