This week in Bury:

Council Faces Critical Budget Decisions Amidst Growing Financial Pressures

Bury Council is confronting significant financial challenges, with a projected budget gap of £9.585 million for the 2027/28 financial year, escalating to a cumulative gap of £17.508 million by 2029/30. This stark reality emerged during the Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, 14 October 2026, as councillors reviewed the draft 2027/28 budget and the Council's updated financial position. The scale of the deficit means that existing reserves are insufficient to cover the shortfall, prompting the Council to explore Exceptional Financial Support with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

The proposed savings and budget assumptions, while aiming to address the gap, have led to difficult discussions. A potential 4.99% Council Tax increase for 2027/28, comprising a 2.99% general increase and a 2.0% adult social care precept, is being considered. This move, aimed at generating much-needed revenue, could place additional financial strain on households, particularly those already struggling.

Several proposed savings measures were discussed, with some raising significant public interest and concern:

• Removal of a waste collection route: This proposed saving of £75,000 has led to questions about potential impacts on existing services, with residents in areas like Elton already reporting missed bin collections. Councillor Lucy Smith, Cabinet Member for Environment, Climate Change and Operations, assured that the aim is rationalisation and efficiency, not a reduction in overall service, but acknowledged the need to address persistent problems in certain areas.
• Potential Garden Waste Charge: While not yet confirmed, the Council is exploring the introduction of a charge for garden waste collection. This proposal, which has been implemented by many other councils, carries the risk of increased fly-tipping and potential net loss if not managed effectively. Councillor Sean Thorpe, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Corporate Services, highlighted that this is part of a broader waste strategy aimed at increasing recycling rates and environmental outcomes, not solely income generation.
• Review of School Crossing Patrols: A saving of £187,000 is being considered through a review of school crossing patrols, with 30 out of 32 proposed for disestablishment primarily serving primary schools. This raises concerns about the safety of children travelling to school, particularly in areas with high crime rates.

The draft budget and financial position were noted by Cabinet, with further consultation planned. You can find more details about these discussions here: Cabinet.

Future of Milton Meadow Sparks Community Debate and Council Decision

The proposed disposal of public open space at Milton Road Field, known locally as Milton Meadow, in Radcliffe, has ignited strong community opposition and a robust debate within the Cabinet. The meeting on Wednesday, 14 October 2026, saw residents voice their deep concerns about losing this valued green space, while councillors weighed the potential benefits of developing the site for an Alternative Provision (AP) Academy against the community's wishes.

Councillor Sandra Walmsley, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, presented the proposal for the new Ash Grove Alternative Provision (AP) Academy, which aims to provide a permanent, purpose-built facility for up to 136 pupils with an estimated project budget of £17 million. This would replace current temporary arrangements, addressing a statutory duty to provide education for children unable to access mainstream schooling.

However, the decision to proceed with the disposal of Milton Meadow faced significant pushback. Councillor Carol Birchmore, Leader of Radcliffe First, questioned the site's suitability and the cost per pupil. Residents, including those who had been actively involved in volunteering and improving the meadow, expressed dismay at the potential loss of a vital community asset. Concerns were raised about the impact on vulnerable residents, the perceived lack of transparency in the consultation process, and the potential for increased anti-social behaviour if the site were used for an AP Academy.

Despite these objections, the Cabinet resolved to proceed with the disposal of the public open space, allowing officers to enter into further discussions. The decision to progress the Ash Grove AP Academy project, including the use of the Milton Road site, was also confirmed. This decision highlights the difficult balance the Council must strike between meeting statutory obligations for vulnerable children and preserving community spaces. You can find more details about these discussions here: Cabinet.

Council Invests in Education and Support Services

Bury Council is moving forward with significant investments in education and support services, aiming to improve outcomes for vulnerable children and young people. The Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, 14 October 2026, saw approvals for a new Alternative Provision (AP) Academy and the expansion of the Greater Manchester Fostering Hub.

New Alternative Provision Academy for Vulnerable Pupils

The Cabinet approved the progression of the Ash Grove Alternative Provision (AP) Academy project, with an estimated budget of £17 million. This new facility will provide a permanent, purpose-built environment for up to 136 pupils who require alternative educational support. The project aims to address the current reliance on temporary accommodation, improve operational efficiencies, and meet statutory duties for children unable to attend mainstream education. Despite concerns raised by some councillors and residents regarding the site selection and cost, the Council emphasised the urgent need to provide suitable facilities for these vulnerable learners. You can find more details about this decision here: Cabinet.

