This week in Hertfordshire:

Special School Expansion Approved for Buntingford Amidst Planning Debate

The Development Control Committee met on Friday, 27 February 2026, to discuss a significant proposal for a new satellite facility for pupils with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD) in Buntingford. The planned facility, to be located west of Bishop Way and east of the A10, would provide 100 places for pupils aged 11 to 19.

• The Stakes: This expansion is crucial for meeting the growing demand for specialist education for young people with SLD in Hertfordshire. The decision impacts not only the pupils who will benefit from the new facility but also their families, who rely on the council to provide suitable educational environments. The proposal also involves the diversion of a public footpath, a detail that often sparks local concern.
• The Proposal: The new school would operate as a satellite to the existing Amwell View School in Stanstead Abbots, which specialises in educating pupils with Severe and Complex Learning Difficulties (SCLD), including Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD). The facility would include landscaping, parking, and a new access road.
• Planning Considerations: The committee's report detailed key planning aspects, including transport access, design, energy use, landscaping, and potential impacts on noise and air quality. The recommendation was to grant planning permission, subject to twenty-eight conditions covering everything from construction management to biodiversity net gain.
• Public Reaction: While the meeting's summary does not detail specific public objections, proposals for new educational facilities, especially those involving land use changes, often generate feedback from local residents regarding traffic, noise, and environmental impact. The diversion of a public footpath is a common point of contention in planning applications.

You can find more details about this planning application in the agenda for the Development Control Committee meeting: Development Control Committee meeting on 27 February 2026.

County Council Convenes Amidst Ongoing Budgetary Scrutiny

The County Council met on Tuesday, 24 February 2026. While the specific details of the discussions are not yet available, the meeting followed a period of intense scrutiny of the council's budget and financial strategies.

• The Stakes: The County Council is the ultimate decision-making body for many of Hertfordshire's key services. Decisions made at this level have a broad impact, affecting everything from adult social care and children's services to highways and education. With ongoing concerns about government funding and rising service demands, the council's financial planning remains a critical issue for residents.
• Context: Previous meetings have highlighted significant budgetary pressures, including a projected annual loss of £42 million in government funding. This has led to proposals for Council Tax increases and a focus on delivering savings while protecting essential services, particularly for vulnerable groups.

Further information on the County Council's proceedings can be found here: County Council meeting on 24 February 2026.

Other Matters

The Development Control Committee meeting on Friday, 27 February 2026, also included the confirmation of previous minutes and the opportunity for public petitions and motions.

Upcoming Meetings

• Impact of Scrutiny Advisory Committee on Monday 02 March 2026. Link to agenda
• Pensions Committee on Wednesday 04 March 2026. Link to agenda
• Adult Care Services Cabinet Panel on Thursday 05 March 2026. Link to agenda
• Education, SEND & Inclusion Cabinet Panel on Wednesday 11 March 2026. Link to agenda
• Highways Cabinet Panel on Thursday 12 March 2026. Link to agenda
• Local Government Pension Scheme Local Pension Board on Friday 13 March 2026. Link to agenda

This week in Hertfordshire:

Council Approves £1.2 Billion Budget Amidst Funding Crisis and Service Pressures

Hertfordshire County Council convened on Tuesday, 17 February 2026, to vote on its Budget 2026/27 and Medium-Term Financial Strategy. This critical financial plan outlines a £1.2 billion budget designed to deliver vital services, but it faces unprecedented challenges, including a projected annual loss of £42 million in government funding.

• The Stakes: The decisions made in this budget will directly impact the lives of Hertfordshire residents, particularly the most vulnerable. The council is grappling with how to maintain essential support for adult care, children's services, and other public provisions amidst significant financial strain. This could translate into longer waiting times for care, reduced support for families, and increased pressure on public services.
• Balancing Act: To balance the budget, the council plans a 2.99% Council Tax increase, alongside a 2% Adult Social Care precept. This aims to fund an additional £109 million investment in key areas such as children's services, SEND support, and adult social care. However, the budget also includes £51 million in savings and efficiencies for 2026/27, with further savings planned over the next few years.
• Investment in Vulnerable Groups:
  • Adult Care Services: The budget proposes investing an additional £47 million in frontline delivery, aiming to support an aging population and those with disabilities.
  • Children's Services: A significant focus is placed on improving outcomes for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and supporting children in care, with over £6 million earmarked for SEND support.
• The Deficit Challenge: Despite these investments, the report highlights a projected deficit in the High Needs Block of the Dedicated Schools Grant, forecast to reach £178.5 million by March 2027. While central government is expected to fund the full cost of SEND provision from April 2028, current funding arrangements for deficits are not yet confirmed.
• Public Reaction: Residents have consistently prioritised Children's Services and Adult Care Services as top spending priorities, and have expressed a desire for the council to lobby central government for increased funding.

