James Smith

...the Housing Revenue Account budget and housing public sector capital expenditure programme for 2026/27, including dwelling rent increases of 4.8%, garage rent increases of 4.8%, shared ownership rent increases in line with lease provisions, and a total capital programme of £31.550 million.

...approved the Medium Term Financial Plan and set the 2026/27 budget, including a 2.99% increase in Council Tax.

...the Lymington and Pennington Neighbourhood Plan was adopted, becoming part of the statutory Development Plan for New Forest District (Outside the National Park).

...approve the Q2 2025-2026 Corporate Plan Key Performance Data dashboard and consider any matters arising from the Overview and Scrutiny Panels.

...noted the Local Government Association's feedback report on the council's progress against the Corporate Peer Challenge recommendations and approved actions.