This week in Doncaster:

Crime and Community Safety: A Mixed Picture Emerges

Doncaster Council's Communities and Environment Crime & Disorder Overview and Scrutiny Panel met on Wednesday, 25 February 2026, to review the latest crime and community safety figures. While overall reported crime has decreased, there are concerning increases in specific areas, highlighting the ongoing challenges in keeping our communities safe. You can find the full details of the meeting here.

Crime Trends: Reductions and Rises

The panel received an update on the Safer, Stronger Doncaster Partnership (SSDP) priorities. The good news is that reported crime in Doncaster has seen an overall decrease, mirroring trends across South Yorkshire Police (SYP). However, this overall reduction masks some worrying increases. Drug offences have seen a significant rise, attributed to increased enforcement activity, including a dedicated covert operation in the City Centre. Sexual offences have also increased, which the report suggests is linked to improved reporting mechanisms.

Key figures discussed:

• Decreases: Violence against the person, theft, public order offences, burglary, arson, and criminal damage have all seen reductions.
• Increases: Drug offences and robbery have risen.

What's at Stake?

For residents, these figures paint a mixed picture. While reductions in burglary and violent crime are welcome, the rise in drug offences and robbery can directly impact the sense of safety in our neighbourhoods. For vulnerable groups, such as young people at risk of exploitation or individuals affected by substance misuse, these trends underscore the need for continued and targeted intervention. The report also addressed a Daily Mail article that ranked Doncaster poorly for violence, with South Yorkshire Police disputing the data and highlighting a decrease in serious violence.

Tackling Anti-Social Behaviour and Organised Crime

The panel also heard about specific initiatives to combat anti-social behaviour, particularly concerning off-road bikes, and efforts to safeguard children from organised crime groups. The council is pushing for legislative changes to address the challenges posed by off-road bikes.

What's at Stake?

Anti-social behaviour can significantly degrade the quality of life in our communities, impacting residents' well-being and sense of security. Efforts to protect children from organised crime are crucial for preventing future harm and breaking cycles of offending.

Planning for the Future: Key Decisions Ahead

The committee also reviewed its work plan and the Council's Forward Plan of Key Decisions. This forward-looking agenda item is essential for understanding what major decisions are on the horizon and how they might affect residents.

Read the full meeting details here.

Affordable Housing and Planning Decisions

The Planning Committee met on Monday, 23 February 2026, to consider a significant planning application for new dwellings in Auckley. The proposal, which aims to deliver 100% affordable housing, highlights the ongoing tension between meeting housing needs and managing the impact on local infrastructure and the environment. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

100% Affordable Homes Proposed for Auckley

A key item was a planning application for 34 dwellings on land East of Hurst Lane, Auckley, proposed by the South Yorkshire Housing Association Ltd. This development is intended to be entirely affordable housing, with all properties designated for affordable rent. The scheme includes energy-efficient features like air source heat pumps and solar roof panels.

Key points of discussion included:

• Affordable Housing Need: The scheme directly addresses a local demand for affordable housing, which is crucial for many residents struggling with housing costs.
• Departure from Plan: The development is located within the Countryside Policy Area, meaning it represents a departure from the established development plan. This raises questions about how the council balances development with protecting rural character.
• Infrastructure Contributions: While the council typically seeks contributions towards secondary school provision, open space improvements, and other infrastructure, these are not currently proposed due to viability concerns. A clawback mechanism is suggested if the financial position improves.
• Community Concerns: Auckley Parish Council raised concerns about increased traffic and the impact on local services.

The recommendation was to grant planning permission, subject to a Section 106 legal agreement and various conditions.

What's at Stake?

This development offers a crucial opportunity to increase the supply of affordable homes in Doncaster, which is vital for individuals and families on lower incomes. However, the decision highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing housing needs with the provision of adequate infrastructure and the potential impact on existing communities. For residents, particularly those on lower incomes, the availability of affordable housing is paramount.

Planning Enforcement and Appeal Decisions

The committee also received an update on planning enforcement activities and noted appeal decisions. This includes information on cases where unauthorised developments have been addressed and appeals against previous planning refusons.

