This week in Gloucestershire:

Footpath Application Rejected: Concerns Over Evidence and Permissive Use

The Commons and Rights of Way Committee met on Tuesday 2 June 2026, where a key decision was made regarding an application to add a public footpath in Hempsted Parish, City of Gloucester. Despite historical maps and user evidence being presented, the committee ultimately recommended that no order be made to add the footpath to the Definitive Map of Public Rights of Way.

The application sought to establish a public right of way from Rectory Lane to ZGL64. While historical maps dating back to 1815 and 1840 were examined, the report noted that the claimed route did not appear on higher-status records. Crucially, user evidence, while submitted by 11 individuals, revealed that eight users described the path as having permissive route markers. This suggests that the use of the path was by right rather than as of right, a critical legal distinction for dedicating a public highway.

• What this means for you: This decision highlights the strict legal tests required to establish a public right of way. For residents who may have been using this path, the lack of sufficient evidence means it will not be formally recognised as a public footpath, potentially impacting future access.

The committee also discussed revisions to how such applications are determined, considering whether they should be handled by the committee or by officers under delegated powers. This review aims to streamline the process for straightforward cases, allowing the committee to focus on more complex or contested applications.

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

Other matters

This week in Gloucestershire:

Health Services Under Scrutiny: Maternity Care and Integrated System Performance

The Health Overview & Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday 26 May 2026 to examine critical aspects of healthcare provision across Gloucestershire. A significant focus was placed on the state of maternity services, including a review of the Maternity Health Needs Assessment and the local 'Case for Change'. The committee also received updates on the national Maternity and Neonatal investigation, as well as the progress of the NHS Home Birth Service, the Aveta Birth Centre, and services at Cheltenham and Stroud Maternity Hospital.

Furthermore, the committee was scheduled to review the performance of the Gloucestershire Integrated Care System (GICS) against established standards. This included an update on health and care services delivered by the NHS Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board (ICB), which commissions and provides NHS services in the county. The committee also undertook its annual review of its work plan for the 2025-26 year, identifying areas for future scrutiny.

• What this means for you: These discussions are vital for ensuring the quality and safety of healthcare services, particularly for expectant mothers and newborns. Scrutiny of the Integrated Care System's performance helps to identify any shortcomings and drive improvements in how health services are delivered across Gloucestershire.

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

Council Operations and Future Planning: Property, Staff Engagement, and Devolution

The Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee convened on Wednesday 27 May 2026 to discuss key operational matters and future strategic directions for the council. A central theme was the results of the 2026 Employment Engagement Survey, which aimed to gauge staff satisfaction and identify areas for improvement. The survey, which saw a 62% completion rate, explored aspects like staff advocacy, retention, and motivation, and included new questions on racism to align with the council's anti-racism commitment.

The committee also provided feedback on a draft Property Maintenance Strategy for 2026-2029. This strategy outlines how the council intends to manage its property portfolio efficiently and sustainably, supporting its vision and net-zero objectives. It addresses statutory, planned preventative, and reactive maintenance, acknowledging the need for investment in backlog maintenance.

Additionally, the committee received an update on Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) and devolution. With the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act receiving Royal Assent in April 2026, Gloucestershire has expressed interest in becoming a 'Foundation Strategic Authority' (FSA). A Ministerial decision on LGR in Gloucestershire is anticipated before the parliamentary summer recess. The committee also reviewed its work plan, with future meetings set to cover strategic performance, LGR updates, and emerging areas like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and cyber security.

• What this means for you: The engagement survey results can lead to a more motivated and effective workforce, ultimately improving the delivery of services. The property strategy ensures that council buildings are well-maintained and fit for purpose. The LGR and devolution discussions signal potential changes in how local government is structured and operates, which could impact service delivery and local decision-making in the future.

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

Other matters

The Gloucestershire Health and Wellbeing Partnership meeting scheduled for Tuesday 26 May 2026 was cancelled.

This week in Gloucestershire:

Adult Learning and Substance Use Services Receive Crucial Funding Boost

Gloucestershire County Council's Cabinet met on Wednesday 20 May 2026, approving vital funding for adult learning programmes and substance use services. These decisions ensure the continuation of essential support for residents seeking to improve their skills and for those battling addiction.

Tailored Learning and Adult Skills Programme Secures £2.7 Million

The Cabinet approved the delegation of authority to enter into a funding agreement with the Department for Education (DfE) to secure £2,734,701 for the Tailored Learning and Adult Skills Programme for the 2026-2027 academic year. This funding will support a range of adult education services, including provision for those with learning disabilities, employability training, and flexible courses to meet local needs. Contracts for these services will be awarded for up to 12 months, with options for extension.

