This week in Lancashire:

Combined County Authority Tackles Skills Funding and Bus Fares

The Lancashire Combined County Authority met on Tuesday, 23 June 2026, making key decisions on skills funding, bus fares, and the permanent establishment of a Chief Operating Officer role. The Authority approved the methodology for allocating £11.5 million in Post-16 Capacity Funds to colleges, aiming to address demographic growth and learner numbers. This funding is crucial for ensuring that educational institutions can accommodate an increasing number of 16 to 18-year-olds, directly impacting the future skills and opportunities available to young people across Lancashire.

The Authority also agreed to increase the evening and Sunday bus fare from £1 to £2, a move necessitated by a reduction in Local Authority Bus Grant funding. This decision will affect the cost of public transport for many residents, particularly those who rely on these services outside of peak hours. The Authority stated this increase is necessary to maintain services within the available budget.

In a move to strengthen its operational capacity, the Authority approved the permanent establishment of the Chief Operating Officer (COO) role, appointing the interim COO, Matthew Sidgreaves, to the permanent position. This decision aims to provide continuity and leadership as the Combined County Authority continues to grow and evolve.

The meeting also included updates on the Local Skills Improvement Plan, which aims to align post-16 training with local labour market needs, and the development of a unified transport identity for Lancashire. The Authority noted its financial outturn for 2025/26, which showed a revenue budget underspend of £699,000.

• What's at stake? The decisions on skills funding directly impact the future educational and employment prospects of young people in Lancashire. The bus fare increase affects the affordability of public transport for many residents. The establishment of a permanent COO role aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the Combined County Authority's operations.
• What's being discussed? The Authority discussed the allocation of Post-16 Capacity Funds, the necessity of increasing bus fares due to funding changes, the permanent appointment of a Chief Operating Officer, and updates on skills development and transport strategy.
• What's the impact? These decisions will shape the educational landscape for young people, influence the cost of public transport, and strengthen the administrative backbone of the Lancashire Combined County Authority, ultimately aiming to support economic growth and connectivity across the region.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Lancashire Combined County Authority meeting documents.

Children's Home and Wastewater Facility Plans Move Forward

The Children, Families and Skills Scrutiny Committee and the Environment, Economic Growth and Transport Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday, 24 June 2026, and Thursday, 25 June 2026, respectively. While detailed minutes are still pending publication, the agendas indicate discussions on crucial services impacting residents.

The Children, Families and Skills Scrutiny Committee likely reviewed matters related to the welfare and development of children and young people in Lancashire. This could include updates on services for looked-after children, early years provision, and educational attainment. Decisions in this area are vital for ensuring the safety, well-being, and future opportunities of the county's youngest residents, particularly those in vulnerable situations.

The Environment, Economic Growth and Transport Scrutiny Committee's agenda suggests a focus on issues that directly affect the daily lives and long-term prosperity of Lancashire. This could encompass planning applications for new developments, environmental protection strategies, and transport infrastructure projects. For instance, previous meetings have seen decisions on planning applications for children's homes and wastewater facilities, demonstrating the tangible impact of these committees on local communities.

• What's at stake? For children and families, decisions made by the Children, Families and Skills Scrutiny Committee are paramount to ensuring adequate support and safeguarding. For all residents, the Environment, Economic Growth and Transport Scrutiny Committee's work impacts the quality of their local environment, their access to jobs and services, and the efficiency of their daily commutes.
• What's being discussed? While specific details are pending, these committees are expected to have reviewed progress on children's services, early years education, environmental initiatives, economic development strategies, and transport planning.
• What's the impact? The outcomes of these scrutiny committees will influence the provision of essential services, the development of local infrastructure, and the overall quality of life for people across Lancashire.

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

Company Member Cabinet Committee Reviews Key Company Relationships

The Company Member Cabinet Committee met on Thursday, 25 June 2026. While the full details of the meeting are pending publication, the agenda indicates a focus on the council's oversight of companies in which it holds a membership or shareholding.

