This week in North Somerset:

Council Faces Tough Choices as Budget Pressures Mount

North Somerset Council's Cabinet is set to grapple with significant financial challenges at its meeting on Wednesday 21 October 2026. A projected budget gap of £40.5 million over the next four years, driven by rising care costs and reduced government funding, means difficult decisions lie ahead. These pressures directly impact the services residents rely on, from adult social care to children's services.

The North Somerset 2030 Programme: A Call for Efficiency

Councillor Steve Bridger, Cabinet Member for Digital, AI and Service Transformation, will present an update on the North Somerset 2030 Council Change Programme. This initiative aims to deliver savings while ensuring services remain effective. The council is facing a £40 million funding gap over the next four years, with £7 million needing to be addressed for the 2027/28 financial year alone. The programme prioritises over 430 change initiatives, focusing on improving customer access, streamlining practices, fostering collaborations, and ensuring compliance. The impact of these changes will be felt across various council functions, with the goal of providing affordable services within available resources.

Ensuring Support for Vulnerable Children: Recommissioning Adoption West

A crucial decision for the council's most vulnerable residents will be the recommissioning of Adoption West. This regional adoption agency, which serves six local authorities including North Somerset, plays a vital role in finding permanent homes for children in care. The current contract expires in February 2027, and the proposed extension for up to seven years represents a significant investment of approximately £39.1 million across all partners. North Somerset's contribution for 2026/27 alone is £445,958. This decision is critical for ensuring the continued provision of essential adoption services, directly impacting the lives of children and families.

Navigating Financial Headwinds: The Medium Term Financial Plan

The Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) for 2027-2030 will be a key discussion point, with a projected budget gap of £12 million for 2027/28 and a cumulative £40.5 million deficit over four years. Councillor Mike Bell, Leader of the Council, will highlight that adult social care and children's services are the primary drivers of these rising costs. The plan assumes annual council tax increases of 4.99%, a measure that will affect household budgets across North Somerset. Residents will be consulted on budget priorities, with a draft budget to be published in December.

• Link to meeting: Cabinet, 21 October 2026

Libraries and Transport Devolution on the Agenda for Scrutiny

The Corporate, Assets, Transport and Environmental Services Policy and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Thursday 22 October 2026, with a packed agenda covering the future of libraries, the transfer of transport functions, and the directorate's financial health.

Transforming Our Libraries: A New Operating Model

The committee will receive an update on the Library Service Transformation Programme. This programme aims to achieve savings while maintaining a comprehensive library service. Key changes include revised operating arrangements, community-based delivery models, and reduced opening hours in some locations. The report will detail progress on retaining Pill Library, exploring community support for Winscombe Library, and the closure of Worle Library. The expansion of outreach services, including a new outreach vehicle, is also planned. This transformation is vital for ensuring libraries remain accessible and relevant to residents, particularly those in more rural areas.

Transport Devolution: A Shift in Responsibility

A significant item on the agenda is the proposed transfer of Local Transport Authority (LTA) functions to the West of England Combined Authority (WECA). This move, pending government approval, will see functions like bus policy and transport strategy shift to WECA, while local highway authority responsibilities will remain with North Somerset Council. The report outlines a phased transition, acknowledging the complexities of funding and operational alignment. This devolution could reshape how transport services are planned and delivered across the region, impacting daily commutes and accessibility for residents.

Highways Transformation: Addressing Backlogs and Improving Services

The committee will also discuss the development of a Highways Service Transformation Programme. While recent efforts have focused on repairs and maintenance, the council faces a substantial backlog of £60 million in highway repairs. Despite an investment of £10 million this financial year, this is insufficient to address the scale of the problem. The programme aims to improve customer experience and operational delivery, but the need for sustained national investment in local roads remains a critical issue for residents.

• Link to meeting: Corporate, Assets, Transport and Environmental Services Policy and Scrutiny Committee, 22 October 2026

Other Matters

Planning and Regulatory Committee Considers Key Applications

The Planning and Regulatory Committee met on Wednesday 14 October 2026. While the meeting was not confirmed as held, the agenda included significant planning applications. These included proposals for new residential developments in Weston-super-Mare and Nailsea, and a new vehicular access in the Clevedon Conservation Area. The committee was also scheduled to review planning appeals. The decisions made on these applications will shape local development and the character of our communities.

