Decisions

No decision yet; it comes back later.

The Planning Committee considered a proposal for a new dwelling with on-site parking, a drive and gardens, and a new entrance to the existing house, at 1 Ridgewood Gardens, Hastings (application HS/FA/25/00224). p5

Late objections included photographic and video evidence of a hole covered by slabs, which an objector said indicated a badger sett. p5

The council's Ecology Officer said further assessment, including a site visit, was needed before advising whether the development could affect badgers or their setts. p5

Officers said it would be premature to issue a planning decision until the new evidence had been assessed, as badgers and their setts are legally protected. p5

The committee deferred the application to a future date, by 6 votes to 2, pending further investigation by the Ecology Officer. p6

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• p521. 1 Ridgewood Gardens, Hastings (HS/FA/25/00224) Proposal New Dwelling with on-site parking / drive and gardens. New entrance to existing house. Application No. HS/FA/25/00224 Conservation Area No Listed Building No Public Consultation & Status Not delegated - 5 or more letters of objection received Will Larkin, Principal Planning Officer, presented the application for a new dwelling with on-site parking, drive and gardens together with a new entrance to the existing house. Since the publication of the report, late additional comments in objection had been received and circulated by email to Committee Members. Photographic and video evidence of a hole covered by slabs had been submitted by an objector which purported to indicate a badger sett. The report had originally concluded that the development would not harm badgers nor their setts, based on the ecological information available at the time. However, the recent photographs of an unidentified hole close to the site boundary had been seen by the Council's Ecology Officer who had advised that further assessment was required. The Ecology Officer stated that they needed time to: Review the new evidence. Carry out an additional site visit. Provide updated ecological advice on whether the development could affect badgers or their setts. As badgers and their setts were legally protected, Officers cautioned that it would be premature to issue a planning decision until the new information had been properly assessed. Officers were not yet able to advise on the timeline for the ecological assessment. Consequentially, Officers advised Members of two options: a) that the Committee could consider the application without the updated ecological assessment, subject to the final decision on the application being delegated to the Planning Services Manager, upon the receipt of the updated ecological assessment; or b) to defer consideration of the whole application to a future date.
• p6The Planning Services Manager reminded Members that the National Scheme of Delegation of Planning Functions would come into force on 31 October 2026 and would mean that applications of this type would then be determined by Officers. The Chair called upon the Committee to vote on the options before it and it was RESOLVED (by 6 votes in favour and 2 against): To DEFER the application to a future date pending further investigation by the Ecology Officer.

A decision has been taken, against.

The Licensing Sub Committee considered an application for a premises licence for Forever Food Mart, Unit 4 7-8 Harold Place, Hastings, submitted by V&K Private Limited. p6

The Committee concluded that the Applicant had not shown that granting the licence would avoid adding to cumulative impact in the area. p11

The Sub-Committee refused the application for a premises licence. p9

The Applicant has the right to appeal the decision to the Magistrates' Court within 21 days of receiving the written decision dated 12 August 2026. p12

