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Weekly updates
Lincolnshire Council: Skills, Mental Health, Schools
This week in Lincolnshire:
Skills Funding Devolution: Will More Local Control Boost Jobs and Training?
The Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Skills and Employment Board met on Wednesday, 21 January 2026, to discuss a significant shift in how adult skills funding is managed. The potential devolution of this funding from the government to the local authority could mean more tailored training programmes designed to meet the specific needs of Lincolnshire's workforce and economy.
The Board was set to receive a report on additional devolved skills funding for Skills Bootcamps. The proposal is to support the continuation of the Greater Lincolnshire Skills Bootcamp programme until July 2027. This programme has been recognised as one of the top-performing nationally, with a high success rate in helping participants secure employment or promotions.
A key recommendation was to delegate authority to the Chief Operating Officer to allocate Skills Bootcamp funding, in consultation with the Chairman of the Employment and Skills Board and the Mayor. This move aims to streamline decision-making and ensure funding is directed effectively. The report also proposed endorsing the continuation of the programme through a service level agreement with Lincolnshire County Council.
The Skills Bootcamp programme offers training up to Level 5, with participants expected to secure a job offer upon completion. The report highlighted that any delay in confirming the programme's continuation could lead to a decline in awareness and demand, potentially impacting those seeking to upskill or retrain.
The Board was also scheduled to consider appointing two non-voting co-opted members: Neal Juster, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lincoln, and Mark Locking, Principal and Chief Executive Officer of the Lincoln College Group. These appointments are intended to bring valuable business and education expertise to the Board's decision-making.
You can find more details in the Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Skills and Employment Board meeting agenda.
Mental Health Hubs Under the Microscope: Evaluating Support for Vulnerable Residents
The Health Scrutiny Committee for Lincolnshire met on Wednesday, 21 January 2026, to review the effectiveness of community-based mental health support services. A key focus was an independent evaluation of Lincolnshire's Community Connectors and Mental Health and Wellbeing Hubs.
These hubs, often run by the voluntary, community, faith, and social enterprise (VCFSE) sector, are designed to provide integrated, proactive support within local communities. They act as a crucial link between individuals needing help and the available health and social care services. The evaluation aimed to assess how well these hubs are working and their impact on the lives of residents.
The report was expected to highlight challenges such as accessibility in rural areas, funding uncertainty, and difficulties in recruiting volunteers. These are critical issues, as they can directly affect how easily people can access the support they need, potentially leading to longer waits or a lack of provision in certain areas. The evaluation's findings will be vital in shaping future strategies to ensure these services are sustainable and continue to develop.
The committee also received updates on NHS Humber Health Partnership, which aims to strengthen clinical services and build more resilient specialist teams, and on the provision of Non-Emergency Patient Transport services, which has faced challenges with timely discharge journeys.
You can find more details in the Health Scrutiny Committee for Lincolnshire meeting agenda.
School Funding Debates: Ensuring Fair Resources for Lincolnshire's Children
The Lincolnshire Schools' Forum met on Monday, 19 January 2026, to discuss the crucial issue of school funding for the upcoming academic year. The forum grappled with the National Funding Formula (NFF) and early years funding, decisions that directly impact the resources available to schools and, consequently, the educational experience of children across the county.
A key concern raised was the projected decline in primary-aged pupils within Lincolnshire, which is expected to reduce primary funding levels. This could mean less money for essential resources, staffing, and educational programmes. The report also highlighted the pressure on high needs funding, which supports children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). A cash-flat settlement for this block adds to the challenge of meeting the increasing demand for specialist support.
The forum was asked to agree to a 0.5% transfer from the Schools Block to the High Needs Block to support financial stability. This decision, while aimed at addressing immediate pressures, could mean less funding available for mainstream schools.
Discussions also covered the de-delegation of maintained primary school budgets, which allows maintained schools to retain control over specific funds. Proposals included a hybrid model of support for schools, with per-pupil rates for contingency and school improvement services.