Enhanced Support for Children in Care Through Fostering Hub

Bury Council will join an expanded Greater Manchester end-to-end fostering hub, hosted by Rochdale Council. This initiative aims to improve the recruitment, assessment, and approval of foster carers across all ten Greater Manchester authorities. The move is a response to a national shortage of foster carers, exacerbated since the COVID-19 pandemic, and aligns with the government's target to recruit 10,000 new foster carers. While Bury will retain responsibility for supporting and supervising foster carers, this regional collaboration is expected to strengthen the overall provision of family-based homes for children in care, which are known to deliver the strongest outcomes. You can find more details about this decision here: Cabinet.

Other Matters

The Cabinet also discussed and noted several other items:

• Housing Allocations Policy Amendments: Minor changes were proposed to the Housing Allocations Policy to support long-serving Council employees retiring from service accommodation and to provide the Director of Housing with limited discretion in exceptional circumstances.
• Northern Gateway Western Access Scheme: Approval was sought for the Stage 3 contract sum, extension of the professional team contract, and acceptance of Investment Zone grant funding for this significant infrastructure project.
• Persona Shareholder Agreement: A new shareholder agreement for Persona, the council-owned not-for-profit company providing care and support services, was approved to reflect its maturity and future ambitions.
• St Monica's Lease Extension: Approval was sought for the grant of a new eight-year lease for Elmsbank College at the St. Monica's site, ensuring continuity for learners with special educational needs.
• Parking and Moving Traffic Enforcement Services: Approval was sought for interim and long-term contractual arrangements for parking and moving traffic enforcement services.
• Live Well Implementation: The Council accepted the allocation of £676,000 of Greater Manchester Livewell funding for Years 2 and 3, continuing the programme's work to reduce health, social, and economic inequalities.
• 10-Year Occupational Lease for Bridge Trading Estate: A new 10-year lease was approved for Units 6B and 6C at Bridge Trading Estate, securing the operational base for Bury Adult Care Equipment Services.
• Highways Capital Programme: The £12.9 million Highways Capital Programme for 2026/27 was presented, detailing planned spending on road repairs and maintenance.
• Families First Partnership Programme: Bury's proposed implementation approach to the National Families First Partnership Programme was approved, aiming to shift children's services towards early intervention and prevention.

This week in Bury:

Council Faces Tough Choices on Budget and Services

Bury Council is grappling with significant financial challenges, with a projected budget gap of £34.959 million over the next three years. The draft 2027/28 budget and updated Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) reveal a stark reality: even after proposed savings of £17.451 million, a substantial shortfall of £17.508 million remains. This situation could lead to difficult decisions about service provision and potential council tax increases.

The draft budget proposes a 4.99% council tax increase for 2027/28, comprising a 2.99% general increase and a 2.0% adult social care precept. This move, while potentially unpopular, is presented as necessary to address the growing financial pressures. The council is also exploring Exceptional Financial Support with the government, indicating the severity of the situation.

Several policy decisions are flagged for public consultation, including:

• Green Waste charging: This could mean residents are charged for garden waste collection.
• Street Lighting Trim: Potential reductions in street lighting could impact public safety and the character of our neighbourhoods.
• Removal of the Homecare Charging Cap: This might lead to increased costs for those receiving homecare services.
• Income maximisation for leisure services: This could mean higher prices for gym memberships and other leisure activities.
• School Crossing Patrols: A review of these services could impact the safety of children travelling to school.
• Redesign of the Youth Service: This could lead to changes in how services for young people are delivered.

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to scrutinise these proposals on Tuesday 13 October 2026, before they go to Cabinet on Wednesday 14 October 2026. Public consultation will run from 19 October to 30 November 2026.

You can find more details about the draft budget and MTFS here: Cabinet and Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

Taxi and Private Hire Vehicles to Embrace Newer, Cleaner Standards

Bury's licensed taxi and private hire vehicles may soon be able to meet emissions standards with a wider range of vehicles, thanks to proposed amendments to council policy. The Licensing and Safety Committee was scheduled to consider allowing the licensing of Category N (non-structural damage) and Category S (structural damage) vehicles, provided they pass independent inspections.

This proposed change aims to align Bury with other Greater Manchester authorities and could make it more affordable for local taxi and private hire businesses to operate. Currently, any vehicle recorded as a write-off is prohibited from being licensed. The report argues that this amendment would support the viability of local businesses by allowing access to a broader selection of lower-cost vehicles, while maintaining public safety through rigorous independent assessments.

Additionally, the committee was set to discuss amendments to transitional arrangements for existing vehicles concerning emissions standards. The current deadline for replacing non-compliant vehicles is 4 January 2027. However, with the recent introduction of the Greater Manchester Private Hire Support Fund, a proposed extension to 31 May 2027 is being considered. This would give proprietors more time to access funding, source replacement vehicles, and complete the licensing process, balancing air quality goals with support for the licensed trade. This could mean a slightly longer period before all licensed vehicles meet the strictest emissions standards.

