This week in Northumberland:

Libraries and Customer Services Face Proposed Overhaul

Northumberland County Council's Communities and Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee (OSC) met on Monday, 27 July 2026, to discuss significant proposed changes to library and customer services. The aim is to create a universal front door for residents, integrating services to improve access and achieve efficiencies outlined in the Council's Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) for 2025-2029.

The proposed changes, which have already seen over 5,800 residents respond to a public consultation, are designed to be implemented by January 2027. Key aspects include:

• Hyper-local front door: Services will be delivered at a local level, aiming to assist residents who are not digitally proficient and to facilitate Make Every Contact Count conversations.
• Opening Hours Adjustments: Proposed changes to opening hours for various library hubs and sites have been made based on feedback. For example, Berwick Library's Saturday hours will be extended, and Lynemouth's staffed hours will increase.
• Mobile and Home Library Services: The mobile library service is proposed to move to a four-weekly schedule, while the Home Library Service will be strengthened.
• Community Led Libraries (CLLs): Plans are in place to improve support for existing CLLs and explore new models for several locations.
• Automated Bookcases: These are proposed for locations like Kielder and Guide Post to increase access outside of staffed hours.
• Staffing and Budget: No compulsory redundancies are planned, with staff being slotted into similar roles. Revised staffing structures are projected to save approximately £200,000.

These changes could mean a shift in how residents access essential council services, with a particular focus on ensuring those less comfortable with digital technology are not left behind. The committee was asked to provide feedback to inform a Cabinet report.

Read more about the Communities and Place OSC meeting.

Council's Financial Health and Fraud Prevention Under the Microscope

The Audit and Standards Committee convened on Wednesday, 29 July 2026, to review the council's financial performance, risk management, and internal audit progress. The committee examined the Treasury Management Annual Report for 2025-26, which details performance against the approved Treasury Management Strategy Statement. This report is crucial for understanding how the council's investments and borrowing have performed against the backdrop of economic conditions.

Also discussed was the Corporate Fraud Annual Report for 2025/26. This report highlights the work of the Corporate Fraud Team, which plays a vital role in ensuring Value for Money as outlined in the Council's Corporate Plan 2026-30. Preventing fraud is essential for protecting public funds and ensuring they are available for vital services.

An update on the corporate risk register was also provided, a statutory responsibility for local authorities under the Accounts and Audit Regulations 2015. Effective risk management is key to achieving the council's strategic objectives.

A significant item was the discussion of a standards complaint, which has progressed to a stage requiring a hearing. The committee was asked to approve the establishment of a Hearing Sub-Committee to determine this complaint, a process designed to uphold the Members' Code of Conduct.

Finally, the committee received an update on the external audit for the year ended 31 March 2026, providing assurance on the council's financial reporting.

Read more about the Audit and Standards Committee meeting.

Other Matters

• The North Northumberland Community Partnership meeting scheduled for Thursday, 30 July 2026, was cancelled.

This week in Northumberland:

Oakland Park Safety Concerns Spark Debate Over Road Adoption

Residents of Oakland Park are raising urgent safety concerns regarding the unadopted estate roads, particularly during winter conditions. The Castle Morpeth Community Partnership met on Monday, 20 July 2026, to discuss a petition signed by 65 residents who are frustrated by delays in the council adopting the roads.

The petition highlights that the lack of adoption means responsibility for maintenance, including crucial winter gritting, falls to the developer, Story Homes. Residents are calling for a clear explanation for the delays and for the adoption process to be expedited. They are also requesting interim measures, such as the installation of grit bins, to ensure safety during colder months.

The council's report indicates that the adoption process is being progressed under a Section 38 Agreement of the Highways Act 1980. However, delays are attributed to legal land ownership matters outside the council's direct control. This means no firm timescale for adoption can be provided.

Regarding winter maintenance, the council's policy prioritises a specific network of roads, and residential estate roads are not typically included, even after adoption, unless they meet strict criteria. This leaves residents in a difficult position, facing potential safety hazards without clear recourse. The council has committed to engaging with Story Homes to support the adoption process and will provide updates on any material changes.

Read more about the Castle Morpeth Community Partnership meeting.

Ashington & Blyth Focus on Employability and Community Support

The Ashington & Blyth Community Partnership met on Wednesday, 22 July 2026, to explore opportunities for boosting local employment and strengthening community initiatives. The meeting featured presentations from Northumberland Skills and CVA Blyth Valley, highlighting the vital support available to residents.

