This week in Doncaster:

Council Gears Up for New Local Plan and Overhauls Waste Services

Doncaster Council's Cabinet met on Wednesday, 20 May 2026, to chart a course for the borough's future development and modernise essential waste and recycling services. The decisions made will shape how Doncaster grows and how residents manage their household waste for years to come.

Laying the Groundwork for Doncaster's Future: The New Local Plan

A significant focus of the meeting was the commencement and programme for delivering a new Doncaster Local Plan. This is a critical piece of work, driven by government reforms that mandate updated housing targets and a streamlined planning system. The new plan, which will guide development until 2044, is essential for the council to maintain control over where and how new housing and infrastructure are built, ensuring sustainable growth across the borough.

The plan will be prepared under the new Town and Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2026[^1]. The Cabinet was asked to approve the publication of a new Local Plan Timetable, which will replace the current Local Development Scheme, and a formal 'Notice of Intention to Commence' by 30th June 2026. The preparation and examination of this new plan are estimated to cost £570,000, with central government grant funding secured to support this vital process.

What's at Stake?

A robust Local Plan is the bedrock of responsible development. It ensures that new housing meets local needs, that infrastructure like schools and transport keeps pace, and that green spaces are protected. Without a clear plan, development can become piecemeal and unsustainable, potentially leading to overcrowded areas, strain on public services, and a loss of the character of our neighbourhoods. For residents, this means having a say in how their communities evolve and ensuring that future development benefits everyone.

Read the full meeting details here.

Overhauling Waste and Recycling for a Greener Doncaster

The Cabinet also addressed the procurement of a new Waste & Recycling Kerbside Collection Contract, as the current agreement is set to expire in March 2028. A key proposal to improve affordability and efficiency is the purchase of new vehicles and plant for the service, with a capital budget of £13.5 million allocated from the Investment and Modernisation Fund.

The recommended contract length is eight years, with an option for an eight-year extension, aligning with the lifespan of refuse collection vehicles. The plans include maintaining separate collection of glass and incorporating a mechanism to gather data on green waste collections. A restructuring of the bulky waste collection service is also proposed, introducing a charging model for collecting 2, 4, 6, or 8 items.

Furthermore, changes to kerbside recycling services are being introduced to align with the government's 'Simpler Recycling' policy. This involves purchasing 140,000 new 180-litre brown wheeled bins for mixed dry recyclables (including plastics, metals, and cartons), while existing 240-litre blue bins will be repurposed for fibre (paper and cardboard). These changes are expected to begin by 1 April 2027. To manage the new collection streams, the frequency for mixed dry recyclables will shift to monthly, with fibre and mixed dry recyclables collected on alternating fortnightly cycles. A capital budget of £3.298 million has been approved for the new bins, alongside additional revenue budgets for new posts to support education and engagement.

What's at Stake?

These changes directly impact every household in Doncaster. A more efficient and modern waste and recycling service can lead to cleaner streets, increased recycling rates, and a reduced environmental footprint. For residents, clearer guidelines and improved collection systems can make it easier to participate in recycling efforts. The investment in new bins and vehicles signals a commitment to a more sustainable future, but effective communication and public engagement will be crucial to ensure these changes are understood and embraced by the community.

Read the full meeting details here.

Council Convenes for Strategic Decisions and Governance Review

The Council met on Friday, 22 May 2026, to address a wide array of administrative and strategic matters, including the formal inauguration of its leadership for the upcoming year, the adoption of crucial financial and safety strategies, and a review of its committee structures.

Setting the Tone: Inauguration of Chair and Vice-Chair

The meeting began with the formal inauguration of the Council's Chair and Vice-Chair for the 2026/27 municipal year. This procedural step is fundamental to the council's operation, establishing the leadership for its formal proceedings.

Executive and Committee Structures Reviewed

Mayor Ros Jones, Mayor of Doncaster, provided an oral report on the composition of the Executive and any proposed changes to the Scheme of Delegations for Executive Functions. This ensures transparency in decision-making authority. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to reviewing and allocating seats on various council committees and sub-committees, ensuring political balance in line with the Local Government and Housing Act 1989. The council also appointed Chairs and Vice-Chairs for these bodies, a statutory requirement for their effective functioning.

Community Safety and Financial Planning Take Centre Stage

A key item for discussion was the endorsement of the Community Safety Strategy 2026-29. This statutory plan, developed by the Safer Stronger Doncaster Partnership (SSDP), outlines how the partnership will tackle crime and disorder, reduce re-offending, and address anti-social behaviour. The strategy focuses on six priorities: anti-social behaviour, substance misuse, crime and re-offending, serious and organised crime, violence and violent crime, and domestic and sexual abuse.