Read the full meeting details here.

Upcoming Meetings

• Council on Thursday 26 February 2026 to discuss the Corporate Plan, Housing Revenue Account Budget, Revenue Budget, Council Tax, Capital Strategy, and Treasury Management Strategy.
• Communities and Environment Crime & Disorder Overview and Scrutiny Panel on Wednesday 25 February 2026 to review crime and community safety updates and the committee's work plan.
• Audit Committee on Thursday 05 March 2026.
• Licensing Sub-Committee on Wednesday 04 March 2026.
• Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) on Thursday 05 March 2026.
• Planning Committee on Tuesday 10 March 2026.
• Audit Hearings Sub-Committee on Monday 09 March 2026.
• Regeneration & Housing Overview & Scrutiny Panel on Monday 09 March 2026.
• Cabinet on Wednesday 11 March 2026.
• Health and Wellbeing Board on Thursday 12 March 2026.
• Licensing Sub-Committee on Thursday 12 March 2026.
• Council on Friday 06 March 2026.

This week in Doncaster:

Council Faces Crucial Budget Decisions and Housing Plans

Doncaster Council's Council meeting on Thursday, 26 February 2026, will be a pivotal moment as councillors grapple with the borough's financial future and strategic direction. The agenda is packed with critical decisions that will directly impact services and development across Doncaster. You can find the full details of the meeting here.

Setting the Budget: Tough Choices Ahead

A significant portion of the meeting will be dedicated to the Revenue Budget for 2026/27 to 2028/29 and the setting of Council Tax for 2026/27. These decisions are fundamental to how the council operates and the services it can provide. The council faces ongoing financial pressures, and the proposed budget will outline how it plans to balance its books while meeting the needs of residents.

What's at Stake?

For every household, the Council Tax decision directly affects their bills. For vulnerable groups, the budget allocations are even more critical. Decisions made here will determine funding levels for essential services like adult social care, children's services, and support for those facing hardship. For example, insufficient funding for adult social care could mean longer waiting times for support or reduced services for elderly and disabled residents. The council's ability to manage its finances effectively will directly translate into the quality and availability of these vital services.

Housing Revenue Account: Rent Increases and Investment

The Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Budget for 2026/27 to 2029/30 will also be under scrutiny. This budget governs the council's social housing stock, including rent levels and investment in repairs and improvements. The report pack indicates that this will involve discussions on rent increases, which could impact the affordability of housing for many tenants.

What's at Stake?

For the thousands of residents living in council housing, rent increases can significantly affect their household budgets. While the council aims to maintain its housing stock and invest in improvements, these decisions must be balanced against the immediate financial pressures on tenants. The HRA budget will also dictate the pace of essential upgrades and new developments, impacting the quality of homes and the availability of affordable housing in the borough.

Shaping Doncaster's Future: The Corporate Plan

The Corporate Plan for 2026/27 will also be presented for approval. This document acts as the council's roadmap, outlining its priorities and how it intends to achieve them over the next year. It's intrinsically linked to the broader Doncaster Delivering Together (DDT) City Borough Strategy, which guides the council's long-term vision.

What's at Stake?

The Corporate Plan dictates where council resources are focused. For residents, this means understanding how their council tax is being used to deliver services and improve their local area. For vulnerable groups, a well-defined plan can ensure that specific needs are addressed, whether it's through targeted support for families, improved accessibility for the elderly, or initiatives to tackle poverty. The plan's adoption will set the direction for council activity across all departments.

Major Investment in Infrastructure

The Capital Strategy and Capital Budget for 2026/27 to 2029/30 will also be reviewed. This outlines the council's plans for significant investments in infrastructure, such as roads, schools, and public buildings.

What's at Stake?

This substantial investment has the potential to significantly improve local infrastructure and create opportunities. However, decisions on where this money is prioritised will directly affect the quality of public spaces, the condition of our roads, and the availability of essential facilities.