The forum also reviewed performance data for 2025, noting areas of strength and areas for improvement, particularly for disadvantaged pupils in reading and mathematics at Key Stage 2.
You can find more details in the Lincolnshire Schools' Forum meeting agenda.
Other Matters Discussed
- The Pensions Committee met on Thursday, 22 January 2026, to review the performance and administration of the Lincolnshire Pension Fund. Discussions included the fund's financial performance, which saw an increase in invested assets, and updates on pensions administration, risk management, and data quality. The committee also reviewed reports from The Pensions Regulator (TPR) and the Independent Chair of the Lincolnshire Local Pension Board. See the meeting details here.
- The LGPS Local Pension Board met on Thursday, 22 January 2026, to review updates on the Pension Fund's performance, administration, and data quality. The Board also considered proposed policy reviews and discussed its work plan and training needs. See the meeting details here.
- The Children's and Culture Scrutiny Committee met on Friday, 23 January 2026, to discuss the council's budget proposals for the upcoming financial year, review school admissions policies, and consider the procurement of training programmes for Children's Services staff. The committee also reviewed its work programme. See the meeting details here.
- The Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Appointments Panel was scheduled to meet on Tuesday, 20 January 2026, to discuss key appointments within the authority, including the preferred candidate for Chief Executive and other senior positions. See the meeting details here.
Upcoming Meetings
- Highways and Transport Scrutiny Committee - Monday 26 January 2026
- Growth Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 27 January 2026
- Adult Care and Public Health Scrutiny Committee - Wednesday 28 January 2026
- Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Wednesday 28 January 2026
- Overview and Scrutiny Management Board - Thursday 29 January 2026
- Budget Consultation - Friday 30 January 2026
- Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Friday 30 January 2026
- Executive - Tuesday 03 February 2026
- Pay Policy and Terms and Conditions Sub-Committee - Tuesday 03 February 2026
- Lincolnshire Waste Partnership - Thursday 05 February 2026
- Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Appointments Panel - Thursday 05 February 2026
- Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Audit Committee - Wednesday 04 February 2026
- Lincolnshire Police and Crime Panel - Friday 06 February 2026
Solar farm plans face scrutiny; children's care lags
This week in Lincolnshire:
Children in Care: Performance Lags on Accommodation and Adoption
The Corporate Parenting Panel met on Thursday, 15 January 2026, to review how the council is supporting children in its care. While some areas show positive progress, concerns remain about the availability of suitable accommodation for care leavers and the pace of adoption for older children.
- Accommodation Shortfalls: The Quarter 2 performance report for 2025/26 revealed that the target for ensuring care leavers are in suitable accommodation was not met. This is a critical issue, as stable housing is fundamental to a young person's well-being and future prospects. Without it, young people are more vulnerable to exploitation and can struggle to access education or employment.
- Adoption Delays: The target for fostering and adoption for children aged 10 to under 16 also fell short. This delay can be particularly difficult for older children, who may spend longer in the care system without the stability of a permanent family. The report noted that this was partly due to an increase in children entering care with more complex needs, highlighting the need for specialist support and a robust adoption process.
- Health Checks: Capacity issues within the Health service were cited as a reason for not meeting the target for children in care receiving up-to-date health checks. Regular health assessments are vital for monitoring the physical and mental well-being of these vulnerable young people.
The panel also reviewed the annual reports for private fostering and adoption services. While the private fostering report indicated that all assessments and visits were completed within statutory timescales, the adoption report from Family Adoption Links highlighted a decrease in the number of children matched and placed. This was attributed to a mismatch between the needs of children awaiting adoption and the preferences of approved adopters, a challenge that requires ongoing attention to ensure children find their forever homes.
The panel also discussed its work programme for the coming year, with planned thematic meetings focusing on health and well-being, housing, education, and safety.
You can find more details in the Corporate Parenting Panel meeting agenda.