The council also considered the Revenue Budget 2026/27 - 2028/29 and the Capital Strategy and Capital Budget 2026/27 - 2029/30. These documents are vital for the council's financial planning, detailing how public funds will be allocated to deliver services and invest in the borough's future. The Treasury Management Strategy Statement and the Annual Pay Policy Statement were also reviewed, ensuring sound financial management and fair pay practices.

What's at Stake?

The decisions made regarding the budget and capital strategy directly impact the services residents receive. A well-managed budget ensures that essential services, from social care to waste collection, can continue to be delivered effectively. The Community Safety Strategy is paramount for the well-being of all residents, aiming to create safer neighbourhoods and reduce the fear of crime. For vulnerable groups, these strategies are particularly important, as they often rely heavily on the council's support and protection.

Read the full meeting details here.

Audit Committee Reviews Fraud Prevention and Audit Plans

The Audit Committee met on Thursday, 21 May 2026, to review the council's strategies for combating fraud, bribery, and corruption, as well as its internal and external audit plans.

The committee was presented with the Anti-Fraud, Bribery and Corruption Framework 2026-2029, which sets out the council's approach to maintaining high ethical standards and managing these risks. Updates on counter-fraud activities and the Internal Audit Plan for 2026/27 were also discussed, alongside the External Auditor's (Grant Thornton) Audit Plan for 2025/26.

What's at Stake?

The Audit Committee's work is fundamental to ensuring public funds are protected and that the council operates with integrity. A robust framework for preventing fraud and corruption, coupled with effective audit processes, provides assurance to residents that their money is being managed responsibly. This is particularly important for vulnerable individuals who may be disproportionately affected by financial mismanagement or fraud.

Read the full meeting details here.

This week in Doncaster:

Airport Future Hangs in the Balance: Council to Revisit Controversial Borrowing Decision

Doncaster Council is set to hold an extraordinary meeting on Monday, 11 May 2026, to reconsider a significant borrowing decision made in November 2025 regarding Doncaster Sheffield Airport (DSA). The original decision approved borrowing up to £57 million for the reopening of the airport as part of the South Yorkshire Airport City (SYAC) programme. However, a motion to rescind this decision argues that it was based on materially incomplete information and raises serious concerns about conflicts of interest.

The motion highlights that crucial details about the Superior Lease, which grants Peel[^3] an express right to terminate the airport lease based on council planning decisions, were allegedly withheld from councillors before the vote. Furthermore, it points out that the lease includes a minimum passenger threshold requirement, which subsequent projections suggest may not be met. A significant concern is the structural conflict arising from the Council's dual role as both a tenant of the airport site, underpinning a £193 million commitment, and the planning authority responsible for decisions affecting the lease.

What's at Stake?

The implications of this decision are immense for Doncaster's future. If the borrowing is rescinded, the airport reopening programme could collapse, potentially leaving the Council with significant unfunded liabilities estimated at approximately £48.6 million by 2021. This could impact the Council's ability to fund other essential services. Conversely, retaining the borrowing decision means the Council remains exposed to substantial delivery, operational, and financial risks. The report from the Council's Section 151 Officer[^1] warns that failure to secure alternative funding if the borrowing is rescinded could lead to statutory duties under Section 114 of the Local Government Finance Act 1988[^2] being considered. For residents, this decision could shape employment opportunities, economic growth, and the overall financial health of the borough for years to come.

Read the full meeting details here.

Licensing Sub-Committee Considers New Premises Licence Amidst Resident Concerns

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Wednesday, 13 May 2026, to consider a new premises licence application for Hexthorpe Market Express, located at 83 Hexthorpe Road, Hexthorpe, Doncaster, DN4 0BE. The application seeks permission to sell alcohol for consumption off the premises between 08:00 and 23:00 daily.

This application falls within Area 1, which is subject to a cumulative impact policy[^3] designed to manage the density of licensed premises and prevent negative consequences for the community. The committee had to consider three representations from local residents, raising concerns related to the licensing objectives[^4] of preventing crime and disorder, public nuisance, public safety, and protecting children from harm.

One resident, Gurpreet Singh Suwali, expressed worries about the applicant's alleged history of selling illicit cigarettes and vapes, and sales to underage individuals. He also highlighted issues with anti-social behaviour, stating, there is a large problem with anti social behaviour because of a large group of 15 - 20 males who gather near his store drinking alcohol between 9:30pm - late (especially summer time).

