The Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority (GLCCA) met on Wednesday, 10 December 2025, to approve its Corporate Plan, the devolution of the Adult Skills Fund, and its draft Medium Term Financial Plan. The meeting also saw the appointment of statutory officers and a review of the Authority's constitution.

GLCCA Corporate Plan Content Approval

The Authority formally adopted The Greater Lincolnshire Plan, its corporate plan, which sets out the strategic direction for the region. The plan is built around three core themes: Bolder Ambitions, Better Connected Communities, and Brighter Futures. It aims to drive economic growth, improve transport and connectivity, and enhance access to training and well-paid jobs. The Chief Operating Officer, Lee Sirdifield, presented the plan, which had undergone extensive consultation with members, authorities, and the Economic Advisory Panel. Caroline Illingworth, Interim Strategic Lead for Community & Business Engagement, outlined the development process. Members discussed incorporating themes such as infrastructure, health, equity, and active travel, with officers confirming these would be considered within the existing framework. The plan will be reviewed annually to ensure its continued relevance.

Devolution of the Adult Skills Fund

The Authority approved the Adult Skills Fund Strategic Skills Plan, along with its ambition and strategic priorities, and the commissioning approach. This paves the way for the GLCCA to take over the management of the Adult Skills Fund from the Department for Education, aiming to better meet the specific needs of Greater Lincolnshire residents. Clare Hughes, Interim Strategic Lead for Employment and Skills, presented the report, highlighting that the fund supports adults aged 19 and over in gaining skills for employment, progression, or further learning. The approved plan includes priorities such as creating accessible, high-quality provision aligned with local business needs, increasing confidence and support for learners, funding business-led qualifications, and enhancing the capacity of local training providers. Changes to funding rules and operational procedures were also approved, with a formal consultation planned for proposed changes to residency rules and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) provision.

GLCCA Draft Medium Term Financial Plan

The Authority noted the content of the draft Medium-Term Financial Plan (MTFP) for 2026/27 to 2029/30. Debbie Simpson, Interim S73 Officer, presented the draft budget, which reflects the Authority's mission to deliver devolution benefits and supports its five strategic priorities: Economic Growth, Infrastructure Development, Skills Development, Community Engagement, and Sustainable Growth. The plan incorporates a new operating model, moving away from Service Level Agreements (SLAs) towards employing staff and establishing offices. The MTFP assumes steady year-on-year growth in funding and outlines projected income and expenditure, with a balanced position for the 2026/27 budget. The Authority is awaiting confirmation of funding allocations from the government, which will inform the final budget presented in February 2026. The report also detailed the Q2 financial position, capital expenditure, and treasury management report, alongside identified risks and mitigations, including the establishment of an Elections Reserve and a New Programmes Reserve.

Appointment of Statutory Officers

Catherine Whitehead was appointed as the Interim Monitoring Officer, and Michael Carr was appointed as the Interim Statutory Scrutiny Officer. Lisa Tremble, Interim Monitoring Officer, presented the report, explaining that these appointments are necessary for the Authority to be legally compliant. As permanent recruitment is not yet feasible, interim appointments from the wider market were deemed the most appropriate solution. The Monitoring Officer ensures the Authority acts lawfully and ethically, while the Statutory Scrutiny Officer supports the scrutiny function and good governance. Both appointees bring significant experience to their roles.

Review of the Authority's Constitution

The Authority approved proposed amendments and additions to its Constitution, following endorsement from the Audit Committee and a recommendation from the Transport Board. A plan for the ongoing review of the constitution was also noted. Lisa Tremble, Interim Monitoring Officer, presented the report, which detailed changes to the terms of reference for the Transport, Employment and Skills, and Business and Infrastructure Boards. A new Gifts and Hospitality Procedure was also incorporated, and the establishment of the Transport for Greater Lincolnshire Advisory Group was agreed, with its terms of reference and initial appointments detailed. The constitution is considered a live document, subject to regular review to ensure it remains fit for purpose as the Authority evolves.

Board Membership and Terms of Reference

The meeting also saw the approval of updated Terms of Reference for the Transport Board, the Employment and Skills Board, and the Business and Infrastructure Board. These updates reflect the evolving operational needs of the Authority and ensure alignment with best practices. The Transport Board's Terms of Reference were amended to include the establishment of the Transport for Greater Lincolnshire Advisory Group, which will act as a forum for key transport sector representatives to collaborate, inform policy development, and lobby for investment. The membership and chairing arrangements for these boards were also confirmed.