Agenda item

Councillor Learney provided an overview of the report as Chairperson of the Town Accounts Informal Group who had reviewed the medium-term financial position. Councillor Learney outlined that the report set out the financial position of the town account and provided an opportunity for discussion prior to recommending a final budget and precept for 2026/27 to Cabinet in January 2026.

In addition, it was highlighted that were further recommendations set out in the report, namely, to approve additional expenditure of £60,000 for emergency tree works in 2025/26 and an allocation of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) of £50,000 towards the extension of Chesil Theatre, which was fully supported by the forum and would provide an improved community facility for the town.

It was noted that due to the successful implementation of savings, the town account was in a better financial position than since previously considered. As such, the Town Account Informal Group had proposed several changes in respect of Grants and Vision Delivery, Public Conveniences and Tree Works, as set out in paragraph 11.10 (a) (b) and (c) of the report. With the amendments, the town account reserve balance was projected to fall below the recommended 15% of expenditure which would need to be considered in final budget recommendations.

The forum proceeded to ask questions and comment on the following matters which were responded to by Councillor Learney and the Finance Manager (Strategic Finance).

(a)           The possibility of further investment of reserves.

(b)           The review of fees and charges for cemeteries and open spaces, including adequate measures and charges for damages to open spaces, such as at River Park.

(c)           Winchester Speedwatch – previous support from the forum to fund equipment, the concerns of residents regarding speed limits and the need to raise speed awareness.

In addition, Councillor Batho raised a request for the forum to consider evaluating the capital revenue costs associated with the installation of speed indicator devices to be included in the financial budget for 2026/27. In response, this approach was welcomed and supported by forum members and Councillor Learney agreed to investigate this as part of the budget.

At the conclusion of debate, the forum supported that report and thanked officers and the Town Accounts Informal Group for a robust medium term financial position. Members were encouraged to bring forward any initiatives for consideration by the informal group in the setting of the budget.

RESOLVED:

1.       That the report be received and the budget issues identified be noted for consideration;

          2.       That the comments of the Forum be noted and reported back                    to Cabinet in relation to the wider budget consultation;

          3.       That the additional revenue expenditure of £60,000 for                        emergency tree works in 2025/25 funded by the town centre,                     be approved;

          4.       That the allocation of Town Community Infrastructure Levy                       contributions of £50,000 towards the extension of Chesil                        Theatre, be approved, subject to meeting the conditions and                              release of grant by 31/03/2027; and

          5.       That the provision of speed indicator devices be investigated             for potential inclusion in the town account budget, to be                               recommended to Cabinet in January.