• Link to meeting: Planning and Regulatory Committee, 14 October 2026

Adult Services and Housing Committee Reviews Improvement Plans

The Adult Services and Housing Policy and Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to meet on Thursday 15 October 2026. Key topics included an update on the Care Quality Commission (CQC) Improvement Plan for Adult Social Services and Housing. This plan addresses 93 actions aimed at improving services, with 63 reported as completed. The committee was also set to review the directorate's finances, which forecast a significant overspend, and discuss the Adults Transformation Programme. These discussions are crucial for ensuring the continued provision of essential support for vulnerable adults in North Somerset.

• Link to meeting: Adult Services and Housing Policy and Scrutiny Committee, 15 October 2026

This week in North Somerset:

Winter Preparedness and Prevention Projects Take Centre Stage

The Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to meet on Thursday 8 October 2026 to discuss crucial plans for the upcoming winter period and to review progress on innovative prevention initiatives. These discussions are vital for ensuring the health and wellbeing of residents, particularly the most vulnerable, as the colder months approach.

Preparing for Winter: Ensuring Services are Ready

A key focus of the meeting was the BNSSG Winter Planning 2026/27. This plan outlines how health services across Bristol, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire (BNSSG) will prepare for the increased demands of winter. The report detailed NHS England's priorities, including:

• Maximising alternatives to emergency departments: Helping people access the right care without needing to go to A&E.
• Delivering a 45-minute ambulance handover protocol: Ensuring quicker transfers from ambulances to hospitals.
• Improving hospital discharges seven days a week: Helping patients leave hospital safely and promptly.

The committee was asked to support and share communications materials related to these plans. This is essential for informing the public about how services will operate and what support will be available, especially for those with complex health needs or who are at higher risk during winter.

The Future of Prevention: Using Technology to Support Health

The committee was also scheduled to receive an update on the Future of Prevention project. This initiative is using artificial intelligence (AI) to predict and reduce the need for social care, with an initial focus on preventing falls among older residents. The project aims to:

• Predict falls risk: Using an AI tool developed by Xantura to identify residents at higher risk of falling.
• Intervene early: Offering support and preventative measures to reduce the likelihood of falls.
• Align with council plans: Supporting North Somerset Council's corporate plan for healthier communities.

Challenges in accessing health data for the AI tool were noted, highlighting the ongoing work to integrate different data systems to improve care. The project's success could mean fewer injuries and hospital admissions for older people, allowing them to live more independently.

Shaping the Committee's Work

The committee was also set to review its work plan for October 2026. This includes considering the future of Healthwatch, the ongoing prevention agenda, and the wider factors that influence health. The committee also planned to use patient feedback from services like PALS (Patient Advice and Liaison Service) and the Friends and Family Test to help guide its future priorities.

• Link to meeting: Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee, 08 October 2026

Licensing Matters Under Review

The Licensing Sub-Committee was scheduled to meet on Tuesday 6 October 2026 to consider several applications and procedural matters related to licensing. These discussions are important for ensuring that licensed premises operate responsibly and in line with the council's objectives.

PHDL Grant Application and Licence Reviews

The committee was scheduled to consider a report concerning a PHDL Grant application for the 2026-27 period. This item was designated as exempt from public disclosure, meaning the details were not made public. The Sub-Committee was invited to pass resolutions to exclude the press and public during its consideration, a common procedure when sensitive information is discussed under the Local Government Act 1972.

Additionally, the committee was scheduled to review a Private Hire Driver's Licence, Hackney Carriage Driver's Licence, Combined Driver's Licence, or Private Hire Operator's Licence, referred to as PHDL Review 26-27 Case 4. The procedure for such reviews involves the Licensing Authority presenting reasons for the review, followed by the licence holder's response. This process is designed to ensure that drivers and operators meet the required standards for public safety and service quality.

Procedural Matters and Public Exclusion

Before addressing specific applications, the committee was set to deal with procedural items, including the election of a Chairperson and the adoption of a hearing procedure. A significant procedural point was the potential exclusion of the public and press from discussions involving exempt information, as defined by the Local Government Act 1972. This is to protect confidential information while ensuring transparency where possible.

• Link to meeting: Licensing Sub-Committee, 06 October 2026
• Link to meeting: Licensing Sub-Committee, 06 October 2026

Licensing Committee Reviews Mid-Year Performance

The Licensing Committee was scheduled to meet on Tuesday 6 October 2026 to review the mid-year report on the administration and enforcement of various licensing regimes. This report provides an overview of the Licensing Team's activities and highlights challenges and opportunities within the sector.

Challenges in the Night-Time Economy and Future Legislation

The committee was expected to discuss a decline in the number of licensed premises, particularly within the night-time economy, acknowledging the difficult period faced by operators. The report also mentioned the Treasury's review of business rates for pubs and hotels, and a concern that the fee structure for administering the Licensing Act 2003 has not been increased since its introduction over 25 years ago. This could impact the council's ability to fund licensing services.

