The Cabinet of Gloucestershire Council met on Wednesday 21 October 2026, approving several key strategies and plans aimed at improving public health, supporting local businesses, and enhancing digital infrastructure. Decisions included the adoption of a new Tobacco Control Strategy, a Healthy Weight Strategy, and a strategy to support Gloucestershire's farming businesses, alongside the approval of a plan for the Special Education Needs and Disabilities (SEND) transformation grant and the commencement of public engagement for the Spatial Development Strategy.

SEND Transformation Grant and Reform Plan Approved

Cabinet approved the draft Gloucestershire Local Area SEND Reform Implementation Plan 2026-2029 and accepted a £21.781 million grant from the Department for Education (DfE) to support this reform. This funding will be used to enhance mainstream inclusion for children and young people with Special Education Needs and Disabilities (SEND), increase access to specialist support, and improve overall outcomes. A significant portion of the grant, up to £6.36 million, will be transferred to the Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board (GICB) to fund specialist health practitioners, including Speech and Language Therapists and Occupational Therapists. Authority was delegated to the Director of Education and the Executive Director of Children's Services to make necessary amendments to secure DfE endorsement and to implement the plan and associated grant arrangements. This initiative is part of a national reform to strengthen the SEND system, aiming for more inclusive settings and better support for children with SEND.

New Tobacco Control Strategy Adopted

The Gloucestershire Tobacco Control Strategy 2026-2030 was approved by Cabinet, providing a framework to address tobacco use and associated health inequalities across the county. The strategy aims to create a Smokefree Gloucestershire by 2030, with a prevalence rate of 5% or less. Key priorities include preventing uptake among young people, supporting smokers to quit, reducing exposure to second-hand smoke, tackling illicit tobacco, monitoring tobacco use, and increasing public awareness. The strategy acknowledges that smoking is a complex addiction influenced by social, economic, and environmental factors, and emphasises a collaborative, system-wide approach involving various partners. Cabinet delegated authority to the Director of Public Health for final publication design and minor non-material changes.

Healthy Weight Strategy for the Next Decade Approved

Gloucestershire's Healthy Weight Strategy 2026-2036 was adopted by Cabinet, aiming to create environments where healthier choices are easier and more accessible for all residents. The strategy acknowledges that weight is influenced by a complex range of factors and seeks to reduce health inequalities by focusing on five pillars: healthier places and settings, healthier diets, increased physical activity, person-centred support, and embracing system-wide approaches. It promotes a compassionate, non-stigmatising approach and aims to strengthen collaboration across partners to improve physical and mental wellbeing, support economic prosperity, and reduce future demand on health and care services. Authority was delegated to the Director of Public Health for final publication design and minor non-material changes.

Public Engagement to Begin on Spatial Development Strategy

Cabinet approved the commencement of an initial informal round of public engagement on the Spatial Development Strategy (SDS). This strategy will provide a high-level framework for growth and development across Gloucestershire, sitting above local plans. The engagement period will run for six weeks from 2 November to 14 December 2026, utilising online surveys, in-person drop-in sessions, online public sessions, and targeted focus groups to gather views from residents and stakeholders. The feedback will inform the preparation of the draft SDS, with a formal consultation planned for autumn 2027. Authority was delegated to the Director of Economy and Environment to agree communication and engagement materials.

Strategy to Support Farming Businesses Adopted

The Supporting Gloucestershire's Farming Businesses Strategy 2026-2030 was adopted by Cabinet, providing a strategic framework to support the growth, resilience, and long-term sustainability of the county's food and farming sector. The strategy focuses on championing the sector, developing skills and innovation, supporting resilient business models, and building connections and collaboration. It acknowledges the significant changes facing the agricultural sector, including policy reform, rising costs, and environmental demands. The strategy will be supported by Gloucestershire's participation in the HARVEST project, a four-year European-funded programme. Authority was delegated to the Executive Director of Economy, Environment and Infrastructure to make minor amendments and updates to the strategy.

Digital Infrastructure, Inclusion & Innovation Strategy Delivery Plan Approved

Cabinet approved the delivery programme and budget commitments for the Digital Infrastructure, Inclusion & Innovation Strategy (DIIIS) for 2026/27 and 2027/28. The strategy aims to improve digital infrastructure, promote digital inclusion, and foster digital innovation across the county. Key actions include refining delivery arrangements, procuring a countywide Digital Inclusion Service, and supporting businesses in adopting digital technologies and improving cyber resilience. A budget of £3,032,984 has been approved for the initial two years, with further funding to be sought for subsequent years. Authority was delegated to the Director of Economy and Planning to implement the plan.

The meeting also included updates and noted reports on various other matters, with all key decisions subject to a call-in period.