Solar Farm Plans Face Scrutiny: Concerns Over Landscape, Heritage, and Agriculture
A massive solar energy project, proposed by Fosse Green Energy Limited, has drawn significant objections from Lincolnshire County Council, despite its potential to contribute to renewable energy targets. The Planning and Regulation Committee met on Monday, 12 January 2026, to discuss the Development Consent Order (DCO) application for a solar photovoltaic (PV) electricity generating facility and battery storage system.
- Landscape and Visual Impact: The council's landscape consultants have raised concerns that the development, spanning 1368 hectares, would
result in significant adverse effects on the local landscape character and visual amenity.
This could fundamentally alter the rural character of the area, impacting the openness and tranquility that defines Lincolnshire's landscape. - Loss of Agricultural Land: The project would lead to the loss of approximately 241 hectares of
best and most versatile
agricultural land. This raises concerns about food security and sustainability, particularly when considered alongside other large-scale solar developments in the county. - Heritage and Archaeology: Concerns have been raised about the adequacy of the heritage assessment, with potential harm identified to designated and non-designated heritage assets. The lack of a comprehensive archaeological assessment is also a significant omission, given the potential for ground disturbance.
- Cumulative Impact: The sheer scale of proposed solar developments in Lincolnshire, including this project and others at various stages of the DCO process, raises serious concerns about cumulative impacts on the landscape, agricultural land, and the overall character of the county.
- Grid Connection Uncertainty: A significant concern is the project's reliance on a new substation at Navenby, which itself does not yet have planning permission. This creates uncertainty about the project's viability and timeline.
Councillor Mrs Marianne Overton MBE, the local division member, argued that the need is seriously undermined
given current energy oversupply projections and called the development the biggest risk, the biggest danger that affects our area.
Councillor Nick Lyons, Chair of Thorpe on the Hill Parish Council, highlighted that the scheme would consume over 51% of the land within their parish boundary, with 76% of residents opposing it.
Despite these significant concerns, the council's role is to provide comments to the Examining Authority. The committee recommended approving the submission of the Local Impact Report and informing the Examining Authority of the County Council's objection to the DCO application.
You can read more about the council's objections in the Planning and Regulation Committee meeting agenda.
Waste Facility Refused: Rural Location and Impact Concerns Cited
The Planning and Regulation Committee also refused a retrospective application for an inert waste management facility at the Former MOD RAF Air Base in Woodthorpe. The committee cited the facility's rural location and potential for increased HGV mileage as reasons for refusal.
- Policy Conflict: The unauthorised development was deemed contrary to the spatial and locational strategies of the Lincolnshire Minerals and Waste Local Plan and the East Lindsey Local Plan due to its rural setting.
- Insufficient Information: Concerns were also raised about insufficient information to assess the impact of noise on the nearest residential property.
The applicant, MHD Construction Services Ltd, argued that the facility would support the construction industry by recycling inert waste and that they held an Environmental Agency standard rules permit. However, the committee ultimately supported the officer's recommendation to refuse planning permission.
You can find more details in the Planning and Regulation Committee meeting agenda.
Other Matters Discussed
- The Community Safety Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday, 13 January 2026, to discuss the proposed budget for 2026/27, the Lincolnshire Local Resilience Forum Business Plan, and the council's Engagement Strategy. They also received an annual report from the Registration and Celebratory Service and an update on public health substance use services. See the meeting details here.
- The Corporate Parenting Panel met on Thursday, 15 January 2026, to review performance data for children in care, discuss annual reports on private fostering and adoption services, and consider the panel's future work programme. See the meeting details here.
- The Environment Scrutiny Committee met on Friday, 16 January 2026, to discuss updates from flood risk management authorities, budget proposals for 2026/27, and proposed changes to the Lincolnshire Minerals and Waste Development Scheme. See the meeting details here.
