This week in Warwickshire:

Traffic Signals Approved for Rugby Junction Amidst Resident Concerns

Councillor Jennifer Warren, Portfolio Holder for Transport and Planning, has approved the introduction of traffic signal-controlled junction improvements at the B4429 Ashlawn Road / Barby Road / Onley Lane in Rugby. The decision, made on Monday 23 February 2026, follows a previous deferral to allow for a site visit and consideration of an objection from the owners of Upper Rainsbrook Lodge.

The scheme is a condition of a planning permission granted for a large residential development and aims to improve safety by controlling vehicle movements and reducing speeds. The current junction layout has been identified as potentially confusing for drivers and has been the site of previous collisions. The approved improvements include traffic signals, pedestrian facilities, and a toucan crossing, designed to create a safer environment for all road users, including cyclists and pedestrians.

Despite the council's efforts to address concerns, the owners of Upper Rainsbrook Lodge raised objections regarding the impact on their property's access, safety for cyclists and pedestrians, increased pollution, and the loss of the rural aspect. To mitigate these issues, Warwickshire County Council proposed installing a vehicle detection loop to ensure safe property access and committed to retaining existing vegetation and trees. Warwickshire Police have supported the proposals.

The decision to proceed with these traffic signal improvements highlights the council's commitment to enhancing road safety and infrastructure, particularly in areas undergoing significant development. The funding for these works will be fully provided by the developer through a Section 278 agreement, meaning no direct cost to council taxpayers.

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

Adult Social Care Faces Financial Strain as Performance Dips

The Adult Social Care and Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday 25 February 2026 to review the Quarter 3 Integrated Performance Report for 2025/26. The report paints a concerning picture of financial strain, with services forecasting a cumulative net service overspend of £6.703 million. Furthermore, savings targets are forecast to be underachieved by £4.455 million, representing a significant challenge for the directorate.

The report indicates that only 58.3% of the Key Business Measures (KBMs) attributable to the committee were reported as delivering, a decrease from the previous quarter. Strategic risks remain static, with three critical risks flagged as 'red', including the sustained demand for services and market forces putting financial pressure on Adult Social Care. This could mean longer waits for support and a strain on resources for those most in need.

The committee also discussed the draft Warwickshire Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2026-31, which aims to improve population health and reduce health inequalities. The strategy prioritises creating conditions for good mental health, tackling poverty, and promoting healthy lifestyles. Updates were also provided on the provision of Older Adults Hospital at Home services, with a focus on improving equity of access and service provision.

The committee's work programme is set to include monitoring the National Oversight Framework (NOF) and reviewing recommendations from the Menopause Services Task and Finish review. A joint meeting with the Children and Young People Overview and Scrutiny Committee to review the council's response to the COVID-19 pandemic is also planned.

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

Communities Committee Tackles Economic Development and Transport Challenges

The Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday 25 February 2026 to address key issues impacting Warwickshire's communities, including economic development, transport funding, and resident satisfaction with highways services.

An update on Economic Development revealed a recent rise in unemployment, although claimant counts remained steady. The delivery of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund is on track, with significant support provided to businesses. However, uncertainty looms regarding future funding beyond April 2026, with the Local Growth Fund expected to focus on mayoral authorities. Opportunities in the film and TV sector were highlighted, alongside employment programmes and redundancy support for automotive workers facing job losses. This economic uncertainty could impact local employment prospects, particularly for vulnerable groups.

The Quarter 3 Integrated Performance Report indicated that 62% of Council Delivery Plan activities within the committee's remit were on track, with 19% facing challenges. While visitor numbers to country parks remain strong, the cost of Home to School Transport continues to be a challenging area, directly impacting families reliant on these services.

Regarding the National Highways and Transport 2025 Survey, Warwickshire continues to perform strongly against peer County Councils, particularly in Highway Maintenance and pothole repairs. However, areas for improvement were identified, including street lighting and road sign cleanliness, with notable disparities in satisfaction levels across different districts. This suggests that while overall performance is good, the quality of local services can vary, potentially affecting residents in specific areas.