Another representation from Attif Nazir, a local business owner, voiced concerns that the sale of alcohol during the proposed hours would lead to increased noise, disturbances, and anti-social behaviour, impacting residents' quality of life and sleep. Mr. Nazir stated, I am concerned the sale of alcohol during the proposed hours will lead to increased noise , disturbances and anti - social behavior which will lead to customers entering and leaving the premises ,shouting and littering and vandalism late at night affecting the life and quality of sleep for residents.

Ian King also submitted a representation, raising concerns about the potential sale of vapes exceeding the 20mg limit, illegal counterfeit cigarettes and tobacco, and sales to underage children.

The Licensing Act 2003[^1] mandates that the Licensing Authority determine such applications when representations are made. The Sub-Committee, chaired by Councillor Howard Rimmer, and including Councillors Nick Allen, Gerald Squire, and Neil Wood, had to weigh these concerns against the application. The committee has the power to grant the licence with conditions, exclude certain licensable activities, refuse to specify a designated premises supervisor[^6], or reject the application entirely.

The outcome of this decision will directly impact the local community, potentially affecting levels of noise, anti-social behaviour, and the availability of alcohol in the Hexthorpe area.

Read the full meeting details here.

Other Matters

The Planning Committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday, 05 May 2026, was cancelled.

This week in Doncaster:

Licensing Sub-Committee Considers New Premises Licence Amidst Resident Concerns

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Wednesday, 13 May 2026, to consider a new premises licence application for Hexthorpe Market Express, located at 83 Hexthorpe Road, Hexthorpe, Doncaster, DN4 0BE. The application seeks permission to sell alcohol for consumption off the premises between 08:00 and 23:00 daily.

This application falls within Area 1, which is subject to a cumulative impact policy designed to manage the density of licensed premises and prevent negative consequences for the community. The committee had to consider three representations from local residents, raising concerns related to the licensing objectives of preventing crime and disorder, public nuisance, public safety, and protecting children from harm.

One resident, Gurpreet Singh Suwali, expressed worries about the applicant's alleged history of selling illicit cigarettes and vapes, and sales to underage individuals. He also highlighted issues with anti-social behaviour, stating, there is a large problem with anti social behaviour because of a large group of 15 - 20 males who gather near his store drinking alcohol between 9:30pm - late (especially summer time).

Another representation from Attif Nazir, a local business owner, voiced concerns that the sale of alcohol during the proposed hours would lead to increased noise, disturbances, and anti-social behaviour, impacting residents' quality of life and sleep. Mr. Nazir stated, I am concerned the sale of alcohol during the proposed hours will lead to increased noise , disturbances and anti - social behavior which will lead to customers entering and leaving the premises ,shouting and littering and vandalism late at night affecting the life and quality of sleep for residents.

Ian King also submitted a representation, raising concerns about the potential sale of vapes exceeding the 20mg limit, illegal counterfeit cigarettes and tobacco, and sales to underage children.

The Licensing Act 2003¹ mandates that the Licensing Authority determine such applications when representations are made. The Sub-Committee, chaired by Councillor Howard Rimmer, and including Councillors Nick Allen, Gerald Squire, and Neil Wood, had to weigh these concerns against the application. The committee has the power to grant the licence with conditions, exclude certain licensable activities, refuse to specify a designated premises supervisor, or reject the application entirely.

The outcome of this decision will directly impact the local community, potentially affecting levels of noise, anti-social behaviour, and the availability of alcohol in the Hexthorpe area.

Read the full meeting details here.

Council to Revisit Doncaster Sheffield Airport Borrowing Decision Amidst Information Concerns

A crucial Council meeting is scheduled for Monday, 11 May 2026, to address a motion to rescind a previous decision regarding borrowing for the Doncaster Sheffield Airport (DSA) project. The original decision, made on 27 November 2025, approved borrowing up to £57 million for the airport's reopening as part of the South Yorkshire Airport City (SYAC) programme.

The motion to rescind argues that the initial decision was based on materially incomplete information. A key concern is the Superior Lease for the airport, which reportedly contains provisions allowing Peel² to terminate the lease based on council planning decisions. This creates a structural conflict as the Council acts as both a tenant of the airport site and the planning authority responsible for decisions that could affect the lease. The motion claims this conflict was not disclosed to councillors before the vote.

Furthermore, the motion highlights that the Superior Lease includes a minimum passenger threshold that must be met to avoid lease termination. A submission from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) in March 2026 projected passenger numbers that falls below the contractual threshold required to avoid lease termination. The motion asserts that councillors were not presented with this critical information, nor with projections indicating the threshold might be missed, when approving the £193 million commitment.