Upcoming Meetings
- Lincolnshire Schools' Forum - Monday 19 January 2026
- Health Scrutiny Committee for Lincolnshire - Wednesday 21 January 2026
- Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Skills and Employment Board - Wednesday 21 January 2026
- Pensions Committee - Thursday 22 January 2026
- LGPS Local Pension Board - Thursday 22 January 2026
- Children's and Culture Scrutiny Committee - Friday 23 January 2026
- Highways and Transport Scrutiny Committee - Monday 26 January 2026
- Growth Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 27 January 2026
- Adult Care and Public Health Scrutiny Committee - Wednesday 28 January 2026
- Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Wednesday 28 January 2026
- Overview and Scrutiny Management Board - Thursday 29 January 2026
- Budget Consultation - Friday 30 January 2026
- Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Friday 30 January 2026
Lincolnshire budget: tax rise & relief road approved
This week in Lincolnshire:
Budget Battles Ahead: Council Faces Tough Choices as Funding Pressures Mount
Lincolnshire Council's Executive met on Tuesday to grapple with the upcoming 2026/27 budget, revealing a challenging financial landscape. Councillors approved initial budget proposals for consultation, which include a potential 4.99% council tax increase. This move comes as the council faces significant cost pressures, with government funding reforms not fully offsetting rising expenses.
The budget proposals highlight a projected deficit that, while not as large as initially feared thanks to additional government funding, still necessitates careful management and efficiency savings. The council is aiming for a balanced budget, but the final decision on council tax will be made in February after public consultation.
This situation is not unique to Lincolnshire; many local authorities are facing similar financial strains due to national funding changes and increasing demand for services. The impact of these decisions can be far-reaching, potentially affecting the level and availability of services for residents, particularly those who are most vulnerable and rely on council support.
For more details on the budget proposals and the council's financial outlook, you can view the Executive meeting agenda.
North Hykeham Relief Road Gets Green Light for Construction: A Long-Awaited Project Moves Forward
After years of planning and discussion, the North Hykeham Relief Road (NHRR) project has received approval to proceed to construction. The Executive made the decision on Tuesday, paving the way for significant infrastructure improvements aimed at easing traffic congestion in the area.
The project has secured key approvals, including the confirmation of Compulsory Purchase Orders and Side Roads Orders by the Secretary of State for Transport. The Full Business Case has been submitted to the Department for Transport, demonstrating a strong benefit-to-cost ratio.
Councillor Thomas James George Dyer, representing Washingborough and Hykeham East, spoke in strong support of the project, emphasizing the daily traffic issues faced by residents and the need for this infrastructure. He highlighted that while the road isn't universally supported, many residents accept the disruption for the long-term benefits of reduced congestion.
The construction phase is expected to begin in March 2026 and will run until May 2029. While this marks a significant step forward, the council has acknowledged the need to keep residents informed about progress and potential disruption throughout the construction period.
You can find more information about the North Hykeham Relief Road project in the Executive meeting agenda.
Adult Social Care Strategy 2026-28 Approved: Focus on Prevention and Independence
Lincolnshire's commitment to supporting its residents through the Adult Social Care Strategy 2026-28 was reinforced this week. The Executive endorsed and approved the strategy on Tuesday, which has been developed with input from staff, partners, and individuals with lived experience.
The strategy emphasizes a shift towards prevention and early intervention, aiming to empower individuals to lead healthier, more independent lives. A key element is the introduction of a Target Operating Model (TOM) focused on proactive support and personalized care.
Councillor Steve Clegg, Executive Councillor for Adult Care and Health, commended the strategy's ambition, highlighting the vital role of unpaid carers and the importance of supporting independence. This strategy is crucial for ensuring that vulnerable adults receive the care and support they need, promoting dignity and well-being within the community.
The Adult Care and Public Health Scrutiny Committee also reviewed aspects of this strategy, noting its alignment with the council's broader goals and the importance of measuring its impact through performance indicators.
