This week in Gloucestershire:

Council Gears Up for Major Local Government Overhaul: Devolution and Reorganisation Take Centre Stage

Gloucestershire County Council is on the cusp of significant change as discussions intensify around Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) and devolution. The Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday 15 April 2026 to grapple with the implications of these national shifts, which could fundamentally alter how services are delivered across the county.

The committee was briefed on the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill, which is nearing Royal Assent and includes provisions for 'Neighbourhood Governance'. This could empower local communities with greater decision-making power. Progress in Surrey, which is a year ahead in its LGR plans and is establishing voluntary joint committees for its new unitary councils, was also examined.

Crucially for Gloucestershire, the LGR consultation has begun, and residents are urged to engage. The transition to the implementation stage of LGR involves a portfolio of 11 programmes, funded by a pooled fund between the seven councils. Political oversight will be provided by a Steering Group of council leaders, with officer governance managed by a Portfolio Board.

The committee also considered how to provide effective scrutiny of this complex LGR portfolio. Options ranged from a formal Joint Scrutiny Committee to a more flexible scrutiny panel. The report recommended a scrutiny panel, which could be established more quickly and allow for wider political ownership. This is vital to ensure accountability and build trust across councils as the reorganisation progresses.

The committee also noted findings from a review by the Centre for Governance and Scrutiny (CfGS), which highlighted that while Gloucestershire's scrutiny function has a strong track record, its potential is not always fully realised. Recommendations included developing a shared vision for scrutiny and enhancing the process for making recommendations.

The financial implications of these changes are also being closely monitored. The committee reviewed the council's third-quarter financial performance, noting a projected net underspend of £2.416 million, which is likely to be transferred to the Local Government Reorganisation Reserve. However, adverse movements were reported in several service areas, including Adult Social Care, where pressures on external care budgets and mental health services are contributing to overspends.

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

Council Charts Course for Economic Future Amidst Strategic Funding Debates

Gloucestershire's economic trajectory was a central theme as the Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday 15 April 2026. Discussions focused on the progress of the Together Gloucestershire project, aimed at fostering local business connections, and an update on the City Region Board's strategic funding decisions. The committee also reviewed its own work plan, signalling a commitment to ongoing oversight of the county's economic development.

Driving Local Business Growth with Together Gloucestershire

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the work commissioned to review the operating model for procurement and contract management. This discussion was expected to cover the ongoing efforts to enhance how the council procures goods and services and manages its contracts.

SAP One Programme - Post Go-Live

A presentation was scheduled to provide an update on the SAP One Programme following its 'go live' phase. This would offer insights into the system's performance and any subsequent developments after its implementation.

Gloucestershire County Council's Commercial Strategy 2026-2028

An overview of the Gloucestershire County Council's Commercial Strategy for 2026-2028 was to be presented. This strategy had previously been approved by Cabinet on 18 March 2026 and aimed to guide the council's commercial activities over the coming years.

GCC Scrutiny Review

The committee was due to consider a report detailing the outcomes and recommendations from workshops held by the Centre for Governance and Scrutiny (CfGS) on 9 and 27 March 2026. This review would likely focus on the effectiveness and future direction of scrutiny within the council.

Stronger Futures Business Case

A presentation on the Stronger Futures business case was scheduled. This business case was intended for consideration by Cabinet at its meeting on 22 April 2026, suggesting it relates to future strategic initiatives.

Corporate Performance and Risk Monitoring - Quarter 3 2025/26

This item was divided into three parts:

• Council Strategy Progress: An update on the progress made against the Council Strategy for the third quarter of 2025/26 was to be presented, detailing achievements and any areas requiring attention.
• Overview of Performance: A broader overview of the council's performance during the same period was scheduled, likely encompassing key performance indicators across various service areas.
• Strategic Risk Monitoring Report: The committee was to review the strategic risks facing the council as monitored in the third quarter of 2025/26, identifying any changes in risk levels or emerging concerns.

LGR/Devolution Update

An update on Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) and devolution was scheduled. This ongoing topic likely covered developments in the restructuring of local government and any potential devolution of powers to the region.

