This week in Lancashire:

Urgent Call to Secretary of State Over A&E Co-location Decision

Health and Adult Services Scrutiny Committee members are set to decide whether to ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care to intervene in a controversial decision to co-locate adult and children's Accident and Emergency (A&E) services at Southport and Formby District General Hospital. The decision, made by the NHS Shaping Care Together Joint Committee on 13 March 2026, is facing scrutiny over concerns about the consultation process and its potential impact on vital healthcare services.

The Shaping Care Together programme, a collaboration between NHS Cheshire and Merseyside and NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Boards, aims to address urgent and emergency care challenges. While the co-location at Southport and Formby was the preferred option after extensive consultation, councillors have raised questions about the timeframe, the range of options considered, and the exclusion of interdependent services like maternity.

The Health and Adult Services Scrutiny Committee will review the grounds for requesting the Secretary of State to call-in the decision, a power introduced by the Health and Care Act 2022. This move could have significant implications for healthcare provision in Southport, Formby, and West Lancashire, potentially affecting access to emergency care for thousands of residents.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Health and Adult Services Scrutiny Committee meeting documents.

Council Property Strategy: Balancing Assets with Community Needs

The Community, Cultural, and Corporate Services Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday to review the council's property strategy. This strategy aims to manage and develop Lancashire's vast property portfolio, valued at approximately £2.2 billion, over the next five years. The core principles include ensuring assets meet service needs, deliver value for money, and are compliant and fit for purpose.

A key focus is the implementation of a corporate landlord model, centralising management and control of all council properties. This approach is intended to improve efficiency and cost control. The committee discussed the disposal process for surplus properties, which prioritises community asset transfers and offers to public sector partners before considering open market sales, guided by the council's Community Assets Policy.

• What's at stake? Decisions about the council's property portfolio directly impact the services residents receive and the availability of community spaces. For example, how surplus buildings are managed could mean new community facilities or a loss of local assets.
• What's being discussed? The committee made several recommendations, including clarifying delegation levels for property disposals, ensuring the Community Asset Transfer Policy is accessible to all councillors, and standardising service delivery across council buildings. They also reviewed the progress of the £20 million+ Farington Cricket Facility, which includes a commitment to 750 hours of free community use annually.
• What's the impact? The strategy aims to ensure the council's estate is fit for the future, supporting service delivery and community needs. The Farington Cricket Facility, for instance, is intended to be a hub for schools, community clubs, and health and wellbeing initiatives, extending its benefit beyond elite sport.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Community, Cultural, and Corporate Services Scrutiny Committee meeting documents.

Combined Authority Navigates Audit, Governance, and Financial Risks

The Lancashire Combined County Authority - Audit and Governance Committee convened on Monday to review critical aspects of the Authority's operations. Key decisions included the approval of the Internal Audit Annual Plan and Strategy for 2026/27, which will focus on priority areas such as transport transition and adult skills funding. The committee also approved the Corporate Risk and Opportunity Register, highlighting new risks related to business support delivery and future governance arrangements post-Local Government Reorganisation (LGR).

• Why it matters: Robust audit and governance are essential for public trust and the effective use of taxpayer money. The Authority, which is preparing to take on Local Transport Authority functions and adult skills funding, needs strong oversight to manage its expanding responsibilities.
• What's being addressed? The committee reviewed updates on the Authority's progress, including its first year of operation and upcoming devolution of functions. They also discussed the indicative audit risk briefing from external auditors, KPMG, and the VAT recovery arrangements, which will allow the Authority to reclaim VAT on its activities from December 2025.
• What's the impact? These discussions ensure that the Lancashire Combined County Authority operates with transparency and accountability, managing financial risks effectively and preparing for significant changes, including the potential impact of Local Government Reorganisation.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Lancashire Combined County Authority - Audit and Governance Committee meeting documents.

Public Rights of Way: Bridleway Upgrades and Footpath Modifications

The Regulatory Committee met on Wednesday to consider applications regarding public rights of way. The committee resolved to upgrade a section of Whitley Road, Upholland, to a bridleway, acknowledging historical vehicular rights but concluding insufficient evidence existed for full carriageway status. They also agreed to modify the definitive map to remove a recorded footpath section where public carriageway rights are now recognised.

Additionally, a route from Monks Gate, Tatham, to Park House, Hornby, was agreed to be upgraded to a restricted byway. This decision acknowledges historical vehicular rights, but due to the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006, mechanically propelled vehicle rights have been extinguished.