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• p65. Application for a Premises Licence with representations for Forever Food Mart, Unit 4 7-8 Harold Place, Hastings. TN34 1JA Report of the Licensing Lead Stewart Bryant, Licensing Lead, introduced the report and outlined the application for a premises licence submitted by V&K Private Limited in respect of Forever Food Mart, 7-8 Howard Place, Hastings. The Sub-Committee was advised that a previous application for an off-sales premises licence at the premises had been refused in January 2026, with concerns raised regarding the applicant’s understanding of the locality, the Cumulative Impact Policy, and the potential impact on the licensing objectives. Members were informed that the current application represented a fresh application and should be determined on its own merits, having regard to the licensing history of the premises, the representations received from Sussex Police and the Licensing Authority, the Council’s policy framework, and the statutory licensing objectives. In response to a question Mr Bryant clarified that evidence regarding the reduction in public disorder following the surrender of the previous premises licence was contained within the Sussex Police representations. Statement from the Applicant Mr Thakkar, the Applicant, addressed the Sub-Committee in support of the application. The Applicant acknowledged the refusal of a previous application in January 2026 and advised that the concerns raised by the Sub-Committee and responsible authorities had been carefully considered. The Applicant outlined the measures introduced since that refusal, including enhanced management controls, staff training, CCTV monitoring, Challenge 25 procedures, incident and refusals registers, and a detailed local risk assessment tailored to the premises and its location within the Cumulative Impact Zone. The Applicant advised that alcohol sales would form a secondary element of the business and emphasised a commitment to responsible retailing.
• p9Sussex Police further highlighted concerns regarding the practical operation of the premises, including the potential for proxy purchasing, theft, refusals of sale and the likelihood of incidents requiring police intervention. In response to Members’ questions, Sussex Police provided further information regarding patterns of street drinking within the town centre, the challenges of enforcing alcohol-related offending, the impact on local residents and businesses, and the limitations of conditions in addressing the risks identified in this particular location. Sussex Police maintained its objection and invited the Sub-Committee to conclude that the Applicant had not rebutted the presumption arising from the Cumulative Impact Policy. The Chair invited those present to sum-up. The Applicant and Responsible Authority representatives added nothing further. The Licensing Lead reminded Members that any decision departing from policy would need to be properly justified. The Sub-Committee adjourned to deliberate at 12:17 and recovened at 13:02 when the Chair announced that: The Sub-Committee REFUSED the application for a Premises Licence. Reasons for the decision The principal issue before the Sub-Committee was whether the Applicant had demonstrated that the grant of a new premises licence for the sale of alcohol for consumption off the premises would not add to the cumulative impact already experienced within the Hastings Town Centre Cumulative Impact Zone ("CIZ") and would promote the licensing objectives. The premises is situated within the Council's designated Cumulative Impact Zone. Relevant representations were received from Sussex Police and the Licensing Authority. In those circumstances, the Council's Cumulative Impact Policy is engaged, and it is for the Applicant to demonstrate that the grant of the licence would not add to cumulative impact and would not undermine the licensing objectives.
• p11Whilst these measures were welcomed, they did not adequately address the fundamental concern identified by both Responsible Authorities and the previous Licensing Sub-Committee, namely the risk associated with the reintroduction of an off-sales alcohol outlet at this location. The Committee noted that the previous Licensing Sub-Committee expressly considered whether strengthened conditions, including restrictions on single-can sales, multipack sales and alcohol strength restrictions, could sufficiently mitigate the risks associated with the premises and concluded that they could not. Having carefully considered the evidence before it, the Committee reached the same conclusion. The Committee accepted that the Applicant was not responsible for the historic difficulties associated with the premises and that the premises is now under different ownership and management. However, the issue before the Committee was not responsibility for past events, but whether the grant of a new premises licence at this location would be likely to undermine the licensing objectives in the future. Having considered all the evidence, the Committee was not satisfied that the Applicant had demonstrated that the grant of the licence would not add to cumulative impact within the Cumulative Impact Zone. The Committee therefore concluded that the Applicant had failed to rebut the presumption arising from the Council's Cumulative Impact Policy. The Committee further concluded that there remained a real risk that the reintroduction of alcohol sales at this location would contribute to the return of alcohol-related anti-social behaviour, street drinking, crime and public nuisance. The Committee carefully considered whether the concerns identified could be adequately addressed through the imposition of conditions. However, for the reasons set out above, it was not satisfied that conditions would be effective to promote the licensing objectives in the circumstances of this case.
• p12Accordingly, the Committee concluded that refusal was the only appropriate and proportionate step available to promote the prevention of crime and disorder and prevention of public nuisance objectives. Human Rights and Equality Considerations The Committee recognised that refusal interferes with the Applicant's ability to operate the business as proposed and has considered the Applicant's rights under the Human Rights Act 1998. The Committee also had regard to its duties under the Equality Act 2010 and considered whether refusal would result in any disproportionate impact. Having balanced the Applicant's interests against the evidence-based risks identified by the Responsible Authorities and the need to promote the licensing objectives, the Committee was satisfied that refusal was a justified, appropriate and proportionate response. Right of Appeal The Applicant has the right to appeal this decision to the Magistrates' Court within 21 days of receipt of the written decision dated 12 August 2026.

The Lead Member for Economy, Councillor Pete Morley, took decisions at a remote meeting held via Microsoft Teams on 24 July 2026. p2

The stated reason was that the County Council has completed its second year as Accountable Body for these legacy capital programmes and the framework will continue to oversee the remaining projects to completion. p16

He also approved East Sussex County Council acting as delivery coordinator for the WorkWell programme in East Sussex until March 2029, working with Surrey County Council as accountable body, and delegated authority to the Director of Communities, Economy and Transport, in consultation with the Director of Adult Social Care and Health, to carry out the necessary actions. p17p20p21

According to the report, the WorkWell programme intends to allocate in the region of £1.87m to the East Sussex area over three years from April 2026, to help residents with physical and mental health needs stay in or move into work. p22