For further details, please refer to the Executive meeting agenda and the Adult Care and Public Health Scrutiny Committee agenda.
Other Matters Discussed
- The Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Greater Lincolnshire Business and Infrastructure Board met on Wednesday to endorse a plan to submit an Expression of Interest for the Local Innovation Partnerships Fund, focusing on Defence and Agri-Tech sectors. They also approved the
Save Steel, Buy British
pledge and endorsed an Investment Framework approach for the region's Investment Fund. See the meeting details here.
Upcoming Meetings
- Planning and Regulation Committee - Monday 12 January 2026
- Community Safety Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 13 January 2026
- Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Appointments Panel - Wednesday 14 January 2026
- Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Greater Lincolnshire Transport Board - Wednesday 14 January 2026
- Corporate Parenting Panel - Thursday 15 January 2026
- Lincolnshire Schools' Forum - Thursday 15 January 2026
- Environment Scrutiny Committee - Friday 16 January 2026
- Lincolnshire Schools' Forum - Monday 19 January 2026
- Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Appointments Panel - Tuesday 20 January 2026
- Health Scrutiny Committee for Lincolnshire - Wednesday 21 January 2026
- Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Skills and Employment Board - Wednesday 21 January 2026
- Pensions Committee - Thursday 22 January 2026
- LGPS Local Pension Board - Thursday 22 January 2026
- Children's and Culture Scrutiny Committee - Friday 23 January 2026
Lincolnshire: Yarborough Hill Repairs, Crime Strategy, Dental Access
This week in Lincolnshire:
Yarborough Hill Repairs Prioritised: Will This Fix Protect Homes and Traffic?
The Highways and Transport Scrutiny Committee met this week to discuss the Lincoln, Yarborough Hill Bank Slip Project, where ongoing ground movement is damaging highway structures. The meeting took place on Monday. The committee considered a report recommending the replacement of retaining walls with a reinforced earthwork solution, estimated to cost between £1.2M and £2.3M.
- The project aims to address damage to highway structures caused by ground movement on Yarborough Road.
- The recommended solution involves demolishing existing retaining walls and replacing them with a newly constructed earthwork retaining structure.
- The project will be fully funded from the Integrated Transport Block, an annual grant from the Department for Transport.
The committee's views will be reported to Councillor T Catton, Executive Councillor for Resources and Councillor M Cheyne, Executive Councillor for Highways and Transport, who are expected to consider the project between 10 and 24 December 2025.
The report also noted that Whitton's Park, maintained by the City of Lincoln Council, has been a key consideration in planning construction activities. The project team will coordinate improvements to the surface of Public Footpath No.6, which runs adjacent to Whitton's Park.
Council Reviews Crime Strategy and Finances: What Changes Are Coming?
Lincolnshire County Council convened this week to discuss a new Section 17 Crime and Disorder Reduction Strategy and review its financial regulations. The meeting took place on Friday.
Crime and Disorder Reduction
The council considered a new Section 17 Crime and Disorder Reduction Strategy 2025–2028, as required by the Crime and Disorder Act 1998. This act mandates local authorities to consider the impact of their decisions on crime and disorder.
- The strategy aims to ensure all council services consider the impact of their work on crime and disorder.
- It promotes proactive measures to prevent crime, anti-social behaviour, and exploitation.
- The strategy seeks to strengthen multi-agency collaboration to address complex risks and vulnerabilities.
Financial Regulations and Budget
The council also reviewed its financial regulations and budget definition within the constitution. The proposed amendments to the financial regulations cater for changes to financial codes of practice and guidance.
- The amendments cover areas such as roles in financial management, financial planning and management, risk management and internal control, and control of resources and other assets.
- Changes made to Financial Regulations A, C and E relate to changes in accounting legislation, so are required to be applied by law.
- Financial Regulation B proposes a simplification of language to assist the application of the authorisations required for budget virements1.
