The Council meeting on 16 September 2026 addressed a range of significant issues, including the upcoming changes to national planning delegation rules, the financial procedures of the council, and the ongoing challenges within adult social care. Key decisions were made regarding the adoption of a new national scheme for planning decisions, the approval of updated financial regulations, and a commitment to participate in the national conversation on the future of social care.

National Planning Scheme of Delegation

The council noted the introduction of the Town and Country Planning (Discharge of Local Planning Authority Functions) (England) Regulations 2026, which will come into force on 31 October 2026. These regulations mandate a National Scheme of Delegation for planning decisions across England. Councillor Carol Birchmore, Leader of Radcliffe First, expressed concern about the lack of clarity and understanding regarding the purpose and process of adopting this new scheme, questioning its impact on elected officials and council officers. Councillor Lucy Smith, Cabinet Member for Environment, Climate Change and Operations, explained that the scheme is a government-driven legislative change, not a local council decision, and that it aims to streamline decision-making by delegating more routine applications to officers. The council resolved to update its Constitution, Planning Scheme of Delegation, and associated procedures to comply with these new regulations, with a formal decision to amend the Constitution to be made by Full Council.

Financial Procedure Rules and Scheme of Delegation

The Audit Committee's recommendations for amended Financial Procedure Rules and Scheme of Delegation were approved by the Council. Councillor O'Brien moved the motion, seconded by Councillor Thorpe, and the Council agreed to adopt these updated rules. These changes, stemming from the council's Finance Transformation Programme, aim to improve efficiency, enhance control, and ensure compliance with financial regulations. Key updates include a revised approach to procurement, with a new supplier catalogue and mandatory contracts, stricter controls on budget movements, and updated delegation limits for financial approvals.

Adult Social Care and the Big Conversation on Care

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the pressures on adult social care and the council's commitment to participating in the national Big Conversation on Care. Councillor Tamoor Tariq, Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Health and Public Service Reform, moved a motion to support this initiative, highlighting the invaluable role of social care workers and unpaid carers, and acknowledging the strain on the current system. He emphasised Bury's strong performance in adult social care, citing the Outstanding rating for Killelea residential care home, but also recognised the ongoing challenges of increasing demand and rising costs. The motion was supported by councillors across the chamber, with various speakers, including Councillor Charlotte Hunt, Deputy Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Health and Public Service Reform, sharing personal experiences and underscoring the need for sustainable, long-term solutions. The council resolved to promote the Big Conversation on Care locally, share Bury's data and case studies, and work constructively with all political groups to contribute to national reform.

Tackling Dodgy Shops and Illicit Trading

Councillor D Green, seconded by Councillor M Rubinstein, moved a motion for a Zero Tolerance approach to dodgy shops. The council noted the significant problem of illicit trading, often linked to money laundering, organised crime, and antisocial behaviour, and acknowledged the success of previous enforcement actions. Bury has been identified as a priority area for a new High Street Organised Crime initiative, backed by government funding. The council resolved to continue working closely with partner agencies, convene a borough-wide summit, adopt a zero-tolerance approach, and provide members with a briefing on the issue.

Invasive Species Management - Giant Hogweed

A motion concerning the treatment and reduction of giant hogweed, moved by Councillor Carol Birchmore and seconded by Councillor Ken Simpson, was carried. The council recognised the dangerous nature of the plant and its increasing spread, particularly along river valleys. Councillors from various parties, including Councillor Elizabeth FitzGerald and Councillor John Southworth, spoke in support, highlighting the health risks and the need for coordinated action. The council resolved to carry out regular surveys of council-owned land, ensure safe removal by trained professionals, partner with neighbouring authorities and private landowners, launch a public awareness campaign, and establish an easy-to-use reporting system.

Bury's Hospitality Sector and the Overnight Visitor Levy

A motion opposing the introduction of a Greater Manchester Overnight Visitor Levy, moved by Councillor Shahbaz Arif and seconded by Councillor Iain Gartside, was ultimately not carried. Councillor Arif argued that the levy would place an additional financial burden on already struggling hospitality businesses and that Bury should focus on attracting more visitors rather than increasing costs. He called for a Bury-specific economic impact assessment and meaningful engagement with local businesses. However, Councillor Lucy Smith, Cabinet Member for Environment, Climate Change and Operations, argued against a blanket opposition, suggesting that the levy could fund valuable public services and that Greater Manchester already has experience with similar charges without negative impacts on visitor numbers. Councillor Michael Rubinstein, Deputy Cabinet Member for Culture, Economy and Skills, also spoke in favour of exploring the levy, stating it was not about taxing visitors but ensuring communities benefit from increased demand. Ultimately, the motion to oppose the levy failed to pass.

Combined Authority and Transport for Greater Manchester Updates

Updates were provided on the activities of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) and Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM). These included information on the GMCA's forward plan, including decisions on waste and resources, transport, housing, and economic development. TfGM provided updates on bus network enhancements in Bury, the planned introduction of free bus travel for 11-16 year olds, the continuation of key commissioner roles, and a new £60 million Pothole Fund for Greater Manchester, with Bury allocated approximately £4.4 million. There were also updates on the Bury Interchange redevelopment, Elton Reservoir Metrolink stop proposals, and Metrolink stop improvements at Heaton Park, Radcliffe, Prestwich, and Bowker Vale.

Urgent Decision: Best Start Family Hub Posts

An urgent decision was approved regarding the establishment of 15.6 FTE fixed-term posts funded by the Department for Education's Best Start Family Hub Development Grant. These posts, including Early Years Improvement Delivery Officers, Early Years Workers, and Family Hub Community Outreach Workers, are crucial for delivering the Best Start Local Plan and meeting grant conditions. Delaying recruitment risked impacting programme delivery and grant compliance.

Other Matters

The council also noted minutes from previous meetings and received mayoral communications. There were no declarations of interest made by councillors. The Council Motion Tracker was also presented for information.