We have already published what will undoubtedly be but the opening salvo in HCS’s deliberations over the Government’s English Devolution White Paper. While the intention to devolve some central government powers to regional authorities led by Mayors was included in the Labour Party manifesto for the recent general election, further local government reorganisation was not. … Continue reading A Democratic Deficit?
Author: HCS Editor
First full Council meeting of the year – 15 January 2025
This account of the first Full Council meeting of the year is of particular interest given the curious reluctance of the council to engage with the public on the subject of Devolution and, more particularly, Local Government Reorganisation. It wasn't even on the agenda of this Council meeting and the Leader's update to his report, … Continue reading First full Council meeting of the year – 15 January 2025
Breaking the silence on Devolution and Local Government Reorganisation
On 16 December, the government published its English Devolution White Paper which, at a stroke, called time on both Havant Borough Council (HBC) and Hampshire County Council (HCC) as we know them today. It is quite clear now that both authorities have been locked in discussion on this particular commitment in the Labour Manifesto since … Continue reading Breaking the silence on Devolution and Local Government Reorganisation
After a bright year in 2024, the outlook for 2025 is worrying
Looking back at 2024 We began last year with a newly established Havant Borough Council executive team in place. After five years of stagnation, characterised by a lack of engagement from the previous East Hants District Council executive team and a tired elected council that appeared to rubber-stamp, unchallenged, questionable initiatives by its cabinet, the … Continue reading After a bright year in 2024, the outlook for 2025 is worrying
HBC takes enforcement action over the Golden Slots
We're pleased to see that Havant Borough Council's Lead Enforcement Officer has slapped a Temporary Stop Notice on the former White Hart on the corner of of North Street and East Street. The external state of the building has deteriorated significantly over the past year and we welcome this action by Planning Services. The former … Continue reading HBC takes enforcement action over the Golden Slots
Portsmouth Water’s ‘new HQ’ planning application nears decision after five years
If you're a patient, or the carer for a patient of the Bosmere Medical Practice in Solent Road, the post below applies to YOU. Photo - courtesy Ann Buckley In the past few days, many of you will have received a copy of the first letter shown below. It is a letter from HBC Planning … Continue reading Portsmouth Water’s ‘new HQ’ planning application nears decision after five years
Bulbeck Road car park demolition scheduled
Work begins on Monday 9 September 2024 on the demolition of the Bulbeck Road car park in the heart of Havant town centre. Unlocking a prime site within convenient reach of local shops, easy road and rail connections and Havant Park, the demolition forms part of Havant Borough Council’s ambitious regeneration plans for the heart … Continue reading Bulbeck Road car park demolition scheduled
Development proposal for 8 Downley Road – formerly Dunham Bush
A planning application like this wouldn't normally generate much interest. However since this one is fronted by the same planning agent as the Amazon development in New Lane, it's caught our attention. When the planning application for 8 Downley Road is published, we'll be looking closely at the supporting documentation for signs that lessons from … Continue reading Development proposal for 8 Downley Road – formerly Dunham Bush
General Election 2024 – Hustings at St. Faith’s Church, Sunday 16 June at 7:30pm
Now that the nominations have closed, there are six candidates standing for election to represent the parliamentary constituency of Havant, all of whom have received an invitation from Canon Tom Kennar to a hustings to be held at St. Faith's Church on Sunday, 16 June at 7:30pm. The candidates, in alphabetical order of surname, are … Continue reading General Election 2024 – Hustings at St. Faith’s Church, Sunday 16 June at 7:30pm
Proposal for a micro-pub in Havant park
If you've been wondering what could be happening at Park Lodge, the cottage at the western end of Havant Park by the crossing over Park Road North, look no further. This proposal for a new business venture by a Portchester-based family business has clearly been given a lot of thought. The business owners propose the … Continue reading Proposal for a micro-pub in Havant park
Havant Civic Society 