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?
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
HBC Public meeting, 29 August – Bulbeck Road Car Park
It's worth posting a few thoughts about last night's meeting at St Faith's Church. Firstly, it was great to see that the HBC Regeneration team took a leaf out of the HCS playbook and booked the best community venue in town. Thanks, as always, to 'Canon Tom' for his ever-welcome commitment to the use of … Continue reading HBC Public meeting, 29 August – Bulbeck Road Car Park
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
Where has the money gone . . . and where can I get some?
In the temporary absence of the normal 'writer of rants' on this site, our Cub Reporter has delivered this quick (?) round-up of the banking establishments left in Havant and why cash is important: Barclays – The branch in East Street closed in August 2022. There is now a ‘presence’ in the Library in the … Continue reading Where has the money gone . . . and where can I get some?
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
Havant Civic Society 