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• p2DECISIONS made by the Lead Member for Economy, Councillor Pete Morley, on 24 July 2026 at Remote Meeting via Microsoft Teams
• p16REASON 5.3 The County Council has completed its second year as the Accountable Body for the legacy capital programmes in East Sussex. The East Sussex Local Growth Assurance Framework (ESLGAF) has ensured associated responsibilities have been undertaken appropriately and will continue to oversee the remaining projects towards completion.
• p17</AI5> <AI6> 6. WorkWell programme coordination in partnership with Surrey County Council and Surrey and Sussex Integrated Care Board
• p201) approve East Sussex County Council’s role as the delivery coordinator for the WorkWell programme in East Sussex until March 2029 in partnership with Surrey County Council as the accountable body; and
• p212) delegate authority to the Director of Communities, Economy and Transport in consultation with the Director of Adult Social Care and Health, to take all actions necessary to give effect to the recommendations in the report.
• p22REASONS 6.3 The WorkWell programme intends to allocate in the region of £1.87m funding over a 3-year period from April 2026 to 2029 to the East Sussex area to support people to remain in or access employment. This presents a significant opportunity to work with the Surrey and Sussex Integrated Care Board to support residents with physical and mental health needs to access or maintain work. The WorkWell programme in East Sussex will support the priorities relating to reducing economic inactivity in the Get Sussex Working Plan and other strategies highlighted in paragraph 1.7 of the report.

Received for information; no decision followed.

The Standards Committee met on 22 July 2026. p1

No apologies for absence were received and no declarations of interest were made. p2p3

Coral Harding, Monitoring Officer, presented the Standards Committee's Annual Report for 2025/26, covering a period when a predecessor held the Monitoring Officer role. p5

The report said four Code of Conduct complaints had been received, mainly about member conduct during council meetings and on social media, and that none needed a formal hearing. p5

The committee noted the Annual Report. p5

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• p1Standards Committee — minutes of the meeting on 22/07/2026
• p21. Apologies for absence No apologies for absence had been received.
• p32. Declarations of Interest There were no declarations of interest.
• p54. Annual Report 2025/26 Coral Harding, Monitoring Officer, presented the Standards Committee Annual Report for 2025–26 and advised that the report largely related to the period where the Monitoring Officer role was held by a predecessor. A review of the complaints and outcomes had confirmed that the report accurately reflected the standards activity undertaken during the year. Thanks were expressed to the Council’s Independent Persons for their support, advice and assistance during the transition period; and to those Deputy Monitoring Officers who had contributed to the administration of the standards framework, including the newly appointed Chief Legal Officer. The report noted that four Code of Conduct complaints had been received, mainly relating to conduct during council meetings and social media activity. None of the complaints required formal hearings, with matters having been resolved through informal advice, guidance, informal resolution measures, or closure with no further action. The Standards Committee had also reviewed and updated the Member Code of Conduct during the year, based on the Local Government Association model, for which training materials remained available to members, with further training to be provided as required. The report concluded that the Council’s standards framework had operated effectively, with complaints handled proportionately while continuing to promote high standards of conduct. In response to Councillor Bates’ request for clarification around those complaints relating to Members’ language during meetings, the Monitoring Officer advised that complaints about language had not related to hate speech or protected characteristics, but rather to concerns that debate had become personal rather than focused on the matters that were being discussed. RESOLVED (unanimously): That the Annual Report be noted.

Cabinet resolved to agree the Council's 2026/27 Internal Audit Strategy and Annual Audit Plan. p17p18p19

Cabinet resolved to approve the content of the External Audit Plan for 2025/26. p21p22p23

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• p17</AI5> <AI6> 13. 2026/27 Internal Audit Strategy and Annual Audit Plan
• p1813.1 The Cabinet considered a report by the Chief Operating Officer.
• p1913.2 It was RESOLVED to agree the Council’s 2026/27 Internal Audit Strategy and Annual Audit Plan.
• p21</AI6> <AI7> 14. External Audit Plan 2025/26
• p2214.1 The Cabinet considered a report by the Chief Finance Officer.
• p2314.2 It was RESOLVED to approve the content of the External Audit Plan for 2025/26.

