The Cabinet of Doncaster Council is scheduled to convene on Wednesday, 17 June 2026, with a key focus on the nomination of the Doncaster Humberhead UNESCO Biosphere. The meeting will also address the acceptance of significant grant funding for walking, wheeling, and cycling improvements, alongside a comprehensive review of the council's financial and performance standing for the 2025-26 period.

Doncaster Humberhead UNESCO Biosphere Nomination

A significant item on the agenda is the decision regarding the nomination for the Doncaster Humberhead UNESCO Biosphere¹. This initiative, outlined in the Doncaster Delivering Together Strategy and the Economic Strategy 2030, aims to establish the first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the North of England. The proposal centres on the nationally significant peatlands of the Doncaster Humberhead Levels, which are ecologically rich and vital carbon sinks, but also vulnerable, as evidenced by the 2020 wildfire on Hatfield Moors. The report highlights that UNESCO Biosphere Reserves are internationally recognised learning places for sustainable development and that this designation will not introduce new restrictions or regulations on land use. The council is being asked to approve the submission to UNESCO and to acknowledge the need for ongoing funding and resources for the management of the Biosphere. The potential benefits for citizens include improved community health and wellbeing through access to cleaner environments, strengthened local economies through nature-based enterprise and sustainable tourism, and enhanced local identity and pride.

Trans Pennine Trail Improvements Funding

The Cabinet will consider accepting £1,222,093 in grant funding from the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) via the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement. This funding is earmarked for walking, wheeling, and cycling improvements along a specific section of the Trans Pennine Trail², between Melton Road and the Boat Inn. This initiative forms phase two of improvements to the trail, following the completion of phase one in June 2024. The report indicates that current surfacing conditions along the riverside are poor, leading to accessibility issues and erosion, which this scheme aims to address. Proposed works include 3100 meters of improved surfacing, new seating, modifications to access controls, and new directional signage. The scheme is expected to encourage modal shift from cars to active travel, providing greater access to green space and promoting healthier lifestyles.

2025-26 Quarter 4 Finance and Performance Improvement Report

Mayor Ros Jones, leading on Budget, Policy and Economic Development, will present the 2025-26 Quarter 4 Finance and Performance Improvement Report³. This report summarises the council's delivery against its Corporate Plan and Budget for the financial year. The report notes the ongoing economic uncertainty, with international factors and the conflict in the Middle East impacting fuel and energy prices, and consequently UK inflation. Locally, Doncaster's economy is described as tracking close to benchmarks, with an employment rate above regional averages, though wage levels are slightly below. The report indicates a balanced outturn position for the year, with a net overspend of £1.2m funded by the release of earmarked reserves. However, it also highlights ongoing overspends in areas such as Adult Social Care, and projected shortfalls against income targets. The report also details performance against various service standards, including those related to tackling climate change, developing skills, making Doncaster a better place to do business, building healthier lives, and promoting the borough's cultural and heritage opportunities.

St. Leger Homes of Doncaster Limited (SLHD) Performance Update

An update on the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and Tenant Satisfaction Measures (TSMs) for St. Leger Homes of Doncaster Limited (SLHD) for the quarter ending 31 March 2026 will be presented. The report indicates that 22 out of 31 measured KPIs were met or were within agreed tolerances of their targets. The update includes detailed commentary on specific KPIs, such as rent arrears, void rent loss, average days to re-let properties, and tenant satisfaction with overall services and repairs. Notably, performance in managing rent arrears and the number of residents helped into training, education, or employment exceeded targets, while the percentage of homes meeting the Decent Homes Standard fell short of its target. The report also includes tenant perception survey results and benchmarking data.