This week in Warwickshire:

Pension Fund Faces Scrutiny Over Performance and Administration

The Warwickshire Local Pension Board met on Tuesday 7 July 2026 to review the financial health and operational efficiency of the Warwickshire Pension Fund. The meeting agenda included a deep dive into the fund's performance, investment updates, and the business plan for the upcoming year, alongside discussions on governance and regulatory changes.

The Board was scheduled to receive a detailed update on the Pensions Administration Service (PAS). This included figures on the uptake of the online portal, showing the number of active, deferred, and pensioner members registered. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for the period were to be examined, with a focus on the 10 out of 16 KPIs that were reportedly meeting their targets. The report was expected to outline reasons for any shortfalls and detail planned improvements. Workload management, including the number of open cases and completed case volumes, was also on the agenda, alongside information on employer and fund administration breaches. The annual pensions increase exercise, which applied a 3.8% Consumer Price Index increase, and preparations for the National Pensions Dashboard were also to be discussed.

An update on the Warwickshire Pension Fund's investments was also scheduled. This included the overall value of the fund, which had reportedly increased in the fourth quarter of 2025, and an analysis of asset allocation against strategic targets. The report was expected to cover differences between investment types, risks associated with private credit markets, and the outlook for UK interest rates. The fund's long-term investment horizon was highlighted as a factor in its resilience to market fluctuations.

The Board was also set to consider the Annual Report of the Independent Chair for the 2025/26 municipal year. This report details the Board's activities, including its four meetings held during the year. It was expected to summarise updates received on pensions administration, investment performance, the Fund's business plan, and governance, regulatory, and policy issues.

The meeting also included an update on the Warwickshire Pension Fund's Business Plan for 2026/27, outlining progress made up to the end of the first quarter. The plan, which aligns with other key strategy documents, categorises activities as completed, green, amber, or red. The report was expected to highlight specific items rated amber, including those related to the Investment Strategy Statement and meeting good governance requirements, with explanations for these ratings.

An update on the delivery of actions identified in the review of the Fund's governance arrangements was also scheduled. This included progress on actions arising from an external review by AON and additional activities related to the Pension Schemes Act 2026 and Local Government Reorganisation. The report was expected to detail the RAG status of these actions, with a significant number anticipated to be addressed by the Council's update of its Constitution. The report was also to cover the terms of reference for a single LGPS sub-committee and the creation of a Senior LGPS Officer position.

The Board was scheduled to receive an update on governance matters, including a revised forward plan for policy reviews over the next three years. The report was expected to detail key developments such as the implementation of access and fairness proposals, equalisation of death grants and survivor benefits, and the introduction of Qualified Added Pension Arrangements (QAPAs). An emerging risk relating to artificial intelligence was also to be incorporated into future reporting.

The meeting also included a review of fund managers' internal controls reports, with the report pack indicating that it would involve consideration of exempt or confidential information. Minutes from the December 2025 and March 2026 Pension Fund Committees were also to be considered and commented on.

The discussions at this meeting are crucial for ensuring the financial security of thousands of Warwickshire residents who rely on the pension fund for their retirement income. Any underperformance or administrative issues could have a direct impact on their future financial stability.

Read more about the Warwickshire Local Pension Board meeting.

Other Matters

• Upcoming Meetings: Several important meetings are scheduled in the coming week. The Audit and Standards Committee will meet on Tuesday 14 July 2026 to review the council's Code of Corporate Governance and the Internal Audit Annual Report. The Health and Wellbeing Board will convene on Wednesday 15 July 2026, with topics to be confirmed. The Cabinet will meet on Thursday 16 July 2026, also with confirmed topics. Finally, Portfolio Holder Decisions/Leader Decisions are scheduled for Friday 17 July 2026.

This week in Warwickshire:

Library Review Sparks Debate: Council Pushes Forward Despite Public Concerns

A proposed review of Warwickshire's library services has ignited a passionate debate, with residents and councillors raising significant concerns about its necessity, scope, and potential impact. The Resources and Fire & Rescue Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday 1 July 2026 to discuss the review, which aims to examine policies and governance arrangements for libraries and other public spaces.