An update on Consolidated Local Transport Funding outlined a new system from the Department for Transport, consolidating grants into multi-year settlements. Warwickshire's proposed focus areas include Network Resilience, Public Transport, Road Safety, and Centres & Corridors, aiming to improve accessibility and safety across the county. The development of Local Transport Plan Area Strategies was also discussed, with the North Warwickshire Area Strategy serving as a template for future plans, focusing on active travel, public transport, and road safety.

Read more about the Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.

Other Matters

• Children and Young People's Mental Health Services Recommissioning: The Children & Young People Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday 24 February 2026 to discuss the recommissioning of children and young people's mental health and emotional wellbeing services. A new model based on the Thrive Framework is being developed, with services expected to align by 2029. This aims to provide a more integrated and accessible support system for young people, addressing concerns about fragmented care. Read more about the meeting.
• Great Alne Primary School Closure Proposals: The same Children & Young People Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting also considered proposals for the future of Great Alne Primary School. With only 11 pupils and a significant financial deficit, closure is being considered. This decision will have a profound impact on the local community and the families of the remaining pupils, who are being offered admissions consultations to find alternative placements. Read more about the meeting.
• Child Poverty Reduction Strategy Development: The Children & Young People Overview and Scrutiny Committee also began discussions on developing a Warwickshire Child Poverty Reduction Strategy 2026-2030. Evidence shows rising child poverty in Warwickshire, with relative low income increasing and Free School Meal eligibility rising significantly. The strategy aims to provide a coordinated approach to tackling this issue, which disproportionately affects vulnerable families and children. Read more about the meeting.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a summary of upcoming meetings and their main topics:

• Regulatory Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/97435) - Tuesday 03 March 2026: Consideration of a proposed diversion order for public footpaths in Bidford-on-Avon and a report on the settlement of a Local Government Ombudsman investigation.
• Cabinet (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/97689) - Thursday 05 March 2026: Consideration of the draft Council Plan 2026-30, additions to the Education Capital Programme, and the Warwickshire Employment & Skills Strategy.
• Resources and Fire & Rescue Overview and Scrutiny Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/97692) - Wednesday 04 March 2026: Review of the Our People Strategy Annual Review, Quarter 3 Integrated Performance Report, and Treasury Management Update Report.
• Portfolio Holder Decisions/Leader Decisions (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/98061) - Friday 06 March 2026: Topics to be confirmed.
• Pension Fund Investment Sub-Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/98165) - Monday 09 March 2026: Review of the Pension Fund Valuation 2025, Investment Strategy Statement, and Pension Fund Governance Report.
• Staff and Pensions Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/98168) - Monday 09 March 2026: Topics to be confirmed.
• Health and Wellbeing Board (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/99126) - Wednesday 11 March 2026: Topics to be confirmed.
• Portfolio Holder Decisions/Leader Decisions (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/99167) - Monday 09 March 2026: Topics to be confirmed.

This week in Warwickshire:

Council Approves Budget with 4.44% Council Tax Rise, Reinstating Youth Grants

Warwickshire County Council has approved its budget for the upcoming financial year, opting for a 4.44% council tax increase. This decision, made during a County Council meeting on Tuesday, 17 February 2026, followed a lengthy debate and the reinstatement of youth grants, which had been initially proposed for removal. The council also approved the 2026-31 Medium Term Financial Strategy and the Treasury Management and Investment Strategy.

The budget process saw significant debate between the ruling Reform UK group and opposition parties, particularly the Liberal Democrats and Green Party. Councillor Stephen Shaw, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Finance and Property, presented the Reform UK budget, highlighting adjustments made since a previous meeting, including increased allocations for gully cleaning and rural community support, and the removal of proposed cuts to domestic abuse services. The initial proposal for a 3.89% council tax increase was met with criticism from opposition groups who argued it was insufficient to protect vital services.

Councillor Sarah Boad, Deputy Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group, presented an alternative collaborative budget that advocated for greater investment in children and youth services, climate resilience, and safer walking routes to schools. She argued that the proposed council tax increase was too low and would lead to further cuts in essential services, particularly for vulnerable families. The Liberal Democrats and Green Groups proposed a 4.8% council tax increase, which was ultimately lost by 19 votes to 4.

Councillor Adrian Warwick, Leader of the Conservative Group, criticised the opposition's amendment as financially overextended and argued for a more disciplined approach to budgeting. Councillor Anne-Marie Sonko, Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care and Health, emphasised the critical pressures on adult social care, stating that over 60% of the council tax would be dedicated to these services, yet it would still not cover rising costs.