Executive Announcements
The agenda included statements from Councillor Sean Matthews, Leader of the Council, and other members of the Executive, covering topics such as IT, Local Government Reorganisation, Waste, Planning, Highways, Public Health, Procurement & Commissioning, Corporate Property, Economic Infrastructure, Community Safety, and Children's Services.
Dental Access and GP Provision Under Scrutiny: Will Lincolnshire See Improvements?
The Health Scrutiny Committee for Lincolnshire met to discuss NHS dental services, GP provision, and workforce updates within the Lincolnshire system. The meeting took place on Wednesday.
NHS Dental Services
The committee received an update on NHS dental services across Lincolnshire, including access rates, the Lincolnshire Dental Strategy, and developments with the national dental services contract.
- In 2025, 25.84% of the total population accessed NHS dental care, slightly lower than the national average of 26.51%.
- Access remains most challenging on the East Coast, South Holland, North Kesteven, Boston, and areas within Lincoln City.
- The Lincolnshire Dental Strategy focuses on developing the dental workforce, improving access to dental services, increasing the focus on prevention, and strengthening the integration of oral health into wider health care services.
The committee will also consider the government's manifesto pledge to improve dental access by 700,000 urgent care appointments.
GP Provision
The committee also discussed general practice provision in Lincolnshire, with reports from both NHS Lincolnshire Integrated Care Board (ICB) and the Lincolnshire Local Medical Committee.
- There are 81 GP practices across Lincolnshire, working together as 14 Primary Care Networks (PCNs).
- The ICB is working with these practices to improve access, sustain high-quality services, support population health management, and implement developments agreed as part of the 25/26 GP contract.
- The Lincolnshire Local Medical Committee raised concerns about the impact of the contractual access changes implemented on 1 October, as well as the lack of progress on a new substantive GP contract.
Workforce Update
The committee received an update on workforce provision within the Lincolnshire system, including information on government announcements impacting the health and care system, and the NHS ten-year health plan 'Fit for the Future'.
Other Matters Discussed
- The Highways and Transport Scrutiny Committee received reports on highways performance, education transport, and Transport Connect Limited (TCL). The meeting took place on Monday.
- The Overview and Scrutiny Management Board meeting scheduled for Thursday was cancelled. The meeting was scheduled for Thursday.
-
In local government finance, a virement is the transfer of funds from one budget heading to another. ↩
Lincolnshire Relief Road Approved Amid Bat Bridge Debate
This week in Lincolnshire:
Relief Road Construction Approved: Will It Ease Congestion or Disrupt Communities?
The Executive has approved the construction phase of the North Hykeham Relief Road (NHRR), a project decades in the making, despite ongoing concerns about environmental impact and local disruption. The decision was made following a meeting on January 6th, 2026.
- The NHRR is the last major highway scheme in the Lincoln Integrated Transport Strategy, aiming to boost economic growth, improve quality of life, and enhance road safety.
- Construction is slated to run from March 2026 to May 2029, promising significant traffic management challenges.
- The project's approval hinges on final confirmation from the Department for Transport (DfT) regarding the Full Business Case.
Sam Edwards, Head of Highways Infrastructure and Laboratory Services, emphasized the project's importance, stating that the NHRR is a key part of the Central Lincolnshire Local Plan.
However, the project has faced criticism, particularly regarding the proposed bat bridge1, which has drawn national attention. While the Executive has not made a final decision on the bat bridge, the construction approval proceeds independently.
Councillor Reeve questioned the necessity of the bat bridge, asking:
Has anybody worked out how these bats managed to navigate before the Enclosure Act of 1773 when all common land had hedgerows and things planted?
The project's potential impact on local communities during the three-year construction period remains a key concern.
Road Surfacing Programme Gets Green Light: Which Routes Will Benefit?
The Executive Councillors for Resources and Highways and Transport have approved the 2026/27 Strategic Route Surfacing Procurement, paving the way for improvements to key arterial routes across Lincolnshire. The decision was made between December 15th and 19th, 2025.