The committee was scheduled to review its own constitution, membership, and terms of reference. This is a standard procedural step to ensure the committee operates effectively and in line with its purpose: to discharge the County Council's duties and manage relationships with companies wholly or partly owned by Lancashire County Council.

Updates were also expected on the Lancashire Urban Development Fund and Active Lancashire Limited. These discussions, held in private due to the disclosure of exempt information relating to financial or business affairs, are crucial for ensuring the responsible management of council investments and partnerships. Such oversight is vital for protecting public funds and ensuring that council-linked companies operate efficiently and in the best interests of the community.

• What's at stake? The council's involvement in companies means public funds are at risk. Effective oversight by the Company Member Cabinet Committee is essential to ensure these investments are sound, that companies are well-managed, and that they contribute positively to the local economy and community.
• What's being discussed? The committee likely reviewed the council's governance arrangements for its company interests and received updates on specific entities like the Lancashire Urban Development Fund and Active Lancashire Limited.
• What's the impact? The committee's work directly influences how council-linked companies are managed and how public money invested in them is utilised. This can have a significant impact on local economic development and the delivery of services through these partnerships.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Company Member Cabinet Committee meeting documents.

This week in Lancashire:

Pension Fund Navigates Financial Outturn and Audit Plans Amidst Governance Overhaul

The Pension Fund Committee met on Friday, 19 June 2026, to review the fund's financial performance for the 2025/26 year, discuss governance matters, and consider the appointment of an Independent Person. The meeting highlighted the complexities of managing a large pension fund, with discussions touching on investment returns, audit processes, and the evolving regulatory landscape.

Financial Outturn Shows Improvement Despite Investment Challenges

The committee reviewed the financial outturn for the Lancashire County Pension Fund for the year ending 31 March 2026. While actual expenditure exceeded income by approximately £82 million, this represented an improvement of around £19 million on the anticipated position. This was largely attributed to lower-than-expected investment returns, which in turn reduced investment management fees. Councillor Rick Edwards raised concerns about the precision of budget figures, questioning how variances were arrived at. Pete, Head of Fund, explained that budgets are estimates and factors like unexpected transfers can cause variances, assuring that efforts are made to be precise.

External Audit Plan Focuses on Key Risks

Grant Thornton, the external auditors, presented their audit plan for 2025/26. They identified three key risks: the potential for management override of controls, the valuation of Level 3 investments (assets with difficult-to-determine prices), and the valuation of directly held properties. The basic audit fee has increased slightly, with an additional allocation for testing related to last year's valuation. Councillor Edwards inquired about the tendering process for external auditors, and Gary Field, Section 151 Officer, clarified that this is typically managed nationally through the Public Sector Auditors Appointment (PSAA) process.

Governance Matters Highlight Fit for the Future Progress

Pete, Head of Fund, provided an update on governance, noting that Lancashire is almost leading the field in delivering the requirements of the Fit for the Future program. This includes formalising the role of a Senior LGPS Officer, a role he has been designated. A new risk related to Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) was added to the risk register. The committee was also informed of an unrecoverable exit payment of £55,000 from an employer that went into administration, a liability that will be shared across other employers within the fund.

Training Plan Revised to Focus on Investment Strategy

The training plan for 2026/27 has been amended to include more workshops on the investment strategy statement, ensuring committee members are well-briefed for future decisions. Councillor Tom Pickup raised concerns about the potential opportunity cost of focusing on LGR work versus investment strategy, but Pete clarified that investments are managed by LPPI and the team's focus would be on administration.

Marian George Appointed Independent Person

The committee approved the appointment of Marian George as the Independent Person for the Lancashire County Pension Fund for a three-year term. Pete, Head of Fund, explained that this role is a requirement of the Fit for the Future program, and Marian George, currently an Independent Investment Advisor, was the unanimous recommendation of the procurement panel. Her appointment was proposed by Councillor Mark Clifford and seconded by Councillor David Whittington.