Northumberland Skills representatives discussed employability opportunities, aiming to connect individuals with training and job prospects. Thom Bradley from CVA Blyth Valley provided an overview of the organisation's work, including funding, volunteer initiatives, and how residents can get involved with The Hub.

The partnership also included its usual segments for public questions and petitions, offering a platform for residents to raise local issues and for the council to respond. A community marketplace allowed for informal networking and engagement between local businesses and partnership members.

Read more about the Ashington & Blyth Community Partnership meeting.

Joint Health Scrutiny Committee Discusses Integrated Care System and Boundaries

The JOINT OSC FOR THE NE & NORTH CUMBRIA ICS & NORTH & CENTRAL ICPS met on Monday, 20 July 2026, to discuss the operational framework for the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care System (ICS). The committee reviewed its terms of reference, which govern how it scrutinises health service developments across a wide geographical area, encompassing Northumberland, Tyne and Wear, and Durham.

Key agenda items included presentations on Neighbourhood Health and Proposed Boundary Changes, alongside an update on the Work Well initiative. The committee also addressed the appointment of its Chair and Vice-Chair for the upcoming municipal year, a crucial step in ensuring effective governance and oversight of health service planning and delivery. The Integrated Care System aims to provide joined-up health and care services, and the committee's role is vital in ensuring these plans meet the needs of local communities.

Read more about the JOINT OSC FOR THE NE & NORTH CUMBRIA ICS & NORTH & CENTRAL ICPS meeting.

Other Matters

• The North Planning Committee, Cramlington, Bedlington & Seaton Valley Community Partnership, Tynedale Community Partnership, and Petitions Committee meetings scheduled for this week were cancelled.

This week in Northumberland:

Licensing Decisions: Oldgate Tavern and Private Hire Driver Applications

Northumberland Council's Licensing Hearing convened on Tuesday, 14 July 2026, to consider a significant application for a premises licence for the Oldgate Tavern in Morpeth. The Licensing and Regulatory Subcommittee also met on Thursday, 16 July 2026, to discuss a private hire driver's licence application.

Oldgate Tavern Premises Licence Application

The Licensing Hearing focused on an application for a premises licence for the Oldgate Tavern, located at 13 Oldgate, Morpeth, Northumberland, NE61 1QF. The applicant, Oldgate Tavern Ltd, sought permission to supply alcohol both on and off the premises between 11:00 and 23:00 daily.

The meeting was scheduled to address objections from interested parties concerning:

• Prevention of public nuisance: Concerns were raised about potential noise from customers and waste disposal, impacting nearby residents and a local primary school.
• Protection of children from harm: The proximity to a school was a stated concern.
• Prevention of crime and disorder: Worries were expressed about potential anti-social behaviour and security.

The applicant proposed measures to uphold the four licensing objectives, including CCTV, age verification policies like Challenge 25, and waste management plans. However, representations from interested parties highlighted specific concerns about proposed licensing hours and the potential for noise disturbance, sleep disruption, and personal safety issues, particularly from the use of a back court area. Residents requested conditions such as an outside curfew, structural soundproofing, and a prohibition on live or amplified music. The outcome of this application will directly affect the local amenity and the operations of the Oldgate Tavern.

Read more about the Licensing Hearing meeting.

Private Hire Driver's Licence Application

The Licensing and Regulatory Subcommittee met on Thursday, 16 July 2026, to consider an application for a private hire driver's licence (Case Number 160726/471). The report detailing this application was marked as restricted and not for publication, meaning specific details were not publicly available. The agenda indicated that this item would be discussed in private, with the press and public excluded, in accordance with Section 100A (4) of the Local Government Act 1972. This exclusion is typically applied when discussions are likely to involve the disclosure of exempt information, where the public interest in disclosure is outweighed by the public interest in maintaining the exemption. The decision on this licence will impact an individual's livelihood and the availability of private hire services.

Read more about the Licensing and Regulatory Subcommittee meeting.

Financial Performance and Transformation Programmes Under Scrutiny

The Corporate Services and Economic Growth Overview and Scrutiny Committee (OSC) met on Wednesday, 15 July 2026, to review the council's financial performance and progress on key transformation initiatives.

