This week in Gloucestershire:

Council Grapples with Winter Preparedness and the Future of Quarrying

Gloucestershire residents will be looking to the council for reassurance as the Environment Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday 2 September 2026 to discuss the county's readiness for the upcoming winter season and the significant implications of the new Gloucestershire Joint Minerals (and Waste) Plan.

Winter Preparedness: Keeping Our Roads Safe

With winter on the horizon, the committee was set to review the council's highway preparedness for the 2026/27 season. This vital discussion would have covered plans for managing snow, ice, and potential flooding impacts on our roads. The council's strategy includes a fleet of 29 gritting vehicles, a substantial stock of rock salt, and a network of community snow wardens and public grit bins.

• What this means for you: Ensuring our roads are safe and passable during harsh weather is crucial for everyone, especially for those who rely on them for work, essential appointments, or simply getting around. This preparedness directly impacts the ability of emergency services to respond and ensures that vulnerable residents can access support.

The Future of Quarrying: Balancing Resources and Environment

A key topic was the impact of quarrying and the introduction of the new Gloucestershire Joint Minerals (and Waste) Plan. This plan will shape how minerals are extracted and waste is managed across the county for years to come. Such plans are critical for balancing the demand for resources with the need to protect our environment and minimise disruption to communities.

• What this means for you: Decisions made through this plan will affect the landscape of Gloucestershire, potentially impacting local environments and communities near extraction sites. It's a complex balancing act between providing necessary materials for development and construction, and safeguarding our natural heritage.

The committee was also scheduled to review the Executive Director's report for Economy, Environment & Infrastructure, which would have provided updates on various projects and initiatives.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Environment Scrutiny Committee meeting agenda.

City Region Board Charts Economic Course: From Advanced Engineering to Climate Action

The City Region Board convened on Friday 4 September 2026 to steer Gloucestershire's economic future, with discussions spanning advanced engineering, transport, and crucial climate change initiatives within planning.

Boosting Advanced Engineering and Manufacturing

A significant focus was placed on the Advanced Engineering and Manufacturing (AEM) sector, identified as a cornerstone of Gloucestershire's economy. The board reviewed a report highlighting the sector's global competitiveness but also its challenges, such as shortages of skilled staff and suitable industrial premises. Recommendations included establishing an industry-led leadership group and improving the alignment between skills training and employer needs.

• What this means for you: Supporting key industries like AEM is vital for job creation and economic prosperity in Gloucestershire. This focus aims to ensure that local businesses can thrive and that residents have access to skilled, well-paid employment opportunities.

Local Transport Plan: Greener Journeys Ahead

The board received an update on the Local Transport Plan (LTP) for 2027-2043, following public consultation. The LTP aims to address challenges like building new homes, reducing transport emissions, and tackling social exclusion. Feedback indicated strong support for the plan's vision, with particular emphasis on improving roads, pavements, and bus services. The proposed strategy prioritises buses, active travel, and accessible transport.

• What this means for you: This plan is about shaping how we move around Gloucestershire. It has the potential to make our communities more accessible, reduce our carbon footprint, and improve the quality of our daily commutes and local journeys.

Climate Change Integrated into Planning

The board also heard about the progress of the Countywide Climate and Planning Manager role. This initiative is working to embed climate change considerations into local planning policy and the Spatial Development Strategy (SDS). While progress has been made, the report noted the need for more consistent integration of climate change policies across all districts.

• What this means for you: Integrating climate change into planning ensures that new developments are sustainable and resilient. This is crucial for protecting our environment and ensuring a healthy future for generations to come.

Updates were also provided on the Business Rate Pool and the Strategic Economic Development Fund (SEDF), the Gloucestershire Business Board, and the ongoing development of the Spatial Development Strategy (SDS) and Local Plans.

You can find more details about these discussions in the City Region Board meeting agenda.

Other matters

The Environment Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday 2 September 2026. The committee was scheduled to discuss the impacts of quarrying and the new Gloucestershire Joint Minerals (and Waste) Plan, as well as the council's preparedness for the upcoming winter season. The committee also reviewed the Executive Director's report for Economy, Environment & Infrastructure and its own work plan. You can find more details about these discussions in the Environment Scrutiny Committee meeting agenda.

The City Region Board met on Friday 4 September 2026. Key topics included updates on the Local Transport Plan, climate change initiatives within planning, the Business Rate Pool and Strategic Economic Development Fund (SEDF), and progress on local plans and the Spatial Development Strategy. You can find more details about these discussions in the City Region Board meeting agenda.

This week in Gloucestershire:

Health and Wellbeing Board Tackles Better Care Fund and Healthy Weight Strategy

The Gloucestershire Health & Wellbeing Board met on Tuesday 28 July 2026, addressing critical plans for integrated health and care services and a new strategy to combat obesity. The meeting focused on the Better Care Fund (BCF) Plan for 2026-27 and the development of the Gloucestershire Healthy Weight Strategy 2026-2036.

