The Executive of Manchester Council is scheduled to convene on Wednesday, 16 September 2026, with a supplementary agenda addressing several key areas. The meeting will include discussions on the transition to a Greater Manchester (GM) End-to-End Fostering Hub, updates on the Council's financial performance, and proposals for the future of sport and leisure services.

End to End Fostering Report

A significant portion of the meeting is dedicated to the proposed transition from the current regional fostering recruitment hub to a Greater Manchester (GM) End-to-End Fostering Hub. This initiative, hosted by Rochdale Borough Council, aims to create a more streamlined and consistent approach to the entire fostering journey, from recruitment and assessment to approval and ongoing support for foster carers. The report highlights the national context of increasing the number of foster placements, with additional investment from the Department for Education. It also outlines a proposed funding formula and resource contributions for the financial years 2026/27 and 2027/28, detailing Manchester's financial commitment. Discussions are also scheduled regarding proposed changes to governance and local decision-making arrangements.

Revenue Monitoring Report (P4) 2026/27

The Executive will receive an update on the Council's revenue budget position for the financial year 2026/27, as of the end of July 2026. The report projects an overspend of £7.4 million for the year, detailing the main variances and outlining proposed mitigations. This includes an overspend forecast in Adult Social Care due to increased demand and complexity of care packages, as well as pressures in Neighbourhoods related to income shortfalls from advertising and market sites. The report also covers the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) position, which forecasts an in-year overspend of £34.0 million, and the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget, which indicates a significant drawdown from reserves. The Executive will be asked to approve proposed budget virements, the use of contingency and inflationary budgets, and the allocation of additional revenue grants.

Capital Programme Monitoring (P4) 2026/27

Progress against the Council's capital programme for 2026/27, up to the end of July 2026, will be reviewed. The report details the latest forecast of capital expenditure and significant variances, alongside the proposed financing of this expenditure and an assessment of the Capital Programme's affordability. Key projects to be discussed include the Our Town Hall Refurbishment, which is experiencing budget acceleration, and the Housing Revenue Account programme, which shows a projected underspend. The report also outlines proposed changes to the capital budget, including requests for Council and Executive approval for various schemes, such as the Mauldeth House Development for temporary accommodation and the acquisition of land for homelessness accommodation at Slade Lane and The Works.

Best Start for Life and Healthy Babies Family Hub Programme

An update will be provided on Manchester's Early Intervention and Prevention Services and the implementation of an integrated neighbourhood model. This model aims to support children, young people, and families through a citywide Best Start for Life Family Hub Network, enhancing access to early help and family support within local communities. The report details plans to establish Family Hubs and Centres in every neighbourhood, ensuring consistent access to support. It also highlights the commitment to co-production principles, involving children, families, and partners in service design, and a focus on proactively reaching underserved communities. The programme aims to provide early intervention to ensure children remain safe at home, thrive in school, and grow up healthy and confident.

Acquisition of Land and Buildings via Compulsory Purchase Order - 119-119A Raby Street

Proposals for the compulsory purchase of 119, 119a Raby Street in Moss Side will be presented. This property is described as a former single residential property in a dangerous, derelict condition that has caused blight. The proposed Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) is intended to facilitate regeneration and unlock the delivery of 212 new affordable residential dwellings and community space. Mosscare St Vincent Housing (MSV), the social landlord and developer, has agreed to fully indemnify the City Council against all costs associated with the CPO. The Executive will be asked to approve the CPO, authorise agreements with landowners, and delegate authority for the progression of the CPO.

Integrated Settlement Employment and Skills Programmes

The Executive will consider proposals for the allocation of up to £12.8 million of Integrated Settlement funding for employment programmes in Manchester, to be spent up to March 2029. The report outlines plans to utilise this funding to deliver employment and skills programmes aligned with the Our Manchester Strategy. This includes the continuation of existing successful programmes such as WorkWell Manchester, the Economic Trailblazer, NEET provision, and In-Work Progression. The funding will also enable the expansion of existing provision and the introduction of new interventions, notably the Worklessness Programme and Community-based Equity in Employment provision.

Termination of Section 75 Partnership Agreement with Greater Manchester Mental Health Foundation Trust (GMMH)

A report will be presented regarding the termination of the Section 75 Partnership Agreement with Greater Manchester Mental Health Foundation Trust (GMMH) and the NHS Greater Manchester Integrated Care Board. This termination, effective from 30 September 2026, will return delegated statutory Care Act 2014 functions and duties to Adult Social Care from 1 October 2026, with the TUPE transfer of 93 staff. The report notes this is a mutually agreed position and highlights the financial allocation for the repatriation of these duties.