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee resolved unanimously to establish a twinning and international friendship links sub-committee, to be chaired by Councillor Ross, following a motion agreed by Full Council on 15 July. p6

The Committee also approved its 2026/27 work programme, focused on three review themes: the Four Courts redevelopment and social housing impact, youth opportunity and post-4pm provision, and anti-poverty strategy and regeneration outcomes. p5p6

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• p510. Overview and Scrutiny Work Programme Coral Harding, Monitoring Officer, introduced the proposed Overview and Scrutiny Work Programme for 2026/27 for approval. During work programme planning, Members had identified a wide range of possible scrutiny topics. Members’ experience had shown that the Committee should focus on a smaller number of areas where scrutiny could have the greatest impact and add the most value. The proposed programme focused on three main review themes: I) the Four Courts redevelopment and social housing impact, including resident experience, rehousing arrangements, housing supply, Southern Housing plans, sustainability and climate resilience. II) Youth opportunity, play and post-4pm provision, including youth services, activities outside school hours, skills and employment opportunities, community facilities and green spaces; and III) Anti-poverty strategy and regeneration outcomes, including employment and skills opportunities, partnership working, regeneration investment and support for disadvantaged communities. In addition to the review themes, the work programme included housing and homelessness updates at each formal meeting, local government reorganisation briefings, Budget scrutiny and an annual climate emergency progress update. Cllr Drew sought clarification regarding the reference to rehousing arrangements within the Four Courts review. Members agreed that the wording should clearly reflect the movement of residents from existing properties and the support provided throughout that process. It was acknowledged that resident experiences varied, with some welcoming the opportunity to move and others finding the process more challenging. Members welcomed the structured programme and considered it a more realistic workload than previous years.
• p6Consideration was given to the need for flexibility should emerging issues arise, and it was noted that additional meetings, briefing notes and informal evidence gathering sessions could be used where necessary. Further discussion focused on the practical operation of scrutiny reviews, including the use of evidence sessions, background information, stakeholder engagement and the preparation of questions. Members were advised that scoping sessions would determine the focus of each review, identify witnesses and shape the evidence-gathering process. It was also confirmed that reviews could request further information or invite organisations to return if additional matters required examination. Attention was drawn to the motion agreed by Full Council on 15 July regarding a review of twinning and international friendship links, which the Committee were invited to consider for inclusion within the work programme. Councillor Smith cautioned that the review should align with the Motion in full and not narrow its focus to one friendship link. The Committee agreed that the matter should be incorporated into the work programme as a sub-committee review to be chaired by Councillor Ross. The following Members expressed their interest in forming the sub-committee: Cllr Ross (Chair) Cllr Drew Cllr Lauchlan Cllr Rumfitt Cllr Simnett Cllr Smith The sub-committee would report back to the Overview and Scrutiny Committee in December to satisfy the deadline set out in the Motion for a report to be received by Full Council in January 2027. RESOLVED unanimously to : 1. Establish a twinning and international friendship links sub-committee to be chaired by Councillor Ross. 2. Agree that the terms of reference for the sub-committee be the referred Motion from Full Council on 15 July; and that the sub-committee would conclude its work and report back to the Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting of 2 December 2026. 3. Approve the 2026/27 Work Programme attached at Appendix A. 4.

The Lead Member for Transport and Environment resolved to advise the Amberstone pedestrian crossing petitioners that their scheme has not met the benchmark score for inclusion in the Capital Programme, and that the Transport Development Planning Team will pursue Community Infrastructure Levy funding from Wealden District Council to deliver a solution at the location. p13p14

The Lead Member resolved to advise petitioners that they may wish to consider setting up a Community Speedwatch Group for the area. p15

The Lead Member resolved to approve that the Council commences public consultation on the draft East Sussex Local Flood Risk Management Strategy 2027-2037. p21

The Lead Member resolved to agree the Policy for Enforcement and Prosecutions of Highway and Street Works Activities in principle and delegate authority to the Director of Communities, Economy and Transport to determine the final version. p27

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• p13(1) a potential scheme to install a new pedestrian crossing and traffic calming on A271 Amberstone, Hailsham has been assessed through the approved Local Transport Plan 4 prioritisation process but has not met the benchmark score to be considered for detailed appraisal and possible inclusion for funding within the Capital Programme;
• p14(2) East Sussex County Council’s Transport Development Planning Team will pursue Community Infrastructure Levy funding from Wealden District Council as a mechanism to deliver an appropriate solution at this location; and
• p15(3) petitioners may wish to consider setting up a Community Speedwatch Group for the area to carry out occasional speed checks.
• p21DECISIONS 6.2 The Lead Member RESOLVED to approve that the Council commences public consultation on the draft East Sussex Local Flood Risk Management Strategy 2027 – 2037.
• p27DECISIONS 7.2 The Lead Member RESOLVED to agree the policy in principle and delegate authority to Director of Communities, Economy and Transport to determine the final version of the policy following further review and securing more than partial assurance.