Better Care Fund: Supporting Independence and Reducing Hospital Admissions

A key decision point was the final approval of the Better Care Fund (BCF) Plan for 2026-27. This national initiative, jointly funded by NHS England and the Department of Health and Social Care, aims to integrate health and social care services to support people to live independently at home for longer.

The plan for Gloucestershire prioritises:

• Domiciliary care and reablement: Providing support to help people recover at home after illness or injury, reducing the need for hospital stays.
• Community healthcare and palliative care: Ensuring services are available closer to home for those with long-term conditions or requiring end-of-life support.
• Carers' support: Offering vital assistance to unpaid carers who play a crucial role in supporting loved ones.
• Home First principle: Emphasising recovery and independence within the home environment to prevent avoidable hospital admissions and reduce reliance on residential care.

The BCF funding is aligned with Gloucestershire's Neighbourhood Health model, supporting Integrated Neighbourhood Teams (INTs). The plan sets ambitious goals to stabilise and reduce non-elective admissions (NEAs) for those aged 65 and over, aiming for a decrease from 1,470 to 1,454 per 100,000 population, despite an ageing population with more complex needs. Targets also focus on improving hospital discharge performance.

• What this means for you: This plan is designed to ensure that vulnerable residents, particularly older people and those with complex health needs, receive the right support in their own homes. By investing in community-based services and reablement, the council and NHS aim to improve quality of life, reduce the stress of hospital stays, and ensure smoother transitions back home. This directly impacts the availability and effectiveness of care services for your neighbours and families.

The meeting also included updates on current issues and a strategic priority concerning health and housing.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Gloucestershire Health & Wellbeing Board meeting agenda.

Gloucestershire Healthy Weight Strategy: Tackling Obesity Across the Lifespan

The Board also received an update on the development of the Gloucestershire Healthy Weight Strategy (2026-2036). This comprehensive strategy aims to create an environment where healthy choices are the easiest choices for all residents.

Key concerns highlighted include:

• Inequalities in childhood obesity: Nearly 3 in 10 Year 6 children in the most deprived areas live with obesity, a rate twice as high as in the least deprived communities.
• Adult obesity rates: Around 1 in 4 adults in Gloucestershire live with obesity.
• Food insecurity: Nearly 3 in 10 pupils in the most deprived areas report skipping meals due to food insecurity.
• Environmental factors: Urban areas in Gloucestershire have a high concentration of fast-food outlets, influencing dietary choices.

The strategy's vision is for Gloucestershire to be a place where every resident has the opportunity to maintain a healthy weight. It focuses on five pillars of action:

• Healthier places and settings: Shaping environments to promote healthy lifestyles.
• More children and adults moving: Encouraging physical activity.
• More children and adults eating a healthier diet: Promoting nutritious food choices.
• Person-centred support for health and weight: Providing tailored assistance.

• Embracing system-wide approaches: Working collaboratively across all sectors.

• What this means for you: This strategy is a long-term commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of everyone in Gloucestershire. By addressing the root causes of unhealthy weight, including social and economic factors, the council and its partners aim to reduce the burden of obesity-related illnesses and create healthier communities for future generations. This impacts everything from local planning decisions to public health campaigns.

The meeting also included Chair's Updates and an update on the 'health and housing' strategic priority.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Gloucestershire Health & Wellbeing Board meeting agenda.

Pension Board Reviews Fund Performance and Investment Strategy

The Pension Board met on Wednesday 29 July 2026 to review the performance and governance of the Gloucestershire Pension Fund. The meeting covered a range of important financial and investment matters, including the Fund's financial statements, audit plan, and progress towards net zero commitments.

Gloucestershire Pension Fund Business Update

The Board received updates on the Fund's governance and operations, including the new regulatory framework and the Fund's participation in LGPS Central. Discussions also covered amendments to the Risk Register and the 2026/27 business plan.

A key item was the update on the Fund's funding position as at 31 March 2026 and progress on its net zero commitments. The Board was also scheduled to review draft Investment Strategy Statements and Investment Policy Statements, with an updated timetable for their development and approval extending to December 2026. Feedback on these draft documents was sought.

• What this means for you: The Gloucestershire Pension Fund manages the retirement savings of many local government employees. Ensuring its sound financial management and responsible investment practices is crucial for the long-term security of these pensions. The focus on net zero commitments reflects a growing awareness of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors in investment decisions.

The Board was also presented with the findings of funding and investment performance benchmarking, comparing the Fund's position against peers. The draft Pension Board Annual Report 2025-26 and the draft financial statements and audit plan for 2025-26 were also considered.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Pension Board meeting agenda.