Affordable Housing and Planning Decisions

The Planning Committee met on Monday, 23 February 2026, to consider a significant application for 100% affordable housing in Auckley. While the proposal aims to address housing needs, discussions highlighted potential impacts on local services and the environment. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

100% Affordable Homes Proposed for Auckley

A key item was a planning application for 34 dwellings on land East of Hurst Lane, Auckley, proposed by the South Yorkshire Housing Association Ltd. This development is intended to be entirely affordable housing, with all properties designated for affordable rent. The scheme includes energy-efficient features like air source heat pumps and solar roof panels.

Key points of discussion included:

• Affordable Housing Need: The scheme directly addresses a local demand for affordable housing.
• Departure from Plan: The development is in the Countryside Policy Area, representing a departure from the established development plan.
• Infrastructure Contributions: While the council typically seeks contributions towards secondary school provision, open space improvements, and other infrastructure, these are not currently proposed due to viability concerns. A clawback mechanism is suggested if the financial position improves.
• Community Concerns: Auckley Parish Council raised concerns about increased traffic and the impact on local services.

The recommendation was to grant planning permission, subject to a Section 106 legal agreement and various conditions.

What's at Stake?

This development offers a crucial opportunity to increase the supply of affordable homes in Doncaster. However, the decision highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing housing needs with the provision of adequate infrastructure and the potential impact on existing communities. For residents, particularly those on lower incomes, the availability of affordable housing is paramount.

Other Matters

The Communities and Environment Crime & Disorder Overview and Scrutiny Panel met on Wednesday, 25 February 2026. The panel reviewed updates on crime and community safety, as well as its work plan and the council's forward plan of key decisions. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Tuesday, 17 February 2026, to consider applications for new private hire driver licences. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

The Communities and Environment Overview and Scrutiny Panel met on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, to discuss the results of a public consultation on waste and recycling services and to review the council's work plan and forward plan of key decisions. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

Upcoming Meetings

• Council on Thursday 26 February 2026 to discuss the Corporate Plan, Housing Revenue Account Budget, Revenue Budget, Council Tax, Capital Strategy, and Treasury Management Strategy.
• Communities and Environment Crime & Disorder Overview and Scrutiny Panel on Wednesday 25 February 2026 to review crime and community safety updates and the committee's work plan.
• Audit Committee on Thursday 05 March 2026.
• Licensing Sub-Committee on Wednesday 04 March 2026.
• Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) on Thursday 05 March 2026.

This week in Doncaster:

Council Faces Tough Choices on Budgets and Housing as Key Decisions Loom

Doncaster Council's Cabinet met on Wednesday, 11 February 2026, to grapple with crucial financial and strategic documents that will shape the borough's future. The meeting laid the groundwork for significant decisions on the Corporate Plan, housing rents, capital investment, and the overall revenue budget. These choices will directly impact the services residents receive and the development of our communities. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

The Corporate Plan: Charting Doncaster's Course

The Cabinet reviewed the draft Corporate Plan for 2026/27. This plan is the council's annual roadmap, directly linked to the longer-term Doncaster Delivering Together (DDT) City Borough Strategy. It outlines how the council intends to achieve its priorities, often referred to as the Great 8, which cover everything from economic growth and regeneration to creating safer communities and fostering a child-friendly borough.

What's at Stake?

The Corporate Plan dictates where council resources are focused. For residents, this means understanding how their council tax is being used to deliver services and improve their local area. For vulnerable groups, a well-defined plan can ensure that specific needs are addressed, whether it's through targeted support for families, improved accessibility for the elderly, or initiatives to tackle poverty. The plan's progression to Full Council means these priorities will soon be formally adopted.

Housing Rents Set to Rise: Impact on Tenants

A significant item was the proposed Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Budget for 2026/27 to 2029/30. The proposals include a 4.8% increase in average weekly rents, pushing them from £91.54 to approximately £95.93. While the report notes that 75% of HRA tenants receive Housing Benefit or Universal Credit, which may cover the increase, this rise will still be felt by many.

What's at Stake?

For tenants, this rent increase could mean tighter household budgets, especially for those who do not receive full benefit support or who face other rising living costs. The council aims to maintain a balanced budget and a reserve of £3.5 million, but the impact on tenants' ability to manage their finances is a key consideration.

