This week in Bury:

Council Faces Scrutiny Over Information Governance and Risk Management

Bury Council's Audit Committee was scheduled to convene on Monday, 19 October 2026, to address critical updates on information governance, the corporate risk register, and progress reports from auditors. The meeting was set to delve into how the council manages sensitive data, identifies potential threats, and ensures accountability.

Information Governance: Balancing Access and Security

The committee was slated to receive an update on the council's information governance activities for the first half of the 2026/27 financial year. This included performance in handling Freedom of Information (FOI) requests, Subject Access Requests (SARs), and Environmental Information Requests (EIRs). While improvements in training compliance were noted, the report was expected to highlight a concerning increase in FOI and SAR requests, leading to a decline in meeting statutory timescales. This could mean longer waits for residents seeking important information.

Measures to address this, such as revising request allocation and introducing weekly performance reporting, were to be discussed. The committee was also to be informed about an increase in data breaches, which, paradoxically, was considered a positive sign of improved staff awareness in reporting incidents. The ongoing GDPR training programme and a revised framework for induction and refresher training were also on the agenda, underscoring the council's commitment to data protection.

Corporate Risk Register: Identifying Emerging Threats

A key item was the review of the council's Corporate Risk Register as of 18 September 2026. The register detailed 24 risks with the potential to disrupt strategic objectives and service delivery, with 18 rated as significant and 6 as high. Notably, two risks had seen their scores increase: Digital Transformation and Increasing Energy Prices.

The Digital Transformation risk reflects the council's growing reliance on digital solutions and AI, with potential impacts on productivity, service delivery, and cybersecurity. The Increasing Energy Prices risk highlights the ongoing volatility in global energy markets. A new risk, Bury Youth Justice Service Delivery, was also scheduled to be introduced, signalling a focus on this crucial area.

External Auditors Raise Concerns Over Financial Reporting

The committee was scheduled to receive a progress report from external auditors, Forvis Mazars. A significant point of discussion was expected to be the backstop legislation, which imposes deadlines for the publication of audited financial statements. It was noted that Bury Council's 2024/25 financial statements received a disclaimer of opinion due to insufficient time for audit procedures. The report was to outline the challenges in rebuilding assurance and the practical constraints that might prevent the council from achieving compliance by the end of the 2027/28 audit. The auditors were also to follow up on previously identified significant weaknesses in areas such as Children's Services and internal controls, relating to the council's Value for Money arrangements.

Internal Audit Progress and Confidential Investigations

The committee was also to receive a progress report from Internal Audit on work undertaken between July and September 2026. This included updates on the 2025/26 and 2026/27 audit plans. Confidential reports on counter fraud activities and internal audit investigations were also on the agenda, indicating a focus on safeguarding council resources and ensuring integrity.

You can find more details about these scheduled discussions here: Audit Committee.

Planning Applications: Housing Conversions and Green Belt Development Under Review

The Planning Control Committee was scheduled to consider a range of planning applications on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, including proposals for residential conversions and new dwellings, with a particular focus on development within the Green Belt.

Pub Conversion to Apartments: Balancing Community Assets and Housing Needs

One application was for the change of use of the Rose and Crown Inn, 36 Manchester Old Road, Bury, BL9 0TR from a public house to three self-contained apartments. While the report pack indicated a recommendation to approve with conditions, concerns were raised by neighbours regarding the impact on local services, parking, and potential anti-social behaviour. The proposal aimed to address housing needs while balancing the loss of a community asset.

New Dwelling in Green Belt: Protecting Open Space

Another significant application was for the construction of a single-storey dwelling in the garden of Sedgewell, Brandlesholme Road, Tottington, Bury, BL8 4DZ. This site is located within the Green Belt, and the proposal also involved a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) and a Public Right of Way. Objections from neighbours centred on the Green Belt location, potential precedent, and the need to protect historic features and trees. The applicant's case for very special circumstances was to be considered.

