The Cabinet - Shareholder Group of Wiltshire Council met on Tuesday 20 January 2026 to discuss the Stone Circle 2026/27 Business Plan and Financial Model. The group approved the business plan and financial model, subject to several conditions, including an external review of Stone Circle Housing Company's current model and advice on alternative models.

Stone Circle 2026/27 Business Plan and Financial Model

The meeting focused on the Stone Circle 2026/27 Business Plan and Financial Model, which was presented for consideration and approval. The Shareholder Group resolved to note the content of the report and approved the proposals within the business plan and financial model. However, this approval was made subject to several conditions.

Firstly, an external review of the Stone Circle Housing Company's current operational model is to be undertaken, with advice sought on other available models. The findings of this review are to be presented to the Shareholder Group at its next meeting in March 2026.

Secondly, a separate business plan is to be prepared specifically for the proposal to purchase 1 and 2-bedroom flats. This indicates a need for more detailed financial and strategic planning for this particular initiative.

Thirdly, the group agreed to proceed with decisions previously made at the December 2025 meeting concerning the Development Company.

Finally, the group also agreed to proceed with the decision made at the previous meeting regarding Stone Circle acquiring an established Registered Provider¹.

The Shareholder Group also delegated authority to the Director of Legal & Governance to implement and approve the proposals outlined in the Stone Circle 2026/27 Business Plan and Financial Model. Furthermore, the Corporate Director, Resources and S151 Officer was delegated authority to approve any purchases by Stone Circle Housing Company that fall outside the parameters of the business plan.

The reasons for these decisions were rooted in the Shareholder Agreement between the Council and its companies, which mandates that certain decisions and reserved matters must be taken by the Council in its capacity as shareholder. This agreement also requires the companies to present their proposed business plans to the Council for approval.