Natalia Forero

Hampshire County Council faces a £550 million backlog in road and bridge repairs as it prepares to comply with new government reporting requirements on pothole maintenance. The council is investing £15 million in summer repairs but says long-term funding remains insufficient to address years of underinvestment. Councillor Steve Forster emphasises the need for sustained government support, while the authority works toward meeting the first annual reporting deadline in September.

Two public consultations have opened on Hampshire County Council proposals to create 21 new specialist school places, including an autism provision at Locks Heath Junior School and a social, emotional and mental health provision at Lydlynch Infant School. Both would open in phases from the 2027–28 academic year, with consultations running from June 22 to July 20 and public drop‑in sessions scheduled at each school. Views can be submitted by email or post to the council’s SEN Partnership Development Manager.

Over £1 million has been approved by Hampshire County Council to build a specialist learning space for up to 12 pupils with social, emotional and mental health needs at Hiltingbury Junior School in Chandler’s Ford. The facility will include classrooms, support rooms, life skills space, offices, accessible toilets, and secure outdoor areas, with construction beginning in October and completion expected by January 2027. The provision will open in phases from spring 2027 following approval by education cabinet member Juliet Henderson, who described the project as an investment in young people.

Hampshire County Council approved £6.2 million to expand weight‑loss and physical activity programmes beginning in April 2027, aiming to reduce long‑term health risks linked to obesity. The initiative will extend support options, including specialised services for residents with severe mental illness or learning disabilities, and target communities facing the greatest health inequalities. The programme emphasises long‑term behaviour change through improved diet, increased physical activity, and healthier routines, with Councillor Joanne Burton highlighting the investment’s potential to enhance wellbeing.

Hampshire County Council approved up to £470,000 for security upgrades at its Winchester headquarters, including new gates, pass readers and CCTV to improve safety for staff, visitors and services. The work is part of broader efforts to ensure buildings meet current safety standards and is expected to be completed within the current financial year without disrupting operations.