This week in Lincolnshire:

Transport Functions Delegated: Ensuring Services Continue Amidst Combined Authority Transition

Lincolnshire County Council is taking crucial steps to ensure the smooth continuation of transport services as the Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority (GLCCA) officially becomes the Local Transport Authority on April 1st, 2026. The Highways and Transport Scrutiny Committee met on Monday, March 30th, 2026, to review proposals for delegating transport functions from the GLCCA back to the constituent authorities. This move is vital to prevent any disruption to essential services, from bus routes to road maintenance, for residents across the county.

The committee acknowledged recommendations that would see the GLCCA delegate these functions, allowing for the continued delivery of services while more detailed transition arrangements are finalised. Without this delegation, the GLCCA would have to deliver these services directly, a task it is not currently equipped to handle, potentially jeopardising public transport provision. Councillor Trevor Bridgwood, Chair of the committee, highlighted the importance of continuity, stating that the proposed delegation is essential to ensure the continued delivery of local transport authority functions.

The report presented to the committee emphasised that this delegation is not expected to have an adverse impact on any protected characteristic, aligning with the principles of the Equality Act 2010. It also supports the Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy by ensuring continued access to transport, which is crucial for independence and reducing inequalities. The committee's acknowledgement of the report means these recommendations will now be considered by the Executive Councillor for Highways and Transport.

You can find more details in the Highways and Transport Scrutiny Committee meeting agenda.

Rural Transport and Bus Services: A Unified Approach for Greater Lincolnshire

The Greater Lincolnshire Transport Board met on Wednesday, April 1st, 2026, to discuss key initiatives aimed at improving transport across the region, with a particular focus on rural connectivity and bus service improvements. The Board reviewed progress on establishing a Rural Transport Group, which is leading national discussions on transport challenges in rural areas, and a plan to transition to a single Greater Lincolnshire Enhanced Partnership for bus services.

The Rural Transport Group, launched in January 2026, is working with the Department for Transport to address disparities in funding and consideration for rural transport. This is crucial for residents in villages and more remote areas who often face greater challenges in accessing essential services and opportunities. The Board also heard about the development of a new Greater Lincolnshire Local Transport Plan, a comprehensive strategy that will guide future transport investments and improvements.

A significant focus was placed on the transition to a single Greater Lincolnshire Enhanced Partnership for bus services, set to take effect in April 2027. This move aims to streamline bus service improvements across the region, ensuring a unified approach that benefits all passengers. Councillor Sean Matthews, Leader of the Council, noted the importance of this unified approach, stating it is intended to streamline bus service improvements across the region and ensure a unified approach. This initiative is vital for ensuring reliable and accessible public transport for all residents, particularly those who rely on buses for their daily commute, access to healthcare, and social connections.

You can find more details in the Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Greater Lincolnshire Transport Board meeting agenda.

Fire Appliances and Domestic Abuse Strategy: Protecting Communities and Supporting Vulnerable Residents

The Community Safety Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday, March 31st, 2026, to discuss critical matters concerning public safety, including the procurement of new fire appliances and an update on the Lincolnshire Domestic Abuse Strategy. These discussions directly impact the safety and wellbeing of all residents, with a particular focus on those most vulnerable.

The committee reviewed plans for the Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue (LFR) Replacement Appliance Project, which aims to procure 18 new fire appliances over four years. The first phase of this project will see nine new appliances procured at an estimated cost of £3,420,000. This investment is essential to ensure LFR can respond effectively to emergencies, providing firefighters with modern equipment and technology to protect lives and property. The committee's comments on this report will be forwarded to the Executive Councillor for Community Safety, highlighting the importance of this upgrade for operational resilience.

An update on the Lincolnshire Domestic Abuse Strategy 2025-28 also underscored the council's commitment to supporting victims and tackling domestic abuse. The report highlighted a concerning rise in demand for domestic abuse services, with increases in high-risk referrals and police-recorded incidents. The strategy focuses on prevention, early intervention, responding to risk, and supporting recovery, aiming to provide a comprehensive safety net for those affected. This work is critical for protecting individuals and families from harm and ensuring they receive the support needed to escape abusive situations.

You can find more details in the Community Safety Scrutiny Committee meeting agenda.

