The Lancashire Combined County Authority (LCCA) met on Tuesday 14 April 2026 to discuss a range of significant strategic issues, including the adoption of the Local Transport Plan Core Strategy and its accompanying Implementation Plan, the inception of a Spatial Development Strategy, and an update on the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Key decisions were made regarding the adoption of the Local Transport Plan Core Strategy and the approval of the draft Implementation Plan for public consultation.

Lancashire Spatial Development Strategy (SDS) - Inception

The Authority was briefed on the new statutory duty to prepare a Spatial Development Strategy (SDS) for Lancashire, stemming from the Planning and Infrastructure Act 2025. This SDS will form part of the statutory development plan and will set a strategic framework for investment, development, and growth across the county. Initial preparatory and enabling works are underway, supported by £414,284 in grant funding from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. The proposed SDS geography will align with the LCCA boundary, simplifying cross-boundary collaboration with neighbouring authorities such as Greater Manchester and Liverpool City Region. Members noted the importance of this new strategic planning duty and the ongoing work to establish its foundations.

Local Transport Plan - Core Strategy Adoption

The LCCA formally adopted the Lancashire Local Transport Plan (LTP) Core Strategy, a crucial statutory document outlining the county's transport priorities for the next 20 years. This strategy aims to foster a stronger economy, fairer opportunities, and a more sustainable future for Lancashire. Following statutory consultation, amendments were made to the draft document, notably the removal of specific scheme details into the Implementation Plan to provide greater clarity on delivery. The adopted Core Strategy will guide future transport investment and planning across the county.

Local Transport Plan - Implementation Plan

The Authority approved the draft Local Transport Plan (LTP) Implementation Plan for public consultation. This plan details the specific schemes and strategies to be progressed between 2026 and 2030, translating the Core Strategy's long-term ambitions into a four-year delivery programme. The plan is structured around four workstreams: Connecting Lancashire, Transforming Travel Choices, Safe and Vibrant Communities, and Future-Ready Networks. Schemes have been prioritised based on strategic fit, value for money, and deliverability, with a funding approach that combines central government allocations, targeted grants, and developer contributions. The Chief Operating Officer was authorised to undertake public consultation on the draft plan.

UK Shared Prosperity Fund - Programme Update

An update was provided on the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) in Lancashire, detailing programme progress up to December 2025 and ongoing efforts to mitigate the implications of the fund's conclusion in September 2026. The report highlighted that £11.8 million of the £22.4 million allocated for 2025/26 had been spent by December 2025. A significant concern was raised regarding the absence of a direct successor programme for the LCCA as a Foundation Strategic Authority, which could impact local business support and employment/skills provision. Leaders intend to raise this issue with the Minister for Devolution, Faith and Communities.

Members' Allowance Scheme 2026/27

The LCCA approved the Members' Allowance Scheme for 2026/27. The scheme remains largely unchanged but includes an update to reflect the introduction of a £2,000 annual allowance for the independent chairs of both the Scrutiny and Audit committees. The Monitoring Officer was authorised to make any necessary further amendments to the scheme for 2026/27, including those related to the potential opt-in of elected members to the Local Government Pension Scheme.

Pay Policy Statement 2026/27 & Other Employment Matters

The Authority approved its proposed Pay Policy Statement for 2026/27, which outlines its approach to the remuneration of Chief Officers. The statement reaffirms the continuation of secondment arrangements for the three statutory officers – Head of Paid Service, Section 73 Officer, and Monitoring Officer – from the three Constituent Councils for 2026/27. An update was also provided on the recruitment for the LCCA Director of Transport post, with a successful candidate having verbally accepted the position.

Report of the Lancashire Combined County Authority Committees

The Authority received updates from its Audit and Governance Committee and Overview and Scrutiny Committee. The Audit and Governance Committee noted reports on key updates, the financial assurance framework, internal audit progress, counter financial crime policies, the corporate risk register, and the audit plan for 2026/27. The Overview and Scrutiny Committee received updates on the Chief Operating Officer's activities, the 'Get Lancashire Working' programme, and the LCCA Budget for 2026/27. Both committees discussed the implications of Local Government Reorganisation and the need for improved alignment between scrutiny functions and advisory boards.

Business Board Update

A verbal update was provided on the work of the Business Board, highlighting discussions on the Northern Growth Strategy and mid-market business support. The Board is actively engaging with Tom Riordan, who is leading work on the Northern Growth Strategy, and exploring partnerships with NatWest to support mid-tier companies. Concerns were raised about the unsuccessful bid for the Innovation Business Support Fund, and the need for collaborative approaches with neighbouring authorities to secure future investment. The Board is also engaging with the Lancashire County Pension Fund regarding investment opportunities.

Advisory Boards Update

Updates were received from the Chairs of the Transport, Economy, and Skills Advisory Boards. The Transport Advisory Board noted progress on appointing a Director of Transport and the development of the implementation plan. The Economy Advisory Board discussed the relaunch of the Lancashire Investment Fund and received updates on the Northwest Business Fund. The Skills Advisory Board reviewed the Lancashire Local Skills Improvement Plan, the devolution of post-16 capital funding, and the closure of the UKSPF programme, noting concerns about gaps in provision, particularly for young people. A positive announcement was made regarding Blackpool and Fylde College being named as one of five Defence Technical Excellence Colleges.

The next meeting of the Lancashire Combined County Authority was scheduled for 23 June 2026.