The potential impact of the proposed new Tobacco and Vapes Bill was also on the agenda. The report noted that the introduction of this new licensing regime has been delayed, with public consultation now planned for 2027. This provides more time for the council to prepare for its role in administering these new licenses.

Taxi and Private Hire Sector Updates

Updates on the Taxi and Private Hire sector were also scheduled. The report was expected to confirm the government's intention to introduce a draft Taxi and Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) Bill, with a key objective being improved accessibility for disabled passengers. The current Taxi & Private Hire Statement of Principles is due for review in 2027. Planned enforcement exercises in conjunction with the Police and other agencies were also to be highlighted.

• Link to meeting: Licensing Committee, 06 October 2026

Other Scheduled Business

The agenda also included standard procedural items such as public participation, apologies for absence, and the declaration of disclosable pecuniary interests. The committee was also to approve the minutes from its previous meeting held on 21 October 2025.

This week in North Somerset:

Health and Wellbeing Board Tackles Growing Needs and Community Transport

The Health and Wellbeing Board met on Wednesday 30 September 2026, addressing critical issues that directly impact the health and independence of North Somerset residents. A major focus was the development of a new Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA) 2.0, designed to provide a clearer picture of current and future health and social care needs, with a particular emphasis on tackling inequalities.

Understanding Our Community's Needs: The JSNA 2.0

The Board discussed the significant undertaking of refreshing the Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA). This vital document helps the council and its partners understand the health and wellbeing challenges facing North Somerset. The new approach, JSNA 2.0, aims to be more practical, up-to-date, and insightful. It will delve deeper into health inequalities, using a life course approach that examines how factors from birth through to old age impact health.

This means the assessment will look at:

• Starting and growing up well: The health and wellbeing of children and young people.
• Living well: The health of working-age adults.
• Ageing well: The health and care needs of older residents.

The process involves extensive stakeholder engagement and data analysis, with the final report expected in March 2027. Challenges such as limited capacity and data granularity were acknowledged, highlighting the ongoing effort required to truly understand and address the diverse needs within our communities.

• Link to meeting: Health and Wellbeing Board, 30 September 2026

Keeping Our Communities Moving: The Community Transport Action Plan

A crucial discussion centred on the need for a robust Community Transport Action Plan. The Board considered the formation of a new multi-agency Transport subgroup to address the recommendations of a recent report. This subgroup will be vital in ensuring that community transport schemes, which are often volunteer-led, can continue to support residents.

For many, particularly older people, community transport is a lifeline. It enables them to:

• Access essential health appointments.
• Maintain social connections and combat isolation.
• Remain independent in their own homes.

The sustainability of these schemes is a significant concern, and the proposed subgroup will bring together senior leaders from across health and social care to develop a long-term strategy. This initiative directly impacts the ability of vulnerable residents to access vital services and participate fully in community life.

• Link to meeting: Health and Wellbeing Board, 30 September 2026

Preparing for Extreme Weather: Heatwaves and Wildfires

The Board also received a report from Avon Fire & Rescue Service (AF&RS) detailing the impact of recent extreme heat and wildfires. This highlighted climate change as a growing strategic risk, with increased operational demands on the fire service and potential risks to public safety and property. The report emphasised the importance of community behaviour in preventing fires and outlined recommendations for enhanced preparedness, including public awareness campaigns and improved risk mapping. This discussion underscores the council's responsibility to protect residents from the increasing threats posed by extreme weather events.

• Link to meeting: Health and Wellbeing Board, 30 September 2026

Evolving Ways of Working for Better Health Outcomes

The Board also engaged in an informal workshop to discuss its future role and how it can provide more effective strategic leadership. This forward-looking discussion aimed to ensure the Board is best placed to address health inequalities and champion neighbourhood health initiatives in response to evolving guidance and reforms in health and care. The proposed model focuses on clearer leadership for neighbourhood health, aligning partner activity, and setting shared priorities based on data and community insight.

• Link to meeting: Health and Wellbeing Board, 30 September 2026

Other Matters

This week in North Somerset:

Children's Homes and Listed Buildings Take Centre Stage at Planning Committee

The Planning and Regulatory Committee met on Wednesday 23 September 2026 to consider a range of significant planning applications, including a proposal for a new children's home and alterations to a Grade II listed building. The committee also discussed updates to the council's planning procedures.