- The programme focuses on Hierarchy 1 and 2 carriageways, considered strategically vital for the county's network.
- Schemes include resurfacing on the A15, A16, A17, A46, A52, and A158, with a total indicative construction cost of £12.35 million.
- Each scheme will undergo an individual procurement process, with decisions delegated to the Executive Director for Place in consultation with the Executive Councillor for Highways and Transport.
The approved schemes include:
- A15 Folkingham (£850,000)
- A17 Wigtoft Bypass (£1,500,000)
- A1031 North Cotes (£1,200,000)
- A57A1192 University Roundabout/ Ropewalk and Yarborough Road Bank Slip, Lincoln (£3,000,000)
- B1517 Grantham Road, Sleaford (£1,600,000)
- A153 Anwick (£1,300,000)
- A52A607 Great Northern Gyratory, Grantham (£600,000)
- A151 Bourne Road Roundabouts, Colsterworth (£1,000,000)
- A606A6121B1081 Empingham Road/ Scotgate/ North Street Junction (£700,000)
- A1175 Barnack Road, Uffington (£600,000)
The programme aims to improve the condition of strategically vital roads, ensuring safer and more efficient travel for residents and businesses.
Rights of Way Policy Revised: Will It Clear the Backlog or Create New Hurdles?
The Executive Councillor for Highways and Transport has approved a revised policy for prioritizing Definitive Map Modification Orders (DMMO), aiming to address a significant backlog of applications. The decision was made between December 10th and 19th, 2025.
- The council faces a caseload of 583 DMMO cases, with current processing times estimated at 30 years.
- The revised policy introduces a weighted scoring system, considering factors such as public safety, residential impact, and community conflict.
- The aim is to prioritize cases that offer the greatest public benefit and reduce the impact of property blight.
Andrew Fletcher, Public Rights of Way & Access Manager, explained that the new system would take into account factors such as public safety, residential impact, community conflict, threats to routes, and a variety of issues.
However, the revised policy has raised concerns about fairness and transparency, with some fearing that it could disadvantage applicants with legitimate claims.
Other Matters Discussed
- The Lincolnshire Police and Crime Panel received an update on the delivery of the Safer Communities Plan for Lincolnshire 2025-2029, focusing on community safety, victim support, and policing effectiveness. The meeting took place on December 12th, 2025.
- The Lincolnshire Health and Wellbeing Board meeting scheduled for December 9th, 2025, was cancelled. The meeting was scheduled for December 9th, 2025.
- The Growth Scrutiny Committee discussed capital repairs and maintenance funding, the Business Lincolnshire Growth Hub, performance reporting, and the government budget. The meeting took place on December 9th, 2025.
- The Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority convened to discuss the adoption of the GLCCA Corporate Plan, devolution of the Adult Skills Fund, and a review of the Authority's constitution. The meeting took place on December 10th, 2025.
- The Pensions Committee discussed Border to Coast Policies, stewardship activities, and responsible investment policies. The meeting took place on December 11th, 2025.
Upcoming Meetings
- Health Scrutiny Committee for Lincolnshire - Wednesday 17 December 2025
- Council - Friday 19 December 2025
-
A bat bridge is a structure designed to allow bats to safely cross roads or other barriers. ↩
Growth Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday, 27th January, 2026 10.00 am
The Growth Scrutiny Committee of Lincolnshire Council is scheduled to meet on Tuesday, 27 January 2026, to consider budget proposals for the upcoming financial year and review the management of car parks at the Queen Elizabeth II Lincolnshire Coastal Country Park. The committee will also discuss its work programme for the coming year.
Highways and Transport Scrutiny Committee - Monday, 26th January, 2026 10.00 am
Here is a summary of the items scheduled for discussion by the Lincolnshire Council Highways and Transport Scrutiny Committee. The agenda included budget proposals for 2026/27, an annual report on public transport, an interim report on winter services, an update on the FixMyStreet platform, and a review of the committee's work programme. The committee was also scheduled to discuss the minutes from previous meetings held on 8 December 2025 and 15 December 2025.