Ultimately, an amendment proposed by Councillor George Finch, Leader of the Council, which included a 4.44% council tax increase and the reinstatement of youth grants, was carried. This decision aims to balance the need for increased revenue with the desire to support youth services, which had been a point of contention. The impact of this council tax rise on residents, particularly those in areas like Nuneaton and Bedworth who are already facing financial hardship, will be closely watched.

The council also approved the Treasury Management Strategy and Investment Strategy for 2026/27. Councillor Stephen Shaw presented the strategy, which outlines how the council will manage its cash flow and investments. While the council forecasts an internal borrowing position for the current and next financial year, external borrowing may be required from 2027/28. Councillor James Crocker voiced concerns about the risks associated with large property investments, advocating for a greater focus on supporting small businesses. The strategy was approved with 41 votes in favour and 4 against.

Read more about the County Council meeting.

Traffic Signal Improvements Approved for Rugby Junction Amidst Objections

A proposal to introduce traffic signal-controlled improvements at the junction of B4429 Ashlawn Road, Barby Road, and Onley Lane in Rugby has been approved by Councillor Jennifer Warren, Portfolio Holder for Transport and Planning. The decision was made on Monday, 23 February 2026, following a review of updated reports and consideration of objections.

The scheme, funded by developers as a condition of a 2016 planning permission for a large residential development, aims to improve safety by controlling vehicle movements and reducing speeds. The existing junction has been identified as having issues with driver confusion and previous collisions. The proposed improvements include traffic signals, pedestrian facilities, and a toucan crossing, designed to enhance safety for all road users, including cyclists and pedestrians.

Despite the council's efforts to address concerns, objections were raised by the owners of Upper Rainsbrook Lodge, citing impacts on property access, safety, pollution, and the loss of the rural aspect. The council has proposed installing a vehicle detection loop to mitigate access concerns and has committed to retaining existing trees and hedgerows to preserve the rural appearance. Warwickshire Police and local councillors have been consulted and support the proposals.

The approval of this scheme demonstrates the council's commitment to improving road safety and infrastructure, particularly in areas undergoing significant development. The funding mechanism, through a Section 278 agreement with the developer, ensures that the costs are borne by the development rather than council taxpayers.

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

Great Alne Primary School Closure Proposals to be Reviewed Amidst Falling Pupil Numbers

The future of Great Alne Primary School is under scrutiny, with proposals for its closure to be discussed by the Children & Young People Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Tuesday, 24 February 2026. The school faces significant challenges due to a drastic decline in pupil numbers, leading to substantial financial deficits.

With only 12 pupils in February 2026, down from 102 in 2020/21, the school has 89% of its places unfilled. This has resulted in a projected cumulative deficit of £0.422 million by August 2026. A formal statutory process for closure has been initiated, with a final decision expected from the Cabinet in April 2026. The committee will review the financial implications, environmental considerations, and consultation responses, including the presumption against closing rural schools.

The committee will also examine the Quarter 3 Integrated Performance Report for 2025/26, which highlights challenges in areas such as the completion of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and a projected service overspend. Updates on the recommissioning of Children and Young People's Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing services and the development of a Child Poverty Reduction Strategy are also on the agenda. The committee will also review the draft Warwickshire Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2026-31, which aims to improve population health and reduce inequalities.

Read more about the Children & Young People Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.

Other Matters

• Adult Social Care and Health Performance Review: The Adult Social Care and Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee will meet on Wednesday, 25 February 2026, to review the Quarter 3 Integrated Performance Report, which indicates a significant projected overspend and underachievement of savings targets. They will also discuss the draft Warwickshire Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2026-31, focusing on mental health, poverty reduction, and healthy lifestyles, and receive an update on Older Adults Hospital at Home Provision. Read more about the meeting.
• Communities Committee to Examine Economic Development and Transport: On Wednesday, 25 February 2026, the Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee will receive an update on Warwickshire's economic development, including challenges with rising unemployment. They will also review the Quarter 3 Integrated Performance Report, the results of the National Highways and Transport survey, and discuss local transport funding allocations and area strategies. Read more about the meeting.
• Regulatory Committee to Consider Rugby Junction Scheme: The Regulatory Committee will meet on Tuesday, 03 March 2026, to discuss the proposed traffic signal improvements at the Ashlawn Road, Barby Road, and Onley Lane junction in Rugby. This follows a previous deferral to allow for a site visit and consideration of objections. Read more about the meeting.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a summary of upcoming meetings and their main topics:

• Portfolio Holder Decisions/Leader Decisions (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/96961) - Monday 23 February 2026: Consideration of proposed traffic signal improvements at Ashlawn Road, Barby Road, and Onley Lane in Rugby.
• Children & Young People Overview and Scrutiny Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/96484) - Tuesday 24 February 2026: Review of Great Alne Primary School proposals, Quarter 3 Performance Report, and updates on mental health services and child poverty reduction.
• Adult Social Care and Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/96725) - Wednesday 25 February 2026: Review of Quarter 3 Performance Report, draft Health and Wellbeing Strategy, and update on Hospital at Home provision.
• Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/96729) - Wednesday 25 February 2026: Economic development update, Quarter 3 Performance Report, and transport strategy updates.
• Regulatory Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/97435) - Tuesday 03 March 2026: Topics to be confirmed.
• Cabinet (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/97689) - Thursday 05 March 2026: Topics to be confirmed.
• Resources and Fire & Rescue Overview and Scrutiny Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/97692) - Wednesday 04 March 2026: Topics to be confirmed.

This week in Warwickshire:

Council Faces Crucial Budget Decisions: £27.7 Million in Cuts Planned as Council Tax Rises

Warwickshire County Council is set to make some of the most significant financial decisions in recent years, with the County Council meeting on Tuesday 17 February 2026 to approve the 2026/27 Budget and the 2026-31 Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS). The proposals paint a stark picture of financial pressures, with plans for £27.7 million in budget reductions in the upcoming year, rising to a staggering £100.3 million by 2031.

These cuts are being driven by increasing demand and costs in vital services, particularly Adult Social Care and Children's Social Care, alongside significant pressures in Home to School Transport and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) provision. The council is proposing a 3.89% council tax increase for 2026/27, made up of a 1.89% core increase and a 2% levy specifically for adult social care. This rise is presented as essential to fund rising costs and meet demand.

A major concern highlighted in the budget papers is the escalating deficit in SEND provision, projected to reach £327 million by March 2028. The council's reliance on a statutory override to manage this deficit underscores the severity of the situation. The budget also needs to account for the financial implications of potential Local Government Reorganisation.

The council is also set to review its Treasury Management Strategy and Investment Strategy for 2026/27, focusing on security, liquidity, and yield for its financial assets. A notable change proposed is the shift in the Minimum Revenue Provision (MRP) policy, moving from a 4% reducing balance method to an Asset Life (Equal Instalment) Method for repaying debt.

The 2026/27 Capital Budget outlines planned expenditure of £740.028 million over five years, with £278.508 million allocated for the upcoming year. This ambitious programme includes investments in school places (especially for SEND), children in care services, adult social care, flood defence, and business centres to drive economic growth.

The sheer scale of these financial decisions, particularly the planned cuts and council tax increase, will have a direct impact on the services residents rely on. The council's ability to manage these pressures while maintaining essential support for vulnerable groups, including the elderly and children, will be a key test of its financial stewardship.

Read more about the County Council meeting.

Parking Charges Under Fire: Council Defends Fee Hikes Amidst Resident and Business Concerns

Warwickshire County Council's decision to increase on-street parking charges in Leamington, Warwick, Kenilworth, and Stratford-upon-Avon from April 2026 has sparked significant debate. The move, aimed at generating an additional £0.248 million and aligning with the council's financial strategy, has drawn criticism from local businesses and residents who fear it will deter shoppers and harm town centres.

The Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday, 7 January 2026, to discuss a call-in regarding these proposed increases. Councillors raised concerns that the 50% hike in the 15-minute parking charge, from £0.30 to £0.45, disproportionately affects short-stay visitors and businesses in the south of the county, particularly when compared to charges in Rugby.