Responsible Investment and Investment Strategy Under Review

Updates were provided on responsible investment activity, noting an increase in green and brown exposure in the fund's portfolio due to valuation movements. LPPI maintained full voting coverage, supporting most management proposals. The committee also began reviewing the fund's Investment Strategy Statement, starting with its underpinning investment beliefs. Revisions include tidying up wording, emphasising the long-term nature of investments, and adding a new belief around the requirement for local investment. Councillor Tom Pickup and Councillor Michael Clifford discussed opportunities for social housing investments, with Chris from LPPI detailing current investments and challenges.

Pension Administration Performance Remains Strong

Pete, Head of Fund, and Joe Derbyshire, Chief Executive of Local Pensions Partnership Administration Ltd (LPPA), presented an update on pension administration performance. LPPA continues to meet its Service Level Agreement (SLA) targets, with 99.2% of casework completed within target timescales. However, the report highlighted that only 45.6% of retirement notifications were received on time from employers, impacting the ability to pay pensions within 30 days for a significant number of members. Joe Derbyshire outlined efforts to improve employer engagement and data quality.

• What's at stake? The decisions made by the Pension Fund Committee directly impact the financial security of thousands of current and future pensioners. Sound financial management, robust governance, and strategic investment decisions are crucial for ensuring the long-term solvency of the fund and the ability to meet its obligations. For employees, this means confidence in their retirement income. For employers, it means understanding their contribution responsibilities.
• What's being discussed? The committee reviewed the fund's financial performance, the external audit plan, governance improvements under the Fit for the Future program, training needs, and the appointment of key personnel. They also delved into responsible investment strategies and the administration of pension payments.
• What's the impact? The committee's oversight ensures that the pension fund is managed prudently, balancing investment growth with the need to protect members' retirement savings. The focus on governance and training aims to equip the committee with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions, while the administration update highlights the importance of timely information from employers to ensure members receive their pensions without delay.

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

This week in Lancashire:

Children's Home Approved in Burnley, Wastewater Facility Gets Green Light in Lytham

The Development Control Committee met on Wednesday, 10 June 2026, to consider a range of planning applications. The committee approved plans for a new children's home in Burnley and a wastewater facility in Lytham, while also discussing a complex energy recovery centre proposal in Wyre Borough.

New Children's Home to Support Vulnerable Young People

Plans to convert a property at 49 Fairfield Drive, Burnley[^1], into a children's home for up to two young people aged 11-17 were approved. The home, which will be run by Lancashire County Council, aims to provide care for children with emotional or behavioural needs within their local community.

Local residents had raised concerns about potential increases in traffic, noise, and the impact on the residential character of the area. However, the committee was assured that the home would operate similarly to a family household, with adequate parking provided. The decision aligns with national policy supporting the provision of local accommodation for looked-after children, ensuring they can remain close to their schools and support networks.

Michael Noon, who will be responsible for the home, stated, These are Lancashire children, children who are already from this area. They are not being brought in from elsewhere. They are young people who, for a range of reasons, cannot currently live with their families, but who still need a safe and stable caring home close to their communities and schools that they know.

The decision to approve the home is a positive step towards providing much-needed local care for vulnerable young people, aiming to offer a more stable and nurturing environment than larger institutional settings.

Wastewater Facility to Reduce River Pollution

A proposal to establish a wastewater facility east of Graving Dock Road, Lytham[^2], was approved. This development, which includes the construction of three above-ground tanks, is crucial for meeting regulatory requirements under the Environmental Act 2021 and significantly reducing storm overflow spills from the Lytham Pumping Station into the Main Drain and the River Ribble.

While local residents expressed concerns about potential odour, noise, visual impact, and traffic, the committee noted that the tanks would be situated at a safe distance from residential properties, and landscaping measures would be implemented to mitigate visual impacts. This project is vital for improving water quality in the River Ribble and protecting the local environment.