The meeting was dominated by public speakers who voiced fears that the review, prompted by a small number of informal complaints, could lead to censorship and a narrowing of access to information. Many argued that the council's existing statutory and professional frameworks already ensure libraries operate responsibly. Concerns were also raised about the potential for political interference, particularly given recent public statements by some councillors on sensitive topics.

Councillor Michael Bannister, Portfolio Holder for Resources and Internal Affairs, defended the review, stating it was not about banning books but about establishing an overarching library policy and ensuring current arrangements were sufficient. He emphasised that the review would be evidence-based and would not apply to community-run libraries. However, the committee ultimately voted to recommend that any review be cross-party, limited to the statutory library service, and have clearly defined terms of reference. This decision reflects a desire to ensure transparency and impartiality in a process that has clearly caused significant public anxiety.

The committee also reviewed the Treasury Management and Investment Outturn Report for 2526, noting stable returns despite market volatility, and the year-end integrated performance report, which showed improved performance in many areas, particularly fire and rescue services.

Read more about the Resources and Fire & Rescue Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.

School Extension Approved Amidst Traffic Concerns

Planning permission has been granted for an extension to Avon Valley School in Rugby, following a decision by the Regulatory Committee on Tuesday 30 June 2026. The extension includes the demolition of a modular classroom and the expansion of the main school building, along with associated car parking and landscaping.

While the committee ultimately approved the plans, local councillors raised concerns about the effectiveness of the proposed park and stride and travel plan, particularly during adverse weather conditions. Councillor Adrian Warwick, representing the division where the school is located, questioned the guarantees for residents regarding enforcement and monitoring to prevent parking issues. The case officer explained that the school would appoint a travel plan coordinator responsible for the plan's success, and that the council would monitor its implementation. Despite these concerns, the committee was satisfied that the site visit had not revealed any insurmountable obstacles to granting permission.

Read more about the Regulatory Committee meeting.

Other Matters

• Treasury Management and Investment Outturn: The Resources and Fire & Rescue Overview and Scrutiny Committee reviewed the Treasury Management and Non-Treasury Investment Financial Outturn Report for 2526. The report detailed the council's treasury activities, noting slightly lower rates of return than the previous year but stable performance amidst market volatility. Cash balances had reduced, partly due to a strategy to borrow internally and partly due to the SEND deficit. The committee also discussed drawdowns from the Property and Infrastructure Fund and the Local Communities Enterprise Fund. Concerns were raised about the pace of housing development and the amount of funds lent out from the property development group. Read more about the Resources and Fire & Rescue Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.
• Year-End Integrated Performance Report: The Resources and Fire & Rescue Overview and Scrutiny Committee also received the year-end integrated performance report for 2526. The report indicated improved performance across resources and fire and rescue services, with 86% of the Council Delivery Plan activity and 72% of key performance measures achieved or on track. Strengths were noted in fire and rescue, with improvements in response times and fire safety activity. Challenges remain in elements of the capital programme and workforce pressures. Read more about the Resources and Fire & Rescue Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.

This week in Warwickshire:

Urgent Action Needed as Local Hospices Face Financial Crisis

Warwickshire's vital hospice and palliative care services are in a critical financial state, with several providers warning they are on the brink of closure or forced service cuts. The Adult Social Care and Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee heard stark warnings on Wednesday 24 June 2026 from representatives of Shipston Home Nursing, The Shakespeare Hospice, Mary Ann Evans Hospice, and Myton Hospices.

These essential services, which provide crucial symptom relief, bereavement support, and holistic care, are facing unprecedented financial challenges. Despite demand soaring due to an ageing population, hospices are heavily reliant on charitable donations, with NHS funding often covering less than 20% of their operational costs. This precarious funding model means that even highly-rated services, like The Shakespeare Hospice which recently received an Outstanding CQC rating, are being forced to make devastating decisions. Tracey Sheridan, CEO of The Shakespeare Hospice, revealed they are drawing £100,000 a month from reserves to cover salaries and may have to reduce clinical services by 25%, leading to redundancies.