Received for information; no decision followed.

NHS Surrey and Sussex, formed by the completed merger of NHS Surrey Heartlands and NHS Sussex in April 2026, updated the Committee on service changes, including a temporary change to maternity services at Crowborough and a planned review of maternity services across its area. p24p25p31

Reports on audiology, the Uckfield Day Surgery Unit and Non-Emergency Patient Transport Services are due to come to the Committee's meeting on 17 September 2026. p37

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• p24</AI5> <AI6> 6. NHS Surrey and Sussex update 6.1 Ashley Scarff provided an update from NHS Surrey and Sussex regarding national and local changes to the NHS, including some service changes. This included the following updates:
• p25· The merging of NHS Surrey Heartlands and NHS Sussex into NHS Surrey and Sussex had been completed as of April 2026, involving a staged process of redundancies to reduce staffing costs in line with national requirements;
• p31· There were temporary changes to the provision of maternity services at Crowborough, and the ICB would be undertaking a review of maternity services across its footprint in Surrey and Sussex; and
• p371) Receive reports on audiology, Uckfield Day Surgery Unit, and Non-Emergency Patient Transport Services (NEPTS) to its meeting on 17 September 2026;

The Committee also granted listed building consent for related works to the Grade II listed West Hill Lift, including a new lift from the upper terminus to the cafe, subject to conditions in the Officer's report. p7

The Committee refused an application at 65 Queens Road for change of use of the ground floor from Class E retail to mixed use restaurant and hot food takeaway, and the first floor from retail to a studio flat, for reasons including highway safety and parking, noise and odour, refuse storage, and impact on neighbouring residents set out in the Officer's report. p8p9

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• p715a West Hill Cafe, Castle Hill Road (HS/LB/26/00127) Proposal Demolition of the existing café and toilets and redevelopment to form a single storey visitor centre with café, restaurant and bar, takeaway, gallery/interpretation zones, retail and re-provision of toilets on the site of the existing West Hill Café. Creation of a new pathway/boardwalk and installation of external lighting on pathways, wayfinding and signage. Installation of air source heat pumps and solar panels and associated landscaping improvements. Application No. HS/LB/26/00127 Conservation Area Yes – Old Town Listed Building Grade II Public Consultation & Status 3 letters of objection Council application on Council owned land. Will Larkin, Principal Planning Officer, presented the application for listed building consent for works associated with the Grade II listed West Hill Lift. Since the publication of the report there had been one update - drawing numbers 355 and 356 had been removed as they were surplus to requirements. In response to a question from Councillor Simnett regarding the new lift at the upper terminus, the Principal Planning Officer clarified that new lift would be constructed from the arrival platform at the upper terminus to allow less able-bodied persons to more easily access the café without having to use the stairs. It would intersect with the proposed building at ground level. The installation of the lift would require a localised opening through an existing wall into the new lift shaft. There being no debate, approval of the application in accordance with the Officer’s recommendation was proposed by Councillor Simnett and duly seconded by Councillor Rumfitt. The Chair called upon the Committee to vote and it was RESOLVED (unanimously): To GRANT Listed Building Consent subject to the conditions set out in the Officer’s report.
• p815b 65 Queens Road (HS/FA/26/00119) Proposal Proposed change of use of ground floor from Class E (retail) to mixed use Class E (restaurant) and Sui Generis (hot food takeaway) with alterations to the shopfront. Change of use of first floor from Class E (retail) to studio flat (Class C3) . First floor rear extension. Installation of extraction vent to rear elevation. Use of roof of ground floor rear extension as courtyard including siting of refuse storage. Installation of two rooflights (amended description) Application No. HS/FA/26/00119 Conservation Area No Listed Building No Public Consultation & Status 5 or more letters of objection received, 5 or more letters of support received Zoe Taylor, Senior Planning Officer, presented the application for a change of use of the ground floor of 65 Queens Road from Class E (retail) to mixed use Sui Generis (hot food takeaway) and Class E (restaurant), and a change of use of the first floor from Class E (retail) to a studio flat (Class C3 residential). Faseeh Ullah (Petitioner and proposed operator of the business) spoke in support of the application together with Laurence Walker (the Applicant’s Agent). Members asked questions of the Petitioner, the Applicant and Officers regarding parking and highway safety, late-night opening hours, public health concerns, refuse storage, residential amenity impacts, the extraction flue and associated noise. Speakers and Officers provided clarifications in response, and Officers re-emphasised their reasons for refusal as stated in the report. Members debated the proposal. Councillors Rumfitt, Simnett, Lawrence and Lauchlan acknowledged that the application proposed to bring a vacant property back into use. However, Officer’s concerns regarding highway safety and parking, noise and odour from the extraction flue, refuse storage arrangements, the potential impact on neighbouring residents together with the constrained layout of the proposed studio, were persuasive reasons for refusal.
• p9With refusal of the application in accordance with the Officer’s recommendation having been proposed by Councillor Simnett, seconded by Councillor Lawrence, the Chair called upon the Committee to vote and it was RESOLVED (unanimously): To REFUSE the application for the reasons set out in the Officer’s report.