Children's and Culture Scrutiny Committee - Friday, 23rd January, 2026 10.00 am
The Children's and Culture Scrutiny Committee met on Friday, 23 January 2026, to discuss the council's budget proposals for the upcoming financial year, review school admissions policies, and consider the procurement of training programmes for Children's Services staff. The committee also reviewed its work programme to ensure scrutiny activities remain focused and beneficial.
LGPS Local Pension Board - Thursday, 22nd January, 2026 2.00 pm
The LGPS Local Pension Board meeting scheduled for 22 January 2026 was set to cover a comprehensive update on the Lincolnshire Pension Fund's performance and administration. Key discussions were planned around the fund's financial position, operational efficiency, data quality, employer engagement, and the Board's future work and training needs.
Pensions Committee - Thursday, 22nd January, 2026 10.00 am
The Pensions Committee of Lincolnshire Council met on Thursday 22 January 2026 to review the performance and administration of the Lincolnshire Pension Fund. Discussions were scheduled to cover the fund's financial performance, operational efficiency, risk management, data quality, and the work of the Pension Board.
Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Employment and Skills Board - Wednesday, 21st January, 2026 2.00 pm
The Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Employment and Skills Board was scheduled to discuss the devolution of adult skills funding and the appointment of co-opted members. The meeting's agenda also included information on Skills Bootcamps and public questions.
Health Scrutiny Committee for Lincolnshire - Wednesday, 21st January, 2026 10.00 am
The Health Scrutiny Committee for Lincolnshire was scheduled to discuss updates from NHS Humber Health Partnership, an independent evaluation of mental health services, and provision for non-emergency patient transport. The committee was also set to review its work programme and consider future agenda items.
Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Appointments Panel - Tuesday, 20th January, 2026 4.00 pm
The Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority Appointments Panel was scheduled to meet on Tuesday, 20 January 2026, to discuss key appointments within the authority. The primary focus of the meeting was to consider the preferred candidate for the role of Chief Executive and to make decisions regarding the shortlisting and interview process for several other senior positions.
Lincolnshire Schools' Forum - Monday, 19th January, 2026 1.00 pm
The Lincolnshire Schools' Forum met on Monday, 19 January 2026, to discuss the school funding arrangements for the upcoming academic year, including the National Funding Formula and early years funding. The forum also reviewed proposals for the de-delegation of maintained primary school budgets and received updates on school improvement initiatives and the status of academies and trusts within the county.
Environment Scrutiny Committee - Friday, 16th January, 2026 10.00 am
The Environment Scrutiny Committee of Lincolnshire Council met on Friday, 16 January 2026, to discuss a range of environmental matters. Key decisions included the endorsement of budget proposals for 2026/27, support for updates to the Lincolnshire Minerals and Waste Development Scheme and Statement of Community Involvement, and approval for the construction of the Toynton St Peter Surface Water Scheme. The committee also reviewed the current flood risk and water management capital programme and its future pipeline.
Adult Care and Public Health Scrutiny Committee - Wednesday, 28th January, 2026 10.00 am
Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Wednesday, 28th January, 2026 2.00 pm
Overview and Scrutiny Management Board - Thursday, 29th January, 2026 10.00 am
Extraordinary Meeting, Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Friday, 30th January, 2026 3.00 pm
Budget Consultation - Friday, 30th January, 2026 10.00 am
Audit Committee - Monday, 2nd February, 2026 10.00 am
Pay Policy and Terms and Conditions Sub-Committee - Tuesday, 3rd February, 2026 2.00 pm
Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Audit Committee - Wednesday, 4th February, 2026 2.00 pm
Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Appointments Panel - Thursday, 5th February, 2026 4.00 pm