This week in Gloucestershire:

£2.2 Million Boost for Domestic Abuse Support Services Approved

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fire Cover Optimisation: Public Consultation on Redeploying Resources to Cinderford

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

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

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

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

New Policy to Charge for Excess DIY Waste at Recycling Centres

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

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

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

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

Other matters

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

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

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

This week in Gloucestershire:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other matters

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

This week in Gloucestershire:

Police and Crime Panel Tackles Budget Shortfalls and Custody Concerns

The Gloucestershire Police and Crime Panel met on Friday 10 July 2026, confronting significant financial challenges and reviewing the welfare of individuals in police custody. The panel examined the Police and Crime Commissioner's financial plans, including a revised Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) and efficiencies plan for 2026/27, which highlighted an underspend of £1.8 million in the previous financial year. This underspend was attributed to savings achieved by the Constabulary and the continued holding of police staff vacancies.

The panel also delved into the vital work of Independent Custody Visitors (ICVs), who provide crucial oversight of police custody facilities. Their annual report for 2025/26 detailed a busy year, with issues raised concerning estates, staffing, and detainee treatment. The report noted positive feedback on the professionalism of custody detention officers, but the ongoing need for vigilance in these areas remains paramount.

• What this means for you: The financial health of our police force directly impacts its ability to deliver effective policing and community safety initiatives. The ICVs' work ensures that those in custody are treated humanely and that facilities meet necessary standards, a fundamental aspect of justice and public trust.

The panel also reviewed the Police and Crime Commissioner's Annual Report and the Police and Crime Prevention Plan, which outlines progress against priorities such as creating safer communities and tackling violence against women and girls. The report detailed significant activity across these areas, alongside investments in the Constabulary's workforce and technology.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Gloucestershire Police and Crime Panel meeting agenda.

Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee Addresses Financial Health and Strategic Estate

The Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday 8 July 2026, scrutinising the council's financial performance and its long-term plans for its strategic estate. The committee reviewed the Council Strategy Action Plan and a comprehensive report on the council's financial, performance, and risk position for Quarter 4 of 2025/26.

A significant financial highlight was an anticipated underspend of £7.642 million, with a notable £6.926 million underspend in Children's & Families Services. However, the report also detailed proposed transfers to reserves, including £1.070 million to the LGR Reserve and £6.572 million to the Risk & Opportunities Reserve, to mitigate risks such as the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) deficit, which stood at £124.718 million as of 31 March 2026.

The committee also considered the Strategic Estate Plan, which aims to rationalise the council's landholdings. The plan, based on reducing the estate size to 5,600 acres, seeks to provide opportunities for agriculture and ancillary businesses while promoting environmental sustainability. Recommendations from a Rural Task and Finish Group were to be considered, including a revised rural estate Mission Statement and approaches to progressive rationalisation.

• What this means for you: The council's financial health is crucial for the delivery of essential services. Understanding where money is being spent and saved, and how risks are being managed, provides transparency. The Strategic Estate Plan's future direction could impact land use and development opportunities within the county.

Discussions also covered agency staffing, with options for future arrangements for temporary and permanent staff being explored. The potential contract value for a new neutral vendor arrangement could be up to £100 million over five years. An update on annual benchmarking reports and arrangements for the Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) Joint Scrutiny Committee were also on the agenda.

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

Appeals Board Hears Transport Charge Appeals

The Appeals Board met on Tuesday 7 July 2026 to consider appeals regarding charges for home to school transport. The meeting's agenda included the hearing of two such cases, though details of these appeals were not publicly disclosed due to the sensitive nature of information relating to individuals.

• What this means for you: Decisions made by the Appeals Board directly affect families who rely on council-provided transport for their children's education. Ensuring fair and consistent application of charging policies is vital for accessibility and equity in education.

The Board also approved the public summary and exempt minutes from its previous meeting on 11 May 2026. Provisions for public and members' questions were also included, though no public questions were received for the previous meeting.

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

Other matters

The Planning Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday 9 July 2026 was cancelled.

This week in Gloucestershire:

Recruitment of Chief Fire Officer and Executive Director of Community Safety Sparks Debate on Future Leadership

The Appointments Committee met on Thursday 2 July 2026, with a key focus on the recruitment process for a new Chief Fire Officer and Executive Director of Community Safety. This critical role, responsible for the safety and well-being of communities, is set to become vacant on 1 October 2026. The committee considered three potential timelines for recruitment, each with distinct implications for the continuity of leadership and the strategic direction of the fire and rescue service.

The report pack presented options that ranged from immediate recruitment to a new year launch. The recommended option, a new year launch, prioritises clarity regarding Local Government Reorganisation (LGR)^[^1] and allows for potential role redesign. However, this approach means a longer period of interim arrangements, which could impact operational stability.

• What this means for you: The leadership of our fire and rescue service is paramount for public safety. The chosen recruitment timeline will influence the experience and strategic vision of the person in charge, directly affecting emergency response capabilities and community safety initiatives. A prolonged period of interim leadership could potentially lead to delays in implementing new strategies or addressing emerging risks.

The report also highlighted that the role is paid at reward band 8, aligning with other Executive Directors, though this may need review if the role changes due to the unitary model decision. The role is subject to 'Gold book' terms and conditions, the national scheme for principal officers in fire and rescue services.

The committee was also scheduled to discuss the withdrawal of the Coroners' Society of England and Wales from the Joint Negotiating Committee, though further details on this matter were not publicly available.

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

Other matters

The Planning Committee Site Visits meeting scheduled for Thursday 2 July 2026 was cancelled.