A £549 Million Investment: Shaping Doncaster's Infrastructure

The Cabinet also considered the Capital Strategy and Budget for 2026/27 to 2029/30, proposing a substantial investment of £549.3 million over four years. This investment is earmarked for areas like education, housing, infrastructure, and leisure, aiming to stimulate growth and improve services. A significant portion, £216 million, is allocated for social housing stock, and £60.4 million for road maintenance.

What's at Stake?

This large-scale investment has the potential to significantly improve local infrastructure and create opportunities. However, the report also highlights that due to the ageing estate, several risks remain unfunded. Decisions on where this money is prioritised will directly affect the quality of public spaces, the availability of affordable housing, and the condition of our roads.

Council Tax Increase and Efficiency Drive

The Revenue Budget proposals for 2026/27 to 2028/29 were also presented, aiming for a balanced budget amidst ongoing challenges of reduced central government funding. A key proposal is a 4.99% Council Tax increase for 2026/27, comprising a 2.99% general increase and a 2% Adult Social Care precept. This is intended to generate £9.6 million. The budget also includes a Radical Efficiency and Innovation Programme to develop new working methods.

What's at Stake?

The Council Tax increase will directly affect household bills. The 2% precept for Adult Social Care highlights the growing pressures on services for vulnerable adults, potentially meaning more resources are needed to meet demand. The efficiency programme aims to find savings, but it's crucial to ensure these do not negatively impact service delivery, especially for those who rely on them most.

Support for Small Businesses and SEND Funding

The Cabinet also reviewed a new Discretionary Supporting Small Business Relief scheme for Business Rates, aiming to cap bill increases for eligible businesses. Additionally, a further capital grant of £4.1 million from the Department for Education was accepted to support High Needs Sufficiency for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). This grant, combined with existing funds, will provide approximately £11.5 million to increase specialist capacity.

What's at Stake?

The business relief scheme aims to support local enterprises, contributing to the borough's economic health. The SEND funding is critical for ensuring that children with special educational needs receive the support they require within Doncaster, preventing the need for them to travel outside the borough for specialist provision.

Health Protection and Licensing Decisions

The Health and Adults Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Panel met on Thursday, 12 February 2026, to review the Health Protection Assurance Annual Report. This comprehensive report detailed activities across various areas, including emergency preparedness, infection control, air quality, sexual health, substance misuse, suicide prevention, and immunisation programmes. The report indicated generally positive health protection outcomes, though some challenges are being managed, such as a syphilis outbreak and rising invasive group A streptococcal infections. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Monday, 9 February 2026, to consider two applications for new premises licences. One application for a convenience store at 153 Carr House Road, Hyde Park, faced objections from Trading Standards and South Yorkshire Police due to previous incidents involving counterfeit goods and illicit tobacco. The other application for a convenience store at 59 Harlington Road, Mexborough, received representations from local residents concerned about potential increases in antisocial behaviour and crime linked to late-night alcohol sales. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

The Planning Committee met on Tuesday, 10 February 2026, to discuss several planning applications, including a proposed football training centre in Bawtry and new housing developments in Skellow and Auckley. The committee also reviewed planning enforcement activity and appeal decisions. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

The Overview and Scrutiny Management Committee met on Monday, 9 February 2026, to review the Mayor's Budget Proposals for 2026/27 to 2029/30 and the Council's Work Plan and Forward Plan of Key Decisions. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

The Elections and Democratic Structures Committee met on Tuesday, 10 February 2026, to discuss upcoming elections and registration activities, including changes brought about by the Elections Act 2022 concerning postal vote re-applications. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

Upcoming Meetings

• Communities and Environment Overview and Scrutiny Panel on Wednesday 18 February 2026 to review waste and recycling consultation results and the council's work plan.
• Licensing Sub-Committee on Tuesday 17 February 2026 to consider applications for new private hire driver licences.
• Council on Thursday 26 February 2026.
• Communities and Environment Crime & Disorder Overview and Scrutiny Panel on Wednesday 25 February 2026.
• Planning Committee on Monday 23 February 2026.