You can find more details about these proposals here: Licensing and Safety Committee.

Focus on Mental Health and Integrated Care Dominates Locality Board Agenda

A comprehensive update on mental health services, integrated care, and the future of neighbourhood working was central to the Bury Locality Board meeting scheduled for Monday 05 October 2026. The discussions highlighted a strong focus on improving resident wellbeing and streamlining service delivery.

Key areas of discussion included:

• Northern Care Alliance (NCA) Update: A detailed report was expected on recent concerns regarding patient safety, quality governance, organisational culture, and leadership within the NCA. This update was to reflect regulatory action by NHS England and the Care Quality Commission (CQC), with assurances that services remain safe and improvement activity is robust.
• Locality Plan Refresh and Neighbourhood Working: The board was to review progress on the Bury Locality Plan and its Delivery Plan for neighbourhood working. This initiative aims to create coordinated support networks to reduce inequality and improve residents' lives, with a focus on the first 12 months of implementation.
• Mental Health Update: An update on Pennine Care developments was planned, including the opening of a community hub bringing together mental health and learning disability services. A noted risk around commissioned service capacity and the need to address wider determinants of health was to be discussed.
• Bury Adult Social Care Business Plan: A three-year plan outlining the department's vision, priorities, and workstreams for promoting independence, delivering best-ever services, and making Bury a great place to work was to be presented.
• Population Health and Wellbeing: An update from the Bury Health and Wellbeing Board was to cover community safety, neighbourhood working, and health data. While positive trends in smoking rates and children's physical activity were noted, concerns were raised about increasing child poverty, economic inactivity, mental health pressures, and worsening obesity rates.

You can find more details about these discussions here: Locality Board.

Other Matters

Employment Panel Considers Grievance Appeal

The Employment Panel was scheduled to consider a stage 3 grievance appeal on Tuesday 06 October 2026. Details of the appeal were not made public, as the meeting was expected to involve the disclosure of exempt information.

You can find more details about this meeting here: Employment Panel.

Joint Planning Control Committee Scheduled

The Joint Planning Control Committee was scheduled to meet on Tuesday 06 October 2026. No further details were available at the time of publication.

You can find more details about this meeting here: Joint Planning Control Committee.

This week in Bury:

Alcohol Sales at Discount Food and Wine Face Scrutiny

Concerns over late-night noise and potential public nuisance have been raised regarding an application for a premises licence for Discount Food and Wine. The Licensing Hearing Sub Committee was scheduled to consider the application for the premises at 165-167 Stand Lane, Radcliffe, M26 1JR.

The applicant, VS House Limited, sought to sell alcohol for consumption off the premises. While initial proposed hours were until midnight, discussions with Public Health led to an agreement to restrict alcohol sales to between 08:00 and 23:00. Greater Manchester Police also proposed conditions to the licence, including staff training on age verification and maintaining a refusals log, alongside requirements for the CCTV system.

However, a local ward councillor raised significant objections, citing concerns about the proposed hours, potential noise, anti-social behaviour, and litter in the predominantly residential area. The proximity to a primary school also raised concerns about the protection of children from harm. The committee had to consider these representations alongside the four licensing objectives outlined in the Licensing Act 2003: the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm.

The Licensing Hearing Sub Committee met on Wednesday 23 September 2026. You can find more details about this meeting here: Licensing Hearing Sub Committee.

Council Pushes for Anti-Racism and Integrated Social Care

Bury Council is taking steps to embed anti-racist principles across its operations and to create a more integrated approach to social care. The Employment Panel met on Wednesday 23 September 2026 to discuss a new two-year Anti-Racism Organisation Strategy and the establishment of an all-age commissioning function.

A Commitment to Being Anti-Racist

The proposed strategy aims to move the council from being merely non-racist to actively anti-racist, aligning with the GM Race Equity Framework. This initiative responds to rising instances of antisemitism, Islamophobia, and racism, with a focus on embedding anti-racist principles in policies, procedures, workforce development, leadership, and service delivery. The strategy outlines six key goals, including ensuring systems support anti-racist outcomes and amplifying the voices of ethnic minority communities.

Streamlining Social Care for All Ages

Following recommendations from an independent review, the council is looking to establish a new all-age commissioning function. This integrated approach aims to improve outcomes for residents, strengthen preventative services, and enhance market management across both children's and adult social care. By bringing commissioning activities together, the council hopes to achieve greater efficiency and better support for individuals throughout their lives.

