Stephen Newton

The Executive decided to note the content of the Optalis Ltd stakeholder update and ensure ongoing oversight by incorporating bi-annual reports into its regular reporting cycle. This decision was made on 25/06/2026.

The Executive decided to authorise the publication and consultation on a Draft Community Infrastructure Levy Charging Schedule. They also authorised the Director of Place and Growth, in consultation with the Executive Councillor for Housing, Partnerships and the Local Plan, to agree consultation documents, appoint an independent examiner, make necessary changes following consultation, and submit all documents for examination. This decision was made on 25/06/2026.

The Executive decided to approve the commencement of a new local plan and the publication of a notice of intention to commence by 30 June 2026. The Executive also approved the local plan timetable and delegated authority to the Executive Director of Place and Growth, in consultation with the Executive Councillor for Housing and Partnerships and the Local Plan, to update and publish the timetable, agree commencement of consultations, and approve submission documents for statutory gateways.

The Executive decided to approve the award of contracts and Service Level Agreements for six specialist SEND Resource Bases and SEND Units. This decision was made on 25/06/2026. The approved actions include awarding contracts to three academy trusts and Service Level Agreements to three maintained schools for a five-year period from September 2026 to August 2031.

The Executive decided to approve that Wokingham Council retains Shute End offices as its main headquarters for 10 years until 2036. The Council will manage the operation of the asset in line with the approved Medium Term Financial Plan. No further substantive feasibility work on the Future Headquarters project will be undertaken until directed by the Executive.

The Executive of Wokingham Council noted the content of the report and the continued collaboration between Optalis Ltd and Wokingham Borough Council to support residents. The Executive ensured ongoing oversight and transparency of Optalis Ltd by incorporating a bi-annual report into its regular reporting cycle on 25 June 2026. This included reviewing commissioned services, containing agency spend, using external consultants in nursing homes, appointing a Director of Nursing, adjusting rotas, and strengthening service management.