Temporary Access Approved for Utility Works in Chorley

Planning permission was granted for a temporary vehicular access on land north of Myles Standish Way, Heath Charnock, Chorley[^4]. This access is necessary for United Utilities[^5] to carry out essential works, including the installation of an underground detention tank and sewer infrastructure, to improve storm overflow management and reduce pollution incidents into the River Yarrow.

Concerns about increased heavy goods vehicle (HGV) traffic, noise, and safety were addressed by the committee. A traffic management plan will ensure construction traffic is kept away from residential streets, and the site will be fully restored upon completion. The development was deemed acceptable within the Green Belt due to its temporary nature and its support for essential local infrastructure.

Energy Recovery Centre Application Deferred in Wyre Borough

The committee debated a significant application for an Energy Recovery Centre at Hill House Business Park, Thornton-Cleveleys[^7]. The discussion highlighted confusion regarding vehicle movements and tonnage figures, leading to a desire for further clarification. While the officer recommendation was to approve, a motion to defer the decision was ultimately lost. The application was subsequently approved, subject to a Section 106 agreement and conditions. This decision, though approved, faced considerable debate, indicating the complexity and potential impact of such large-scale industrial developments.

Other Matters

The committee also noted decisions made by the Director of Environment and Regulatory on various development control matters, in accordance with the County Council's Scheme of Delegation[^8]. These included applications for screening opinions, non-material amendments, and compliance with pre-commencement conditions across different boroughs.

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

This week in Lancashire:

Public Rights of Way Decisions: Bridleways Approved, Footpaths Diverted Across the County

The Regulatory Committee met on Wednesday, 3 June 2026, to make decisions on a series of applications concerning public rights of way. The committee considered proposals for the creation, diversion, and extinguishment of footpaths and bridleways across Lancashire, impacting access and land use in various communities.

Bridleway Near Farington Moss Ratified

The committee ratified the confirmation of The Lancashire County Council Bridleway between Bannister Lane and Moss Lane adjacent to Flensburg Way Farington Definitive Map Modification Order 2025 . This decision followed an administrative oversight where the order was inadvertently confirmed without a final committee decision. The committee was satisfied that sufficient evidence supported the addition of the bridleway to the definitive map and statement, and as no objections were raised after the order's advertisement, the confirmation was ratified. This means a new bridleway will be officially recorded, potentially improving access for horse riders and cyclists in the Farington Moss area.

Lathom Footpaths Remain Footpaths

An application to upgrade footpaths along Cranes Lane and Lady Alice's Drive in Lathom to bridleways was rejected. Despite historical maps suggesting the routes were significant and potentially used by vehicles, later documents described them as private occupation roads. The evidence was considered too finely balanced, and without later user evidence, there were insufficient grounds to upgrade the paths beyond their current recorded status as footpaths. This decision means the routes will continue to be accessible only on foot.

Footpath Extinguished at Eavesdale, Skelmersdale

The committee approved the extinguishment of a section of Footpath FP0802019 at Eavesdale, Tanhouse, Skelmersdale. This section of footpath was no longer needed for public use as it passed through the playing field of the Eavesdale Family Hub. Extinguishing this path will enhance the privacy and security of the family hub, with an alternative route remaining available. This decision prioritises the safety and functionality of community facilities.

Diversions Approved for Privacy and Safety

Several footpath diversions were approved across the county, primarily for reasons of privacy, security, and health and safety. These included diversions at:

• The Cross Keys Inn, Whitechapel, Preston: To improve privacy and security for holiday accommodation.
• Quilter Close, Accrington: Due to a new housing development, ensuring privacy and security for residents.
• De Tabley Mews, Ribchester: To protect the privacy and security of residents, as the path passed through their gardens.
• Woodside Crescent, Newchurch, Rossendale: For privacy and security, as the path passed through residential gardens.
• Swallows Barn, Pendleton: For health and safety reasons, as the path passed through a working farmyard.
• Wholaw Tongue Farm, Whitewell Bottom, Rossendale: For health and safety reasons, as the existing paths passed through a working farmyard.