These are the minutes of the Audit Committee meeting held on 2 July 2026. p1

The Committee approved the 2025/26 Annual Governance Statement for publication alongside the Statement of Accounts. p6

The Committee noted the Chair's report on the Committee's effectiveness during 2025/26. p5

The Committee noted the Grant Thornton External Audit Plan for 2025/26, which set a proposed audit fee of £173,397. p7

The Committee noted progress on external audit recommendations, including that 42% of actions had been completed and 58% were in progress when the report was prepared. p8

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• p1Audit Committee — minutes of the meeting on 02/07/2026
• p513. Audit Committee Chair&#39;s Report The Chair guided the Committee’s reflection on its effectiveness during 2025/26, particularly in relation to Hastings Housing Company and associated areas of risk. The Chair cautioned that quorate meetings had proven challenging, resulting in some meetings having to be postponed. Members were reminded of the importance of attendance and of arranging substitutes where necessary. Cllr Webb commented that the Committee’s role in senior officer performance management had not been fully discharged in recent years and consequently the Committee discussed the need to review its Terms of Reference, which were not fully aligned with current CIPFA guidance. RESOLVED unanimously: That the report be noted.
• p614. Annual Governance Statement Coral Harding, Interim Monitoring Officer, presented the report. Members were advised that the Annual Governance Statement (AGS) would be a living governance improvement framework rather than a one-off compliance document. Six key improvement priorities were identified: financial resilience and transformation, strategic risk management, governance documentation and policy ownership, internal control weaknesses, senior officer performance management, and procurement and contract management. Strategic Risk and Corporate Assurance activities would continue to drive the Audit Committee work programme , supported by quarterly governance reviews and regular monitoring. Members welcomed that there would be improved risk reporting to Cabinet. Discussion ensued regarding the implementation of high-priority actions. Officers reported that greater organisational engagement and quarterly monitoring would improve delivery of agreed actions. In response to questions regarding reserve levels and the use of reserves, the Deputy Chief Finance Officer advised that improved financial management would focus on expenditure within approved budgets, therefore reducing reliance on reserves and instead creating opportunities to strengthen reserves through efficiencies and underspends. RESOLVED unanimously: That the Audit Committee approve the 2025/26 Annual Governance Statement for publication alongside the Statement of Accounts. Reason: To meet the Council’s legal requirement to undertake an annual review of the effectiveness of its system of internal control and publish an Annual Governance Statement, and to support continuous improvement in the Council’s governance and assurance framework.
• p715. Grant Thornton External Audit Plan - 2025/26 The Deputy Chief Finance Officer introduced the report together with Oliver Moore of Grant Thornton who presented the External Audit Plan. The proposed audit fee for 2025/26 would be £173,397, a reduction on the 2024/25 fee of £184,656. Members were advised that external audit would focus on accounting estimates, financial controls, asset and pension valuations, value for money arrangements and reporting requirements associated with Hastings Housing Company. It was confirmed that fieldwork would commence in July and conclude during November 2026, with findings scheduled to be reported to the Committee in December. Cllr Webb set out his concerns relating to Hastings Housing Company, which included the recovery of historic loans, property valuations and governance arrangements. The Deputy Chief Finance Officer responded that discussions remained ongoing regarding legal matters associated with the company, which had ceased trading, and confirmed that property assets had been brought back in-house. Members continued to express concern about valuation processes, lease information provided to valuers, and the Council’s reported status (p47) as an unsecured creditor. The Deputy Chief Finance Officer advised that significant improvements had been made to the management of the asset register and engagement with valuers; and undertook to provide further clarification to the Committee regarding the loan arrangement the Council had with HHC. RESOLVED unanimously: That the Grant Thornton External Audit Plan 2025/26 for the Council be noted. Reason: To advise the Committee of the External Audit annual plan for the Council for the audit of the 2025/26 Statement of Accounts and advise on emerging national issues and developments that may be relevant to the Council.
• p816. External Audit Recommendations Progress update The Deputy Chief Finance Officer presented the update and reported significant progress in implementing audit recommendations. Members were advised that 42% of actions had been completed and 58% were in progress when the report was prepared, with additional actions completed subsequently. The Committee was informed that the Council had met the statutory deadline for publication of the unaudited 2025/26 Statement of Accounts, representing a significant improvement from previous years. Progress had been made in strengthening financial governance, internal controls, valuation processes, audit readiness and staff training. Members discussed recruitment challenges arising from Local Government Reorganisation and the wider shortage of qualified technical accountancy staff. Officers advised that apprenticeships, professional development and cross-authority collaboration were being used to address capacity issues. The Deputy Chief Finance Officer cautioned that, notwithstanding the progress made, the 2025/26 accounts were still expected to receive a disclaimed audit opinion because external auditors could not yet place reliance on opening balances affected by historic disclaimed accounts. Oliver Moore advised that this was an issue affecting many authorities and that work was underway to develop a sector-wide approach to rebuilding assurance. RESOLVED unanimously: To note the progress against the management actions to address the audit recommendations. Reason: To give assurance to the Committee that the external audit recommendations are being actively implemented and to give the Committee an opportunity to review any areas of concern.

