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 Tuesday 24 February 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.

Pension Fund Navigates Financial Landscape and Investment Strategies

The Pension Committee met on Thursday 26 February 2026 to address critical financial and operational matters concerning the Gloucestershire Pension Fund. The committee reviewed the fund's performance, governance, and future business plans, which are essential for securing the long-term financial health of members' pensions.

Key discussions included:

• Funding and Investment Performance: As of 31 December 2025, the fund's market value and asset allocation were reviewed. This is vital for understanding how effectively the fund's investments are growing to meet future pension obligations.
• Cash Management Strategy: The committee was asked to approve the strategy for managing the fund's cash balances, ensuring sufficient funds are available to meet benefit payments and other commitments.
• Stewardship Code: The approval of the Fund's 2026 Stewardship Report was on the agenda, detailing how the fund adheres to principles of responsible investment and oversight.
• Business Plan 2026/27: The committee was asked to approve the operational budget and objectives for the upcoming year, outlining the fund's strategic direction.
• 2025 Triennial Valuation: The actuarial valuation of the fund as at 31 March 2025 was presented. This valuation is crucial for determining employer contribution rates for the next three years and assessing the overall funding position.

The committee also considered updates on governance, including proposed amendments to its Terms of Reference, and reviewed the fund's risk register. Some agenda items were discussed with the press and public excluded, in accordance with the Local Government Act 1972, due to the likely disclosure of exempt information.

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

Other matters

• The Appeals Board meeting scheduled for Friday 27 February 2026 was cancelled.

Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below. These are included to help you inform readers about what is coming up.

• The Appointments Committee on Monday 02 March 2026 will meet to review the Pay Policy Statement for the upcoming financial year. See details.
• The Adult Social Care and Communities Scrutiny Committee on Tuesday 03 March 2026 will hold a joint meeting with the Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee to discuss the Gloucestershire Health and Wellbeing Board, the NHS Gloucestershire 5 Year Strategic Plan, and new pathways for adult weight management and frailty care. See details.
• The Environment Scrutiny Committee on Wednesday 04 March 2026 will meet to discuss bus services, active travel initiatives, and receive the Executive Director's report. See details.
• The Children and Families Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Thursday 05 March 2026 will meet to discuss incorporating young people's voices into policy, the Youth Justice Plan, and the Families First Partnership Programme. See details.
• The City Region Board on Friday 06 March 2026 will meet to discuss the health of the retail and hospitality sectors, and receive updates on the Transitional Spatial Development Strategy (tSDS) and the Business Rate Pool and Strategic Economic Development Fund (SEDF). See details.

This week in Gloucestershire:

Council Approves £700 Million Budget with Tax Rise, Investing in Key Services

Gloucestershire County Council has approved its budget for the next four years, including a significant investment in services and a council tax increase. The County Council met on Wednesday 18 February 2026 to finalise the Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) for 2026/27 to 2029/30, which includes a draft budget of £698.398 million for 2026/27.

The decision to raise council tax by 4.99% – a 2.99% general increase and a 2% rise specifically for Adult Social Care – was made to help fund essential services. This increase will impact households across the county, with vulnerable residents often feeling the pinch of rising living costs most acutely. The council has stated that this rise is necessary to protect vital services, particularly in areas like social care.

Key investments outlined in the budget include:

• Highways: £15 million over three years for road maintenance and resurfacing, plus an additional £200 million from government grants for cycle routes and bus improvements. £2 million is also earmarked for road safety initiatives.
• Schools and Children's Services: £2.7 million for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) services, £21.17 million for new special schools, and £57.9 million over three years for essential school works.
• Adult Social Care: £6.55 million in 2026/27 as part of a £57 million investment in three new adult care homes, and £500,000 to establish a virtual Adult Social Care Academy. This aims to improve the quality and availability of care for older residents and those with complex needs.
• Environment and Waste: £3.9 million over four years for household recycling centres and £445,000 to support nature recovery projects.
• Community Services: A new £1 million annual Community Prevention Grant Scheme and £384,000 to support young people's employment.
• Libraries: £816,000 for upgrades to library buildings and services.
• Fire and Rescue Service: £1.5 million for a new training facility and £2.5 million for vehicle replacements.

The budget also acknowledges a deficit in Gloucestershire's High Needs block for SEND services, a persistent challenge that impacts the support available for children with the most complex educational needs. The council's new strategy, A Stronger Future, Built Together, was also adopted, setting out priorities for children and young people, strong communities, a place to be proud of, and an open, fair, and sustainable council.

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

Council Strategy and Pension Fund Reports Reviewed

The County Council also received updates on the Gloucestershire Pension Fund Annual Report for 2024/25 and the Constitution Committee's recommendations. The Pension Fund report details the management of investments and financial performance, crucial for the long-term security of pensions for many residents. The Constitution Committee's recommendations included proposed changes to the Terms of Reference for the Pensions Committee, reflecting government-led changes to investment pooling.

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

Other matters

• The Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee is set to meet on Tuesday 24 February 2026 to discuss local government reorganisation and devolution, the council's strategic performance data, and financial monitoring. This committee plays a vital role in holding the council to account and ensuring services are delivered effectively. See details.
• The Pension Committee will meet on Thursday 26 February 2026 to discuss the Gloucestershire Pension Fund's business, including governance, operations, funding, and investment strategies. See details.
• The Appeals Board meeting scheduled for Friday 27 February 2026 has been cancelled.
• The Appointments Committee will meet on Monday 02 March 2026.
• The Adult Social Care and Communities Scrutiny Committee will meet on Tuesday 03 March 2026.
• The Environment Scrutiny Committee will meet on Wednesday 04 March 2026.
• The Children and Families Overview and Scrutiny Committee will meet on Thursday 05 March 2026.