Other Matters Discussed

• The Lincolnshire Joint Local Access Forum was scheduled to meet on Thursday, April 2nd, 2026, to discuss a significant update on the proposed Lincolnshire Reservoir project by Anglian Water, an update on the Stallingborough Interchange and its impact on Public Footpath 21, and progress on the Countryside For All initiative. See the meeting details here.
• The Health Scrutiny Committee for Lincolnshire met on Wednesday, April 1st, 2026, to discuss performance updates from the East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) and the current state of community pharmacy services. The committee also reviewed its work programme and considered reports on various health-related initiatives. See the meeting details here.

This week in Lincolnshire:

Better Streets for Lincolnshire: New Code Aims to Improve Development and Flood Resilience

Lincolnshire County Council is taking steps to ensure new developments are built to a higher standard with the Better Streets for Lincolnshire initiative. The Environment Scrutiny Committee met on Friday, 27 March 2026, to discuss progress on this new Streets Design Code. This code will provide clear guidelines for street design and drainage in new housing projects across the county.

The aim is to create streets that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also more resilient to flooding and easier to maintain. By consolidating existing guidance into a single, accessible online resource, the council hopes to speed up planning decisions and ensure that new infrastructure is built to last. Developers will be guided by a simple online checklist, making the process clearer for everyone involved. The code is currently being tested with stakeholders, with an adoption draft expected in June 2026. This initiative aligns with national planning guidance that emphasises place-specific design.

The committee also received updates on flood risk management authorities and discussed the future of the Salix Fund. The Salix Fund, which supported energy efficiency projects, has now repaid its loan, but the council will continue to receive savings until its initial investment is recouped. The potential to reinvest these savings into new energy efficiency projects was highlighted, in line with the council's new Environment Policy.

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

Housing Strategy and Investment Framework to Drive Growth in Greater Lincolnshire

The Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Greater Lincolnshire Business and Infrastructure Board met on Wednesday, 25 March 2026, to advance strategies for housing development and investment across the region. The Board endorsed the first part of the Housing Strategy, which focuses on national policy and the region's current housing situation. The second part of the strategy, due later this year, will identify specific priorities for the Combined Authority's investment programmes.

Key discussions included the need to address diverse housing needs, from supporting an ageing population to providing suitable options for younger households. The strategy also acknowledges challenges like flood risk and water scarcity, with the newly established Mayoral Enhanced Water Partnership set to play a role in tackling these issues. Concerns were raised about the impact of empty homes and the importance of energy efficiency in new builds. The Board also approved an investment framework approach designed to attract and prioritise future investment, aiming to maximise existing funding and align public and private sector efforts.

The Mayoral Enhanced Water Partnership, which held its inaugural meeting, will focus on collaborative solutions for water management and funding, addressing both flood risk and water scarcity. This partnership is crucial for ensuring sustainable development and protecting communities from environmental challenges.

You can find more details in the Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Greater Lincolnshire Business and Infrastructure Board meeting agenda.

Audit Committee Reviews Financial Controls and Counter-Fraud Efforts

The Audit Committee met on Monday, 23 March 2026, to review the council's financial health, risk management, and counter-fraud activities. The committee received an update on lessons learned from education travel, noting that while pupil numbers are rising, new controls have helped mitigate risks. The government's plans for a new statutory framework to strengthen standards of conduct for elected members were also discussed, with the council preparing to align its own code of conduct.

The committee approved the Statement of Accounting Policies for the upcoming financial year and reviewed the external audit strategy, which identified key risks such as the valuation of land and buildings and the management override of controls. The Risk Management Annual Report highlighted a transition to internal software for managing risk information and the development of e-learning modules for employees. The Counter Fraud Annual Report showed a 25% increase in referrals, leading to investigations into various types of fraud and savings identified. The proposed Counter Fraud Plan for 2026/27 focuses on collaboration and expanded reviews.

These discussions are vital for ensuring the council operates with integrity, manages public money effectively, and protects residents from fraud and financial mismanagement.

You can find more details in the Audit Committee meeting agenda.

Adult Care Services: Extending Support and Planning for the Future

The Adult Care and Public Health Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday, 25 March 2026, to discuss the extension of crucial support services and the future direction of adult social care. The committee recommended a seven-month extension to the advocacy service contract, valued at nearly £685,000. This extension is necessary to finalise commissioning work for future services, ensuring they align with new legislation like the Mental Health Act 2025, which is expected to increase demand for advocacy. The current provider, Voiceability, is performing well and supports the extension.