The Employment Committee resolved that the interim Chief Legal Officer and Monitoring Officer arrangements have operated effectively. p4p5

It recommended to Full Council that Kate Slattery be appointed as Chief Legal Officer and Coral Harding be appointed as Monitoring Officer, both on a permanent basis from 15 July 2026. p5

The committee also resolved that the interim Chief Executive and Head of Paid Service arrangements have operated successfully. p6

It recommended to Full Council that Rob Cottrill be appointed permanently as Chief Executive and Head of Paid Service from 15 July 2026, continuing as a post shared with Eastbourne Borough Council and Lewes District Council. p6p7

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• p44. Permanent Chief Legal Officer and Monitoring Officer Arrangements Victoria Conheady, Deputy Chief Executive introduced the item and outlined its purpose, which was to review the interim Chief Legal Officer and Monitoring Officer arrangements and to recommend that they are made permanent from 15 July 2026. The interim arrangements have now been reviewed and are considered to have operated effectively. They have provided stability during a period of organisational change, maintained access to senior legal advice, and ensured that the statutory Monitoring Officer function has continued to be properly discharged. The separation of the Chief Legal Officer and Monitoring Officer roles has also provided clearer accountability between legal service leadership and independent statutory governance responsibilities. No operational, legal or governance concerns have been identified, and it is considered that the current arrangements remain appropriate and provide the Council with the necessary legal and governance capacity. The proposed permanent arrangements will ensure continued legal leadership, statutory compliance, governance oversight and organisational stability. The committee discussed how effective the interim arrangements have been from their perspective. There was agreement that the interim Monitoring Officer has been undertaking the role exceptionally well and has remained responsive to Councillors' needs despite the additional responsibilities and challenges arising from the interim appointment. Concerns, however, were expressed about the existing workload within the Democratic Services team and the continuing need to support the various strands of work, including the Overview and Scrutiny work programme. Although team members have performed well and meetings would have not been managed properly without their support, there is still a need to increase staffing levels, and team members should be upskilled in readiness for Local Government Reorganisation.
• p5The committee was assured that senior officers are working together to ensure issues are addressed and a recent full-time appointment to the team has been confirmed which has helped immensely. With regards to staffing levels in the Legal team, the committee was assured that it is intended to recruit more staff and the business case for this is currently being considered. RESOLVED (unanimously)- 1. That Employment Committeenotes thatthe interimChief LegalOfficer andMonitoring Officer arrangements have operated effectively since their introduction. 2. That Employment Committee recommends to Full Council on 15 July 2026 that Kate Slatterybe appointedas theCouncil’s ChiefLegal Officeron apermanent basiswith effect from 15 July 2026 (shared with Eastbourne and Lewes Councils). 3. That Employment Committee recommends to Full Council on 15 July 2026 that Coral Hardingbe appointedas theCouncil’s MonitoringOfficer ona permanentbasis witheffect from 15 July 2026. 4. That any necessaryamendments tothe Council’sConstitution areprogressed through theappropriate governanceprocess toreflect thepermanent arrangementsand clearly set out the distinct roles and responsibilities of the Chief Legal Officer and Monitoring Officer. Reasons for Recommendations 1. The arrangementshave workedwell sincetheir introductionand haveprovided continuityof senior legal leadership and the Council’s statutory Monitoring Officer function. 2. The separationof theChief LegalOfficer andMonitoring Officerresponsibilities hasprovided clarity around the respective roles and has supported effective legal and governance arrangements. 3. Making thearrangements permanentwill providecontinued stabilityand ensurethat theCouncil retains access to the necessary senior legal advice, leadership and statutory governance support. 4. No operationalor governanceconcerns havebeen identifiedthat wouldindicate aneed to change the current arrangements.
