The Staffordshire County Council meeting on Thursday 16 July 2026 addressed a wide range of issues, including the significant decision regarding the local government reorganisation (LGR) for Staffordshire, which will see the county split into two unitary authorities. The Council also discussed the ongoing challenges and strategies related to highway maintenance, with a focus on proactive repairs and increased investment, and debated the national government's approach to planning decisions and their impact on local communities.

Local Government Reorganisation (LGR)

A major focus of the meeting was the announcement of the local government reorganisation for Staffordshire, which will result in the county being split into two unitary authorities: North Staffordshire (comprising Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire Moorlands, and Stoke-on-Trent) and South Staffordshire (comprising East Staffordshire, Lichfield, Tamworth, Cannock, Stafford, and South Staffordshire). This decision, announced by the government shortly before Parliament's summer recess, was met with widespread criticism from councillors across the chamber. Councillor Martin Murray, Leader of the Council, expressed disappointment, stating that the decision lacked a public mandate and was a political mapping exercise. Councillor Philip White, Leader of the Opposition, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the scant detail provided and the short timetable for implementation. Concerns were raised about the potential financial implications, the duplication of services, and the loss of local democratic control and representation. Despite the opposition to the reorganisation, councillors acknowledged the need to work collaboratively to ensure the transition causes the least negative impact on residents and services. A scrutiny meeting on the LGR was scheduled for 28 July, and the Council committed to working together to deliver the changes.

Highway Maintenance and Investment

Significant discussion revolved around the Council's approach to highway maintenance. Councillor Hunt highlighted the Highways team's achievement of 5,000 defect repairs in June and their target of 40,000 by March 2027, a 25% increase compared to previous years. Councillor Mason, Cabinet Member for Strategic Highways, explained the new proactive approach, contrasting it with the previous reactive strategy. He detailed the £15 million investment in backlog reduction, aiming to fix issues before they become serious. The use of new technologies like velocity patching and screening was discussed, with a commitment to move towards one-visit permanent repairs. However, concerns were raised by Councillor Farrell and others about the quality and longevity of temporary repairs, with the council aiming to reduce their use. Councillor White also cautioned against arbitrary targets and the use of reserves for short-term fixes, emphasizing the need for careful spending. The issue of roundabouts posing a particular challenge for repair crews was also raised.

Planning Decisions and Local Control

Several councillors voiced concerns about central government's increasing involvement in local planning decisions, particularly regarding major applications in the Staffordshire Moorlands. Councillor Beardsmore and others argued that this undermined local democratic accountability, with decisions being made far from the communities affected. The Peak Cluster carbon capture pipeline proposal was a specific example, with councillors highlighting potential environmental, agricultural, and landscape impacts, as well as disruption from construction. The Council resolved to engage fully in the consultation process, ensure local concerns were heard, and requested that the Leader write to the government and the scheme promoter to emphasize the importance of local voices. Councillor White also raised concerns about fake devolution and the risk of government continuing to take powers away from local people.

Other Key Discussions

• Youth Unemployment and Skills: The Council acknowledged the growing national challenge of youth unemployment and discussed strategies to address it, including investment in further education colleges and the Get Staffordshire Working programme. Councillor White highlighted the cost of employing young people and the importance of apprenticeships.
• SEND Reforms: The Council discussed its response to the government's SEND reform, with a focus on ensuring children receive the right support in the right place and at the right time. Councillor Higgins detailed the three-year reform plan, co-produced with parents and professionals, and reiterated the need for fairer national funding for Staffordshire's SEND services.
• Community Fund: The report on the 2025 Community Fund highlighted its success in supporting 234 groups with £144,000 allocated, generating over £800,000 in project value. Examples of funded projects included children's activities, community facilities, and cultural initiatives.
• Notice of Motion on Puberty Blockers: A motion expressing concern about the use of puberty blockers for children questioning their gender identity was debated. Councillors shared personal experiences and research, emphasizing the need for caution, evidence-based care, and robust safeguarding. The motion was ultimately passed, reaffirming the Council's commitment to the welfare of children and young people.
• Notice of Motion on Equality Principles: A motion was put forward outlining five principles: formal equality before the law, individual dignity and merit, proportionality, rejection of compelled conformity, and transparency and public trust. The motion passed with broad support, though some councillors raised concerns about the interpretation and application of equity versus equality by state institutions.
• Changes to the Constitution: Several amendments to the Council's constitution were approved, including changes to procedural standing orders regarding meeting conduct, recording votes, and questions to statutory officers. A councillor dress code was also adopted, aiming to promote a professional image while allowing for reasonable adjustments.
• Vice-Chair Appointments: The Council agreed to reduce the number of Vice-Chairpersons on Overview and Scrutiny Committees to one per committee, resulting in an annual saving of £12,344.48.
• New Councillors Welcomed: Councillor Jonathan Pike was welcomed following his election as the new Councillor for Stretton and Horninglow.

The meeting concluded with the Chairman thanking members for their contributions and declaring the meeting closed.