Agenda item

To consider the Environment & Economy Select Committee’s Work Programme for 2025-26.

The Committee reviewed the draft Work Programme for the 2025–26 municipal year. It was noted that a key area of focus, raised by members in the previous year, would be waste and recycling, particularly in relation to flat blocks. The programme included a proposed site visit scheduled for 21 July, intended to compare a high-performing block with one facing recycling challenges. Members agreed to proceed with this approach.

In response to a query about the inclusion of private blocks, Officers confirmed that the review would initially focus on council-owned blocks, over which the Council had operational control. However, efforts would be made to engage with private landlords and managing agents to promote best practice. It was noted that once improvements were successfully implemented in council blocks, these could be used to influence expectations across the private sector.

The Committee discussed the rationale for focusing on flats separately from houses, with Officers explaining that many blocks lacked lift access, creating logistical challenges for residents in handling bins. A prototype three-wheeled bin, developed in-house, was being trialled to address those issues and it was hoped that in due course this would be demonstrated to Members.

A Member raised the point that waste and recycling systems should be consistent across the borough regardless of tenure, especially given the prospect of Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) and the potential for a unitary authority in the future. This could lead to a more standardised approach to waste collection across a wider area.

It was emphasised by several Members that the Committee’s work should prioritise waste reduction, not solely increasing recycling rates. Officers agreed, noting that this linked directly to the Council’s broader work on tackling the climate emergency, and that waste management was a key contributor to carbon emissions.

The Committee endorsed waste and recycling as a major theme for the year. It was noted that related work on the Climate Emergency would be reviewed at meetings in November and March, with officer presentations planned.

Another area of focus would be fly-tipping, which members agreed was an ongoing concern. Officers confirmed that relevant Portfolio Holders and Officers would attend to support this work. A member emphasised the need for stronger enforcement as a core component in addressing the issue effectively. This was acknowledged and supported by the Chair.

The committee discussed plans to scrutinise active travel and transport accessibility later in the year, with a focus on Beryl bike usage, disability access, and transport hubs. Comments were made about diluting the topic by adding unrelated issues like car parking, though it was agreed that parking data was relevant to understanding transport behaviours. Members emphasised the need for better accessibility infrastructure, such as dropped kerbs, and highlighted the importance of partnership with Hertfordshire County Council (HCC) on these matters. The review would aim to balance promoting active travel with ensuring inclusivity.

The committee confirmed a forthcoming review of green space strategies, including visits to sites such as Stanborough Lakes and Fairlands Valley Park. This would support deeper scrutiny of parks and open space management.

Members agreed the overall scrutiny programme for the year was comprehensive.