Myton Hospices, the sole provider of inpatient hospice beds for Coventry and Warwickshire, has had to decommission 11 beds due to affordability issues, despite a significant waiting list. Ruth Freeman, CEO of Myton Hospices, highlighted that this means around 320 patients a year who have been assessed and wish to die in hospice care are instead waiting, with many dying or becoming too ill to move before a bed becomes available. She argued that opening these beds could eradicate waiting lists and save the NHS an estimated £3.5 million annually.

The committee expressed shock and concern, with Councillor Kate Rolfe, a trustee of The Shakespeare Hospice, stating, These hospices need help now. Rachel Danter, Executive Director of Strategy and Strategic Commissioning for the Coventry and Warwickshire Integrated Care Board (ICB), acknowledged the national funding crisis and confirmed a review of hospice funding is underway, promising a more detailed plan in a future meeting. However, the immediate need for action was palpable, with the stark reality that some services could cease to exist within weeks.

Read more about the Adult Social Care and Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.

School Road Safety Programme Gets Green Light for 20mph Limits

A comprehensive programme to introduce advisory 20mph speed limits outside all Warwickshire schools has been recommended for approval. The Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee, meeting on Wednesday 24 June 2026, endorsed the plan, which is funded by a £3 million grant from the Department for Transport over four years.

The initiative is part of a wider response to a council motion on school road safety, addressing five key actions. These include prioritising school crossing patrols, ensuring safe crossings are integrated into new school developments, exploring developer contributions for safe crossings, and assessing the feasibility of average speed cameras near educational establishments.

The advisory 20mph limits are seen as a crucial step in making journeys to school safer for children, encouraging active travel, and reducing casualties. Councillor Luke Cooper, Leader of the Restore Britain Group, successfully proposed an amendment to ensure the Department for Transport funding is ring-fenced specifically for this 20mph speed limit project, preventing it from being diverted to other uses. This move is a significant investment in the safety and wellbeing of Warwickshire's youngest residents.

Read more about the Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.

Highway Improvement Schemes Approved, Including New Roundabout Arm

Several developer-funded highway improvement schemes have been approved, paving the way for essential infrastructure upgrades across the county. The Portfolio Holder Decisions/Leader Decisions meeting on Thursday 25 June 2026 saw Councillor James Crocker, Portfolio Holder for Finance and Property, sign off on these projects.

A key approval includes the addition of a fourth arm to the roundabout on the B4429 Daventry Road near Dipbar Fields, Dunchurch. This £380,000 scheme, funded by Persimmon Homes Central, is necessary to support a new housing development and will be undertaken by the council's highways team following the developer's detailed design. This ensures that new developments contribute to improving local infrastructure, rather than solely increasing traffic burdens.

Additionally, a £0.394 million scheme to expand specialist educational places at Welcombe Hills School in Stratford upon Avon was also approved. This project, funded by the High Needs Provision Capital Allocation and developer contributions, will create 20 new places for pupils with low cognition levels. This is a vital step in meeting the growing demand for local SEND provision, potentially saving the council significant costs associated with independent specialist placements.

Read more about the Portfolio Holder Decisions/Leader Decisions meeting.

