Councillor Andrew Cross

Overview and Scrutiny Performance Board - Thursday, 16th October, 2025 10.00 am

The Overview and Scrutiny Performance Board met to discuss the One Worcestershire local government reorganisation proposal, its financial implications, and the scrutiny work programme for the coming year. Councillors expressed concerns about the lack of a complete business case, the potential for council tax increases, and the need for public consultation. The Board agreed to explore options for an additional meeting to scrutinise the One Worcestershire proposal before it goes to the full council.

Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education - Monday, 6th October, 2025 2.00 pm

The Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) of Worcestershire Council met on Monday 6 October 2025. On the agenda was the planning of conferences for the summer of 2026, and a discussion of national news regarding religious education. The council was also scheduled to discuss exam results and a workforce update.

Adult Care and Well Being Overview and Scrutiny Panel - Monday, 29th September, 2025 10.00 am

The Adult Care and Well Being Overview and Scrutiny Panel met to discuss mental health social care services, NHS continuing healthcare, budget monitoring and performance, and to refresh their work programme. Councillors heard that adult social care was facing financial challenges, with demand-led services increasing and putting pressure on budgets. The panel agreed to scrutinise the Integrated Care Board's (ICB) contribution to continuing healthcare and to schedule a session with partners and the community to discuss how they can support adult social care.

Council - Thursday, 11th September, 2025 10.00 am

The Worcestershire County Council met to discuss a range of issues, including treasury management, school places, local government reorganisation, and climate change. Councillors approved a healthcare parking permit scheme, but rejected a motion to withdraw the council's bid for a single unitary authority. They also agreed with the scientific consensus that man-made climate change exists.

Cabinet - Thursday, 17th July, 2025 10.00 am

Worcestershire County Council's Cabinet met to discuss secondary school place planning, options for County Hall, electric vehicle charge points, and the Treasury Management Annual Report. The Cabinet agreed to increase places at schools in Malvern to meet demand in 2026 and 2027, and authorised a feasibility study into using the County Hall site for education. They also delegated authority to award contracts for electric vehicle charge point infrastructure and supported submitting a business case to the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV). Finally, the Cabinet noted and agreed to refer the Treasury Management Annual Report to the full council.