• What's at stake? These decisions impact how people can access and use public land, affecting walkers, horse riders, and cyclists. The careful consideration of historical evidence ensures that public rights are accurately recorded and protected.
• What's happening? The committee reviewed extensive historical map and documentary evidence to determine the appropriate classification of these routes.
• What's the impact? The upgrades and modifications ensure that public rights of way are correctly recorded, providing clarity for users and protecting these valuable community assets for future generations.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Regulatory Committee meeting documents.

Upcoming Meetings

• Health and Adult Services Scrutiny Committee: Monday 30 March 2026. The committee will consider a call-in request regarding the NHS Shaping Care Together Programme's decision to co-locate A&E services. Link to meeting

This week in Lancashire:

• The Environment, Economic Growth and Transport Scrutiny Committee discussed the rollout of electric vehicle infrastructure and reviewed public rights of way processes.
• The Development Control Committee approved plans for a green waste composting facility expansion and a children's care home.
• The Pension Fund Committee approved the fund's strategic plan and budget, alongside a revised funding strategy statement.
• The Company Member Cabinet Committee reviewed the performance of Lancashire Renewables Limited and noted the wind-down of the Lancashire Environmental Fund.

Environment, Economic Growth and Transport Scrutiny Committee - Thursday 19 March 2026

The Environment, Economic Growth and Transport Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday, 19 March 2026, to discuss the expansion of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure and the processes for managing public rights of way. Key decisions included the formulation of recommendations to the Cabinet Member regarding the EV infrastructure strategy and an agreement to defer decisions on delegating authority for Definitive Map Modification Orders and Public Path Orders pending further review.

Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure

The committee received an update on the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) programme, a national initiative aiming to increase public EV charging points, particularly for residents without off-street parking. Lancashire has been allocated £10.1 million in capital funding to deliver at least 6,000 charging sockets by 2030. The council is partnering with a commercial entity for this, requiring no capital investment from the council itself, and will benefit from a revenue share.

Alongside the LEVI programme, an in-house service for cross-pavement cable channels (cable trays) is being developed to enable residents to charge EVs from their domestic supply. A successful trial has resulted in a waiting list of over 230 residents, with £650,000 expected from a government fund to subsidise costs.

Concerns were raised about the potential impact on the electricity grid, the practicality of cable trays in terraced housing, and the commercial viability of charging point deployment. Councillors highlighted challenges in terraced streets, including parking issues and cable theft risks. Suggestions included exploring shared cable trays and lamppost charging. Assurances were given that grid capacity is being discussed with the electricity network operator, and LEVI funding can support necessary substation upgrades. The cable tray scheme is a subsidised service for residents, and the council will receive a revenue share from the LEVI programme.

The committee agreed to formulate recommendations to the Cabinet Member, including exploring dual charging arrangements with cable trays and investigating the cost viability of lamppost charging.

Public Rights of Way Processes

The committee reviewed a report on potential efficiencies in public rights of way processes, prompted by an Ombudsman's investigation into delays in processing Definitive Map Modification Orders (DMMOs). The report outlined several options for streamlining processes, including:

• Signage: Replacing traditional fingerposts with cheaper and quicker waymark arrows (coloured discs), though landowner consent may be required.
• Gates and Stiles: Investigating DEFRA grants to replace stiles with gates for improved accessibility.
• Obstructions and Deterrent Signs: Serving formal notices immediately on those responsible for obstructions or misleading signs, rather than initial polite requests.
• Enforcement Notices: Delegating authority for preparing and serving enforcement notices to the Public Rights of Way Service to streamline the process.
• Definitive Map Modification Orders (DMMOs) and Public Path Orders (PPOs): Exploring delegation of decisions to officers or adopting a hybrid approach involving local members to reduce delays caused by committee cycles.

Concerns were raised about potential loss of public trust and transparency with delegated decisions. Following discussion, the committee agreed to recommend that officers be able to serve notice for obstructions and deterrent signs. However, decisions on delegating authority for DMMOs and PPOs were deferred pending further review of the overall process. The committee also agreed to seek clarification from the Cabinet Member on improving the DMMO process.