If the borrowing decision is rescinded, it could have significant financial implications for the Council, potentially leaving it exposed to substantial unfunded liabilities. Conversely, maintaining the decision means the Council remains committed to a project with identified risks. For residents, this decision could shape the future economic landscape of Doncaster, impacting employment and investment.

The motion proposes that the Council:

• Rescinds the decision to approve borrowing of up to £57 million for the Doncaster Sheffield Airport project.
• Recommends that the Overview and Scrutiny Management Committee reviews the adequacy and accuracy of information provided to Members regarding the airport lease.
• Recommends that the Audit Committee examines risk management, internal controls, and the identification of conflicts of interest surrounding the borrowing decision.

The meeting will take place at the Civic Office, Waterdale, Doncaster, DN1 3BU. Members of the public wishing to attend are advised to reserve a place and arrive early due to additional security measures.

Read the full meeting details here.

Other Matters

The Planning Committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday, 05 May 2026, was cancelled.

This week in Doncaster:

Airport Future Hangs in the Balance: Council to Revisit Controversial Borrowing Decision

Doncaster Council is set to hold an extraordinary meeting on Monday, 11 May 2026, to reconsider a significant borrowing decision made in November 2025 regarding Doncaster Sheffield Airport (DSA). The original decision approved borrowing up to £57 million for the reopening of the airport as part of the South Yorkshire Airport City (SYAC) programme. However, a motion to rescind this decision argues that it was based on materially incomplete information and raises serious concerns about conflicts of interest.

The motion highlights that crucial details about the Superior Lease, which grants Peel an express right to terminate the airport lease based on council planning decisions, were allegedly withheld from councillors before the vote. Furthermore, it points out that the lease includes a minimum passenger threshold requirement, which subsequent projections suggest may not be met. A significant concern is the structural conflict arising from the Council's dual role as both a tenant of the airport site, underpinning a £193 million commitment, and the planning authority responsible for decisions affecting the lease.

What's at Stake?

The implications of this decision are immense for Doncaster's future. If the borrowing is rescinded, the airport reopening programme could collapse, potentially leaving the Council with significant unfunded liabilities estimated at approximately £48.6 million by 2031. This could impact the Council's ability to fund other essential services. Conversely, retaining the borrowing decision means the Council remains exposed to substantial delivery, operational, and financial risks. The report from the Council's Section 151 Officer[^1] warns that failure to secure alternative funding if the borrowing is rescinded could lead to statutory duties under Section 114 of the Local Government Finance Act 1988[^2] being considered. For residents, this decision could shape employment opportunities, economic growth, and the overall financial health of the borough for years to come.

Read the full meeting details here.

Audit Committee Grapples with Governance, Fraud, and Financial Sustainability

The Audit Committee met on Friday, 1 May 2026, to scrutinise the council's governance, audit processes, and financial controls. A key concern raised was the potential vulnerability in maintaining the council's governance and control arrangements for the upcoming year, stemming from serious concerns regarding governance matters and heightened concerns over financial sustainability.

The committee reviewed the Annual Report of the Head of Internal Audit 2025/26, which provided an overall opinion that governance, risk management, and control arrangements were adequate and effective for the past year. However, the report flagged an increase in new actions required due to limited assurance opinions in two areas within the Children, Young People and Families Directorate.

Discussions also covered the Draft Annual Governance Statement for 2025/26, which identified five significant governance issues, three carried forward from the previous year and two new ones. The committee also examined Breaches and Waivers to Contract Procedure Rules, noting an increase in breaches from zero to three in the reporting period, alongside nine approved waivers.

Furthermore, the committee considered updated frameworks and plans for counter-fraud activities, including the Anti-Fraud, Bribery and Corruption Framework 2026-2029 and the Internal Audit Plan 2026/27. The external auditors, Grant Thornton, presented their Audit Plan for 2025/26, highlighting risks related to the valuation of land and buildings, the pension fund, and potential weaknesses in financial sustainability and governance concerning the South Yorkshire Airport City (SYAC) project.

What's at Stake?

For residents, the Audit Committee's work is fundamental to ensuring public money is managed responsibly and that the council operates with integrity. The concerns raised about financial sustainability and governance could impact the delivery of essential services, particularly for vulnerable groups who rely heavily on council support. An increase in contract breaches could also signal a need for greater oversight in how public funds are allocated.

Read the full meeting details here.

Other Matters

The Planning Committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday, 5 May 2026, has been cancelled.