A six-month extension was also recommended for the housing-related support contract, which provides vital assistance to vulnerable adults with substance misuse and mental health concerns, helping to prevent homelessness. This extension ensures continuity of service while a decision on future provision is made following a public consultation.

The committee reviewed the two-year Adult Social Care Delivery Plan 2026-2028, which outlines a vision for residents to remain healthy, safe, and independent. The plan focuses on prevention, early help, safeguarding, and digital integration, aiming for a model where preventative activities significantly outweigh assessment and care management. An overview of the Early Action and Support Service, the prevention arm of adult care, was also presented, highlighting its role in empowering individuals and preventing crises.

These decisions directly impact some of the most vulnerable residents in Lincolnshire, ensuring they receive the support they need to live independent and fulfilling lives. The focus on prevention and early intervention is crucial for both individual wellbeing and the long-term sustainability of care services.

You can find more details in the Adult Care and Public Health Scrutiny Committee meeting agenda.

Other Matters Discussed

• The Growth Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday, 24 March 2026, to review service performance, sector priorities, and future work programmes. Discussions were scheduled around support for the food and farming and manufacturing sectors, and strategies to increase participation in work experience, internships, and apprenticeships. See the meeting details here.

This week in Lincolnshire:

Pension Fund Performance and Future Planning: Balancing Investment and Administration

The LGPS Local Pension Board met on Thursday, 19 March 2026, to review the financial health and operational efficiency of the Lincolnshire Pension Fund. The discussions highlighted the fund's performance, administration challenges, and strategic plans for the coming years, with significant implications for the retirement security of thousands of local government employees.

Pension Fund Performance and Risks

The fund's invested assets grew to £3,936.7 million by 30 December 2025. While all asset classes remained within their strategic allocations, the fund's overall performance for the quarter underperformed its benchmark by 0.42%, a trend also seen over one, three, and five-year periods. A new risk has been added to the register concerning compliance with upcoming regulations from the Pension Schemes Bill and subsequent LGPS regulations, underscoring the evolving landscape of pension fund management. The fund is now live on the Pensions Dashboard, a crucial step in providing members with a consolidated view of their pension pots.

Administration Challenges and Policy Updates

The administration of the fund, managed by West Yorkshire Pension Fund (WYPF), faced several challenges. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) were missed due to efforts to clear a backlog of older cases, manual processing of McCloud eligibility checks, and delays from a system migration. Recruitment for the shared service remains difficult, with nine vacancies. Despite these hurdles, the projected budget is expected to come in under forecast. A significant policy change introduces a death grant panel to formalise recommendations for death grant payments, ensuring a more robust and defensible process.

Business Plan and Financial Strategy

The Lincolnshire Pension Fund Business Plan for 2026-2029 outlines objectives across governance, investments, funding, administration, and communication. The plan projects a cost per member falling from £22.30 to £20.35, indicating efficiency gains. The committee also reviewed the 2025 actuarial valuation report, which revealed a surplus of £325 million, increasing the funding level to 110%. This positive valuation means individual employer contribution rates have been set for the next three years, providing financial stability for local authorities and their employees.

The Pensions Committee also met on Thursday, 19 March 2026, to discuss similar matters. They approved the 2025 actuarial valuation report and the funding strategy statement, crucial for the long-term solvency of the fund. A new Cyber Security Policy was introduced, a vital measure to protect sensitive member data in an increasingly digital world. The committee also reviewed the Pensions Administration Strategy, ensuring it aligns with current guidance and employer responsibilities.

You can find more details in the LGPS Local Pension Board meeting agenda and the Pensions Committee meeting agenda.

Highways Infrastructure Strategy: Investing in Lincolnshire's Roads for the Future

The Highways and Transport Scrutiny Committee met on Monday, 16 March 2026, to discuss the future management and maintenance of Lincolnshire's extensive highway network. The committee reviewed the Highways Infrastructure Asset Management Strategy and Plan for 2026-2029, a crucial document that will guide how the council invests in and maintains its £12 billion network.

Prioritising Maintenance and Technology

The strategy emphasises a shift towards preventative maintenance and the increased use of AI and digital technology for data analysis. This approach aims to improve the condition of unclassified roads, which currently stand at 21.4% requiring maintenance, and to enhance drainage and traffic signal systems. Councillors raised concerns about potential changes to repair response times and the unmetalling of some roads, highlighting the need for careful consideration of community impact. The strategy also includes plans to improve the condition of the drainage asset, an area where the council currently has less detailed information.