Financial Outturn for 2025-26

The committee received a report on the provisional financial outturn for the 2025-26 financial year. This report detailed projected revenue outturns across various service areas, including Adults, Ageing & Wellbeing; Chief Executive; Children, Young People & Education; Place and Regeneration; Public Health, Inequalities & Stronger Communities; and Transformation & Resources. It also covered the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) and the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Understanding the council's financial performance is crucial for ensuring that public money is spent effectively and that services remain sustainable, particularly for vulnerable residents who rely on council support.

BEST Programme Update

An update was provided on the BEST programme, a significant initiative aimed at improving resident and customer outcomes, enhancing staff experience, and driving efficiencies. The programme encompasses six key transformation projects: Ways of Working, Customer Experience Transformation, Property Transformation, Category Management Transformation, Data-Led Performance and Data Architecture, and PACT (Culture, Vision, and Values). The committee reviewed the progress of these projects, which are designed to modernise council operations and improve service delivery.

Debt Recovery Performance

The committee also examined the level of outstanding debt owed to the council as at 31 March 2026. This included sundry debt, Council Tax arrears, Non-Domestic Rates arrears, Housing Benefit overpayments, and Housing Rent and Other Debt. The report detailed amounts written off and compared collection rates and enforcement methods. Effective debt recovery is essential for the council's financial health, ensuring that funds are available to provide vital public services.

Read more about the Corporate Services and Economic Growth OSC meeting.

Other Matters

• The West Planning Committee and the Joint Consultative Committee meetings scheduled for Tuesday, 14 July 2026, and Wednesday, 15 July 2026, respectively, were cancelled.
• The South East Planning Committee meeting scheduled for Monday, 13 July 2026, was also cancelled.

This week in Northumberland:

Youth Justice and A1 Safety Dominate County Council Discussions

The County Council met on Wednesday, 8 July 2026, tackling crucial issues from the safety of our roads to the support provided to young people in the justice system. The meeting saw the Leader of Council present his annual report, alongside discussions on the Youth Justice Plan and important motions concerning the A1 and the reintroduction of the Eurasian lynx.

Youth Justice: A Child-First Approach Amidst Rising Concerns

Councillor Guy Renner-Thompson, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, presented the Northumberland Youth Justice Service's Annual Plan for 2026-2027. This plan is mandated by Section 40 of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998, a key piece of legislation aimed at reducing crime and disorder. The strategy prioritises a Child First approach, focusing on reducing offending and reoffending.

However, the plan highlights a concerning trend: a recent rise in First Time Entrants (FTEs) into the youth justice system in Northumberland, which contrasts with a national downward trend. This is coupled with increased concerns about exploitation and a growing prevalence of motoring and arson offences among young people.

Key priorities for the coming year include:

• Improving the quality of case management for young people.
• Strengthening support for victims.
• Developing the Youth Justice Service (YJS) Management Board.
• Expanding early intervention programmes like the Turnaround programme.
• Embedding a comprehensive quality assurance framework.

The report emphasised the strong partnerships the YJS has with the police, health services, education providers, and the voluntary sector, which are vital for delivering effective support.

Read more about the County Council meeting.

A1 Safety and Dualling: A Call for Urgent Action

A motion moved by Councillor Glen Sanderson, Leader of Council, highlighted the persistent safety issues on the A1 in Northumberland. The motion pointed to the road's history of high numbers of deaths and serious injuries, particularly where it transitions between dual and single carriageways. While National Highways has planned local safety schemes, the motion argued these do not fully address the fundamental problems of overcapacity and the lack of continuous dual carriageway.

The council called for:

• Urgent correspondence to the Secretary of State for Transport to reconsider the cancellation of the A1 dualling scheme.
• An urgent cross-party meeting with the Secretary of State to discuss the issue.
• Engagement with key partners to advocate for the full dualling of the A1.

This issue directly impacts the safety of all road users and the economic connectivity of the region. Residents have long expressed concerns about the A1's safety, and this motion signals a renewed push for government action.

Opposition to Eurasian Lynx Reintroduction

Councillor Steven Bridgett was scheduled to move a motion formally opposing any proposals to reintroduce the Eurasian lynx within Northumberland. The motion aimed to protect the interests of Northumberland's rural communities, farmers, and livestock. It proposed writing to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, and Natural England, to outline the council's opposition. The motion also called for transparent engagement with all affected parties. This reflects a common tension between conservation goals and the concerns of rural communities regarding potential impacts on livelihoods and safety.