Environment, Economic Growth and Transport Scrutiny Committee Work Programme 2025/26

The committee reviewed its work programme for 2025/26. An in-year request to review street lighting was considered and agreed to be added to the April schedule. The committee noted that 25,434 lighting columns are over 40 years old and in poor condition, with replacements delayed due to budget constraints. A report on the street works permits lane rental scheme was deferred to June 2026. Key lines of inquiry for the next meeting were confirmed, including the adequacy of gully cleaning criteria and the need for representation from Highways Maintenance and Flood Risk Management teams. The Tourism Growth Strategy was added to the work programme for 2026/27.

Development Control Committee - Wednesday 18 March 2026

The Development Control Committee met on Wednesday, 18 March 2026, approving two planning applications. Permission was granted for the expansion of a green waste composting facility at Tarnbrick Farm, Kirkham, and for the conversion of a residential property into a children's care home at 9 Harwood Lane, Great Harwood.

Tarnbrick Farm, Kirkham: Green Waste Composting Facility Expansion

The committee approved an application for a change of use of land from agriculture to green waste composting at Tarnbrick Farm, Kirkham. The proposal includes a new access road, a workshop building, and an extension to a storage building. The site, approximately two hectares, has operated as a green waste composting facility for many years.

Concerns raised by residents included potential increases in noise, odour, traffic, and health risks from dust and bioaerosols. Objections also related to the proximity to residential properties on Parkinson Lane, the lack of landscaping from a previous 2008 scheme, and the location of the new access road.

The committee was informed that the proposal aims to improve site functionality rather than intensify operations. New buildings and improved circulation are designed to mitigate impacts on neighbouring amenity and the rural landscape. Technical assessments indicated that drainage and highway matters could be addressed. The recommendation to approve was subject to conditions, including a revised landscaping scheme to address outstanding issues from 2008 and mitigate visual impacts. Biodiversity Net Gain¹ was discussed as a separate requirement from landscaping. Operating hours will remain unchanged, and odour control is managed by an Environment Agency permit. The application was approved.

9 Harwood Lane, Great Harwood: Children's Care Home

Planning permission was granted for the change of use of a residential property at 9 Harwood Lane, Great Harwood, to a Class C2 residential institution, to be used as a home for up to two young persons aged 11-17, with a maximum of two carers overnight. This application was brought before the committee as it relates to a county function.

Lancashire County Council supported the proposal, highlighting a pressing need for local, high-quality homes for children in care. The Senior Manager of Child Residential Homes for Lancashire County Council emphasised that the home would be small, family-focused, and designed to blend into the neighbourhood, operating comparably to a typical family household.

Local residents raised concerns about the suitability of the property on a quiet residential street, citing potential increases in noise, activity, traffic, and parking problems, as well as a loss of privacy. Concerns were also raised about proximity to a primary school and public house, and the potential for an over-concentration of similar uses.

The committee noted that national policy supports such applications, and the proposal aligns with Hyndburn Borough Council's planning policies. Councillors noted that issues encountered with care homes were typically with privately run establishments, not those operated by the county council. The committee was satisfied that the property was suitable, parking provision adequate, and that the development would not create an over-concentration of similar uses. The application was approved.

The committee also noted decisions taken by the Director of Environment and Regulatory in accordance with the County Council's Scheme of Delegation. The date of the next meeting was confirmed as Wednesday, 29 April 2026.

Pension Fund Committee - Friday 20 March 2026

The Pension Fund Committee met on Friday, 20 March 2026, to approve the Lancashire County Pension Fund Strategic Plan for 2026-2029 and the budget for 2026-2027. The committee also approved a revised Funding Strategy Statement and noted updates on governance matters, including the fund's risk register and a new breaches policy.

Lancashire County Pension Fund Strategic Plan and Budget Approved

The committee approved the Lancashire County Pension Fund Strategic Plan for 2026-2029 and the operating budget for 2026-2027. The strategic plan includes a review of the fund's investment strategy statement, development of relationships with new LPPI client funds, preparations for local government reorganisation, and responses to legislative and regulatory changes within the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS). The 2026-2027 budget represents a 10.8% reduction on the previous year, attributed to lower actuarial work and economies of scale from the expansion of LPPI.

During the discussion on the budget, concerns were raised about the general inflation assumption of 3.2%, questioning its realism in light of global events. The Head of Fund acknowledged potential short-term inflation increases and stated the fund would monitor this, reporting back in the mid-year budget report.