Work Plan

The committee was to review its work plan for future meetings, with the opportunity to suggest items for consideration. This ensures the committee's agenda remains relevant and addresses emerging priorities.

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

Other matters

• The Cabinet on Wednesday 22 April 2026 will meet to discuss a new Local Growth Plan for the county, a major transformation programme, and the future of a local reablement unit. The meeting will also cover plans for the Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service and proposals for canal restoration. See details.
• The Audit and Governance Committee on Thursday 23 April 2026 will meet. See details.
• The Pension Board on Tuesday 28 April 2026 will meet. See details.
• The Constitution Committee on Monday 27 April 2026 will meet. See details.
• The Planning Committee Site Visits on Wednesday 29 April 2026 will meet. See details.

This week in Gloucestershire:

Council Charts Course for Economic Future Amidst Strategic Funding Debates

Gloucestershire's economic trajectory was a central theme as the Gloucestershire Economic Strategy Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday 26 March 2026. Discussions focused on the progress of the Together Gloucestershire project, aimed at fostering local business connections, and an update on the City Region Board's strategic funding decisions. The committee also reviewed its own work plan, signalling a commitment to ongoing oversight of the county's economic development.

Driving Local Business Growth with Together Gloucestershire

The committee received a progress update on the Together Gloucestershire project, which received Strategic Economic Development Funding (SEDF) in March 2025. Launched in 2022, this initiative aims to create a platform connecting private and public sector organisations with ethical and reliable suppliers within Gloucestershire. Its core mission is to assist Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in engaging with larger organisations and boosting local spending.

The update was expected to cover key milestones, including the development of a supplier database and the onboarding of businesses. Challenges such as raising awareness with limited resources and inconsistent follow-up from larger organisations were acknowledged. A strategy for future development, focusing on database enhancements and user education, was also outlined. This project directly impacts local businesses, offering them greater visibility and opportunities to secure contracts within the county, thereby strengthening the local economy.

City Region Board Shapes Gloucestershire's Future

An update from the City Region Board provided insights into strategic funding and development plans. Councillor Julian Tooke, Cabinet Member for Business, Economic Development, Planning and Infrastructure, was expected to present on discussions from the Board's meeting on 6 March 2026.

Key topics included:

• Retail and Hospitality Sector: The Board considered actions to address challenges faced by these sectors, including lobbying the Government to reconsider its approach to taxes. The Economic Strategy Scrutiny Committee was asked to add this issue to its work plan, highlighting the potential impact on local businesses and employment.
• Transitional Spatial Development Strategy (tSDS): Progress on public consultations and the shaping of the strategy's vision and objectives were discussed. The Government's invitation for views on sensible geographies for SDSs could influence future devolution outcomes for the county, impacting long-term planning and development.
• Business Rate Pool: An update on the Gloucestershire Business Rates Pool (GBRP) and its role in generating SEDF was provided. It was noted that no further contributions to SEDF are expected in 2026/2027 due to the absence of a planned business rate pool for that year.

These discussions are crucial for understanding how strategic funding is being allocated to support economic growth, address sector-specific challenges, and shape the future development landscape of Gloucestershire.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Gloucestershire Economic Strategy Scrutiny Committee meeting agenda.

Health and Wellbeing Board Focuses on Long-Term Population Health Strategy

The Gloucestershire Health & Wellbeing Board met on Tuesday 24 March 2026 to endorse a comprehensive five-year plan for population health and strategic commissioning. This plan is vital for ensuring the health and wellbeing of all Gloucestershire residents, with a particular focus on preventative care and equitable access to services.

A Five-Year Vision for Health and Wellbeing

The Board was asked to approve the Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board's (ICB) Population Health & Strategic Commissioning Plan for 2025-2031. This plan outlines the ICB's strategy for improving health outcomes over the next five years, guided by three core shifts: moving from sickness to prevention, from acute to community care, and from analogue to digital.

The plan is built on extensive public engagement and an integrated needs assessment, identifying four priority areas:

• Supporting people to stay healthy at home.
• Providing proactive, personalised care in neighbourhoods for those with rising risk.
• Delivering specialist care across multiple neighbourhoods.
• Developing streamlined secondary care services.