Fleet Maintenance and Transport Function Delegation

The committee also reviewed the Highways Winter Service Fleet Maintenance Contract, recommending an extension with Transport Connect Limited to ensure the operational readiness of the gritter fleet. Furthermore, discussions covered the delegation of transport functions from the Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority, a transitional measure to ensure continued service delivery.

Performance and Project Updates

Performance reports for Highways, Education Transport, and Road Safety were presented, showing mixed results. While overall performance scores for some contracts improved, the Highway Works Term Contract saw a slight reduction. Major highway projects, including the Grantham Southern Relief Road and the North Hykeham Relief Road, are progressing, though some face delays due to technical challenges and land acquisition. The committee also reviewed its work programme, with a focus on upcoming discussions on drainage, pothole repairs, and active travel.

You can find more details in the Highways and Transport Scrutiny Committee meeting agenda.

This week in Lincolnshire:

Energy Facility Expansion and Traffic Changes Approved: Balancing Industrial Needs with Local Concerns

The Planning and Regulation Committee met on Monday, 9 March 2026, to make decisions that will impact both industrial capacity and daily commutes across the county. A key decision was the approval to increase the throughput capacity at the Lincolnshire Energy from Waste Facility in North Hykeham. This means the facility, operated by FCC Environment, can now process up to 190,000 tonnes of waste annually, up from 170,000 tonnes. While this expansion aims to improve waste management efficiency, it raises questions about the long-term environmental impact and the potential for increased traffic in the area.

The committee also approved several traffic regulation changes designed to improve road safety and traffic flow. These include:

• Alford, A1104 West Street: Amendments to waiting restrictions were approved, aiming to manage parking and traffic movement.
• Bourne, Westbourne Park: New waiting restrictions were given the go-ahead, intended to improve safety and accessibility.
• Lincoln, Glenwood Grove: No Waiting at Any Time restrictions were approved, likely to address persistent parking issues.
• New Bolingbroke, B1183 Main Road: A proposal for a 30mph speed limit was discussed, aiming to enhance safety on this busy road.
• Spalding and Weston Hills: Speed limit reductions were approved for Low Fulney, Weston Hills Road, and Austendyke Road, a move that will impact drivers in these areas.

The committee also considered proposals for extensions to one-way and prohibition of driving orders on Sincil Street in Lincoln. These decisions, while procedural, can significantly affect local businesses and residents' access to areas.

You can find more details in the Planning and Regulation Committee meeting agenda.

Health and Wellbeing Board Agenda: A Deep Dive into Future Healthcare and Public Health

The Lincolnshire Health and Wellbeing Board was scheduled to convene on Tuesday, 10 March 2026, with a packed agenda addressing critical aspects of the county's health and social care future. A central focus was the NHS Joint Forward Plan, a crucial document outlining how healthcare services will be delivered and developed across Derbyshire, Lincolnshire, and Nottinghamshire. The Board's input is vital to ensure this plan aligns with local needs and priorities, particularly for vulnerable populations who depend on accessible and effective healthcare.

The Board was also set to receive an update on the Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA). This assessment is the bedrock of understanding the health and wellbeing challenges facing Lincolnshire residents, from mental health to chronic diseases. The findings of the JSNA directly inform the council's strategies and resource allocation, ensuring that services are targeted where they are most needed.

Furthermore, discussions were planned around the Lincolnshire Better Care Fund, a vital initiative that supports integrated health and social care services, especially for older adults and those with complex needs. The Director of Public Health's annual report, focusing on the crucial link between quality employment and public health, was also on the agenda. This report highlights how good jobs can be a powerful tool for improving overall community wellbeing, reducing health inequalities, and supporting residents' mental and physical health.

You can find more details in the Lincolnshire Health and Wellbeing Board meeting agenda.

Corporate Parenting Panel Meets: Supporting Lincolnshire's Children

The Corporate Parenting Panel met on Thursday, 12 March 2026. This panel plays a crucial role in ensuring that the council provides the best possible care and support for children who are in its care. Their work directly impacts the lives of some of the most vulnerable young people in Lincolnshire, focusing on their education, health, and overall wellbeing. Decisions made by this panel can have long-lasting effects on a child's future prospects and life chances.

You can find more details in the Corporate Parenting Panel meeting agenda.