You can find the full details of the proposed budget and the council's financial strategy here: County Council meeting on 17 February 2026.

Pension Fund Set for Major Investment Partnership

Hertfordshire's Pension Fund is poised for a significant structural change following the County Council meeting on Tuesday, 17 February 2026. The council is set to become a partner and shareholder of the Border to Coast Pension Partnership Ltd (BCPP), a move driven by government reforms requiring Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) funds to pool assets.

• The Stakes: This decision will influence how the pension fund's assets are managed and invested, with potential long-term implications for the financial security of pension fund members and the council's overall financial health.
• The Rationale: Government reforms mandate LGPS funds to pool assets to achieve economies of scale and enhance investment strategies. Hertfordshire's Pension Fund has evaluated its options, and the recommendation is to join BCPP, a large, established investment pool.
• The Process: Becoming a partner and shareholder of BCPP will involve establishing a Joint Committee and entering into new legal agreements, including an Inter-Authority Agreement and a Shareholder Agreement.
• Why it Matters: Pooling assets can lead to reduced investment costs and potentially better returns, which is crucial for the sustainability of the pension fund. However, it also means a degree of control over investment decisions is transferred to the pool.

More information on this significant financial decision can be found in the agenda for the County Council meeting: County Council meeting on 17 February 2026.

Members' Allowances Review for 2026-2027

The County Council also considered recommendations for Members' Allowances for 2026-2027 at its meeting on Tuesday, 17 February 2026. An Independent Panel has reviewed submissions and data to propose adjustments to the allowances paid to councillors.

• The Stakes: Members' allowances are a key component of how local government is funded and how councillors are compensated for their work. Decisions in this area impact public perception of council expenditure and the accessibility of public service.
• The Proposals: The panel recommended aligning the Basic Allowance increase with the National Joint Council (NJC) for Local Government Employees settlement. Special Responsibility Allowances (SRAs) and their multipliers are proposed to remain unchanged, with adjustments to Dependants' Carers' Allowance rates to align with the London Living Wage and HCC Adult Care Services' Home Care Costs.
• Transparency: The report details proposed rates for travel, subsistence, and co-optees' allowances, aiming for clarity and fairness.

Details of the proposed Members' Allowances can be found in the report for the County Council meeting: County Council meeting on 17 February 2026.

Other Matters

The County Council meeting on Tuesday, 17 February 2026, also included discussions on:

• The report from the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, detailing its annual scrutiny of the Council's budget for 2026/27 and other scrutiny reviews.
• The report from the Health Scrutiny Committee, providing updates on correspondence regarding blood test waiting lists and a letter to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care supporting capital investment for adult mental health inpatient beds.
• The proposed Pay Policy for 2026-2027, which outlines the remuneration of senior managers and the council's lowest-paid employees.
• Several Motions on Notice, including proposals for strengthening support for unpaid carers, reviewing foster carer fees, examining Council Tax collection practices, and reviewing new pavement parking enforcement powers.

Upcoming Meetings

• County Council on Tuesday 24 February 2026. Link to agenda
• Development Control Committee on Friday 27 February 2026. Link to agenda
• Impact of Scrutiny Advisory Committee on Monday 02 March 2026. Link to agenda
• Pensions Committee on Wednesday 04 March 2026. Link to agenda
• Adult Care Services Cabinet Panel on Thursday 05 March 2026. Link to agenda

This week in Hertfordshire:

Council Faces Crucial Budget Vote Amidst Funding Crisis and Service Pressures

Hertfordshire County Council is set to make critical decisions this week regarding its Budget 2026/27 and Medium-Term Financial Strategy. The full council will convene on Tuesday, 17 February 2026, to vote on a budget that attempts to balance significant investment in vital services with unprecedented financial pressures.

• The Stakes: This budget will directly impact the quality and availability of services for all Hertfordshire residents, particularly the most vulnerable. With a projected annual loss of £42 million in government funding, the council is grappling with how to maintain essential support for adult care, children's services, and other public provisions. Decisions made now could mean longer waiting times for care, reduced support for families, and a strain on public safety.
• The Financial Tightrope: The council proposes a 2.99% Council Tax increase, alongside a 2% Adult Social Care precept, to help fund a £1.2 billion budget. This aims to inject an additional £109 million into key services, including a substantial boost for Children's Services and Adult Care Services. However, the budget also includes £51 million in savings and efficiencies for 2026/27, with further savings planned over the next few years.
• Investment in Vulnerable Groups:
  • Adult Care Services: Set to receive £562.5 million net, with an extra £47 million for frontline delivery, including care worker pay and support for an aging population and those with disabilities.
  • Children's Services: Allocated £309 million, with a focus on improving outcomes for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and supporting children in care. Over £6 million is earmarked for SEND support, and £140 million for expanding SEND facilities.
• The Risk of Cuts: Despite these investments, the council warns of a projected £23 million deficit by 2028/29, even after savings. This highlights the ongoing challenge of meeting rising demand and costs with diminishing central government support. The proposed Council Tax increase, while necessary to protect services, will place an additional burden on households.
• Public Reaction: Previous feedback from residents has consistently prioritised Children's Services and Adult Care Services as top spending priorities. There is also a clear desire for the council to lobby central government for increased funding.