This strategic approach aims to ensure that resources are directed towards the most impactful interventions, potentially leading to better health outcomes and more efficient use of healthcare funding.

Joint Strategic Needs Assessment and Health Strategy Updates

The Board also received an update on the Gloucestershire Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA), a critical document that informs local commissioning decisions. Furthermore, an annual update on the delivery of the Gloucestershire Joint Local Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2020-2030 was presented. This strategy focuses on seven key priorities, including a 'best start in life', mental wellbeing, and addressing loneliness and social isolation. The reframing of the loneliness priority as 'Creating a Connected Gloucestershire' highlights a proactive approach to fostering community wellbeing.

A presentation on the work of the Gloucester Community Building Collective (GCBC) showcased initiatives aimed at building meaningful connections and strengthening communities, directly supporting the strategy's goals.

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

County Council Debates Devolution, Farmer Support, and Financial Management

The County Council convened on Wednesday 25 March 2026 to address a range of critical issues, including the county's potential involvement in a Foundation Strategic Authority, support for farmers, and the council's financial strategy. Several motions brought forward by councillors highlighted pressing local concerns.

Gloucestershire's Path to Devolution: A Foundation Strategic Authority

A significant item was the council's response to the government's invitation to express interest in forming a Foundation Strategic Authority (FSA). The council was recommended to support joining the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) and to endorse an expression of interest in forming a single-county Gloucestershire FSA as a precursor to WECA membership. This move is intended to address a growing devolution deficit that could weaken the county's funding and its ability to influence infrastructure and planning decisions. The report noted that Gloucestershire's strongest economic ties are with the West of England Combined Authority area.

Supporting Gloucestershire's Farmers and Rural Businesses

A motion was put forward to address the crisis facing farmers and rural businesses, citing rising costs, adverse weather, and global market volatility. The motion proposed that the Cabinet conduct an urgent audit of council procurement to prioritise local acquisitions, review catering facilities to favour local produce, and report on the success of the Made in Gloucestershire programme. It also called for a plan from Public Health to promote services in rural communities for mental health and an initiative to highlight the benefits of locally produced food. This directly addresses the economic pressures on a vital sector of Gloucestershire's economy and the wellbeing of its rural communities.

Financial Management and Councillor Allowances Under Review

Two motions addressed the council's financial situation and councillor allowances. One motion expressed grave concern over alleged financial failings and mismanagement, proposing that all County Councillors voluntarily forgo their allowances until the council's financial position is stabilised. It also requested an urgent review of the council's allowance scheme. A second motion proposed establishing a Cross-Party Savings and Efficiency Task Group to examine opportunities for improved efficiency and value for money across the council. These discussions reflect a public demand for fiscal responsibility and effective management of taxpayer money.

Other Matters Discussed

The council also received updates on its corporate parenting activities, detailing work to support children in care and care leavers. A motion was proposed to explore the feasibility of rapidly expanding public and community-owned renewable energy generation in Gloucestershire, highlighting environmental and economic benefits. Another motion addressed the disproportionately high suicide rates among men in Gloucestershire, calling for strengthened local strategies and targeted communication campaigns. The establishment of Local Highways Champions to support community-led minor highway works was also proposed.

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

Commons and Rights of Way Committee Considers Footpath Application and Delegated Powers

The Commons and Rights of Way Committee met on Monday 23 March 2026 to consider an application to add a public footpath and to discuss proposals for the increased use of officer delegated powers.

Footpath Application at Wistley Hill Refused

The committee considered an application for a Definitive Map Modification Order to add a public footpath at Wistley Hill, Charlton Kings parish. The application sought to re-open a route believed to have fallen into disuse. However, after examining historical research and user evidence, the report concluded that the evidence was insufficient to support the application, and it was recommended for refusal. This decision impacts public access to land and the management of rights of way within the county.

