The County Council meeting scheduled for Wednesday, 6 May 2026, was set to cover a range of administrative and governance matters. Key discussions were expected to include the election of the Council's Chair and Deputy Chair for the upcoming year, the establishment of a new Housing Overview and Scrutiny Committee, and the appointment of members to various committees and outside bodies. The meeting's agenda also included the consideration of proposed updates to the council's constitution and the annual reports from the Overview and Scrutiny Committees.

Election of Chair and Deputy Chair

The meeting was scheduled to begin with the election of a Chair and a Deputy Chair to preside over the Council for the ensuing year.

Establishment of a Housing Overview and Scrutiny Committee

A report was presented seeking approval to establish a dedicated Overview and Scrutiny Committee focused on Housing. This initiative is linked to the Council's Corporate Plan priorities of achieving value for money, tackling inequalities, and driving economic growth. The proposed committee would provide oversight of the Council's landlord functions, particularly in light of an improvement plan following an inspection by the Social Housing Regulator. The terms of reference for this new committee were to be refined at its first meeting.

Establishment of Committees and Appointment of Chairs and Vice-Chairs

Arrangements for the discharge of the County Council's non-executive functions were to be made through the appointment of committees. This included determining political proportionality across registered political groups and allocating seats on committees accordingly, in line with the Local Government and Housing Act 1989. The report detailed the proposed committees, their sizes, and the proportional membership for each, as well as the appointment of chairs and vice-chairs.

Timetable of Meetings for 2026-27

The Council was asked to approve the annual timetable of meetings for the 2026-27 Municipal year. This timetable outlines the scheduled dates for full Council meetings and other committees, with proposed start times adjusted for daylight hours during winter months.

Nominations to Outside Bodies

The Council was to consider and agree its nominations to various outside bodies. This process is a requirement of the Council's constitution, with appointments to be made by the Council itself, except where the function relates to an executive function, in which case the Cabinet would make the appointment.

Appointment of the Chair and Independent Members to Audit and Standards Committee

Approval was sought for the reappointment of the Chair and Independent Members of the Audit and Standards Committee. Peter Topping was proposed for reappointment as independent chair for a two-year term, alongside Stuart Green, Simon Openshaw, and James Hannah as independent co-opted members for the same period.

Constitution Update

Proposed updates to the council's constitution were to be considered, following review by the Constitution Working Group. Specifically, amendments to the terms of reference and membership of the Health and Wellbeing Board were presented for approval. These changes aim to enhance the Board's ability to promote integration in health and social care services, set strategic visions, and improve democratic accountability.

Annual Report of the Overview and Scrutiny Committees

The annual reports from the Council's four Overview and Scrutiny Committees were presented. These reports provided an overview of the work undertaken by the Communities and Place OSC, Corporate Services & Economic Growth OSC, Family and Children's Services OSC, and Health and Wellbeing OSC during the previous municipal year. The reports highlighted key areas of scrutiny, including financial performance, service reviews, and policy developments.

Return of the Person Elected as a Councillor to the Cramlington South West Electoral Division

The Returning Officer was scheduled to submit the return of the person elected as a Councillor for the Cramlington South West Electoral Division on 16 April 2026. Neil David Graham was listed as the elected Conservative councillor.