Councillor Laura Couse

...to approve the sharing of specific financial data with third parties, subject to due diligence and legal agreements, to identify potential efficiencies and savings for the council, while also delegating authority for further data sharing within defined parameters.

...the Cabinet adopted the Parks Development Strategy for West Northamptonshire.

...to commence a joint competitive procurement process with North Northamptonshire Council for Safe Accommodation and Support Services for victims and survivors of domestic abuse, starting April 4th, 2026, for a period of three years, with the possibility of two one-year extensions, and delegated authority for contract award and related actions to the Director of Housing and Communities.

...to address financial challenges in three large housing projects, the Cabinet approved a new delivery strategy for Avenue Campus involving land disposals and infrastructure contracts, noted the acceptance of a Brownfield Land Release Fund grant, authorized utility procurement for Bassett-Lowke Hall and infrastructure works, noted the use of funds for these works and a revised planning application, noted the use of funds for design work at Roof Gardens, noted Belgrave House's inclusion in the Greyfriars project, and acknowledged that fewer affordable homes would be delivered, impacting the HRA's capacity for future council homes.

...to act as the Accountable Body for the South Midlands region, the Cabinet approved accepting approximately £32 million in DWP grant funding over five years to deliver the Connect to Work programme, and delegated authority to the Section 151 Officer to finalize the grant agreement and related agreements with local authorities.