Revised Funding Strategy Statement Approved

A revised Funding Strategy Statement was approved. This document consolidates related policies and reflects parameters agreed in January, aligning with guidance from the Scheme Advisory Board (SAB). It covers broader policies, including the admission and termination of employers from the fund, and details procedures for how the fund's assets are shared between individual employers.

Governance Matters and Risk Register Noted

The committee received an update on governance and risk matters, confirming compliance with The Pensions Regulator. A new standing report was introduced to consolidate governance and risk items. The fund's financial statements for 2024-2025 have been approved by external auditors and published online. An updated breaches policy was also presented for approval, with the fund reporting no material breaches to The Pensions Regulator over the past year.

The fund's risk register was reviewed, with no changes to the risks listed or their scores. However, a new risk associated with preparations for local government reorganisation in Lancashire will be introduced from the next quarter. Concerns were raised about the fund's reliance on global equities and the impact of political behaviour on stock markets, with questions about investing more in the UK and consulting members on investment preferences. The Head of Fund indicated that a review of the investment strategy statement, including consultation, would be brought to the next committee meeting in June.

Fit for the Future Governance Arrangements Approved

The committee approved arrangements for the Fit for the Future programme, which includes enhanced skills and knowledge requirements for all involved with the pension fund, extending to substitutes attending Pensions Committee meetings. The committee also agreed to appoint an independent person with a broader remit covering investments, governance, and administration, rescinding a previous decision to appoint a new independent investment advisor. This change is to ensure compliance with the Fit for the Future governance programme.

Pension Related Training Record and Plan Noted

The committee noted the pension-related training record for 2025-2026 and approved the training plan for 2026-2027. Suggestions were made to include details of members who have completed specific training, such as LOLA modules, to identify qualified deputies.

Lancashire Local Pension Board Workplan Noted

The workplan for the Lancashire Local Pension Board for 2026-2027 was noted. The plan includes a review of the fund's policies, a detailed review of pensions administration services, and updates on the fund's progress towards local government reorganisation (LGR).

Responsible Investments Report Received

The committee received LPPI's quarterly responsible investment update for Q4 2025. Key highlights included a significant UK housing acquisition programme, involving a joint acquisition with the Northern Pool that brings over 5,000 homes under ownership, with plans to increase this to 15,000 over the next decade. LPPI has also been redesignated as a signatory to the UK Stewardship Code.

During the discussion, inquiries were made about the inclusion of social and affordable housing within investment plans. It was confirmed that a £50 million investment has been made into a national social housing fund, alongside other LGPS and non-LGPS investors. While the primary objective is risk and return, diversification across the UK is expected, including potential investment in Lancashire.

Pension Administration Performance Update Received

The committee received an update on pension administration performance for October to December 2025. Performance against benchmarks was generally positive. A key focus remains on improving employer notifications of retirements to ensure seamless payment of pensions. Efforts are underway to address volatility in notification volumes and explore best practices. A significant reduction in deferred benefits cases was attributed to automation and a dedicated team focused on clearing pending leave ahead of the valuation.

The next meeting of the Pension Fund Committee is scheduled for Friday, 19 June 2026, commencing at 10:00 am.

Company Member Cabinet Committee - Thursday 19 March 2026

The Company Member Cabinet Committee met on Thursday, 19 March 2026, to review the performance and future plans of Lancashire Renewables Limited and the Lancashire Environmental Fund. The committee approved the work programme for 2026-27 and endorsed the business plans for both organisations, while also noting the impending wind-down of the Lancashire Environmental Fund.

Work Programme 2026-27

The committee approved the updated work programme for the Company Member Cabinet Committee for the 2026-27 period. This revised programme reflects an increase in the number of meetings to five per year, aiming for a more even distribution of business. The intention is for no more than two companies to report to each meeting, unless exceptional circumstances dictate otherwise.

Lancashire Renewables Limited - Service Performance Review and Annual Business Plan 2026/27

The committee reviewed the performance of Lancashire Renewables Limited, a company in which Lancashire County Council holds an 87.5% share. The report detailed the company's service delivery and its alignment with shareholder strategic priorities. The committee agreed with the performance assessment and endorsed the Annual Business Plan and strategic priorities for the 2026/27 financial year.

Lancashire Environmental Fund – Service Performance Review, Draft Accounts 2025 and Corporate Governance Checklist 2026

The committee received an update on the Lancashire Environmental Fund, a company where Lancashire County Council holds a 25% stake. The committee noted the draft annual accounts for the year ending 2025, with the audit scheduled for April. The Corporate Governance Checklist for 2026 was approved. Significantly, the committee also noted that the company will be wound down in an orderly manner, in accordance with proposed timelines.