This week in Doncaster:

Council Gears Up for Crucial Budget Decisions and Corporate Strategy

Doncaster Council's Overview and Scrutiny Management Committee met on Thursday, 5 February 2026, to scrutinise the council's financial future and strategic direction. The committee reviewed the draft Corporate Plan for 2026/27 and the Mayor's budget proposals for the next four years, alongside the council's work plan. These discussions are vital as they shape how public money is spent and what services residents can expect. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

Shaping Doncaster's Future: The Corporate Plan 2026/27

The committee examined the draft Corporate Plan for 2026/27, which acts as the council's roadmap for the coming year, directly linked to the broader Doncaster Delivering Together (DDT) City Borough Strategy. This plan outlines how the council intends to achieve its priorities across eight key areas, from economic growth and regeneration to creating safer communities and fostering a child-friendly borough.

Key aspects of the Corporate Plan include:

• Golden Thread Approach: The plan aims to connect the overarching DDT strategy to the day-to-day work of council services and individual staff.
• Big Collaborations : These are interconnected projects designed to tackle complex issues like housing, transport, and health.
• DDT Great 8 Priorities: These cover economic and housing growth, city centre regeneration, neighbourhood renewal, learning and culture, building healthier lives, creating safer and cleaner communities, nurturing a child and family-friendly borough, and developing transport and digital connections.

What's at Stake?

The Corporate Plan dictates where council resources are focused. For residents, this means understanding how their council tax is being used to deliver services and improve their local area. For vulnerable groups, a well-defined plan can ensure that specific needs are addressed, whether it's through targeted support for families, improved accessibility for the elderly, or initiatives to tackle poverty. The committee's feedback will help shape the final plan, ensuring it is robust and responsive to the needs of the borough.

The Mayor's Budget Proposals: Balancing Needs and Resources

A significant part of the meeting was dedicated to the Mayor's draft budget proposals for 2026/27 to 2029/30. This is a statutory process where the Overview and Scrutiny Management Committee provides feedback before the proposals go to Full Council. The committee was guided to consider how the budget aligns with national policy, the DDT strategy, and evidence from consultations, as well as how the council plans to manage its resources effectively amidst financial challenges.

Key areas of focus for the budget review included:

• Strategic Alignment: Ensuring the budget supports the council's stated priorities and the DDT strategy.
• Consultation and Evidence: Verifying that proposals are informed by public feedback and data.
• Resource Management: Addressing how the council will deliver services with potentially reduced resources.

What's at Stake?

The budget is the financial engine of the council. Decisions made here directly impact the level and quality of services provided, from social care and education to waste collection and parks. For residents, especially those who rely heavily on council services, the budget proposals are critical. For example, decisions on funding for adult social care can mean longer waiting times for support or reduced services for elderly and disabled residents. Similarly, budget allocations for community projects can affect the vibrancy and safety of local neighbourhoods.

Keeping Track: The Council's Work Plan

The committee also reviewed the Overview and Scrutiny Work Plan and the Council's Forward Plan of Key Decisions. The Forward Plan provides a four-month outlook on significant decisions expected to be made by the Cabinet, Mayor, or officers. These are decisions that are likely to have a substantial impact, either through significant expenditure or by affecting communities across multiple wards.

What's at Stake?

Transparency in decision-making is crucial for public trust. The Forward Plan allows residents to see what major decisions are on the horizon and to understand the potential impact on their lives. It also provides an opportunity for scrutiny and public engagement before decisions are finalised.

Upcoming Meetings

• Cabinet on Wednesday 11 February 2026 to discuss a range of important council business.
• Health and Adults Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Panel on Thursday 12 February 2026 to examine health and social care services.
• Elections and Democratic Structures Committee on Tuesday 10 February 2026 to discuss electoral processes and registration.
• Planning Committee on Tuesday 10 February 2026 to consider planning applications.
• Licensing Sub-Committee on Monday 09 February 2026 to review premises licence applications.
• Overview and Scrutiny Management Committee on Monday 09 February 2026.