The Employment Panel also reviewed minutes from a previous meeting and a report on post-redesignation for Legal and Democratic Services.

You can find more details about this meeting here: Employment Panel.

Standards Committee Reviews Member Conduct and Ombudsman Findings

The Standards Committee met on Thursday 24 September 2026 to discuss how to maintain high standards of conduct among councillors, review the council's Code of Conduct, and consider the findings of the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman. The committee also received an update on the Public Office (Accountability) Bill, often referred to as Hillsborough Law.

Strengthening Member Development and Conduct

The committee reviewed the Member Development Programme for 2026/27, which includes mandatory training on areas like the Code of Conduct, GDPR, and Health and Safety. The programme aims to ensure councillors are well-equipped to serve the public. A review of the council's Code of Conduct was also undertaken, with the aim of identifying any necessary amendments or clarifications to ensure it remains robust and aligned with current best practices.

Learning from the Ombudsman

The committee received the annual review from the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman (LGO) for 2025-26. While the number of complaints received by the council saw a slight decrease, the report highlighted that 86% of investigated complaints were upheld. The council maintained a strong compliance rate with the Ombudsman's recommendations, demonstrating a commitment to addressing issues raised.

Hillsborough Law and Public Accountability

An overview of the Public Office (Accountability) Bill, or Hillsborough Law, was provided. This proposed legislation aims to place a statutory duty of candour and assistance on public authorities, reinforcing expectations of honesty and accountability. The report detailed potential implications for both officers and elected members, suggesting that the council may need to review its governance and information management arrangements if the Bill is enacted.

You can find more details about this meeting here: Standards Committee.

Health Scrutiny Committee Focuses on Carers, Workforce, and Regional Health Issues

The Health Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday 24 September 2026 to discuss crucial updates on support for carers, workforce development in the care sector, and regional health scrutiny matters.

Supporting Carers and Building the Care Workforce

An update on the Adult Bury Carers Strategy 2025-2029 highlighted efforts to ensure unpaid carers are recognised, valued, and supported. The Bury Carers' Hub presented its impact, detailing how it helps carers access information, advice, and improve their wellbeing. The committee also received an update on the Bury Care Academy (BCA), an initiative focused on developing the social care workforce. The BCA's achievements in engaging providers, supporting recruitment, and delivering training programmes were presented, along with future plans to enhance skills and leadership within the sector.

Regional Health Updates

The committee received updates on Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) Joint Health Scrutiny meetings, covering topics such as maternity services, early childhood disadvantage, and the Greater Manchester Care Record. Discussions also touched upon the Voluntary, Community, Faith and Social Enterprise (VCFSE) sector's perspective on health inequalities and updates on service reconfiguration reports.

You can find more details about this meeting here: Health Scrutiny Committee.

Other Matters

Licensing Hearing Sub Committee Considers Premises Licence

The Licensing Hearing Sub Committee met on Tuesday 22 September 2026. The meeting was scheduled to consider an application for a premises licence for Discount Food and Wine.

You can find more details about this meeting here: Licensing Hearing Sub Committee.

Planning Control Committee Cancelled

The Planning Control Committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday 22 September 2026 was cancelled.

You can find more details about this meeting here: Planning Control Committee.

This week in Bury:

Late-Night Refreshment Plans Spark Resident Concerns

Plans for a new Pizza Go Go to open in Prestwich have raised concerns among local residents and environmental health officers about potential noise and public nuisance. The Licensing Hearing Sub Committee was scheduled to consider an application for a premises licence for the takeaway at 56 Bury New Road, Prestwich, M25 0JU.

The applicant, Mr Mansour Gholami, sought permission for the premises to operate as a late-night refreshment venue, with proposed hours from 11:30 to 04:30, Monday to Sunday. However, representations from Environmental Health and local councillor Alan Quinn highlighted worries about increased customer activity and delivery drivers during the early hours, which could lead to noise disturbances for nearby residents. Councillor Quinn specifically cited potential noise from arriving cars and the premises' operations, as well as the risk of anti-social behaviour from intoxicated individuals.

The committee had the power to grant the application, grant it with conditions, amend existing conditions, or refuse it entirely. The decision would be guided by the Licensing Act 2003 and the council's licensing policy, aiming to promote the four licensing objectives: the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm.

The Licensing Hearing Sub Committee met on Thursday 17 September 2026. You can find more details about this meeting here: Licensing Hearing Sub Committee.

Council Tackles Financial Procedures and National Planning Changes

Bury Council's full Council meeting on Wednesday 16 September 2026 addressed significant updates to financial procedures and the upcoming implementation of a national scheme for planning decisions. These changes aim to enhance efficiency, compliance, and the way planning applications are handled across the borough.

