This week in North Northamptonshire:

Pub Licence Reinstated After Owner's Violent Incident

The Licensing Sub-Committee has decided to lift the suspension of the premises licence for The Royal Oak pub, located at 88 Doddington Road, Wellingborough, NN8 2LJ. The licence had been suspended following a serious assault involving the owner, who used an iron bat to strike a victim. Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

A Community Pub's Future Secured

The review of the licence was initiated by Northamptonshire Police after an incident on 15 December 2025, where a serious assault occurred outside the pub. The owner, who is also the brother of the Premises Licence Holder and Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) at the time, Mrs Tracy Shannon, was arrested on suspicion of assault occasioning grievous bodily harm.

Northamptonshire Police argued that the licensing objective of preventing crime and disorder was not being met. They highlighted that the police were not called by staff or the owner, but by the victim's sister.

However, the committee heard that a new licensee, Mr Kane Britten, who lives on the Kingsway Estate, has been in discussions to lease the premises. Mr Britten described The Royal Oak as a community pub that is family focused and used by regular local people. He assured the committee that he and his staff would undergo appropriate training.

The committee resolved to remove the suspension with immediate effect, stipulate that Mrs Tracy Shannon would no longer be the DPS, and require the new licence holder, Mr Britten, to ensure full compliance with all licence conditions.

Supporting Care-Experienced Young People: A Renewed Focus

The Children's, Young Persons & Education Scrutiny Committee has approved recommendations aimed at improving the lives of care-experienced young people, focusing on their housing, education, employment, and training prospects. Link to the Children's, Young Persons & Education Scrutiny Committee meeting

Corporate Parenting Strategy: Acting as Extra Parents

The committee reviewed and commented on the draft Corporate Parenting Strategy for 2025-2028. This strategy redefines the council's role as extra parents to children in care and care-experienced young people, aiming to ensure they feel supported and empowered. The strategy is built around four key pillars: Belonging and Resilience, Health and Wellbeing, Support to Fulfil Potential, and Feeling Safe and Secure. The committee requested regular progress reports from the Corporate Parenting Board.

Housing Pathway for Care Leavers: Ensuring Safe and Suitable Accommodation

Progress on the Housing Pathway for Care Leavers was noted, with the committee endorsing its continued development. This pathway aims to provide safe and suitable accommodation for care-experienced young people. Recent achievements include rehoused care leavers via Keyways under the Joint Housing Protocol (JHP). Challenges such as delays in bidding for properties and the use of temporary accommodation were identified. Planned improvements include changes to the Housing Allocations Scheme, a review of the JHP to extend eligibility to age 25, and the development of more supported accommodation options.

Education, Employment, and Training (EET): Tackling NEET Figures

The committee discussed the challenges faced by care-experienced young adults in education, employment, and training (EET), noting the national rise in NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) figures, which disproportionately affect this group. The report highlighted that 55% of care leavers aged 18+ are currently engaged in EET. The committee resolved to advocate for:

• Expanded work experience opportunities for care leavers.
• Strengthened partnerships with private organisations.
• A pilot project for 10 young people, including employability workshops, workplace buddies, and provision of clothing and travel support.

Regular updates on NEET/EET performance were requested to ensure accountability.

Council's Rulebook Under Review

North Northamptonshire Council met to discuss proposed updates to its Constitution, the fundamental document that outlines how the council operates, makes decisions, and engages with the public. Link to the Council meeting

Shaping Local Governance

The Constitution acts as the council's rulebook, detailing the roles of councillors and officers, the procedures for meetings, and how residents can participate in local democracy. The review covered various sections, including:

• Decision-Making Processes: How decisions are made, by whom, and the principles guiding these decisions.
• Public Participation: How residents can get involved, voice their opinions, and access information.
• Committee Structures: The terms of reference for various committees, such as Planning, Audit, and Licensing.
• Codes of Conduct: The expected standards of behaviour for councillors and officers.

The information available does not indicate whether any specific decisions were made during this meeting, but the review signifies a commitment to transparent and effective local governance.

Upcoming Meetings

Here are some of the upcoming meetings scheduled for next week:

• Executive (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/91495) to discuss the draft budget for 2026-27, the Network Management Plan, and procurement of waste and recycling containers.
• Council (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/91510) to review progress on the Corporate Peer Challenge, planning committee arrangements, and members' allowances.
• Licensing and Appeals Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/91501) to review and harmonise Hackney Carriage and Private Hire licensing fees.
• Planning Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/91507) to consider planning applications for Oundle Rugby Football Club, holiday lets in Lilford, and a chimney replacement at Park Junior School.

This week in North Northamptonshire:

Council Faces Tough Choices as Budget Proposals Include Council Tax Hike and Service Cuts

North Northamptonshire Council's Executive is considering a draft budget for 2026-27 that includes a council tax increase and significant savings through efficiencies and income generation. The proposals aim to protect vital services, particularly for vulnerable adults and children, but difficult decisions lie ahead. Link to the Executive meeting

Balancing Act: Protecting Services vs. Rising Costs

The draft budget proposes a 2.99% increase in core council tax and a 2% rise in the Adult Social Care precept, leading to a Band D equivalent council tax of £1,918.23. This increase, averaging £1.75 per week for a Band D property, is intended to help offset rising costs in Adult Social Care (£17.7m) and Children's Services (£12.2m).