Joint Planning Committee for Northern Gateway Sites

A key item was the proposed establishment of a Joint Planning Committee with Rochdale Council to oversee development at the Northern Gateway sites. This joint committee would streamline decision-making for cross-boundary applications, ensuring consistency and efficiency. The proposal aimed to address strategic development needs across both administrative districts.

You can find more details about these scheduled discussions here: Planning Control Committee.

This week in Bury:

Council Faces Critical Budget Decisions Amidst Growing Financial Pressures

Bury Council is confronting significant financial challenges, with a projected budget gap of £9.585 million for the 2027/28 financial year, escalating to a cumulative gap of £17.508 million by 2029/30. This stark reality emerged during the Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, 14 October 2026, as councillors reviewed the draft 2027/28 budget and the Council's updated financial position. The scale of the deficit means that existing reserves are insufficient to cover the shortfall, prompting the Council to explore Exceptional Financial Support with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

The proposed savings and budget assumptions, while aiming to address the gap, have led to difficult discussions. A potential 4.99% Council Tax increase for 2027/28, comprising a 2.99% general increase and a 2.0% adult social care precept, is being considered. This move, aimed at generating much-needed revenue, could place additional financial strain on households, particularly those already struggling.

Several proposed savings measures were discussed, with some raising significant public interest and concern:

• Removal of a waste collection route: This proposed saving of £75,000 has led to questions about potential impacts on existing services, with residents in areas like Elton already reporting missed bin collections. Councillor Lucy Smith, Cabinet Member for Environment, Climate Change and Operations, assured that the aim is rationalisation and efficiency, not a reduction in overall service, but acknowledged the need to address persistent problems in certain areas.
• Potential Garden Waste Charge: While not yet confirmed, the Council is exploring the introduction of a charge for garden waste collection. This proposal, which has been implemented by many other councils, carries the risk of increased fly-tipping and potential net loss if not managed effectively. Councillor Sean Thorpe, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Corporate Services, highlighted that this is part of a broader waste strategy aimed at increasing recycling rates and environmental outcomes, not solely income generation.
• Review of School Crossing Patrols: A saving of £187,000 is being considered through a review of school crossing patrols, with 30 out of 32 proposed for disestablishment primarily serving primary schools. This raises concerns about the safety of children travelling to school, particularly in areas with high crime rates.

The draft budget and financial position were noted by Cabinet, with further consultation planned. You can find more details about these discussions here: Cabinet.

Future of Milton Meadow Sparks Community Debate and Council Decision

The proposed disposal of public open space at Milton Road Field, known locally as Milton Meadow, in Radcliffe, has ignited strong community opposition and a robust debate within the Cabinet. The meeting on Wednesday, 14 October 2026, saw residents voice their deep concerns about losing this valued green space, while councillors weighed the potential benefits of developing the site for an Alternative Provision (AP) Academy against the community's wishes.

Councillor Sandra Walmsley, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, presented the proposal for the new Ash Grove Alternative Provision (AP) Academy, which aims to provide a permanent, purpose-built facility for up to 136 pupils with an estimated project budget of £17 million. This would replace current temporary arrangements, addressing a statutory duty to provide education for children unable to access mainstream schooling.

However, the decision to proceed with the disposal of Milton Meadow faced significant pushback. Councillor Carol Birchmore, Leader of Radcliffe First, questioned the site's suitability and the cost per pupil. Residents, including those who had been actively involved in volunteering and improving the meadow, expressed dismay at the potential loss of a vital community asset. Concerns were raised about the impact on vulnerable residents, the perceived lack of transparency in the consultation process, and the potential for increased anti-social behaviour if the site were used for an AP Academy.

Despite these objections, the Cabinet resolved to proceed with the disposal of the public open space, allowing officers to enter into further discussions. The decision to progress the Ash Grove AP Academy project, including the use of the Milton Road site, was also confirmed. This decision highlights the difficult balance the Council must strike between meeting statutory obligations for vulnerable children and preserving community spaces. You can find more details about these discussions here: Cabinet.