Leader's Annual Report: Focus on Growth and Value

Councillor Glen Sanderson, Leader of Council, presented his annual portfolio report, outlining the council's achievements and priorities. Key themes included driving economic growth, tackling inequalities, and ensuring value for money. Despite ongoing challenges like rising costs and increased demand for services, the report highlighted successes such as the Northumberland Line project and the creation of the Northumberland Growth Fund. For the coming year, the focus remains on delivering essential services while investing in areas like children's services and affordable housing.

Appointment of Housing Scrutiny Chair

The council was also scheduled to appoint the Chair of the Housing Overview and Scrutiny Committee, a crucial role for overseeing the council's housing services.

Hexham School Site Disposal and SEND Unit Formalisation

Northumberland County Council's Cabinet met on Tuesday, 7 July 2026, making decisions that will impact housing development and support for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

Former Hexham Middle School Site to be Developed

Cabinet agreed to move forward with the procurement process for the disposal of the former Hexham Middle School site. A key condition is that the listed Fellside building must be refurbished and repurposed as an arts studio and gallery for community use. This decision aims to bring a derelict site back into productive use while preserving a heritage asset. The disposal will be by freehold title transfer to a preferred bidder, who will be selected through a procurement process.

Specialist SEND Units to be Formalised

The Cabinet approved the formalisation of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Units at Cambois Primary School, Newsham Primary School, and Seaton Sluice First School. These sites currently operate as Special Support Bases (SSBs) and will now become permanent SEND Units. This move follows a statutory consultation and aligns with Department for Education guidance. The formalisation aims to better meet the needs of children with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) within their local communities, reducing travel times and fostering local friendships. This is a positive step for families seeking local, accessible support for their children.

A193 Seafront Active Travel Scheme Gets Revised Funding

A revised scheme cost of £13.488 million was approved for the A193 Seafront Active Travel Scheme. This represents an increase from the previously approved £9.688 million, with the majority of funding coming from the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority grant. This investment aims to improve active travel infrastructure along the seafront, encouraging walking and cycling, which has benefits for public health and the environment.

Financial Performance and Capital Proposals

Cabinet also reviewed the council's financial performance for 2025-26, noting projected overspends on the Dedicated Schools Grant and the Housing Revenue Account. Several new capital proposals were approved, including the construction of a new public car park at the former Morpeth Leisure Centre site, a flood alleviation scheme in Longhorsley, and affordable housing development on the Greyfield Estate in Embleton.

Blyth Sports Centre Pool Hall Refurbishment

Capital expenditure of £1.600 million was approved for refurbishment works to the swimming pool hall at Blyth Sports Centre. This investment will improve facilities for residents and is crucial for maintaining leisure services.

Northumberland Cultural Strategy Endorsed

The refreshed Northumberland Cultural Strategy 2026–2036 was endorsed, aiming to strengthen the county's cultural sector and its contribution to economic growth, health, and community cohesion.

Read more about the Cabinet meeting.

Adult Social Care and Health Services Under Scrutiny

The Health and Wellbeing Overview and Scrutiny Committee (OSC) met on Tuesday, 7 July 2026, to examine key strategic documents for Adult Social Care and review the annual report on complaints.

Adult Social Care Strategy and Commissioning Intentions

The committee was set to review progress on Next Steps for Adult Social Care and the council's commissioning intentions. These documents are vital for ensuring the continuous improvement of services and the development of the care market to meet future needs, particularly for Northumberland's growing ageing population. The Northumberland Market Position Statement provides an overview of the current social care market and the council's future commissioning plans, aiming to guide providers on opportunities for service development. The council has an ambitious plan to deliver up to 600 units of Extra Care Housing by 2030, offering a valuable alternative to traditional care settings and promoting independence for older residents.

Complaints Report Highlights Increased Concerns

The committee was also scheduled to receive the annual report on complaints relating to Adult Social Care and Continuing Health Care (CHC) services for 2024-25. The report indicated an increase in the number of complaints received, with the majority of Adult Social Care complaints relating to assessments and care planning, followed by finance and the quality of service. For CHC, assessments and care planning were also the primary subject matter. While most complaints were resolved locally, the report noted the importance of learning from feedback to improve services.

Read more about the Health and Wellbeing OSC meeting.