The Lancashire Combined County Authority met on Tuesday 14 April 2026 to discuss a range of strategic initiatives, including the development of a Spatial Development Strategy, the adoption of a Local Transport Plan, and updates on the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Key decisions included the approval of the Local Transport Plan Core Strategy and the Members' Allowance Scheme for 2026/27.

Lancashire Spatial Development Strategy (SDS) - Inception

The Authority was briefed on the new duty to prepare a Spatial Development Strategy (SDS) for Lancashire, stemming from the Planning and Infrastructure Act 2025. This strategy will form part of the statutory development plan and will address strategic planning issues such as housing and economic growth, infrastructure delivery, and climate resilience. The SDS geography is proposed to align with the Combined Authority's boundary. Initial preparatory work will be supported by a £414,284 grant from the Spatial Development Strategies Fund. Members noted the importance of this new duty and the ongoing work to establish the foundations for its preparation.

Local Transport Plan - Core Strategy Adoption

The Authority adopted the Lancashire Local Transport Plan (LTP) Core Strategy, a statutory document that sets out the transport priorities for Lancashire up to 2045. The strategy aims to support a stronger economy, fairer opportunities, and a more sustainable future. Following statutory consultation, amendments were made to the draft document, including the removal of proposed schemes from the Core Strategy itself and their transfer to the LTP Implementation Plan to provide clearer delivery detail. The adoption of this strategy provides a policy backbone for transport investment and aligns with the LCCA's Growth Plan.

Local Transport Plan - Implementation Plan

Members were asked to approve the draft Local Transport Plan (LTP) Implementation Plan for public consultation. This plan outlines the specific schemes and strategies to be progressed between 2026 and 2030, translating the Core Strategy's long-term ambitions into short-term priorities. 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 funding expected to come from a mix of central government allocations, targeted grants, and developer contributions.

UK Shared Prosperity Fund - Programme Update

An update was provided on the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) programme in Lancashire, covering progress up to December 2025. The report highlighted that the expenditure deadline for UKSPF and the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) had been extended to 30 September 2026. However, it was noted that as a Foundation Strategic Authority, Lancashire would not have a direct replacement programme for UKSPF from September 2026, unlike Mayoral Combined Authorities. This situation presents a risk of disadvantage for Lancashire's residents and businesses. Ongoing activity is focused on assessing the impact of the fund's end and exploring mitigation strategies. Leaders intend to raise the issue of the lack of a successor programme with the Minister for Devolution.

Members' Allowance Scheme 2026/27

The Authority approved the proposed Members' Allowance Scheme for 2026/27. The scheme has been updated to include an annual allowance of £2,000 for the independent chairs of both the Scrutiny and Audit committees. The Monitoring Officer was also authorised to make any necessary further amendments to the scheme throughout the year, including those related to the extension of Local Government Pension Scheme access to elected members.

Pay Policy Statement 2026/27 & Other Employment Matters

The Authority approved the proposed Pay Policy Statement for 2026/27. This statement outlines the LCCA's approach to the remuneration of its employees, particularly Chief Officers. The report also confirmed the continued appointment of the three statutory officers – Head of Paid Service, Section 73 Officer, and Monitoring Officer – through secondment agreements with the Constituent Councils for 2026/27. An update was provided on the recruitment process for the Director of Transport post, with interviews having taken place and a verbal acceptance received from the successful candidate.

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 Local Transport Plan progress, and the 'Get Lancashire Working' programme. Both committees reviewed their work programmes and discussed governance arrangements.

Business Board Update

Mo Isap OBE, Chair of the Lancashire Business Board, provided a verbal update on the Board's recent activities. The update highlighted ongoing progress on key initiatives and the continued dedication of officers and partners. Efforts to secure additional capacity funding from the Government were also mentioned.

Advisory Boards Update

The Chairs of the Transport, Economy, and Skills Advisory Boards provided updates on their respective board's activities. The Transport Advisory Board noted ongoing engagement on the Local Transport Plan Implementation Plan. The Economy Advisory Board was preparing to discuss the Lancashire Investment Fund and wider investment opportunities. The Skills Advisory Board reviewed the Local Skills Improvement Plan and preparatory work for the Adult Skills Fund, expressing concern about youth unemployment.

The meeting also included the appointment of County Councillor Stephen Atkinson as Chair and Councillor Lynn Williams as Vice Chair for the 2026/27 municipal year. The Authority approved its Constitution, membership, and appointments to committees and outside bodies for the upcoming year. A review of the Constitution was also agreed.

Decisions were made regarding the Local Skills Improvement Plan supporting statement, the allocation of Post 16 Capacity funds, and the award of Further Education Teacher Industry Exchange Funds. An increase to the single fare offer for Local Authority Bus Grant journeys was approved, and the development of a single, integrated transport identity for Lancashire was agreed. The Authority also noted the 2025/26 financial outturn, which resulted in an underspend and an increased contribution to reserves. Finally, the permanent establishment of the Chief Operating Officer post was approved, with Matthew Sidgreaves appointed to the role.