You can find the full details of the proposed budget and the council's financial strategy here: County Council meeting on 17 February 2026.

Pension Fund Poised for Major Investment Shift

Hertfordshire's Pension Fund is set to undergo a significant structural change, with a decision on joining the Border to Coast Pension Partnership Ltd (BCPP) expected at the County Council meeting on Tuesday, 17 February 2026. This move is a direct response to government reforms requiring Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) funds to pool assets.

• The Stakes: This decision will impact how the pension fund's assets are managed and invested, with potential implications for the long-term financial security of pension fund members and the council's overall financial stability.
• The Rationale: Government reforms mandate LGPS funds to pool assets to achieve economies of scale and improve investment strategies. Hertfordshire's Pension Fund has evaluated its options, and the recommendation is to join BCPP, a large, established investment pool.
• The Process: Joining BCPP would involve establishing a Joint Committee and becoming a shareholder. This will require new legal agreements and amendments to existing ones, such as the ACCESS Inter-Authority Agreement, to facilitate the transition.
• Why it Matters: Pooling assets can lead to reduced investment costs and potentially better returns, which is crucial for the sustainability of the pension fund. However, it also means a degree of control over investment decisions is transferred to the pool.

More information on this significant financial decision can be found in the agenda for the County Council meeting: County Council meeting on 17 February 2026.

Review of Members' Allowances on the Horizon

The County Council will also consider recommendations for Members' Allowances for 2026-2027 at its meeting on Tuesday, 17 February 2026. An Independent Panel has reviewed submissions and data to propose adjustments to the allowances paid to councillors.

• The Stakes: Members' allowances are a key aspect of how local government is funded and how councillors are compensated for their work. Decisions here impact public perception of council expenditure and the accessibility of public service.
• The Proposals: The panel recommends aligning the Basic Allowance increase with the National Joint Council (NJC) for Local Government Employees settlement. Special Responsibility Allowances (SRAs) and their multipliers are proposed to be maintained, with adjustments to Dependants' Carers' Allowance rates.
• Transparency: The report details proposed rates for travel, subsistence, and co-optees' allowances, aiming for clarity and fairness.

Details of the proposed Members' Allowances can be found in the report for the County Council meeting: County Council meeting on 17 February 2026.

Other Matters

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Monday, 9 February 2026, to review the council's budget for 2026/27 and its Medium Term Financial Strategy. The committee focused on recommendations arising from evidence-gathering sessions across various portfolio areas, including Children's Social Care, Education, Highways, Environment, Adult Care, Public Health, and Resources. Their recommendations will be considered by the Cabinet before the final budget is agreed by the full Council. Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting on 09 February 2026.

The Cabinet met on Wednesday, 11 February 2026, to discuss the proposed budget for 2026/27 and the Medium Term Financial Strategy. They also reviewed admissions arrangements for primary schools, considered the proposed closure of two primary schools (Albury Church of England VA Primary School and St Nicholas Elstree Church of England VA Primary School), and discussed the future of several council-owned properties. Cabinet meeting on 11 February 2026.

The Audit Committee met on Thursday, 12 February 2026, to review the 2024/25 updated Statement of Accounts and receive audit updates for both the council and the Pension Fund. The committee also discussed its future work programme. Audit Committee meeting on 12 February 2026.

Upcoming Meetings

• County Council on Tuesday 17 February 2026. Link to agenda
• County Council on Tuesday 24 February 2026. Link to agenda

This week in Hertfordshire:

Council Faces Tough Choices as Budget Scrutiny Reveals Strain on Services

Hertfordshire County Council's Overview & Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday, February 4th, 2026, to scrutinize the proposed budget for 2026/27 and the Medium-Term Financial Strategy. The discussions highlighted the immense pressure on adult social care services, with councillors probing the real-world impact of budget decisions, particularly on vulnerable residents.

Adult Social Care: Balancing Savings with Support

The committee delved into the Connect and Prevent programme, a transformation initiative aimed at improving outcomes and promoting independence for residents, thereby reducing the need for long-term care. While the programme is projected to deliver significant savings, councillors sought clarity on how these savings would be achieved without compromising the quality of care.