Other Matters

• Rugby Borough Council Planning Applications and Highways Objections: During the Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting on Wednesday 24 June 2026, concerns were raised about the highways objection process for planning applications in Rugby Borough. Councillor Senthil Karadiar suggested it was a tick-box exercise lacking on-the-ground data. Steve Smith, Director of Infrastructure, Planning and Environment, refuted this, explaining the thoroughness of the Highways Development Management process, which involves multiple expert teams assessing road safety, traffic modelling, and growth data. He emphasised that the council would not approve applications without highway clearance, and their objections and conditions carry significant weight. Read more about the Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.
• Gully Cleansing Programme Update: The Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee also received an update on the cyclical gully cleansing programme. Richard Fenwick, Director of Highways, and Benjamin Hill detailed the move to a risk-based approach, moving away from prescriptive cleaning schedules. With additional funding, gullies previously on a three-year cycle have been moved to a two-year cycle. Members raised concerns about specific issues such as incorrect attachments for cleansing wagons, the need for a find and fix approach, and the theft of gully covers. Read more about the Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.
• School Road Safety Programme: The Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee endorsed the continued delivery of school road safety programmes. Key actions include improving recruitment and retention for School Crossing Patrols, integrating safe crossing assessments into new school developments, exploring developer contributions for safe crossings, and assessing the feasibility of average speed cameras near educational establishments. Read more about the Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.
• Economic Development Update: Isobel Woods presented an economic development update to the Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee, highlighting the continued strength of Warwickshire's economy despite challenges. Key initiatives include the Warwickshire Business Growth Service, the Warwickshire Teenage Markets programme, and attendance at the UKREiiF property show to showcase Warwickshire's assets. The devolution of adult skills funding from August 2026 was also noted as a significant opportunity. Read more about the Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.
• HS2 Update: An update on HS2 was provided to the Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee, noting ongoing engagement with HS2 Ltd and the management of remaining HS2 road safety funding. Concerns were raised about the council's difficulty in recovering £1.7 million owed by HS2 for highway damage claims, with the issue having been escalated to the construction minister. Read more about the Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.
• Code of Conduct Complaint Against Councillor George Finch: The Hearing Sub-Committee met on Wednesday 24 June 2026 to consider a complaint against Councillor George Finch, Leader of the Council, regarding a breach of the Council's Code of Conduct. The Sub-Committee decided, by a majority of 2:1, that Councillor Finch had not breached the Code of Conduct as the information he posted on X (formerly Twitter) was no longer confidential. Read more about the Hearing Sub-Committee meeting.
• Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) Delays: The Children & Young People Overview and Scrutiny Committee discussed the persistent failure to meet the statutory 20-week deadline for completing EHCPs. Councillor Jennifer McAllister noted that performance had worsened, despite it being a priority. Councillor George Finch, Leader of the Council, attributed the backlog to increased demand following national EHCP reforms and acknowledged the issue as a priority. Read more about the Children & Young People Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.
• Lack of Overnight Respite for Children with SEND: Concerns were raised at the Children & Young People Overview and Scrutiny Committee regarding the current lack of overnight respite provision for children with SEND, following the closure of the Act of Government provision. Councillor Jennifer McAllister questioned whether the council was meeting its statutory duties and if eligibility criteria remained transparent. Officers confirmed that there was no current overnight support being offered by the current provider and that a new provider's application for registration had been rejected. Read more about the Children & Young People Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.
• School Attendance Data Reviewed: The Children & Young People Overview and Scrutiny Committee reviewed school attendance data for Warwickshire. Sarah Jo, from the Attendance Service, reported that overall absence had fallen to 6.9%, narrowing the gap with the national average, and persistent absence had improved to 17.5%, now below the national figure. However, severe absence remained a challenge. Read more about the Children & Young People Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.
• School Outcomes and Assessments: The Children & Young People Overview and Scrutiny Committee reviewed the 2025 Examination and Assessments: School Outcomes Detailed Report. Overall, Warwickshire's performance was broadly in line with national averages, but a persistent attainment gap was noted for disadvantaged pupils. Read more about the Children & Young People Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.

This week in Warwickshire:

New Foster Care Contract Approved to Support Vulnerable Young People

Warwickshire County Council has approved a new contract for residential step-down foster care, a crucial service designed to help young people transition from residential settings to more independent living. The decision was made by Councillor George Finch, Leader of the Council, on Thursday 18 June 2026.

This step-down care provides a vital bridge for children and young people leaving residential placements, offering them a supportive environment to develop the skills and confidence needed for independent living. The contract's terms and conditions will be overseen by the Executive Director of Resources. Crucially, the Children & Young People Overview and Scrutiny Committee will review the effectiveness of this new service at least every three months. This regular scrutiny is essential to ensure the care provided meets the highest standards and truly benefits the young people it serves, offering them the best possible chance for a stable future.

Read more about the Portfolio Holder Decisions/Leader Decisions meeting.

