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.

This week in Gloucestershire:

Council Grapples with Budget Decisions: Services for Vulnerable Residents at the Forefront

Gloucestershire County Council's Cabinet met on Wednesday 28 January 2026 to tackle a packed agenda, with the Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) 2026/27 to 2029/30 taking centre stage. This crucial discussion will shape how council services are funded and delivered over the next four years, with significant implications for residents, particularly the most vulnerable.

The draft budget, informed by extensive public consultation and scrutiny from the Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee, proposes the revenue and capital budget, Precept, and Dedicated Schools Grant budget for the coming years. Councillor Colin Hay, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Assets & Transformation, presented the strategy, which aims to balance the council's financial commitments with the needs of the community.

The MTFS is more than just numbers; it's about the real-world impact on services. For instance, decisions made here will directly influence the funding available for Adults' Support & Independence, overseen by Councillor Dr Kate Usmar, and Children's Safeguarding & Care, under Councillor Ben Evans. The budget will determine the capacity to support individuals with complex needs, provide essential care services, and ensure the safety and well-being of children in the county.

The agenda also included a review of the Gloucestershire Local Nature Recovery Strategy, championed by Councillor Martin Horwood, Cabinet Member for Nature, Climate & Waste Reduction. This strategy is vital for protecting and enhancing Gloucestershire's natural environment, which has direct benefits for public health and well-being.

Other key items included the allocation of the Dedicated Schools Grant 2026/27, a matter for Councillor Linda Cohen, Cabinet Member for Education & Skills, and the Corporate Fleet Unit Fuel Card & Fuel Contract, also overseen by Councillor Colin Hay. The Highways Major Projects and Infrastructure Projects Procurement 2026/27, under Councillor Joe Harris, Cabinet Member for Highways, and the Corporate Asset Management Plan 2026-2029 were also on the table.

The Cabinet also considered the Gloucestershire's Multi-agency School Attendance Strategy 2025 - 2028, another area critical to the educational outcomes of young people.

The meeting also provided an opportunity for public questions, with residents able to submit written questions in advance. This process is a key mechanism for ensuring accountability and transparency in local government.

Digital Future: Inclusion and Innovation on the Agenda

The Cabinet was also set to discuss the Gloucestershire County Council's Digital Infrastructure, Inclusion, and Innovation Strategy (DIIIS) 2025-2030. This strategy, led by Councillor Julian Tooke, Cabinet Member for Business, Economic Development, Planning and Infrastructure, aims to harness technology to improve services and ensure all residents can benefit from digital advancements. This is particularly important for those who may face barriers to digital access, ensuring no one is left behind.

Carers Support Contracts Under Review

The extension of contracts for Gloucestershire Adult and Young Carers Support and the re-tendering process for Adult Carers Support were also on the agenda. This directly impacts the vital support networks for unpaid carers across the county, who play an indispensable role in the care system.

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

Planning Committee Considers Major Development Proposals

The Planning Committee met on Thursday 29 January 2026 to make decisions on significant planning applications that will shape the built environment of Gloucestershire.

Sand and Gravel Centre Application Faces Refusal

A key item was the application for an Allstone Sand and Gravel Centre on Myers Road, Gloucester. The proposal involved the crushing and screening of inert waste materials to produce secondary aggregates, along with associated infrastructure. Despite the potential for recycling and resource management, the presenting officer recommended refusal of planning permission. This decision, if made, would have implications for local waste management strategies and the availability of secondary aggregates.

New GP Surgery and Housing Development Proposed

The committee also considered a hybrid application for Jordans Brook House, North Upton Lane, Gloucester. This proposal sought full planning permission for the demolition of the existing house and the construction of a new GP surgery, intended to replace the nearby Hucclecote GP Surgery which is no longer fit for purpose. The application also sought outline permission for the development of 10 new dwelling houses. The recommendation was to grant planning permission, subject to conditions. This development could significantly improve healthcare access for residents in the area and contribute to local housing supply.

You can find more details about these applications in the Planning Committee agenda.

City Region Board Tackles Economic Strategy and Housing

The City Region Board met on Friday 30 January 2026 to discuss key economic development initiatives and strategic planning for Gloucestershire.

Funding for Spatial Development Strategy

A central discussion point was the proposed use of the Strategic Economic Development Fund (SEDF) to support the Transitional Spatial Development Strategy (tSDS) for Gloucestershire. This strategy is crucial for guiding future development and ensuring a coordinated approach across the county's seven local authorities. The requested £345,000 from the SEDF is earmarked for essential activities such as employing a GIS officer, evidence gathering, and impact assessments. Without this funding, the development of the SDS could be delayed, potentially impacting the adoption of Local Plans and the county's ability to respond to future growth and change.

Housing Commission and Business Rates Pool

The board also considered a Housing Commission for Gloucestershire, signalling a focus on addressing the county's housing needs. Additionally, an update on the Business Rate Pool and the overall SEDF position was provided. The Gloucestershire Business Rates Pool aims to retain business rates income within the county to reinvest in economic growth. Discussions around potential government reforms to business rates highlighted the need for ongoing review of the pool's effectiveness.

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

Health Overview & Scrutiny Committee Reviews Adult Learning Disability Services and Digital Health

The Health Overview & Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday 27 January 2026 to review critical aspects of health and social care provision in Gloucestershire.

Adult Learning Disability Service Review

A significant focus was the first phase of the Adult Learning Disability Service Review. The report highlighted challenges such as insufficient community capacity, families feeling unheard, and difficulties in transitioning from children's to adult services. The review aims to develop a sustainable community model of care, ensuring individuals with learning disabilities receive appropriate support. This is particularly important for vulnerable individuals who rely on these services for their independence and quality of life.

Digital Health Strategy and Performance Updates

The committee also received an update on NHS Gloucestershire's 5 Year Strategy, with a specific focus on online, digital, and technology aspects. The aim is to leverage digital tools to improve care accessibility and efficiency. Performance reports for the Gloucestershire Integrated Care System (GICS) and the NHS Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board (ICB) were also reviewed, providing insights into the operational effectiveness of health services. This included updates on cancer waiting times and ambulance response times, which directly impact patient care and outcomes.

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

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

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