• The Stakes: Decisions around adult social care directly affect older residents, people with learning disabilities, and those with physical disabilities. The council's ability to prevent, reduce, or delay the need for long-term care is paramount to ensuring residents can live independently and with dignity.
• The Programme: The Connect and Prevent programme, now in Phase 2, is expanding its reach to support unpaid carers, intervene earlier with individuals at risk of falls, and extend progressive reviews to those with physical disabilities. The overall programme aims to deliver £24.2 million in savings.
• The Investment: The council is investing £6 million over two years in this programme, including £700,000 for carers' hubs and support for those at risk of falls. This investment is seen as crucial for achieving the projected savings and, more importantly, for enhancing people's lives.
• Concerns Raised: Councillors questioned the specifics of stretching Phase 1 and the predicted savings, seeking assurance that the focus remains on positive outcomes for individuals, not just financial benefits. The impact of inflation and construction costs on the capital programme for accommodation, including supported living and nursing homes, was also a key concern.
• Workforce Pressures: The critical issue of workforce pressures in adult social care was highlighted. While the council plans a 50p per hour increase in care worker wages, aligning with the national living wage, the real living wage is rising faster. Strategies beyond pay increases, such as skills development and career progression support, are being explored to attract and retain care workers. Concerns were also raised about ensuring private provider inflation costs directly benefit care workers and are not absorbed by profiteering.

You can find more details about the discussions on Adult Care Services here: Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting on 04 February 2026.

Public Health and Community Safety: Navigating Funding Challenges

The Public Health & Community Safety Cabinet Panel met on Monday, February 2nd, 2026, to scrutinize the budget for 2026/27 and the Medium-Term Financial Strategy. The panel addressed the impact of a modest 1.7% increase in the public health grant, which has necessitated a tighter focus on core services.

• The Stakes: Public health initiatives are vital for preventative care, addressing health inequalities, and ensuring community safety. A reduced or stagnant budget can mean fewer resources for crucial programs, potentially impacting the health and well-being of residents, especially those in deprived areas.
• The Funding Gap: The 1.7% increase in the public health grant is below inflation, forcing a review of all partnerships and a tighter focus on core mandated services like health visiting and sexual health. Additional grants for drugs and alcohol have also seen a reduction due to a new government methodology.
• Mitigation Strategies: The council is prioritizing core services and reviewing partnerships to ensure efficient use of funds. Reserves are being utilized for one-off projects, such as the Prevention Investment Fund, but not for recurrent costs, to avoid depleting them rapidly.
• Homelessness Prevention: The panel discussed savings from withdrawing legacy funding for housing-related support to district and borough councils. While the funding was not being used effectively for prevention, the council is providing uplifts in homelessness grant funding and has a specific Make Every Adult Matter programme to support adults at risk of homelessness.
• The Future of Services: The discussions also touched upon the potential impact of local government reorganisation on public health services, with options including disaggregation, shared services, or a hybrid model. The future of the public health grant under these reforms remains uncertain.

Read more about the Public Health & Community Safety Cabinet Panel meeting here: Public Health & Community Safety Cabinet Panel meeting on 02 February 2026.

Fire Station Upgrades and Longfield Project Move Forward Amidst Capital Programme Scrutiny

The Resources and Performance Cabinet Panel, meeting on Wednesday, February 4th, 2026, examined the council's capital programme, including significant investments in fire stations and the Longfield project. The discussions highlighted the challenges of construction cost inflation and the need for robust financial planning.

• The Stakes: Investments in fire stations and training facilities are crucial for the safety and effectiveness of Hertfordshire's Fire and Rescue Service. The Longfield project aims to create a centre of excellence, generating income and enhancing training capabilities.
• Fire Station Refurbishments: The council is committed to refurbishing its fire stations, addressing issues of dignity, contaminants, and health and safety. Funding has been secured for three stations in the next two years, with further bids planned for subsequent phases.
• The Longfield Project: The £16.9 million Longfield project, intended to be a centre of excellence for fire service training, is progressing. While initial cost estimates were impacted by inflation, revised designs and costs are now within budget. The project will deliver essential training facilities for live fire scenarios and motorway incidents, addressing key risks identified in the county. Phase three, involving the renovation of the main building, will be incorporated into the routine maintenance programme.
• Income Generation: The Longfield project aims to generate income through driver training and apprenticeships, leveraging the fire service's established reputation and accreditation. Conversations are ongoing with other fire and rescue services to utilize these training facilities.
• Capital Programme Sustainability: Concerns were raised about the overall sustainability of the capital programme in light of construction cost inflation. While the council is actively managing costs through value engineering and exploring increased capital receipts from asset disposals, the full impact of inflation on all projects remains a challenge.

Explore the details of the Resources and Performance Cabinet Panel meeting here: Resources and Performance Cabinet Panel meeting on 04 February 2026.

Upcoming Meetings

• Overview & Scrutiny Committee on Monday 09 February 2026. Link to agenda
• Cabinet on Wednesday 11 February 2026. Link to agenda
• Audit Committee on Thursday 12 February 2026. Link to agenda