Review of Officer Delegated Powers

The committee also reviewed proposals for revising the use of Officer Delegated Powers for certain committee functions, following a recommendation from the Gloucestershire Local Access Forum. The aim is to streamline decision-making for Definitive Map Modification Orders (DMMOs), with controversial cases being referred to the committee. This discussion is important for balancing efficiency in council operations with the need for transparency and public confidence in decision-making processes.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Commons and Rights of Way Committee meeting agenda.

This week in Gloucestershire:

• The Cabinet meeting approved a strategic case for joining the West of England Combined Authority and agreed to establish a joint programme for Local Government Reorganisation.
• The Gloucestershire Police and Crime Panel was scheduled to discuss staff wellbeing, emergency service collaboration, and the role of Special Constables.
• The Planning Committee was scheduled to consider plans for a new SEND school and review the council's compliance performance on its own developments.

Cabinet - Wednesday 18 March 2026

The Cabinet of Gloucestershire County Council met on Wednesday 18 March 2026 to discuss a range of significant issues, including the county's response to government proposals on forming a Foundation Strategic Authority, the establishment of a joint programme for Local Government Reorganisation, and the implementation of a Safer Roads and Community 20s programme. Key decisions were made regarding the council's commercial strategy, its sixth annual climate change report, and the allocation of grant funding for Best Start Family Hubs and the Crisis and Resilience Fund.

Response to Government's Invitation to Submit an Expression of Interest in Forming a Foundation Strategic Authority

Cabinet approved the strategic case for joining the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) as Gloucestershire's preferred long-term strategic direction. They will submit a single-county Gloucestershire Foundation Strategic Authority (FSA) Expression of Interest (EOI) as a precursor to WECA membership. Authority was delegated to the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Leader, Cllr Lisa Spivey, to agree and submit the EOI and supporting materials. Cabinet also endorsed continued concurrent work on building the strategic case for joining WECA and single-county FSA development and submission. This decision was made to address a growing devolution deficit that could weaken the county's funding position and its ability to shape strategic decisions.

Establishing a Joint Programme for Local Government Reorganisation Implementation

Cabinet approved the establishment of a joint programme with Gloucestershire's District Councils to deliver Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) across the county. This programme will be supported by a pooled budget, with Gloucestershire County Council acting as the Accountable Body. Cabinet approved a contribution of £10.186 million to this pooled budget, noting that further contributions may be required. Authority was delegated to the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Leader, to agree and enter into a Memorandum of Understanding with the six District Councils, outlining the governance and oversight of the Joint Programme. Authority was also delegated to the Deputy Chief Executive/Executive Director of Corporate Resources and the LGR Portfolio Director to authorise expenditure from the pooled budget, with a limit of £500,000 per item before further Cabinet approval is sought. This initiative aims to ensure the effective and efficient mobilisation and delivery of the extensive work required for LGR.

Community 20s and Safer Roads Programme

Cabinet approved the approach to prioritisation, engagement, and decision-making for the Safer Roads and Community 20s programme, and sought approval for its implementation. This programme aims to improve road safety by introducing lower speed limits on urban and rural roads, including 20mph limits in residential areas. The outline delivery programme for 2026/27 and a provisional programme for 2027/28 were agreed. Authority was delegated to the Director of Traffic and Highways and the Director of Public Health, in consultation with relevant Cabinet Members and the Director of Public Health, to finalise the programme, implement delivery, regularly review and update it, streamline the Traffic Regulation Order process, and update road safety audit protocols. This initiative aligns with the Council Strategy's priorities for safer, healthier, and stronger communities.

Public Transport Network Strategy

Cabinet delegated authority to the Executive Director of Economy, Environment & Infrastructure, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Sustainable Transport and Road Safety, Cllr Roger Whyborn, to finalise and approve the capital and revenue spend programme for Gloucestershire County Council's (GCC's) Local Authority Bus Grant allocation from the Department for Transport (DfT) for 2026-2030. This funding, totalling £28,466,041, will form the basis of GCC's Local Transport Delivery Plan. Authority was also delegated to procure and award contracts for public bus services and home-to-school transport services, replacing existing contracts due to expire between April 2026 and August 2027. The report highlighted the success of the 'Robin' demand-responsive service and proposed the withdrawal of a small number of low-use, high-subsidy rural services that are now duplicated by the Robin.