This week in Gloucestershire:

Council Ponders Economic Future: Cyber Growth and Strategic Funding Take Centre Stage

The Gloucestershire Economic Strategy Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday 12 February 2026 to discuss key drivers of the county's economic future. The agenda included a deep dive into fostering the growth of the cyber ecosystem, receiving an update from the City Region Board on strategic funding decisions, and reviewing the committee's own work plan.

Boosting the Cyber Sector

A report was presented on supporting the growth of Gloucestershire's cyber ecosystem. While specific details of the discussion were not publicly available, the focus on this burgeoning sector signals a commitment to developing high-value jobs and technological innovation within the county. The cyber industry is a rapidly expanding field, offering significant economic opportunities and requiring a skilled workforce. Investing in its growth can lead to increased employment, attract new businesses, and enhance Gloucestershire's reputation as a hub for technological advancement.

Strategic Funding for Growth and Housing

The committee received an update from the City Region Board, highlighting significant funding allocations aimed at shaping Gloucestershire's future development. Key decisions included:

• £345,000 for the Transitional Spatial Development Strategy (tSDS): This funding will support the preparation of a crucial strategy to guide future development across the county. With the Planning and Infrastructure Act now law, the County Council has a duty to produce this strategy by May 2029. The tSDS is vital for ensuring coordinated growth, managing land use effectively, and addressing housing needs. Without adequate preparation, development could become piecemeal and fail to meet the county's long-term needs.
• £100,000 for a Housing Commission: This commission will provide an evidence-led understanding of Gloucestershire's housing challenges and develop actionable recommendations. Addressing the housing crisis is paramount, impacting affordability, accessibility, and the overall well-being of residents. A well-researched commission can inform policies that lead to more sustainable and affordable housing solutions.
• £252,000 for the Growth Hubs Gloucestershire (Year 1) and £282,600 (Year 2): This funding is essential to maintain the county's business support network as UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) support concludes in March 2026. The Growth Hubs provide vital resources and guidance to local businesses, helping them to start, grow, and thrive. Continued support is critical for economic resilience and job creation.
• £500,000 for business rate relief to Company A : This significant allocation aims to secure inward investment at Gloucestershire Airport, potentially creating 200 high-value jobs. Attracting such investment can have a ripple effect on the local economy, supporting supply chains and generating further employment opportunities.

These funding decisions underscore the council's strategic approach to economic development, aiming to foster innovation, address housing shortages, and create employment opportunities.

Looking Ahead: The Committee's Work Plan

The committee also reviewed its work plan for the upcoming year. This forward-looking exercise ensures that the committee remains focused on the most pressing economic issues facing Gloucestershire, including future updates on Strategic Economic Development Funding (SEDF) decisions, Local Growth Plan missions, and a specific focus on the Forest of Dean.

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

Upcoming Meetings

• The County Council on Wednesday 18 February 2026 will meet to consider its Medium Term Financial Strategy and the Gloucestershire Pension Fund Annual Report. See details.
• The Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Tuesday 24 February 2026 will meet to discuss local government reform and devolution, a new strategic performance dataset, and financial monitoring. See details.
• The Pension Committee on Thursday 26 February 2026 will meet. See details.

This week in Gloucestershire:

Council Tax Hike Looms as Police Funding Gap Widens

Gloucestershire residents may face an increase in their council tax bills as the Gloucestershire Police and Crime Panel met on Monday 02 February 2026 to discuss the proposed Gloucestershire Police Council Tax Precept for 2026/2027. The panel heard that a significant funding gap has emerged, driven by national budget concerns and increased operational costs.

The Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), Chris Nelson, presented a stark picture of the financial challenges facing the constabulary. The provisional settlement from the Home Office has fallen short of previous assumptions, creating a shortfall that could necessitate a council tax increase of up to £25 per household without triggering a referendum. If further flexibility is not granted by the Home Office, the proposed increase could be £15.

This potential rise in council tax directly impacts households across Gloucestershire, particularly those on lower incomes who may struggle to absorb additional costs. The report highlighted that even with planned efficiencies and increased grant funding, a funding shortfall persists over the Medium-Term Finance Plan period. Without further increases, the constabulary may need to consider a fundamental reorganisation, which could affect the level and nature of policing services available to residents.

The meeting also touched upon national developments, including the government's announcement to abolish Police and Crime Commissioners after their current term in 2028. The role is expected to transfer to Mayors or Police and Crime Boards, a change that the Chief Executive of the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC), Ruth Greenwood, is monitoring closely. While the OPCC has received legal advice and is confident in Gloucestershire's current structure, the long-term implications of these national policy shifts remain a concern.

The panel also reviewed the committee's work plan, indicating ongoing scrutiny of policing matters and the evolving landscape of police governance.

Other matters

The Gloucestershire Economic Strategy Scrutiny Committee will meet on Thursday 12 February 2026 to discuss economic strategy. See details.

The County Council will meet on Wednesday 18 February 2026. See details.