Councillor Jan Matecki, who initiated the call-in, argued that the increase contradicts Department for Transport guidance to encourage high turnover in town centres. He stated, If you're going to make it the same cost pro rata, then you're not discouraging anybody going around because it's the same cost. And what this does is it damages the businesses in the south of the county because this only applies to the Stratford District and Warwick District Council areas. Concerns were also raised about the accuracy of information presented to the Portfolio Holder for Transport and Planning, Councillor Jennifer Warren, when the decision was initially made.

Councillor Lorraine Grocott echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for equitable policies across the county, especially in light of local government reorganisation. She highlighted the impact on vulnerable residents, with Councillor Senthil Karadiar using the example of an elderly person needing to collect medication, for whom even a small increase can be significant.

Councillor Warren defended the decision, explaining that the aim was to align the 15-minute charge with other bands, representing a consistent 3p per minute. She stated, No, it doesn't bring a lot of revenue in, but I think it's important to say that we need to bring in additional revenue into this council.

Following extensive discussion, the committee recommended three proposals to Councillor Warren for reconsideration:

• Limit the 15-minute charge increase to 35p, with any necessary revenue generation shifted to the one-and-a-half-hour and two-hour charges.
• Introduce a 10-minute free parking period.
• Engage with local businesses affected by the 15-minute charge increase on any future increases.

The committee's recommendations were carried unanimously and will be formally presented to Councillor Warren for her consideration.

Read more about the Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.

School Place Planning Under Scrutiny: Concerns Over Falling Birth Rates and Housing Development

The Children & Young People Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday, 06 January 2026, to address a call-in concerning the Annual Education Sufficiency Update. Councillors raised significant concerns that the council's strategy for forecasting school places may not adequately account for falling birth rates and a slowing housing market, potentially leading to an oversupply of places and undermining the viability of existing primary schools.

The call-in, lodged by Councillors Keith Kondakor, Jonathan Chilvers, Nicki Scott, and Senthil Karadiar, highlighted that projections were based on assumptions of significant population growth that are no longer accurate. Councillor Kondakor warned of a massive crisis in our primary schools coming, because they will not have enough pupils. He pointed to a significant drop in birth rates and a drastic reduction in child migration as key factors that the current strategy fails to adequately address.

Officers from Warwickshire County Council, including Nigel Minns, Executive Director for Children and Young People, explained the methodology used for forecasting school places, which aligns with Department for Education guidance. They acknowledged the complexities of balancing supply and demand, particularly in areas with significant housing development.

Councillor Jennifer McAllister raised specific local issues in North Leamington, where parents are struggling to secure places at North Leamington School, despite overall figures suggesting capacity. This highlighted concerns about the broad planning areas used for secondary schools.

The committee resolved to make three recommendations to Cabinet:

1. Increased sensitivity analysis in data and projections at a local level: This would involve exploring different scenarios for migration and housing build-out to provide a more nuanced understanding of future school place needs.
2. District and borough area sufficiency workshops for members: These workshops would allow for more detailed examination of local data and circumstances, fostering a better understanding of specific area needs.
3. Re-evaluation of planning areas, particularly at secondary school level: This recommendation aims to ensure that planning areas are appropriately defined to reflect local demand and provision.

These recommendations were unanimously approved by the committee and will be sent to Cabinet for consideration.

Read more about the Children & Young People Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.