Council Strategy Action Plan

Cabinet approved the draft action plan for delivering the priorities set out in the Council Strategy: A Stronger Future, Built Together 2025-29. They also agreed to use this action plan and a strategic performance dataset to monitor outcomes, forming the basis for quarterly reporting to Cabinet and the Corporate Overview & Scrutiny Committee. This ensures a clear link between strategic objectives, service delivery, and performance monitoring.

Gloucestershire County Council's Commercial Strategy 2026-2028

Cabinet approved the adoption and implementation of the Council's Commercial Strategy for 2026-2028. This strategy outlines GCC's approach to managing its income generation, procurement, and contract management, and aims to embed commercial skills and culture across the council. Key proposals include establishing a Commercial Board, strengthening the commercial support unit, and implementing a Commercial Skills Pathway for staff and members. The strategy is designed to enhance financial sustainability, deliver value for money, and support wider social value objectives.

2024-2025 Gloucestershire's Sixth Annual Climate Change Report

Cabinet acknowledged GCC's commitment to achieving net zero for its own corporate emissions (Scope 1) by 2030 and confirmed the continuation of purchasing 100% renewable electricity (Scope 2). They also acknowledged the commitment to achieving net zero for supplier and contractor emissions (Scope 3) by 2050, with support offered to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) through The Growth Hub. The Cabinet noted that the Gloucestershire Pension Fund has a net zero target of 2045 and requested that the Fund reconsider complete disinvestment from all fossil fuels in the meantime. Authority was delegated to the EE&I Director to develop plans for incentivising modal shift and travel reduction by GCC employees and contractors. The publication of the sixth Annual Climate Change report was also noted.

Performance and Risk Monitoring Report

Cabinet noted the report on the Council's performance and risks during Quarter 3 2025/26. The report indicated a mixed picture, with nine strategic priorities on target and two complete, but six priorities at partial risk, at risk, or compromised. Challenges were identified in areas such as climate change factors, financial sufficiency for road improvements and the High Needs Block deficit, strategic procurement, supplier engagement, and the delivery of the Single View of the Child project. The report also highlighted achievements, including improved road maintenance performance and a reduction in permanent exclusions.

Approval to Establish a Procurement Route for Community Equipment

Cabinet delegated authority to the Executive Director of Adult Social Care, Wellbeing and Communities, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Adults' Support and Independence, Cllr Dr Kate Usmar, to conduct a mini-competition or direct award process under the NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS) Framework Agreement for the supply of community social care and health equipment. This procurement will cover a range of equipment to support residents' independence and facilitate hospital discharges. The proposed contracts will have an initial term of three years with an option to extend for a further year, with an estimated value of up to £18 million over seven years.

Best Start Family Hubs Grant Funding Proposal

Cabinet approved the acceptance of £3,649,600 in Best Start in Life (BSiL) Delivery Grant funding from the Department for Education (DfE) for the period April 2026 to March 2029. Authority was delegated to the Executive Director of Children's Services, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, Cllr Linda Cohen, to develop and publish a BSiL local plan, allocate grant funding, and determine whether services will be delivered in-house or procured from third-party providers. The funding aims to improve early years outcomes and family support across Gloucestershire, with the first physical Best Start Family Hub to be located at Bartongate Children's Centre in Gloucester.

Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) 2026–2029

Cabinet approved the acceptance of the Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) grant of £5,700,000 per year from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) for the period April 2026 to March 2029. Authority was delegated to the Executive Director of Children's Services, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Children's Safeguarding and Care, Cllr Ben Evans, to allocate this funding to crisis support, resilience services, and community coordination initiatives. A call-off contract for the central funding application and assessment service will be awarded through the G-Cloud 14 Framework. An additional recommendation was approved to delegate authority for the allocation of newly announced Government heating oil support grant, totalling £595,565 for Gloucestershire, through the CRF.