These diversions aim to balance public access with the needs of landowners and the safety of the public, particularly in areas with working farms or private residences.

Farington Moss Bridleway Application Rejected

An application to add a bridleway across Farington Moss, west of Flensburg Way, was rejected. While the route appeared on some historical maps, the evidence was deemed insufficient to infer public bridleway or footpath rights. The lack of modern or historical user evidence, combined with the route's original creation as a private carriage road, led to the decision not to make a definitive map modification order. This means the route will not be officially recognised as a public bridleway.

• What's at stake? These decisions directly impact public access to land across Lancashire. Diversions and extinguishments can affect how residents and visitors navigate the countryside, while the creation or rejection of bridleways influences recreational opportunities for horse riders and cyclists. For landowners, these decisions can impact privacy and land management.
• What's being discussed? The committee reviewed evidence related to historical use, map records, and landowner intentions to determine the status of public rights of way.
• What's the impact? The outcomes of these decisions will shape the network of footpaths and bridleways available to the public, influencing recreational access and the management of land across Lancashire.

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

Cabinet Meeting Addresses Local Government Reorganisation and SEND Reforms

The Cabinet met on Thursday, 4 June 2026, to discuss critical strategic issues facing Lancashire, including the ongoing process of local government reorganisation and the vital reforms needed for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

Responding to Government Proposals for Local Government Reorganisation

A key item was the council's response to government proposals for local government reorganisation in Lancashire. The report outlined a joint response prepared by the county's Leaders and Chief Executives, aiming to provide input on the preferred model for interim implementation structures, the membership and roles within Joint Committees and Implementation Teams, and the returning officers for future elections. While consensus was reached on many points, the report indicated that not all 15 councils agreed on every aspect. This response is crucial for shaping the future governance of Lancashire and ensuring a smooth transition.

SEND Reform Plan for Inclusive Education

The Cabinet was also scheduled to consider a SEND Reform Plan, a requirement from the Department for Education. This plan details Lancashire's proposals for making the school system more inclusive and for reducing the high needs block deficit. The principles of the plan focus on early identification and support, local mainstream inclusion, fair and consistent entitlements, effective provision, and integrated working between education, health, and care services. The aim is to create a system where children and young people with SEND receive support in inclusive settings, improving workforce capacity and stabilising finances.

Public Realm Agreements Extended

The meeting also discussed proposed adjustments to the dates of the Public Realm Agreements with all 12 Lancashire district councils. These agreements delegate certain highway authority functions to district councils. The proposal was to extend these agreements until 31 March 2027 to ensure continuity of service leading up to Local Government Reorganisation.

Parking Restrictions in West Lancashire and Halton

The Cabinet was also to consider proposals for various parking restrictions in West Lancashire, including No Waiting at Any Time restrictions in Ormskirk to address obstructive parking and facilitate traffic movement. Additionally, a proposal for a 20-minute Limited Waiting restriction on High Road, Halton, Lancaster City, was to be discussed, aiming to provide short-stay parking for a new nursery while preserving overnight parking for residents.

• What's at stake? The decisions on local government reorganisation will fundamentally alter how services are delivered across Lancashire, impacting everything from council tax to the availability of local services. The SEND reform plan is critical for the future of children with special educational needs and their families, aiming to ensure they receive the support they need to thrive in inclusive environments. Parking restrictions directly affect residents' daily lives and local traffic flow.
• What's being discussed? The Cabinet is addressing the strategic direction of local government in Lancashire, the crucial reforms needed to improve support for children with SEND, and practical matters like parking and service agreements.
• What's the impact? These decisions will have a long-term impact on the structure of local governance, the quality of education and support for vulnerable children, and the daily lives of residents through changes in service delivery and local infrastructure.

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