This week in Lancashire:

Roads in Crisis: Council Votes Down Urgent Repair Motion Amidst Pothole Pandemic

Lancashire County Council's Full Council met on Thursday, 12 March 2026, and a heated debate erupted over the state of the county's roads. A motion calling for urgent action on road repairs, highlighting the competition of misery with crumbling carriageways and dangerous potholes, was ultimately defeated. Despite widespread acknowledgement of the problem, including from the Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, Councillor Warren Goldsworthy, the administration voted down the motion, leaving many residents feeling unheard.

The motion, put forward by Councillor David Whipp, detailed how residents are experiencing long delays for pothole repairs, with some reports remaining unresolved for over 60 days. Councillor Fiona Duke seconded the motion, providing examples of these delays in Preston. An amendment proposed by Councillor Azhar Ali OBE sought to establish a task and finish group to evaluate highway defect providers and for the Cabinet to consider a highways safety fund.

Councillor Goldsworthy acknowledged the challenges, stating that while £15 million was allocated for 2025/26, there was a £30 million shortfall for future years. He also noted that eight localised deterioration fund schemes were not delivered due to funding issues. Despite these admissions, the motion was defeated by 28 votes to 46.

The defeat leaves many residents concerned about the safety and usability of their local roads. For cyclists and motorcyclists, the risk of serious injury from unrepaired defects is a constant worry, as tragically highlighted by past incidents. The lack of a dedicated highways safety fund means that smaller, but potentially dangerous, issues like deteriorating speed humps or pedestrian crossings may not receive the attention they need.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Full Council meeting documents.

Election Integrity Under Fire: Council Affirms Secret Ballot Amidst Family Voting Concerns

In a move that saw near-unanimous support, Lancashire County Council's Full Council voted to affirm the principle of a secret ballot and address concerns about family voting. The motion, brought forward by Councillor Hannah Whalley, stressed the fundamental importance of individual voting rights, particularly for women, who fought hard for their right to vote independently.

The debate was sparked by reports of family voting during a recent by-election, where individuals allegedly entered polling booths together or pressured others on how to vote. Councillor Whalley argued that such practices undermine the secrecy of the ballot and the integrity of the democratic process. She emphasised that the right to vote was hard-won and should not be taken for granted, especially by women who campaigned tirelessly for their voice to be heard.

An amendment proposed by Councillor Mohammed Iqbal MBE, which sought to focus on existing legal frameworks and thank election staff, was debated but ultimately defeated. The original motion, however, passed with 73 votes in favour and none against.

This decision sends a clear message that Lancashire County Council is committed to upholding the principles of free and fair elections. It reassures residents that their vote is their own, free from coercion or undue influence, a vital safeguard for democracy.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Full Council meeting documents.

Youth Engagement in Democracy: A Motion to Empower the Next Generation

Lancashire County Council's Full Council discussed a motion aimed at enhancing youth engagement in democracy. The motion, proposed by Councillor Maheen Kamran, called for a concrete strategy to encourage young people to register to vote, participate in council meetings, and strengthen civic education.

Councillor Kamran highlighted that many young people feel disconnected from politics, despite being directly affected by council decisions. The motion proposed practical steps such as inviting youth to council meetings, working with schools on civic education, and creating opportunities for youth council and parliament representatives.

However, the motion was ultimately defeated. Councillor Matthew Salter, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, argued that the council already engages well with young people through existing initiatives like the youth council, youth parliament, and school visits. He suggested that the motion was superfluous and that civic education should start earlier than age 16.

While the council's existing efforts are commendable, the defeat of this motion may leave some young people feeling that their voices are not being sufficiently prioritised. Ensuring that the next generation understands and participates in democracy is crucial for a healthy and representative future.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Full Council meeting documents.

Drug Policy Debate: Council Calls for Evidence-Based Review Amidst Coalition Contradictions

A significant debate took place in Full Council regarding drug policy, initiated by a motion from Councillor Luke Parker. The motion questioned the coherence of the opposition's stance, particularly in light of national Green Party positions advocating for decriminalisation and legal regulation of drugs, while simultaneously expressing concerns about drug misuse.