Re-tender of Contracts for Gloucestershire Adult and Young Carers Support

Cabinet delegated authority to the Executive Director of Children's Services, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Children's Safeguarding and Care, Cllr Ben Evans, to conduct a competitive procurement process for Children's and Young Adult Carers Support Services. The proposed contract will have an initial term of five years, with an option to extend for up to two additional years, with a total value of up to approximately £3.2 million over seven years. This recommissioning is necessary to ensure continuity of support for young carers and young adult carers across the county.

Schedule of Proposed Disposals

Cabinet approved the sites listed in Appendix A (Exempt) and Appendix B (Exempt) as surplus to the Council's land and property requirements. Authority was delegated to the Assistant Director – Asset Management and Property Services to dispose of these sites, in consultation with the Deputy Leader & Cabinet Member for Finance, Assets & Transformation, Cllr Colin Hay, and the Deputy Chief Executive & Executive Director for Corporate Resources (S151 Officer). This decision is aimed at meeting capital receipt targets and contributing towards the council's capital programme.

The meeting concluded at 12:15 pm.

Gloucestershire Police and Crime Panel - Friday 20 March 2026

The Gloucestershire Police and Crime Panel was scheduled to discuss the results of the 2025 staff wellbeing survey, receive an update on the Emergency Services Collaboration Board, and hear about the Gloucestershire Constabulary's Special Constables. The meeting's agenda also included an update from the Police and Crime Commissioner and a report from the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner's Chief Executive.

2025 Staff Wellbeing Survey Summary

The panel was scheduled to receive an overview of the 2025 OPCC/Constabulary staff wellbeing survey results. The survey, commissioned by Oscar Kilo – the National Police Wellbeing Service, was delivered by Leapwise between 19 May and 16 June 2025. National findings indicated a burnout prevalence of 45% in policing, compared to 34% in the NHS. The local survey achieved a 49% response rate, with overall wellbeing, work, and manager support reported as slightly more positive than the national benchmark. Areas identified for prioritisation included Enabling Support and Services, Organisational Climate, and Service Leadership. Specific challenges highlighted included fatigue, emotional exhaustion, burnout, and a poor work-life balance among staff. Recommendations included reviewing operational shift patterns, providing fatigue risk management training, and addressing cultural challenges around break-taking.

Emergency Services Collaboration Board Update

An update was scheduled to be provided on the Emergency Services Collaboration Board (ESC). The ESC satisfies the legal duty for emergency services to collaborate, as set out in the Policing and Crime Act 2017, and addresses moral and societal duties highlighted by criticisms of inter-agency working in past major incidents. The OPCC took ownership of coordinating ESC across Gloucestershire's blue light services in 2022, leading to the creation of the ESC Board and the ESC Operational Collaboration Events. Achievements over the past three years included firefighters being trained as Lost Person Search Managers, senior firefighters attending Constabulary Leadership courses, and collaboration on the Serious Violence Duty, including the Knife or Your Life and Bleed Kit initiatives. Over the last 12 months, achievements included the development and implementation of Operational Collaboration Events, joint training with the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWAST) Hazardous Area Response Team (HART), and a joint community safety event in Stroud. Current challenges within ESC include the need for consistent engagement and prioritisation, the impact of Local Government Reorganisation (LGR), police reform, and devolution, as well as financial constraints.

Special Constables Update

The panel was scheduled to receive an update on Gloucestershire Constabulary's Special Constables. The vision for the Special Constabulary is to be fully integrated into Gloucestershire Constabulary, contributing to organisational objectives and equipped to police the public. As of March 2026, there were 122 Special Constables, including 4 Inspectors and 8 Sergeants, with 15 new recruits. The total hours worked by specials across all functions between August 2025 and February 2026 ranged from 1800 to 2536 hours per month. A review of the Special Constabulary identified areas of strength such as strong public service, specialist skills, community engagement, flexible operational support, and being a cost-effective talent pipeline into the regular Constabulary. Areas for development included inconsistent integration with the Constabulary, unclear governance and role profiles, variable training standards, and disparity in establishment. The future plan includes auditing membership, strengthening governance, and aligning with the Constabulary structure in the short term, followed by skill mapping, ensuring supervisory support, and communication campaigns in the medium term. Long-term plans involve reviewing the training offer, exploring new specialisms, and reviewing recommendation implementation. Examples of Good Work included the Special Constabulary surging resources to support Response colleagues during Niche integration and participating in Neighbourhood Policing Operations and Project Vigilant.