Other Matters

• Annual Pay and Display Charge Review: The Portfolio Holder Decisions/Leader Decisions meeting on Friday 13 February 2026 was scheduled to consider a review of annual pay and display charges. The report pack indicated a recommendation to reduce the proposed increase to the 15-minute parking charge from 45p to 35p. It was also recommended not to proceed with a proposed 10-minute free parking period. The aim of maintaining a lower 15-minute charge is to encourage quick visits, supporting town centre economic growth. Read more about the meeting.
• Fees and Charges for Traffic Model Licensing: Also discussed at the Portfolio Holder Decisions/Leader Decisions meeting on Friday 13 February 2026 was a review of fees and charges for traffic model licences. The proposal was to approve changes to these fees and data charges, effective from 1 April 2026. These reviews are conducted annually to ensure charges reflect the cost of service delivery and remain competitive. The proposed changes included an increase in the fee for Model Access Band A from £8,500.00 to £10,000.00, an 18% rise, to better reflect the time officers spend reviewing model information and ensuring accuracy. Read more about the meeting.
• Proposed Traffic Signal Junction in Rugby: The Portfolio Holder Decisions/Leader Decisions meeting on Friday 13 February 2026 was set to discuss the proposed introduction of a traffic signal-controlled junction at Ashlawn Road / Barby Road / Onley Lane in Rugby. This proposal was a condition of a planning permission granted in 2016 for residential development. Objections were received concerning the impact on property access, safety for cyclists and pedestrians, and potential increases in pollution and loss of privacy. Mitigation measures were outlined, including the installation of a vehicle detection loop. Read more about the meeting.
• Consultation on SEND Resourced Provision: The establishment of a new Resourced Provision for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) was scheduled for consultation at the Portfolio Holder Decisions/Leader Decisions meeting on Friday 13 February 2026. The proposal was to create a provision at Our Lady's Catholic Primary School, Princethorpe, to cater for up to eight primary-aged pupils with an Education, Health and Care plan (EHCP) whose primary needs are in communication and interaction (C&I). This is part of a wider strategy to manage the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) and reduce the need for more expensive independent specialist provision. Read more about the meeting.
• Pension Fund Governance and Administration: The Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Local Pension Board of the Firefighters' Pension Scheme met on Monday 09 February 2026 to discuss governance and policy updates, administration of the Firefighter Pension Schemes, and a review of risks. Discussions included compliance with The Pension Regulator's General Code of Practice, updates to the Risk Management Policy, and changes to Inheritance Tax rules. An update on the administration of the Firefighter Pension Schemes was also provided, along with a review of the fire pensions risk register. Read more about the meeting.
• Cabinet Reviews Performance and School Admissions: The Cabinet met on Thursday 12 February 2026 to discuss the Quarter 3 Integrated Performance Report for 2025/26, proposed changes to school admissions arrangements for the 2027/28 academic year, and a potential addition to the Capital Programme for the refurbishment of the Pears Centre. The performance report highlighted areas of strong performance and challenges in statutory services. Proposed changes to school admissions included criteria for staff children and alignment of criteria for junior schools. The Pears Centre refurbishment aims to create multi-use delivery spaces and alternative education provision. Read more about the meeting.
• Pension Fund Investment Sub-Committee Reviews Property: The Pension Fund Investment Sub-Committee met on Tuesday 10 February 2026. The agenda included a review of global property investments and consideration of exempt information. Read more about the meeting.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a summary of upcoming meetings and their main topics:

• County Council (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/96295) - Tuesday 17 February 2026: Consideration of the 2026/27 Budget and the 2026-31 Medium Term Financial Strategy, along with the Treasury Management Strategy and Investment Strategy.
• Children & Young People Overview and Scrutiny Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/96484) - Tuesday 24 February 2026: Topics to be confirmed.
• Portfolio Holder Decisions/Leader Decisions (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/96961) - Monday 23 February 2026: Topics to be confirmed.
• Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/96729) - Wednesday 25 February 2026: Topics to be confirmed.
• Adult Social Care and Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/96725) - Wednesday 25 February 2026: Topics to be confirmed.

This week in Warwickshire:

Council Faces Crucial Budget Decisions: £27.7 Million in Cuts Planned as Council Tax Rises

Warwickshire County Council is set to make some of the most significant financial decisions in recent years, with the County Council meeting on Thursday 5 February 2026 to approve the 2026/27 Budget and the 2026-31 Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS). The proposals paint a stark picture of financial pressures, with plans for £27.7 million in budget reductions in the upcoming year, rising to a staggering £100.3 million by 2031.

These cuts are being driven by increasing demand and costs in vital services, particularly Adult Social Care and Children's Social Care, alongside significant pressures in Home to School Transport and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) provision. The council is proposing a 3.89% council tax increase for 2026/27, made up of a 1.89% core increase and a 2% levy specifically for adult social care. This rise is presented as essential to fund rising costs and meet demand.

A major concern highlighted in the budget papers is the escalating deficit in SEND provision, projected to reach £327 million by March 2028. The council's reliance on a statutory override to manage this deficit underscores the severity of the situation. The budget also needs to account for the financial implications of potential Local Government Reorganisation.

The council is also set to review its Treasury Management Strategy and Investment Strategy for 2026/27, focusing on security, liquidity, and yield for its financial assets. A notable change proposed is the shift in the Minimum Revenue Provision (MRP) policy, moving from a 4% reducing balance method to an Asset Life (Equal Instalment) Method for repaying debt.