Other matters

The Gloucestershire Health and Wellbeing Partnership meeting was scheduled for Tuesday 28 July 2026.

You can find more details about this meeting in the Gloucestershire Health and Wellbeing Partnership meeting agenda.

This week in Gloucestershire:

£2.2 Million Boost for Domestic Abuse Support Services Approved

The Cabinet met on Wednesday 22 July 2026, making a significant decision to allocate over £2.2 million to bolster domestic abuse support services across the county. This funding injection aims to provide vital assistance to victims and survivors, including the expansion of safe accommodation and dedicated support for children and young people affected by domestic abuse.

The approved funding will support a range of initiatives, including call-off contracts with GreenSquareAccord Limited for core support, safe accommodation services, and professional training. These contracts will run for up to six years, ensuring sustained support for those in need. A pilot Respite Rooms scheme in Gloucester has also received up to £275,000 to offer immediate safe spaces.

Furthermore, £200,000 has been earmarked for wellbeing and recovery support for children and young people living in safe accommodation, recognising the profound impact domestic abuse can have on young lives. The Cabinet also approved funding for staffing roles and corporate support, alongside delegating authority to allocate funds to statutory partners within the Domestic Abuse Local Partnership Board.

• What this means for you: This substantial investment signals a strong commitment to tackling domestic abuse. It means more resources will be available for victims, including safe places to stay and specialised support for children who have experienced trauma. This funding is crucial for providing a safety net and pathways to recovery for those affected by domestic abuse.

The Cabinet also delegated authority to procure and award a contract for a domestic abuse and healthy relationship support service for young people, with an initial two-year period from April 2027. This service will include specific support for children and young people in safe accommodation.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Cabinet meeting agenda.

Fire Cover Optimisation: Public Consultation on Redeploying Resources to Cinderford

The Cabinet also approved an eight-week public consultation on proposals to optimise fire cover across Gloucestershire. The core of the proposal involves redeploying existing wholetime night-time resources from Cheltenham West to Cinderford. This move is intended to establish a wholetime day-crewed model at Cinderford, aiming to improve fire cover in that area.

The estimated cost for the public consultation is £35,000, to be funded from existing budgets. The feedback gathered during this consultation will inform final recommendations before any decision is made.

• What this means for you: This proposal could lead to changes in fire response times and resource allocation. While the aim is to enhance cover in Cinderford, residents in Cheltenham may have concerns about the impact on night-time fire services. Your input during the consultation is vital to ensure all perspectives are considered.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Cabinet meeting agenda.

New Policy to Charge for Excess DIY Waste at Recycling Centres

In a move to manage costs, the Cabinet approved the adoption of a new policy that will allow the council to charge residents for excess DIY waste at Gloucestershire's five Household Recycling Centres (HRCs). This policy will introduce a specified free allowance for DIY waste, with charges applying to any amount exceeding this limit.

The policy aims to generate an estimated net revenue of £300k - £450k per year, contributing to the council's financial targets. Authority has been delegated to implement the policy, including procuring an online customer booking and payment system and modifying existing contracts to accommodate additional staff needed to manage the new system.

• What this means for you: Residents undertaking home improvement projects will need to be aware of the new charges for disposing of DIY waste. This policy aims to ensure that the costs associated with managing this specific type of waste are covered, rather than being subsidised by general council tax.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Cabinet meeting agenda.

Other matters

The Children and Families Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Friday 24 July 2026. The committee was scheduled to consider updates on the Families First Transformation Programme, which aims to reform children's social care through earlier, integrated intervention and stronger multi-agency collaboration. They were also due to feed into the development of the SEND Specialist Sufficiency Strategy for 2026-2031, focusing on ensuring sufficient school places for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. A review of the Quarter 4 2025/26 performance report and the committee's work plan were also on the agenda. You can find more details about these discussions in the Children and Families Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting agenda.

The Adult Social Care and Communities Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday 21 July 2026. Discussions included updates on sexual health services, with a focus on a needs assessment and plans for a Sexual Health Improvement Partnership. The committee also reviewed the Quarter 4 Performance Report for 2025/26, received a public health update covering vaccination campaigns and school food standards, and heard an update on adult social care, including CQC inspections and the transition of mental health social work services. You can find more details about these discussions in the Adult Social Care and Communities Scrutiny Committee meeting agenda.

The Audit and Governance Committee met on Thursday 23 July 2026. Key discussions included a KPMG Value for Money Risk Assessment, which highlighted a risk of significant weakness in financial sustainability due to the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) deficit. The committee also reviewed annual reports on Treasury Management, Risk Management, and the Counter Fraud Team. Progress reports on Internal Audit activity and the proposed Internal Audit Strategy and Charter for 2026-27 were also presented. You can find more details about these discussions in the Audit and Governance Committee meeting agenda.