Council Invests in Education and Support Services

Bury Council is moving forward with significant investments in education and support services, aiming to improve outcomes for vulnerable children and young people. The Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, 14 October 2026, saw approvals for a new Alternative Provision (AP) Academy and the expansion of the Greater Manchester Fostering Hub.

New Alternative Provision Academy for Vulnerable Pupils

The Cabinet approved the progression of the Ash Grove Alternative Provision (AP) Academy project, with an estimated budget of £17 million. This new facility will provide a permanent, purpose-built environment for up to 136 pupils who require alternative educational support. The project aims to address the current reliance on temporary accommodation, improve operational efficiencies, and meet statutory duties for children unable to attend mainstream education. Despite concerns raised by some councillors and residents regarding the site selection and cost, the Council emphasised the urgent need to provide suitable facilities for these vulnerable learners. You can find more details about this decision here: Cabinet.

Enhanced Support for Children in Care Through Fostering Hub

Bury Council will join an expanded Greater Manchester end-to-end fostering hub, hosted by Rochdale Council. This initiative aims to improve the recruitment, assessment, and approval of foster carers across all ten Greater Manchester authorities. The move is a response to a national shortage of foster carers, exacerbated since the COVID-19 pandemic, and aligns with the government's target to recruit 10,000 new foster carers. While Bury will retain responsibility for supporting and supervising foster carers, this regional collaboration is expected to strengthen the overall provision of family-based homes for children in care, which are known to deliver the strongest outcomes. You can find more details about this decision here: Cabinet.

Other Matters

The Cabinet also discussed and noted several other items:

• Housing Allocations Policy Amendments: Minor changes were proposed to the Housing Allocations Policy to support long-serving Council employees retiring from service accommodation and to provide the Director of Housing with limited discretion in exceptional circumstances.
• Northern Gateway Western Access Scheme: Approval was sought for the Stage 3 contract sum, extension of the professional team contract, and acceptance of Investment Zone grant funding for this significant infrastructure project.
• Persona Shareholder Agreement: A new shareholder agreement for Persona, the council-owned not-for-profit company providing care and support services, was approved to reflect its maturity and future ambitions.
• St Monica's Lease Extension: Approval was sought for the grant of a new eight-year lease for Elmsbank College at the St. Monica's site, ensuring continuity for learners with special educational needs.
• Parking and Moving Traffic Enforcement Services: Approval was sought for interim and long-term contractual arrangements for parking and moving traffic enforcement services.
• Live Well Implementation: The Council accepted the allocation of £676,000 of Greater Manchester Livewell funding for Years 2 and 3, continuing the programme's work to reduce health, social, and economic inequalities.
• 10-Year Occupational Lease for Bridge Trading Estate: A new 10-year lease was approved for Units 6B and 6C at Bridge Trading Estate, securing the operational base for Bury Adult Care Equipment Services.
• Highways Capital Programme: The £12.9 million Highways Capital Programme for 2026/27 was presented, detailing planned spending on road repairs and maintenance.
• Families First Partnership Programme: Bury's proposed implementation approach to the National Families First Partnership Programme was approved, aiming to shift children's services towards early intervention and prevention.

This week in Bury:

Council Faces Tough Choices on Budget and Services

Bury Council is grappling with significant financial challenges, with a projected budget gap of £34.959 million over the next three years. The draft 2027/28 budget and updated Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) reveal a stark reality: even after proposed savings of £17.451 million, a substantial shortfall of £17.508 million remains. This situation could lead to difficult decisions about service provision and potential council tax increases.

The draft budget proposes a 4.99% council tax increase for 2027/28, comprising a 2.99% general increase and a 2.0% adult social care precept. This move, while potentially unpopular, is presented as necessary to address the growing financial pressures. The council is also exploring Exceptional Financial Support with the government, indicating the severity of the situation.

Several policy decisions are flagged for public consultation, including:

• Green Waste charging: This could mean residents are charged for garden waste collection.
• Street Lighting Trim: Potential reductions in street lighting could impact public safety and the character of our neighbourhoods.
• Removal of the Homecare Charging Cap: This might lead to increased costs for those receiving homecare services.
• Income maximisation for leisure services: This could mean higher prices for gym memberships and other leisure activities.
• School Crossing Patrols: A review of these services could impact the safety of children travelling to school.
• Redesign of the Youth Service: This could lead to changes in how services for young people are delivered.