New Children's Home Proposed for Winscombe

A key item was the planning application for a change of use at 16 Well Close, Winscombe. The proposal sought to convert a six-bedroom dwelling into a children's home for up to three young people aged between 8 and 18. This development is intended to address a critical need for residential accommodation for children in care within North Somerset, as identified in the North Somerset Sufficiency Strategy 2024-2027.

Despite the clear need, the application faced 57 letters of objection from local residents. Concerns raised included potential impacts on parking, highway safety, noise levels, and the suitability of the Winscombe location. Winscombe and Sandford Parish Council supported the principle of the development but sought assurances regarding parking and operational intensity to ensure the home integrates well with the existing residential character. The report recommended approval of the application, subject to conditions, highlighting the council's commitment to providing safe and supportive environments for vulnerable young people.

• Link to meeting: Planning and Regulatory Committee, 23 September 2026

Heritage Concerns Over Clevedon Access Plans

Two applications concerning Woodspring House, 17 Hill Road, Clevedon, a Grade II listed building, were also discussed. The proposals involved the creation of a new vehicular entrance and driveway.

The first application sought full planning permission for the new access. However, the Highway Authority recommended refusal due to concerns about inadequate visibility and potential detriment to highway safety. The Council's Conservation Officer also advised against the proposal, stating that altering the historic boundary wall would result in the loss of significant historic fabric and harm the setting of the listed building and the surrounding Clevedon Conservation Area.

A separate application for Listed Building Consent for the same works was also recommended for refusal. The key issue was the proposed removal of approximately 7.3 metres of the historic boundary wall, which the Conservation Officer deemed would negatively impact the character and appearance of the listed building and conservation area. These decisions underscore the council's responsibility to protect its heritage assets while balancing development needs.

• Link to meeting: Planning and Regulatory Committee, 23 September 2026

New Scheme of Delegation for Planning Applications

The committee also considered a report on a proposed New Scheme of Delegation for planning applications. This update, presented by Jason Beale, Head of Planning, aims to align with upcoming legislative changes that will introduce a two-tier decision-making structure for planning functions. The new procedures, set to be implemented by 31 October 2026, will clarify how applications are categorised for officer delegation or determination by the committee, ensuring a more streamlined and efficient planning process.

• Link to meeting: Planning and Regulatory Committee, 23 September 2026

Audit Committee Reviews Financial Health and Risk Management

The Audit Committee convened on Thursday 24 September 2026 to scrutinise the council's financial governance, risk management, and audit activities. The meeting covered a broad range of topics essential for ensuring the council's financial integrity and operational effectiveness.

Significant Risks Highlighted in Q1 Update

A key discussion point was the Q1 Risk Management Update for 2026-27. The report revealed that as of the end of June 2026, the council's Strategic Risk Register contained 19 risks. At the inherent risk scoring, 11 risks were identified as 'High' and seven as 'Medium-High'. Crucially, at residual risk scoring, eight risks remained 'High'. This indicates ongoing significant pressures in critical areas such as:

• Financial sustainability
• Climate commitments
• Infrastructure
• Workforce capacity
• Cyber resilience
• SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) provision

Six strategic risks were noted as having a negative direction of travel, underscoring the need for vigilant monitoring and proactive intervention to safeguard services and residents.

External Audit Reports on Financial Statements

The committee also received draft reports from the External Auditor concerning the 2025-26 financial year. These included the draft Audit Report, which assesses the council's arrangements for Value for Money (VfM), and the draft Audit Opinion, which confirms the accuracy and fairness of the financial statements. The committee was also set to consider the draft Statement of Accounts for 2025-26 and a draft Letter of Representation, which is a formal confirmation from management to the auditor. These reports are vital for public trust and accountability, ensuring that council funds are managed responsibly.

Treasury Management Performance

An update on Treasury Management for 2025-26 and 2026-27 was also presented. The report indicated that net interest income continued to outperform the budget, and all treasury management activities complied with the approved strategy and limits. This suggests prudent management of the council's investments and borrowing.

• Link to meeting: Audit Committee, 24 September 2026

Other Matters

Chairperson's Annual Report and Internal Audit Update

The committee also heard the Chairperson's Annual Report for 2025-26, outlining the committee's activities and effectiveness. An update on Internal Audit progress for 2026-27 was also provided, confirming that work was underway with no audit reports issued to date resulting in 'limited' or 'no' assurance. However, the report noted that significant unplanned work had been completed in areas such as High-Cost Care Placements within Children's Services and Adult Social Services, reflecting the ongoing pressures in these vital service areas.

• Link to meeting: Audit Committee, 24 September 2026