This week in Gloucestershire:

Fire Cover Optimisation Sparks Debate: Reallocating Resources for Better Response Times

The Fire and Rescue Scrutiny Committee met on Friday 17 July 2026 to discuss crucial updates impacting our local fire service. A key item on the agenda was the proposed optimisation of fire cover across Gloucestershire, which could see resources reallocated from Cheltenham West to Cinderford. This move aims to improve response times in the Forest of Dean district and enhance prevention and protection activities.

The proposal involves establishing a wholetime day-crewed model at Cinderford by reallocating existing wholetime night-time resources. While presented as a cost-neutral solution that reallocates current resources to better match staffing to demand, it means a reduction in dedicated wholetime night cover at Cheltenham West. This change is subject to an 8-week public consultation, and the committee received information ahead of a decision by Cabinet on 22 July 2026.

• What this means for you: This decision directly impacts emergency response times. While the aim is to improve cover in areas with higher demand, residents in Cheltenham may be concerned about reduced night-time fire cover. The council is seeking to balance resource allocation to ensure the most effective service across the county.

The committee also received updates on the implementation of firefighter shift changes, which have seen a move to 12-hour day and night shifts. Feedback on these changes has been mixed, with some staff finding the longer days demanding, though initial data suggests no increase in sickness absence or staff turnover.

Furthermore, the committee heard about the potential reintroduction of a Fire Cadet programme, which would require significant investment. They also noted community safety performance data, highlighting successes in Home Fire Safety Visits but a shortfall in Business Safety Interventions. A motion to donate decommissioned fire engines to Ukraine was also discussed.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Fire and Rescue Scrutiny Committee meeting agenda.

DIY Waste Charges Loom: Council Considers New Fees at Recycling Centres

The Environment Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday 15 July 2026, with a significant discussion around proposed charges for DIY waste at Household Recycling Centres (HRCs). Under current legislation, councils must accept household waste for free, but DIY waste is classified as industrial waste, meaning the council is not obligated to take it without charge.

The proposed policy would introduce a Free Disposal allowance, permitting residents to dispose of up to two 50-litre rubble sacks or specific single items free of charge, up to four times in a four-week period. Any waste exceeding these limits, or waste generated by hired contractors, would incur charges. These fees are intended to cover operational costs, haulage, and specialist processing. The implementation of a new booking system and cashless payment methods is also planned for autumn 2026 or early 2027.

• What this means for you: This change could mean that residents undertaking home improvement projects will face new costs when disposing of waste. The council argues this is necessary to cover the expenses associated with managing this type of waste, which is distinct from regular household refuse.

The committee also reviewed Gloucestershire's Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessment Report, which highlights projected increases in heatwaves, wildfire events, and droughts by the 2050s, alongside greater risks of flooding. The report outlines adaptation projects and recommends future actions to bolster the county's resilience. Updates on the Residual Waste Contract, litter management on highway verges, and waste management overview were also discussed.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Environment Scrutiny Committee meeting agenda.

Cyber Hub at Duke of Gloucester Barracks Moves Forward, While Business Rate Funding Faces Uncertainty

The City Region Board met on Monday 13 July 2026, with a key focus on economic development and infrastructure projects. A significant update was provided on the investment plans for the Duke of Gloucester Barracks in South Cerney, which will host a specialist facility for the Army's cyber unit. This £279 million project will include new technical and training buildings, as well as accommodation, with construction expected to begin in Summer 2027. The project aims to be a 'Net Zero Carbon' pathfinder and includes social value targets for local employment and skills development.

However, the update on the Gloucestershire Business Rates Pool (GBRP) and the Strategic Economic Development Fund (SEDF) revealed a significant change. While the GBRP generated an estimated £1.519 million for the SEDF in 2025/26, changes to the business rates retention system mean no further contributions are expected from this source from April 2026.

• What this means for you: The investment in the cyber facility at Duke of Gloucester Barracks signals a commitment to high-tech industry and job creation in the region. However, the loss of business rate pool funding for the SEDF could impact future economic growth initiatives and support for local businesses.

The Board also discussed the progress of local plans across the county and considered the appointment of Robert Stemp as a non-voting business member, aiming to strengthen business engagement.

You can find more details about these discussions in the City Region Board meeting agenda.

Other matters

The Health Overview & Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday 14 July 2026. The committee received updates on maternity services, including the suspension of the home birth service due to safety concerns and plans for reopening the Cheltenham Birth Centre. They also reviewed performance reports for the Gloucestershire Integrated Care System (GICS), highlighting areas of strength in primary care access and vaccination programmes, alongside challenges in urgent and emergency care and mental health services. You can find more details about these discussions in the Health Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting agenda.