Update from the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC)

Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Chris Nelson was scheduled to provide an update on his recent activity. This included attending various events such as the Gloucestershire Safeguarding Conference and the My Future launch, as well as visiting a Youth Café Pilot Launch. He was also scheduled to attend numerous external meetings, including briefings with the Policing Minister, meetings with the Tewkesbury MP, and regional partnership boards. Internally, he was scheduled to attend OPCC Senior Leadership Team meetings, PCC and Chief Constable weekly meetings, and various other operational and commissioning updates. He was also scheduled to attend fortnightly Association of Police and Crime Commissioners (APCC)/Home Office meetings on a range of policing performance and policy matters.

Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner - Chief Executive Report

Ruth Greenwood, Chief Executive of the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC), was scheduled to present a report covering various aspects of the OPCC's work. This included an update on the Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC) investigations into Chief Constable Rod Hansen, noting that one investigation had concluded with no case to answer, while another was proceeding to a misconduct hearing. The report also detailed the governance and accountability framework, including the PCC Governance Board and weekly accountability meetings between the PCC and the Temporary Chief Constable. Updates on strategic priorities, aligned with the Police and Crime Prevention Plan, were to be provided, covering areas such as creating safer communities, tackling Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG), strengthening the Constabulary, targeting the causes of crime, supporting victims, and improving trust and confidence in policing. The report was also to include performance monitoring against these priorities, a financial overview for the Constabulary and OPCC, and details of communications and public contact activity. A significant section was dedicated to the Police Reform White Paper and the proposed abolition of the PCC model, outlining the government's intentions for a National Police Service and new Policing and Crime Boards.

Work Plan

The panel was scheduled to review its work plan for future meetings. Items scheduled for the 10th July 2026 meeting included annual reports from the PCC, Independent Custody Visitors, the Police and Crime Prevention Plan, and the Joint Independent Audit Committee, along with an update on savings and efficiency workstreams. For the 11th September 2026 meeting, topics included rural drug use and community engagement to improve trust and confidence in policing, with a focus on ethnic minorities. The 20th November 2026 meeting was to cover the impact of the Neighbourhood Policing Grant on Gloucestershire Constabulary and a further update on savings and efficiency workstreams. The panel was also to consider postponed and OPCC-suggested items for future scheduling.

Planning Committee - Thursday 19 March 2026

The Planning Committee of Gloucestershire Council was scheduled to discuss plans for a new SEND school and the future of a former school playing field. Additionally, the committee was set to review a report on the County Council's compliance performance regarding its own developments.

Provision of a SEND School at Former St Benedict's School Playing Field

The committee was scheduled to consider a proposal for the provision of a new Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) school on the former St Benedict's School Playing Field in Cheltenham. The application, numbered 25/0075/CHR3MJ, included plans for vehicular and pedestrian access, car parking, and outdoor informal play areas. The report pack indicated that the site, measuring 1.9 hectares, was historically used for sand extraction and later as a school playing field before becoming disused. The proposed school would accommodate up to 200 pupils aged 4-16, with approximately 70 on-site staff. The development aimed to be all-electric and fossil-fuel-free, targeting net-zero carbon in operation.

The report detailed extensive consultation responses, including those from the County Council's own consultants on geotechnical, land contamination, heritage, minerals and waste, ecology, glint and glare, lighting, landscape, flood risk, and noise and vibration. Local authorities such as Cheltenham Borough Council and Network Rail also provided feedback. Key considerations included the site's allocation for housing under the Cheltenham Plan, the loss of former playing-field land, and the need for robust mitigation measures for noise, lighting, traffic, and ecological impacts. The proposal was recommended for approval, subject to numerous planning conditions, and was to be referred to the Secretary of State due to its strategic significance.

