The meeting, which commenced at 19:00 and closed at 19:39, saw councillors address several key agenda items. Apologies for absence were received from Cllrs M Horwood, J Ferrari, C Morgan, and N Scott. No declarations of interest were made. The minutes from the previous Full Council meeting on 1st July 2026 were approved and signed.
The Deputy Mayor, Cllr Dyball, congratulated the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Ryan Hayman, and staff for successfully organising the 1812 Night event with alternative special effects and a drone show, following the cancellation of fireworks by Kent Fire and Rescue Service. The event received positive feedback and was noted as being personal to Swanley Town. Cllrs Horwood and Ferrari raised funds for mayoral charities through a 'Human Fruit Machine' stall and raffles.
County Councillor Dean Truder circulated his report, while District Councillors had nothing to report. A significant discussion took place regarding the Regulation 19 consultation, with members agreeing to defer consideration to allow a draft response to be prepared and circulated. The delegation for finalising and submitting the response was agreed to be with the CEO, Ryan Hayman, by the deadline of 17th September.
Concerns were raised about the Infrastructure Development Plan (Appendix A), with members identifying inaccuracies and omissions. These included incorrect details on tennis/netball courts, a potential shortfall in funding for proposed bridge works, and the need to consider a healthcare facility for Swanley. The CEO advised that inaccuracies would be corrected and that Sevenoaks District Council would work with Swanley Town Council to address the matters.
Regarding the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Charging Schedule, the council agreed to present a united response with Edenbridge, Westerham, and Sevenoaks District Councils. The CEO highlighted the importance of CIL for local communities and expressed concerns that proposed changes would reduce benefits for Town and Parish Councils. Examples of projects funded by CIL in Swanley, Sevenoaks, Edenbridge, and Westerham were cited. The council agreed to use the existing draft response letter as a framework for the joint response.
The updated Employee Handbook (Appendix B) was approved, incorporating changes from the Employee Rights Act 2025 and relevant updates concerning Artificial Intelligence (AI). The CEO shared concerns about the unregulated development of AI but acknowledged its potential benefits. The next meeting is scheduled for 7th October 2026.