Overhauling Financial Rules

The council reviewed and approved amended Financial Procedure Rules and Scheme of Delegation, a key part of the council's Finance Transformation Programme. These updated rules introduce a new supplier catalogue and more stringent supplier vetting processes. They also emphasise the importance of segregating duties in financial transactions and place limitations on in-year budget virements, ensuring greater financial control and accountability.

Adapting to National Planning Regulations

A report detailed the implementation of new national regulations for planning decisions, due to come into effect on 31 October 2026. These regulations will mandate a National Scheme of Delegation for planning decisions, requiring the council to update its Constitution and Planning Scheme of Delegation. A significant change is that ward member call-in arrangements will no longer override this national scheme, and the size of planning committees will be capped at 13 members. This aims to streamline the planning process and ensure consistency across the country.

Housing Advisory Board and Regional Transport Updates

The meeting also included a review of the Housing Advisory Board's terms of reference, with proposed changes to strengthen its advisory and co-production responsibilities. Updates were provided on the Greater Manchester Combined Authority's (GMCA) activities, covering regional transport initiatives like the Bee Network bus service enhancements and the Bury Interchange Redevelopment, as well as environmental projects and economic development.

Motions on Local Issues

Several motions were put forward by councillors, addressing a range of local concerns:

• Giant Hogweed: A motion called for action to treat and reduce the spread of giant hogweed, proposing regular surveys, safe removal by professionals, and public awareness campaigns.
• Adult Social Care: Councillors supported the Big Conversation on Care initiative, aiming to improve adult social care services and promote cross-party working.
• Hospitality Sector: A motion expressed opposition to a proposed Greater Manchester Overnight Visitor Levy, highlighting concerns about its impact on Bury's hospitality sector and calling for local economic impact assessments.
• Illicit Trading: A Zero Tolerance approach was proposed to tackle illicit trading, with plans for a borough-wide summit and coordinated action with enforcement agencies.
• Endometriosis Friendly Employer: The council committed to applying for Endometriosis Friendly Employer status, recognising the importance of supporting employees affected by the condition.
• Castle Armoury: Concerns were raised about the management of Bury Castle Armoury, with calls for letters to the relevant trust and MPs to secure its future.

You can find more details about this meeting here: Council.

Focus on Children's Services and Young People's Futures

The Children and Young People Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday 15 September 2026 to review critical updates on services for children and young people, including plans to improve children's social care, support for those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), and initiatives to help young people not in education, employment, or training (NEET).

Improving Children's Social Care

An update on the ILACS (Inspection of Local Authority Children's Services) Improvement Plan detailed Bury's strategy for enhancing its children's services following an Ofsted inspection. The plan focuses on seven priority areas, including identifying and supporting families in need, improving care planning, and developing better support for care leavers.

The committee also received an update on the Families First Partnership (FFP) reforms, which aim to refocus children's social care on prevention and stronger multi-agency teams. These integrated teams will provide a seamless service for families, with plans progressing well for implementation by April 2027.

Supporting SEND and Young People

The SEND Sufficiency Plan update highlighted efforts to ensure Bury has the necessary resources to meet the needs of children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. Despite significant investment, gaps remain, particularly in secondary phase provision for autism and social, emotional, and mental health needs.

An update on young people not in education, employment, or training (NEET) showed that Bury's participation rates are in line with national averages, with a lower NEET rate than both the North West and England. However, the report noted a slight increase and identified vulnerable groups, such as looked-after children and those with EHCPs, as having higher NEET rates, underscoring the need for targeted support.

You can find more details about this meeting here: Children and Young People Scrutiny Committee.

Other Matters

Standards Committee to Review Code of Conduct and Member Training

The Standards Committee is scheduled to meet on Thursday 24 September 2026 to discuss the council's Member Development Programme and training requirements for the upcoming year. A key item on the agenda is the annual review of the council's Code of Conduct for members, ensuring it remains up-to-date and effective. The committee will also receive an update on the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman's annual review and be briefed on the Public Office (Accountability) Bill, often referred to as Hillsborough Law, which aims to strengthen honesty and accountability in public office.

Employment Panel to Consider Anti-Racist Strategy

The Employment Panel will meet on Wednesday 23 September 2026 to consider a new two-year strategy aimed at transforming the council into a proactive anti-racist organisation. This strategy will focus on policies, workforce capability, leadership, and community engagement to tackle racism, antisemitism, and Islamophobia. The panel will also discuss the establishment of an all-age commissioning function for both Children's and Adult Social Care, aiming to improve resident outcomes and financial sustainability.