The 2026/27 Capital Budget outlines planned expenditure of £740.028 million over five years, with £278.508 million allocated for the upcoming year. This ambitious programme includes investments in school places (especially for SEND), children in care services, adult social care, flood defence, and business centres to drive economic growth.

The sheer scale of these financial decisions, particularly the planned cuts and council tax increase, will have a direct impact on the services residents rely on. The council's ability to manage these pressures while maintaining essential support for vulnerable groups, including the elderly and children, will be a key test of its financial stewardship.

Read more about the County Council meeting.

Police Precept Increase Approved: £15 Rise for Band D Properties Amidst Funding Shortfalls

Residents will see an increase in their policing precept contribution, following the Warwickshire Police and Crime Panel's consideration of the Police and Crime Commissioner's (PCC) proposed budget and precept for 2026/27. The panel met on Monday 2 February 2026 to discuss a £15 increase for a Band D property, representing a 4.94% rise.

This increase is deemed necessary to support a net revenue budget of £151.674 million, with the PCC highlighting that the government's provisional settlement is lower than anticipated and does not adequately address funding formula issues for Warwickshire. Public consultation revealed that over half of respondents supported an increase to fund visible improvements.

The budget aims to deliver faster response times, stronger neighbourhood policing, improved call handling, and better investigations, supported by investment in specialist teams and a new records management system. However, concerns were raised about the loss of specific funding for tackling anti-social behaviour (ASB), which had previously supported partner organisations in hotspot areas. While the PCC stated that safer neighbourhood teams will continue ASB patrolling, there is an acknowledgement that this may not be at the same level as before.

The meeting also touched upon the impending abolition of Police and Crime Commissioners by 2028, with future policing oversight potentially falling to elected mayors or Police and Crime Boards. This uncertainty adds another layer of complexity to long-term planning.

The decision to increase the precept, while aimed at maintaining service levels, places an additional financial burden on residents, particularly those already struggling with the cost of living. The panel's scrutiny focused on ensuring that this increase translates into tangible improvements in policing and community safety.

Read more about the Warwickshire Police and Crime Panel meeting.

Footpath Diversion Decision Deferred: Committee to Visit Site Amidst Objector Concerns

A decision on the proposed diversion of public footpath AL28 & SD23a in Bidford on Avon has been deferred by the Regulatory Committee. The committee met on Tuesday 3 February 2026 and, after hearing arguments from officers and considering objections, resolved to conduct a site visit before making a final decision.

The current footpath runs through the applicant's garden, and the proposed diversion would create a new, shorter route of approximately 390 metres. The applicant seeks the diversion for privacy and security reasons, and to remove a steep embankment and an area prone to flooding.

However, 29 objections were received, raising concerns about the increased distance for those wishing to complete a circular walk, the loss of a picturesque route, and potential impacts on local businesses. Objectors also questioned the safety of the new route due to its proximity to a golf course and the accuracy of information regarding flooding.

The committee's decision to visit the site reflects the contentious nature of the proposal and the need for members to fully understand the practical implications for both the applicant and the public. The deferral highlights the council's commitment to thorough consideration of public rights of way, ensuring that any changes balance the needs of landowners with the public's right to access and enjoy the countryside.

Read more about the Regulatory Committee meeting.

Other Matters

• Passenger Transport Software: The Portfolio Holder Decisions/Leader Decisions meeting on Tuesday 3 February 2026 was scheduled to discuss passenger transport management software. However, details of the discussion and any decisions made were not publicly available due to restricted information. Read more about the meeting.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a summary of upcoming meetings and their main topics:

• Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Local Pension Board of the Firefighters' Pension Scheme (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/94965) - Monday 09 February 2026: Updates on governance and policy, administration of the Firefighter Pension Schemes, and a review of risks.
• Pension Fund Investment Sub-Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/94972) - Tuesday 10 February 2026: Review of global property investments and consideration of exempt information.
• Cabinet (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/94976) - Thursday 12 February 2026: Topics to be confirmed.
• Portfolio Holder Decisions/Leader Decisions (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/94982) - Friday 13 February 2026: Topics to be confirmed.