Waste Partnership Tackles Performance Drops and Fly-Tipping

The Warwickshire Waste Partnership met on Wednesday 17 June 2026 to address a mixed bag of performance data and ongoing challenges in waste management. While recycling and reuse rates saw a slight increase, composting rates dropped significantly, leading to an overall decrease in the recycling, composting, and reuse rate. This dip in performance means more waste is likely heading to landfill or incineration, impacting the environment and potentially increasing costs.

The partnership also discussed the persistent problem of fly-tipping, with national trends showing an increase in incidents. Warwickshire is no exception, and the meeting heard about efforts to tackle this issue, including improved reporting and discussions on enforcement. The rising threat of fires caused by batteries and vapes in waste streams was also highlighted, underscoring the importance of public awareness campaigns on proper disposal.

Updates on food waste collections across different districts showed varying progress, with some councils nearing procurement completion while others are rolling out services. The national Resources and Waste Strategy was also discussed, including upcoming changes like the Deposit Return Scheme and the need for digital waste tracking. These initiatives are designed to encourage more responsible waste management and reduce the environmental impact of our consumption.

Read more about the Warwickshire Waste Partnership meeting.

Police and Crime Panel Discusses Violence Against Women and Girls, Rural Crime, and Justice System Delays

The Warwickshire Police and Crime Panel convened on Monday 15 June 2026, tackling a wide range of issues affecting community safety and the justice system. A significant focus was placed on the ongoing challenge of Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG), which accounts for 20% of recorded crime. Panel members stressed the importance of encouraging more reporting and ensuring victims feel supported. The discussion acknowledged that societal divisions and social media may contribute to the rise in these crimes, with a particular concern raised about the growth of domestic violence.

The panel also heard about the rise in business, retail, and rural crime. While statistics show a reduction in vehicle crime county-wide, local concerns about car break-ins and attempted thefts in rural areas persist. The Police and Crime Commissioner highlighted the establishment of a dedicated business crime team and ongoing collaboration with neighbouring forces to tackle these issues.

Delays within the criminal justice system, including court backlogs, were also a key concern. The panel is seeking more detailed data to understand the full impact on victims and the process from offence reporting to court outcomes. The discussion underscored the need for a more efficient and responsive justice system, particularly for vulnerable individuals.

Read more about the Warwickshire Police and Crime Panel meeting.

Corporate Parenting Panel Reviews Support for Children in Care

The Corporate Parenting Panel met on Monday 15 June 2026 to review the council's support for children in care and care leavers. Updates from the Voice, Influence & Change Team highlighted ongoing work with young people on priorities such as mental health support and access to personal files. Events for Children in Care, including a wellbeing day, were also discussed, aiming to provide positive experiences and opportunities for connection.

The panel received updates on Warwickshire's Children's Homes, including occupancy rates and recruitment challenges for Residential Manager posts, a national issue impacting the availability of stable care environments. Performance data revealed an increase in the number of Children in Care, particularly in the Stratford District, and a continued reliance on external agencies for foster care placements due to a national shortage.

The Virtual School reported on educational outcomes for Children in Care, noting that while overall performance is strong, writing and maths at Key Stage 2 remain areas for improvement, reflecting national trends. The report also detailed the Virtual School's approach to SEND, enrichment activities, and funding for pupil premium plus. An annual review of the Local Offer for Care Experienced Young People highlighted strong demand for financial support, accommodation, and education, employment, and training (EET) opportunities, with young people requesting improved accessibility of information, including a potential app.

Read more about the Corporate Parenting Panel meeting.

Other Matters

• Traffic Regulation Orders for Crewe Lane, Kenilworth: The Portfolio Holder for Transport and Planning was due to make a decision on proposed traffic regulation and speed limit orders for Crewe Lane in Kenilworth on Monday 15 June 2026. The proposals include introducing a 30 mph speed limit and prohibiting motor vehicles on a section of the lane to manage traffic from new housing developments and improve safety. Public consultation revealed significant objections, with concerns about access and detours. Read more about the Portfolio Holder Decisions/Leader Decisions meeting.