Councillor Parker highlighted the devastating impact of drug misuse on families, communities, and public services in Lancashire. He challenged the opposition coalition, particularly Councillor Gina Dowding, a senior Green figure, to clarify their position and reconcile it with the stated concerns about drug harm.

An amendment proposed by Councillor Gina Dowding sought to remove specific references to the Green Party leader and instead called for a Royal Commission to review evidence for an effective UK drugs policy, drawing on experts from health, police, and the criminal justice sectors. This amendment was defeated.

Ultimately, the original motion was carried with 59 votes for, none against, and seven abstentions. This outcome signals a clear stance from the council against the decriminalisation or legalisation of currently illicit drugs, reflecting concerns about potential increases in local harm and the undermining of enforcement efforts. The debate underscored the complex challenges of drug policy and the need for evidence-based approaches that prioritise public safety and well-being.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Full Council meeting documents.

Other Matters

• The Lancashire Combined County Authority - Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Monday, 9 March 2026. While the full details are pending publication, the agenda included discussions on the authority's budget, its medium-term financial strategy, an update from the Chief Operating Officer, and the Get Lancashire Working initiative. These topics are crucial for understanding how regional development and employment programmes are being shaped. You can find more details in the Lancashire Combined County Authority - Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting documents.
• The Lancashire Health and Wellbeing Board convened on Tuesday, 10 March 2026. Key discussions included an update on the Lancashire Better Care Fund, which aims to integrate health and social care services, and the development of Neighbourhood Health Plans. The Board also reiterated the need for a comprehensive update on NHS dental provision in Lancashire, highlighting concerns about access and health inequalities. You can find more details in the Lancashire Health and Wellbeing Board meeting documents.
• The Corporate Parenting Board met on Wednesday, 11 March 2026. The agenda included updates from the Participation Team on activities for children in care and care leavers, annual reports on fostering, adoption, and private fostering, and the National Youth Advocacy Service (NYAS) annual report. These discussions are vital for ensuring the well-being and support of children in the council's care. You can find more details in the Corporate Parenting Board meeting documents.

Upcoming Meetings

• Pension Fund Committee: Friday 20 March 2026. Topics include updates on partner funds and potential confidential appointments. Link to meeting
• Environment, Economic Growth and Transport Scrutiny Committee: Thursday 19 March 2026. Discussions are expected to cover the Get Lancashire Working programme and transport initiatives. Link to meeting
• Community, Cultural, and Corporate Services Scrutiny Committee: Thursday 26 March 2026. This committee will likely discuss ongoing service reviews and corporate matters. Link to meeting
• Development Control Committee: Wednesday 18 March 2026. This committee will consider planning applications and related matters. Link to meeting
• Company Member Cabinet Committee: Thursday 19 March 2026. This committee will likely discuss matters related to council-owned companies. Link to meeting
• Lancashire Combined County Authority - Audit and Governance Committee: Monday 23 March 2026. This committee will focus on financial oversight and governance. Link to meeting
• Regulatory Committee: Wednesday 25 March 2026. This committee will consider matters related to regulations and licensing. Link to meeting

This week in Lancashire:

School Attendance Crisis: Hundreds of Children Missing Out on Education

Lancashire County Council's Children, Families and Skills Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday, 25 February 2026, to confront a growing crisis in school attendance. While overall attendance figures remain above the national average, concerning trends have emerged, particularly regarding persistent absence and the rising number of children not in school. The committee heard that while primary school attendance is strong, secondary school attendance shows significant variations across districts, with some areas seeing a worrying drop-off.

Persistent Absence and the Impact on Learning

Persistent absence, defined as missing 10% or more of school sessions, remains a key concern. Abbie Hardy, Head of Education Improvement, highlighted that this can mean a significant amount of learning time is lost, potentially increasing anxiety for children struggling to catch up. The committee heard that penalty notices, which generated around £1 million last year, fund attendance and Children Missing Education (CME) staff. However, concerns were raised about the proportionality of prosecuting parents for non-attendance, especially when mental health issues are a factor. Councillor Matthew Salter, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, emphasised that prosecution is a last resort, with the council aiming to support families first.

The Growing Challenge of Children Not in School

The number of children electively home-educated (EHE) has risen significantly, with 3,600 children now registered as such. The primary reasons cited are SEND needs and mental health issues. Councillor Fiona Duke highlighted a particularly concerning figure of 179 children missing education in Preston, prompting calls for a detailed breakdown of reasons and waiting times. The council is increasing staffing in these teams and has secured additional funding to improve oversight and preventative work, with the upcoming Schools Bill expected to provide greater powers for intervention.

