Councillor Gordon Stewart

The Cabinet decided to approve recommendations for the Council Tax Support Scheme Review. The decision was made on 08/09/2026. The Executive Director of Transformation and Resources was authorised to undertake a public consultation on proposed changes to the scheme for working-age applicants for 2027-28.

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 capital proposals on 08/09/2026. This included approving expenditure for a Solar PV Estate, Building Safety and Compliance Programme, grant funding for Haltwhistle Swimming and Leisure Centre Plant Improvements, and expenditure for Hexham Tyne Mills Vehicle Depot design and delivery activities. The Cabinet approved capital expenditure of up to £3.500 million for the Solar PV programme, grant funding of up to £1.191 million for Haltwhistle Leisure Centre, and expenditure of up to £0.450 million for the Hexham vehicle depot.

The Cabinet decided to approve the North Pennines National Landscape Management Plan 2026-2031 on 8 September 2026. This plan sets out policy for the management of the National Landscape and guides the actions of relevant authorities. It includes outcomes and suggested measures for conserving and enhancing natural beauty.

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.