County Council Developments - Compliance Performance Update Report

The committee was also scheduled to note a report providing an update on the compliance performance of County Council developments. The report, prepared by Robin Drake, highlighted that the enforcement service faced high casework pressures, with a significant proportion of these arising from internal County Council-led schemes. Issues identified included late or missing submissions, unmet planning conditions, and development commencing ahead of permission. The report detailed operational improvements implemented since Autumn 2025, such as expanded pre-application engagement and monthly liaison meetings between senior officers, to address these concerns. Enhanced corporate oversight through the County Council's Property Board was also noted as a measure to strengthen accountability. The report concluded that progress had been positive, with all outstanding internal compliance matters resolved by March 2026, and no enforcement cases involving County Council developments subject to live investigations.

Minutes of Previous Meeting

The committee was asked to approve the minutes of the previous meeting held on 29 January 2026.

Members Site Visit

Notes from a Members Site Visit held on Thursday 12 March 2026 were scheduled to be received.

This week in Gloucestershire:

Health Services Under Scrutiny: Winter Preparedness and Maternity Care Concerns

The Health Overview & Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday 10 March 2026 to examine critical aspects of Gloucestershire's health services. A key focus was the NHS Gloucestershire Winter Assurance Plan for 2025-26, a vital document designed to ensure the health service can cope with increased demand during the colder months. This plan directly impacts the availability of care for everyone, but especially for vulnerable residents who are more susceptible to the effects of winter illnesses and service disruptions.

The committee also delved into the Health Needs Assessment for maternity services in Gloucestershire. This is a crucial area, as the report highlighted that Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is part of a national investigation into maternity and neonatal services. Any issues identified in this assessment could have profound consequences for expectant mothers and newborns, potentially leading to concerns about safety and quality of care. The committee was due to receive an interim report from this independent investigation, offering a glimpse into the findings that could shape future maternity provision.

Updates were also provided on the performance of the Gloucestershire Integrated Care System (GICS) and the NHS Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board (ICB). These reports offer a snapshot of how our local health services are functioning against agreed standards, providing essential information for understanding the day-to-day realities of healthcare delivery in the county.

The committee also reviewed its future work plan, ensuring that ongoing scrutiny of health services remains a priority. A briefing note on Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), also known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), was also circulated for members to consider, highlighting the diverse range of health issues the committee addresses.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Health Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting agenda.

Fire and Rescue Service Faces National Scrutiny and Plans for Future Training

The Fire and Rescue Scrutiny Committee met on Friday 13 March 2026 to discuss significant operational and strategic matters for Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS). A major point of discussion was the HMICFRS State of Fire and Rescue Report, a national assessment that highlighted areas of concern across fire services, including people-related issues, workforce capability, and the consistency of prevention work. The report noted that while improvements are being made, progress is uneven, and some services still have substantial work to do. This national context is vital for understanding the challenges GFRS faces and the importance of its own improvement plans.

The committee also reviewed proposals for a new GFRS training facility at Coombe Hill, alongside improvements to five satellite sites. This is a critical investment, as the current training contract ends in April 2028. A modern, in-county training capability is essential for GFRS to effectively respond to emerging risks, such as electric vehicle fires, and the impacts of climate change. The new facility aims to create a consistent and professional learning environment, directly impacting the safety and effectiveness of our firefighters.

Engagement with children and young people through initiatives like SkillZONE was also a key topic. SkillZONE provides immersive education on making safer choices and reducing risk-taking behaviours, with a particular focus on serious violence, anti-social behaviour, and online safety. This preventative work is crucial for building safer communities and reducing harm, especially for young people.

The committee also examined the GFRS budget, noting a projected overspend largely due to operational overtime, and discussed the significant cost of false alarms to the service. Performance data for the third quarter of 2025/26 was also scrutinised, revealing areas where response times need improvement, particularly for on-call crews. The committee also received an update on the progress of the GFRS Improvement Board, which is working to address issues identified by HMICFRS.

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

Other matters

• The Planning Committee Site Visits meeting took place on Thursday 12 March 2026.