School Place Planning: Balancing Surplus and Pressure

Paula Durant, School Planning Manager, presented on the council's duty to ensure sufficient school places. While Lancashire currently has a surplus of places overall due to a national drop in birth rates, specific areas like Preston Rural and Preston East are experiencing capacity pressures. The committee discussed the complexities of admissions criteria, particularly concerning siblings and geographical priority areas, and agreed to review the admissions criteria for Broughton High School.

The committee also noted the work programme for 2025/26, which includes upcoming reports on the SEND Priority Action Plan, an Early Years update, and a briefing on the Families First and Lancashire House Project.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Children, Families and Skills Scrutiny Committee meeting documents.

Budget Battles: Council Approves Budget Amidst Heated Debate on Spending Priorities

Lancashire County Council's Full Council met on Thursday, 26 February 2026, to approve the budget for 2026/27. The meeting was marked by intense debate as opposition groups presented amendments, highlighting concerns over council tax increases, service cuts, and the council's financial management.

Reform UK's Budget: Balancing the Books and Driving Efficiency

The ruling Reform UK group presented a budget that they claimed was balanced for 2026/27 and 2027/28 without using reserves. Leader Stephen Atkinson emphasised a commitment to financial discipline, highlighting a reduction in the projected overspend from £28 million to £6.1 million in Quarter 3. The budget includes significant investment in SEND services, with an additional £5 million this year and a further £7 million for inclusion services, alongside £17 million for home-to-school transport. Adult social care also sees investment, with plans to improve first-point-of-contact resolution and reduce assessment waiting times. The budget proposes a council tax increase of 3.8%, described as the lowest rise in 12 years.

Opposition Amendments: Calls for Investment and Reversal of Cuts

Opposition groups presented several amendments, each seeking to reallocate funds and address perceived shortcomings in the administration's budget.

• Progressive Lancashire proposed £4 million for modernising care homes and day centres, a fund for community groups, reinstating the young person's transport scheme, and a £1 concessionary fare for disabled pass holders. They criticised the lack of investment in care homes within the administration's budget.
• The Conservative Group focused on modest, pragmatic proposals, including reinstating the Public Rights of Way grant scheme, a War Memorial Grant Scheme, expanding the utility company permit inspection team, and a £5 million boost for pothole repairs. They argued their proposals were affordable and aligned with the administration's priorities.
• The Liberal Democrats highlighted concerns about highway safety, proposing investment in safer crossings, pavement improvements, street lighting, and tackling pavement parking. They also called for the scrapping of bus gate fines in Preston and an investment in mental health community advocates.
• Labour proposed seed funding for two new schools, a trial suspension of bus gate fines in Preston, a £1.50 daily return fare cap for school buses, a Fair Work Charter, a Lancashire Ownership Hub for democratic businesses, and a study into insourcing adult social care. They criticised the administration's budget as a continuation of austerity and cuts.
• Our West Lancashire focused on increasing resources for the flood risk team and clearing overgrown pavements in rural West Lancashire, arguing these were affordable and addressed known capacity constraints.

Despite robust debate and passionate pleas from opposition members, all amendments were ultimately defeated. The council voted to approve the Reform UK administration's budget.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Full Council meeting documents and Full Council meeting documents.

Upcoming Meetings

• Cabinet: Thursday 05 March 2026. Topics include the allocation of the Crisis Resilience Fund, traffic management proposals for Goosnargh Lane, Preston, and the proposed 2026/27 Highways Capital Programmes. Link to meeting
• Employment Committee: Tuesday 03 March 2026. This meeting was cancelled.
• Health and Adult Services Scrutiny Committee: Wednesday 04 March 2026. The committee will review the Neighbourhood Health Development Plan and the committee's work programmes. Link to meeting
• Corporate Parenting Board: Wednesday 11 March 2026. This board oversees the council's responsibilities towards children in its care. Link to meeting
• Lancashire Combined County Authority - Overview and Scrutiny Committee: Monday 09 March 2026. Topics include an update from the Chief Operating Officer, the Get Lancashire Working initiative, and the LCCA's budget and financial strategy. Link to meeting
• Full Council: Thursday 12 March 2026. This meeting will cover a range of council business. Link to meeting