• p65. Permanent Chief Executive and Head of Paid Service Arrangements Verna Connolly, Head of People and Business Support introduced the item and outlined its purpose, which was to review the current interim Chief Executive and Head of Paid Service arrangements, and recommend that they are made permanent from 15 July 2026. The council has worked well under the interim Chief Executive’s direction since his appointment in November 2024, under the existing shared arrangement with Eastbourne and Lewes Councils. There have been continuous performance reviews during this period, which have all been positive. The committee discussed the benefits of the permanent appointment, including providing the council with the stability and continuous leadership required moving into Local Government Reorganisation. The council is already benefitting from the shared service approach and it would be difficult to recruit someone with the right skillset at this stage. One concern that was raised was related to workload and burnout due to the demands of working across the three councils. It was explained that HR would monitor the situation on an ongoing basis and ensure the appropriate support is in place to prevent burnout from happening. In addition, the council is fortunate to have a Deputy Chief Executive who is doing an excellent job in supporting the Chief Executive. It was clarified that this will be a permanent contract for the duration of Hastings Borough Council’s existence. RESOLVED (unanimously)- 1. That Employment Committeenotes thesuccessful operationof theinterim Chief Executive and Head of Paid Service arrangements. 2. That Employment Committee recommends to Full Council on 15 July 2026 that Rob Cottrillbe appointedpermanently asHastings BoroughCouncil’s ChiefExecutive and Head of Paid Service with effect from 15 July 2026. 3. That the permanentappointment continuesto operateas ashared ChiefExecutive arrangement with Eastbourne Borough Council and Lewes District Council. 4.
• p7That delegated authorityis givento theLeader ofthe Counciland theHead ofPeople and Business Support, in consultation with the relevant officers at Eastbourne Borough Council and Lewes District Council, to agree and finalise any necessary contractual and administrative arrangements. 5. That the ChiefExecutive’s performancecontinues tobe reviewedthrough regular meetings with the Leader of the Council Reasons for Recommendations 1. The sharedChief Executivearrangement hasworked welland hasprovided theCouncil with effective and experienced senior leadership. 2. Rob Cottrillhas providedstability andcontinuity duringa periodof significantorganisational change, including Local Government Reorganisation, devolution and the development of shared service arrangements. 3. The arrangementhas strengthenedcollaboration betweenHastings, Eastbourneand Lewes Councilswhile ensuringthat Hastingscontinues toretain itsown politicaland organisational identity and priorities. 4. Appointing theChief Executivepermanently willprovide greatercertainty andstability for councillors, employees, partners and the Council’s wider stakeholders. 5. The sharedarrangement providesthe Councilwith accessto anexperienced ChiefExecutive while sharing the associated costs between the three authorities. The currentarrangements havebeen reviewedand nooperational orgovernance concerns have been identified that would support changing the existing model.

Cabinet resolved to note the latest monitoring position for the Council set out in the Council Monitoring Report for end of year 2025/26. p11p12p13

Cabinet resolved to note the evidence base on demographics, the national and local policy outlook, and the current financial outlook set out in the State of the County report, and agreed to consider a further report in September to review current priority outcomes and begin planning for 2027/28. p15p16p17p18p19p20

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• p11</AI4> <AI5> 5. Council Monitoring Report - end of year 2025/26
• p125.1 The Cabinet considered a report by the Chief Executive.
• p135.2 It was RESOLVED to note the latest monitoring position for the Council.
• p15</AI5> <AI6> 6. Reconciling Policy, Performance and Resources (RPPR) - State of the County
• p166.1 The Cabinet considered a report by the Chief Executive.
• p176.2 It was RESOLVED to: 1) Note the evidence base on demographics (Appendix 1 of the report);
• p182) Note the national and local policy outlook (Appendix 2 of the report);
• p193) Note the current financial outlook as set out in paragraph 5 of the report; and
• p204) Agree to consider a further report in September to review current priority outcomes, explore ideas and begin more detailed planning for 2027/28.