Councillor Eve Louise Chicken

The Cabinet decided to approve recommendations regarding the service redesign of Libraries and Customer Services on 08/09/2026. This included agreeing to a new operating model for a combined Library and Information Service, the introduction of revised operating models for 21 statutory libraries, and progress on community-led library models. The decision also agreed to delegate authority for minor amendments during implementation to the Executive Director of Public Health, Inequalities and Stronger Communities.

The Cabinet decided to approve recommendations for the Council Tax Support Scheme Review on 08/09/2026. This included authorising the Executive Director of Transformation and Resources to consult the public and Major Precepting Authorities on proposed changes to the scheme for working age applicants for 2027-28. The decision also agreed to finalise a new draft scheme following consultation and present it to Cabinet and then Full Council for approval.

Northumberland County Council's Cabinet decided to approve initial proposals for the refresh of the Gambling Act 2005 licensing policy on 8 September 2026. The Cabinet endorsed the proposals and approved the commencement of public consultation. The decision included noting the nature of the licensing scheme, endorsing the initial proposals, and approving the consultation process.

The Cabinet decided to approve recommendations regarding the Bus Reform Statutory Consultation on 08/09/2026. Authority was delegated to the Executive Director for Place and Regeneration, in consultation with the Deputy Leader, to submit the council's response to NEMSA's statutory consultation on the proposed franchising of the North East bus network. Further reports on the consultation outcome and subsequent decisions will be provided.

The Cabinet decided to approve recommendations regarding the Housing Revenue Account financial performance at the end of June 2026. The decision was made on 08/09/2026. The Cabinet noted the projected outturn on the HRA revenue and capital budgets, the use of reserves, and details of capital project reprofiling.