• What this means for you: This funding is a lifeline for many adults in Gloucestershire. It offers opportunities for those who are low-skilled or economically disadvantaged to re-engage with education, gain new vocational skills, and ultimately improve their employment prospects. This directly impacts individuals seeking to build a better future for themselves and their families.

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

Enhanced Support for Drug and Alcohol Treatment Services

The Cabinet also approved the allocation of substance use grant funding for 2026–2029, ensuring the continuation and enhancement of drug and alcohol treatment and recovery services across the county. This includes:

• A modification to the existing contract with Via Care Ltd to introduce new evidence-based interventions and a specialist nursing post and recovery worker specifically for rough sleepers.
• An allocation of £162,440 from the Drug and Alcohol Treatment and Recovery Improvement Grant (DATRIG) to fund an additional staff member in the Youth Support Service, expanding access to substance misuse services for young people.

• An allocation of £495,751 from the Independent Placement Support (IPS) grant to fund the Gloucestershire County Council Employment and Skills Hub, which will assist individuals with substance use disorders in finding and maintaining employment.

• What this means for you: These allocations are critical for supporting some of the most vulnerable individuals in our community. Enhanced treatment and recovery services can lead to improved health outcomes, reduced crime rates, and stronger, safer communities. The focus on rough sleepers and young people highlights a commitment to addressing specific needs within the substance use landscape.

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

Forest of Dean Economy Under the Spotlight in Local Growth Plan Review

The Gloucestershire Economic Strategy Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday 21 May 2026 to examine the economy of the Forest of Dean and its alignment with the county's Local Growth Plan (LGP). The committee reviewed a case study that highlighted the district's unique economic characteristics and challenges.

The LGP, established in November 2025, aims for Ambitious for our people, our businesses and our planet - inspiring enterprise and innovation, leading to enhanced prosperity and wellbeing for all residents. The case study for the Forest of Dean revealed a landscape dominated by small and micro-businesses, with high levels of self-employment but a limited number of large employers. While this offers flexibility, it presents hurdles in boosting productivity and developing skills.

Key areas of focus included:

• Talent and Future Skills: The Forest of Dean faces challenges with lower educational attainment compared to other Gloucestershire districts, yet future employment growth is projected in higher-skill occupations.
• Employment Opportunities: The district has the lowest job density in Gloucestershire and higher rates of economic inactivity, often linked to poor health and caring responsibilities.
• Communities and Culture: Plans are in place to strengthen town centres and support community wealth-building initiatives.
• Environment, Housing and Infrastructure: While environmental assets are a strength, planning and infrastructure constraints, including limited employment sites, pose challenges.
• Innovation, Investment and Enterprise: The district's business base is characterised by low start-up rates but high survival rates, with a need to support the growth of micro-firms.

The report detailed numerous projects planned up to March 2028, aiming to address these issues through skills development, digital improvements, and business support.

• What this means for you: Understanding the specific economic landscape of areas like the Forest of Dean is crucial for targeted support. This review helps ensure that the Local Growth Plan effectively addresses local needs, potentially leading to more job opportunities, better skills training, and a stronger local economy for residents in the Forest of Dean and across Gloucestershire.

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

Fire Service Faces Uncertainty Amidst Local Government Reorganisation

The Fire and Rescue Scrutiny Committee met on Friday 22 May 2026 to discuss the potential impacts of Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) on the Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS). The committee also received updates on the Coroner's Service and the Trading Standards Service.

GFRS and the Implications of LGR

A key concern for the committee was the potential fragmentation of funding and increased governance complexity for GFRS if LGR leads to a two-authority model for the county. The committee received a verbal update on the progress of LGR implementation plans and their specific implications for the fire service.

Coroner's Service and Trading Standards Updates

The committee also heard about the significant workload of the Coroner's Service, which handled approximately 2,300 death referrals and conducted over 700 inquests in the last financial year. Upcoming legislative changes, including the proposed Public Office (Accountability) Bill, were noted.

The Trading Standards Service reported over 6,500 enquiries and 1,320 inspections in 2025/26. Challenges include a national shortage of competent food officers and ongoing efforts to combat financial fraud, illegal tobacco, and vapes. The report suggested that a unitary authority structure could simplify governance for the Trading Standards Service.