However, the council also plans to achieve £21.3m in savings, efficiencies, and income generation. The 2026/27 Budget Scrutiny Panel has provided interim feedback and recommendations, focusing on key risk areas and challenges for demand-led services. The council has stated that 93% of the £28.643m savings plan for 2025/26 is expected to be delivered by the end of the year.

Impact on Residents

The proposed budget could have a significant impact on residents, particularly those on low incomes. While the council aims to maintain the Local Council Tax Support Scheme at 25%, the council tax increase will still add to the financial burden for many households. The savings and efficiency measures could also lead to cuts in services, potentially affecting vulnerable individuals and families.

Housing Rent Increase Proposed

Tenants of council-owned housing may see their rents rise by 4.8% in 2026/27, in line with government rent-setting formulas. The Tenant Assurance Group has been consulted on the proposed increase.

Highway Management Plan Aims for Safer, Greener Roads

The Place and Environment Scrutiny Committee is set to review the updated Highway Network Management Plan, outlining how the council intends to manage, maintain, and develop its road network. The plan emphasizes safety, efficiency, sustainability, and support for growth. Link to the Place and Environment Scrutiny Committee meeting

Key Objectives

The plan sets out strategic objectives for the highway network, including:

• Maintaining a safe network for all users.
• Minimising delays and optimising resources.
• Promoting active travel and reducing environmental impact.
• Supporting housing and economic development.
• Harnessing technology and data for better decision-making.

Focus on Enforcement and EV Infrastructure

The updated plan includes stronger enforcement measures for highway obstructions, integration with the Electric Vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure strategy, and alignment with the council's risk-based approach to asset management. The council has been awarded £2.89 million to expand the EV chargepoint network.

Public Spaces Protection Orders

The plan also discusses the use of Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPO) to restrict access to certain highways to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour.

Other Matters

• The Executive is scheduled to receive an update on the council's strategic risk register, which details the risks faced by the council in achieving its corporate priorities. Link to the Executive meeting
• The Executive will consider changes to the capital programme, including £163k for lighting at the Castle Theatre in Wellingborough. Link to the Executive meeting
• The Place and Environment Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to review its work programme for 2025-26, which includes topics such as the Empty Homes Strategy, Speed Limit Policy, and Delivery of the Carbon Management Plan. Link to the Place and Environment Scrutiny Committee meeting
• The Scrutiny Management Board meeting scheduled for Monday 15 December 2025 was cancelled. Link to the Scrutiny Management Board meeting

This week in North Northamptonshire:

Stanton Cross Retail Unit Delay Sparks Resident Anger

The Planning Committee was scheduled to consider a request to delay the provision of a retail unit at the Stanton Cross development, triggering a wave of objections from residents who feel promises of local amenities are being broken. Link to the Planning Committee meeting

From 1,200 Homes to 2,000: A Broken Promise?

Stanton Cross Developments requested a modification to their Section 106 agreement¹, pushing back the trigger point for providing a retail unit from the occupation of 1,200 dwellings to 2,000. With 1,349 homes already occupied, this move has ignited fury among residents who say they bought homes based on assurances of local facilities.

Disproportionately Affected : Concerns for Elderly and Disabled

The proposal drew 324 written objections, along with opposition from Wellingborough Town Council and ward councillors. Concerns were raised that elderly and disabled residents are disproportionately affected by the lack of amenities. Ward councillors questioned the timing of the request, given that the original trigger point had already been exceeded, and suggested temporary solutions like pop-up shops.

Empty Unit vs. No Unit: A Risky Gamble?

While officers recommended accepting the developer's request, citing the risk of an empty unit if built too soon, the decision highlights a difficult balancing act between supporting development and ensuring residents have access to essential services.

Council Tax Premiums and Support Scheme Debated

North Northamptonshire Council discussed the Local Council Tax Support Scheme (LCTSS) for 2026/27, as well as proposals to introduce a premium for Long Term Empty Properties and Second Homes. Link to the Council meeting

Empty Homes and Second Homes

The council was asked to consider proposals to introduce a premium for Long Term Empty Properties once they have been empty for one year (currently two years) and to introduce a premium for Second Homes.

The report noted that the Levelling Up and Regeneration Act 2023 contains provision to amend the definition of long-term empty homes so that from 1 April 2024 unfurnished properties that have been empty for one year or more can be charged a premium. The Act also contains a provision to introduce a second homes premium from 1 April 2025.

Local Council Tax Support Scheme

The council was scheduled to discuss the Local Council Tax Support Scheme (LCTSS) for 2026/27. The report provided an update on the LCTSS for 2025/26, with regards to claimant caseload, expenditure and Council Tax collection performance.