Adult Social Care CQC Assessment Findings and Directorate Response

The Executive will receive an update on the Care Quality Commission (CQC) assessment of Adult Social Care services in Manchester, which resulted in an overall rating of Good with a score of 73%. The report summarises the assessment findings, highlighting strengths such as strong leadership, effective partnership working, and a commitment to reducing inequalities. It also outlines areas for further improvement and how the Directorate is refreshing its transformation programme, Achieving Better Outcomes Together (ABOT), to address these opportunities and progress towards an Outstanding rating.

Adult Social Care - Unpaid Carers Strategy 2026 – 2029

The Unpaid Carers Strategy 2026-2029 will be presented for approval. This strategy, co-created with over 250 unpaid carers and partners, sets out a framework for improving outcomes for adult carers. It details eight strategic priorities, including the creation of a Carer Support Hub, a Carers Navigation Service, expanded respite options, improved mental health support, strengthened financial advice, embedding carer awareness, investing in peer support, and supporting future planning. The strategy aligns with national policy and local intelligence, aiming to recognise, support, and value unpaid carers across Manchester.

Strengthening Fly-tipping Enforcement Through Increased Fixed Penalty Notice Fines

A proposal to increase the Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) fines for fly-tipping offences under section 33 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 will be presented. The recommendation is to increase the fine to the statutory maximum of £1,000, with a reduced amount of £700 for early payment within 10 days. This measure is intended to strengthen the deterrent effect and discourage fly-tipping, aligning with resident feedback on environmental quality and the Council's commitment to tackling environmental crime.

Homelessness Commissioning Update: Grant Funded Contracts

An overview of Homelessness Commissioning activities utilising grant funding from MHCLG/GMCA will be provided. This includes updates on the A Bed Every Night (ABEN) programme, Community Accommodation Service Tier 3 (CAS3), Targeted Supported Housing Support Services (TSHSS), and plans for a new national rough sleeping programme. The report details funding allocations, procurement approaches, and the anticipated impact of these services in preventing and reducing rough sleeping.

Housing Repairs Insourcing and Recommissioning (Part A)

The Executive will consider proposals for a combined model to manage housing repairs and maintenance services. The current contract with Equans expires on 31 March 2027, and the proposed model involves bringing the principal operational elements of the service into direct Council management while recommissioning specialist functions. This approach aims to strengthen operational control, improve accountability, and enhance service delivery for tenants, with a projected reduction in annual operating costs.

Housing Repairs Insourcing and Recommissioning (Part B)

This report provides further details on the proposed combined insourcing and recommissioning model for housing repairs and maintenance. It includes the supporting business plan, mobilisation arrangements, financial implications, and key risks associated with the transition. The report seeks approval to proceed with the insourcing of operational elements and the recommissioning of specialist services from 1 April 2027.

Delegation of Executive Functions to the Executive and Council Officers

The Executive will be informed of the Leader of the Council's decisions regarding the delegation of the Council's executive functions. This report confirms the delegation of all executive functions to the Executive and outlines arrangements for delegation to Chief Officers and other Council officers, as recorded in the Council's Constitution.

Manchester Local Plan - Draft for Consultation (Regulation 19)

The Executive will be asked to approve the consultation on the Regulation 19 version of the Draft Local Plan. This represents a final draft of the plan intended for submission to the Secretary of State for Examination. The Local Plan sets out a vision and strategy for development up to 2039, guiding decisions on future development proposals and aligning with infrastructure investment. The consultation will focus on tests of soundness and legal compliance.

Water Street Strategic Regeneration Framework Consultation Update

An update will be provided on the outcome of a public consultation regarding the draft update to the Water Street Strategic Regeneration Framework (SRF). The report seeks approval of the updated SRF, which aims to provide a high-quality, residential-led proposition with significant public parkland and enhanced biodiversity. The updated framework also amends the SRF area boundary to consider potential connections to adjacent areas.

Termination of Section 75 Partnership Agreement with Greater Manchester Mental Health Foundation Trust (GMMH)

This report seeks final approval to terminate the Section 75 Partnership Agreement with GMMH and the NHS Greater Manchester Integrated Care Board. This termination, effective from 30 September 2026, will return delegated statutory Care Act 2014 functions and duties to Adult Social Care, with the TUPE transfer of 95 staff. The report notes this is a mutually agreed position and outlines the financial allocation for the repatriation of these duties.