• What this means for you: The potential reorganisation of local government could impact how essential services like the fire service are funded and managed. Clarity on these changes is vital to ensure the continued effectiveness and responsiveness of GFRS in keeping communities safe. Similarly, the updates on the Coroner's and Trading Standards services highlight the ongoing work to support residents and uphold standards across the county.

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

Other matters

This week in Gloucestershire:

Housing Targets Spark Fierce Debate as Council Urges Government to Reconsider

Gloucestershire County Council is pushing back against proposed housing targets, arguing they are disproportionate and ill-considered. A motion debated at the County Council meeting on Wednesday 13 May 2026 highlighted concerns that the increased housing numbers, driven by government policy, could overwhelm vital infrastructure like roads, schools, and medical facilities.

The motion, proposed by Cllr Stephen Davies and seconded by Cllr Tom Bradley, calls for the Cabinet to write to the Minister for Housing requesting a reduction in these targets. It also advocates for a collaborative approach among the county's seven councils to manage development sites and infrastructure, emphasizing an infrastructure-first approach, particularly concerning wastewater capacity.

• What this means for you: If these housing targets are not carefully managed, residents could face increased strain on public services and infrastructure. This debate underscores the tension between national housing demands and local capacity to cope.

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

Suicide Prevention Efforts Highlighted Amidst Calls for Targeted Support

The County Council meeting on Wednesday 13 May 2026 also saw a motion addressing the disproportionately high suicide rates among men in Gloucestershire and across England and Wales. The motion, proposed by Cllr Alastair Chambers and seconded by Cllr Sajid Patel, acknowledges that men are significantly more likely to die by suicide than women.

The council is being urged to actively support and promote men's mental health awareness initiatives, review local preventative strategies with the Gloucestershire Suicide Prevention Partnership, and launch targeted communication campaigns to reduce stigma and encourage help-seeking.

• What this means for you: This focus on men's mental health is crucial, as suicide remains a leading cause of death for men under 50. The council's efforts could lead to more accessible support and a reduction in tragic losses within our communities.

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

Education Funding Reform Demanded to Address SEND Deficit

A critical issue for schools and families in Gloucestershire is the call for fairer funding for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) services. A motion at the County Council meeting on Wednesday 13 May 2026, proposed by Cllr Linda Cohen and seconded by Cllr Cheryl Agg, highlighted that Gloucestershire receives £30 million less per year than a demographically comparable county due to historic funding inequities.

The motion urges the council to continue pressing the Department for Education for fairer funding and for Gloucestershire's MPs to lobby for the removal of historic protection factors from national funding formulas.

• What this means for you: Inadequate funding for SEND services can directly impact the support available to children with special educational needs, potentially leading to longer waiting times for assessments, reduced resources in schools, and greater challenges for families.

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

Other matters

Transparency in Meat Labelling

A motion at the County Council meeting on Wednesday 13 May 2026 called for mandatory labelling of meat from animals slaughtered without prior stunning. This aims to enhance transparency and uphold animal welfare standards across the council's remit. See details.

Data Security and Open-Source Software

Concerns about data security and reliance on proprietary software led to a motion at the County Council meeting on Wednesday 13 May 2026, proposing the default adoption of Free and Open-Source Software (FOSS) for future council decisions. See details.

Lydbrook Bridge and Highway Maintenance

The County Council meeting on Wednesday 13 May 2026 also addressed the prolonged closure of Lydbrook Bridge and proposed the establishment of Local Highways Champions to support community-led minor highway works. Additionally, a motion called for the reinstatement of comprehensive weed management services. See details.

Corporate Parenting and Committee Reports

The County Council meeting on Wednesday 13 May 2026 included a Corporate Parenting Report from Cllr Ben Evans, Cabinet Member for Children's Safeguarding and Early Years, and a Constitution Committee Report from Cllr Colin Hay. See details.

Children and Families Hubs and Youth Voice

The Children and Families Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday 14 May 2026 to discuss progress on Family and Youth Hubs and the incorporation of young people's views into council policymaking. The committee also received a briefing on safeguarding and reviewed provider performance. See details.

Appeals Board Considers Home to School Transport Charges

The Appeals Board met on Monday 11 May 2026 to hear appeals regarding charges for home to school transport. The meeting also included the approval of previous minutes and time for public and members' questions. See details.

Adult Social Care and Public Health Updates

The Adult Social Care and Communities Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday 12 May 2026 to review updates on the Care Quality Commission (CQC) Improvement Plan for Adult Social Care, performance reports, and Public Health initiatives. The committee also discussed its work plan. See details.