The report noted that from 1 April 2013, each local authority has been required to determine a LCTSS, which replaced the national Council Tax Benefit Scheme. The scheme applies to working age claimants only, as the government prescribes the scheme for pensionable age claimants.

Youth Justice Plan and Corporate Parenting Board Annual Report

The Council was asked to approve the Northamptonshire Youth Justice Plan 2025/26 and to approve the North Northamptonshire Council Corporate Parenting Board Annual Report 2024-2025. Link to the Council meeting

Youth Justice Plan

The plan outlined the strategic priorities, governance, leadership and partnership arrangements, updates on the previous year, risks and issues, the service budgets, staffing structure, national priorities, and local demographics.

Corporate Parenting Board Annual Report

The report set out the role, structure and activity of the Corporate Parenting Board, including progress achieved against the corporate parenting strategy priorities and progress.

Other Matters

• The Planning Committee was scheduled to discuss an application for a house extension in Raunds. Link to the Planning Committee meeting
• The Planning Committee was scheduled to discuss the replacement of a classroom building at a Kettering school. Link to the Planning Committee meeting
• The council was scheduled to consider the formal adoption of a new Corporate Plan titled Our Plan for the Future, which sets out the council’s direction up to 2029. Link to the Council meeting
• The council was scheduled to set the Council Tax Base for 2026/27. Link to the Council meeting
• The council was asked to consider and adopt the terms of reference for a Community Governance Review of the parish arrangements for North Northamptonshire Council area. Link to the Council meeting
• The council was scheduled to consider motions regarding pavement parking, the Hanwood Park Secondary School, and changes to the planning system. Link to the Council meeting
• The Health and Wellbeing Board discussed the Health and Wellbeing Strategy, the Family Help Strategy, SEND provision, the Better Care Fund, the Family Drug and Alcohol Court, the Northamptonshire Safeguarding Children Partnership Annual Report, and the mental health of care leavers. Link to the Health and Wellbeing Board meeting
• The Schools Forum discussed Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) monitoring, school budget updates, and proposals for funding transfers and de-delegation for the 2026-27 financial year. Link to the Schools Forum meeting

Upcoming Meetings

Here are some of the upcoming meetings scheduled for next week:

• Place and Environment Scrutiny Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/89855) to discuss the Highway Network Management Plan, and review the committee's work programme.
• Executive (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/89850) to discuss the council's budget, medium-term financial plan, and capital programme, as well as updates on efficiency reviews and strategic risks.

This week in North Northamptonshire:

Audit Reveals Training Lapses and High Staff Absence Rates

The Audit and Governance Committee reviewed internal audit findings revealing significant gaps in mandatory staff training and unexpectedly high absence levels, particularly related to mental health. Link to the Audit and Governance Committee meeting

Training Compliance Lags, Management Oversight Needed

An internal audit found that only 60% of staff were compliant with mandatory training requirements. This includes training on health and safety, data protection, and cyber security — all critical for protecting both staff and residents.

• The audit highlighted that managers need better oversight of their teams' training completion.
• The council plans to address this by giving managers greater insight into their whole team's training status.

Mental Health Concerns Drive High Absence

The audit also revealed an average of 13.45 sick days per staff member, with anxiety, mental health, and depression being primary reasons for absence.

• Councillor Trevor Conway questioned the high number of sick days and the certification process for mental health-related absences.
• Councillor Steve Geary noted the need to investigate the underlying causes of these absences.

The report also noted that 56% of sample testing showed a failure to undertake return to work discussions.

Risk Register Highlights Telephone Network Switch-Off

The Strategic Risk Register was updated to include a new risk: the decommissioning of the public switched telephone network¹ and its potential impact on vulnerable service users.

IT Audit Flags Password Weakness in Social Care System

An external IT audit identified that password complexity settings in Care First, the adult social care system, did not align with council policy. This could put sensitive information at risk.

• The council is introducing new requirements to ensure passwords in Care First meet the necessary complexity standards.

Whistleblowing Policy Concerns Raised

The committee reviewed an updated whistleblowing policy, but concerns were raised about a paragraph stating that disciplinary action would be considered if an allegation was found to be unfounded, malicious, mischievous, or vexatious.

• Councillor David Brackenbury argued this could discourage genuine whistleblowers.
• Councillor Joseph Garner noted that the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998 states that a person is protected if they make a disclosure in good faith.

The committee approved the policy, noting that feedback would be incorporated to provide future assurances.

Other Matters

• The committee approved an amendment to the internal audit plan, removing the audit of building control and reallocating the planned days to an audit on housing complaints.
• The committee reviewed and approved the anti-fraud and corruption policy and the anti-bribery policy. The anti-fraud and corruption policy was updated to include an assessment against the new requirements of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, which introduces a new offence for organisations of failure to prevent fraud.

Upcoming Meetings

Here are some of the upcoming meetings scheduled for next week:

• Scrutiny Management Board (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/89845)
• Health and Wellbeing Board (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/88894)
• Planning Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/88899)
• Council (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/88910)
• Schools Forum (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/88906)
• Executive (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/89850)
• Place and Environment Scrutiny Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/89855)