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to scrutinise these proposals on Tuesday 13 October 2026, before they go to Cabinet on Wednesday 14 October 2026. Public consultation will run from 19 October to 30 November 2026.

You can find more details about the draft budget and MTFS here: Cabinet and Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

Taxi and Private Hire Vehicles to Embrace Newer, Cleaner Standards

Bury's licensed taxi and private hire vehicles may soon be able to meet emissions standards with a wider range of vehicles, thanks to proposed amendments to council policy. The Licensing and Safety Committee was scheduled to consider allowing the licensing of Category N (non-structural damage) and Category S (structural damage) vehicles, provided they pass independent inspections.

This proposed change aims to align Bury with other Greater Manchester authorities and could make it more affordable for local taxi and private hire businesses to operate. Currently, any vehicle recorded as a write-off is prohibited from being licensed. The report argues that this amendment would support the viability of local businesses by allowing access to a broader selection of lower-cost vehicles, while maintaining public safety through rigorous independent assessments.

Additionally, the committee was set to discuss amendments to transitional arrangements for existing vehicles concerning emissions standards. The current deadline for replacing non-compliant vehicles is 4 January 2027. However, with the recent introduction of the Greater Manchester Private Hire Support Fund, a proposed extension to 31 May 2027 is being considered. This would give proprietors more time to access funding, source replacement vehicles, and complete the licensing process, balancing air quality goals with support for the licensed trade. This could mean a slightly longer period before all licensed vehicles meet the strictest emissions standards.

You can find more details about these proposals here: Licensing and Safety Committee.

Focus on Mental Health and Integrated Care Dominates Locality Board Agenda

A comprehensive update on mental health services, integrated care, and the future of neighbourhood working was central to the Bury Locality Board meeting scheduled for Monday 05 October 2026. The discussions highlighted a strong focus on improving resident wellbeing and streamlining service delivery.

Key areas of discussion included:

• Northern Care Alliance (NCA) Update: A detailed report was expected on recent concerns regarding patient safety, quality governance, organisational culture, and leadership within the NCA. This update was to reflect regulatory action by NHS England and the Care Quality Commission (CQC), with assurances that services remain safe and improvement activity is robust.
• Locality Plan Refresh and Neighbourhood Working: The board was to review progress on the Bury Locality Plan and its Delivery Plan for neighbourhood working. This initiative aims to create coordinated support networks to reduce inequality and improve residents' lives, with a focus on the first 12 months of implementation.
• Mental Health Update: An update on Pennine Care developments was planned, including the opening of a community hub bringing together mental health and learning disability services. A noted risk around commissioned service capacity and the need to address wider determinants of health was to be discussed.
• Bury Adult Social Care Business Plan: A three-year plan outlining the department's vision, priorities, and workstreams for promoting independence, delivering best-ever services, and making Bury a great place to work was to be presented.
• Population Health and Wellbeing: An update from the Bury Health and Wellbeing Board was to cover community safety, neighbourhood working, and health data. While positive trends in smoking rates and children's physical activity were noted, concerns were raised about increasing child poverty, economic inactivity, mental health pressures, and worsening obesity rates.

You can find more details about these discussions here: Locality Board.

Other Matters

Employment Panel Considers Grievance Appeal

The Employment Panel was scheduled to consider a stage 3 grievance appeal on Tuesday 06 October 2026. Details of the appeal were not made public, as the meeting was expected to involve the disclosure of exempt information.

You can find more details about this meeting here: Employment Panel.

Joint Planning Control Committee Scheduled

The Joint Planning Control Committee was scheduled to meet on Tuesday 06 October 2026. No further details were available at the time of publication.

You can find more details about this meeting here: Joint Planning Control Committee.

This week in Bury:

Alcohol Sales at Discount Food and Wine Face Scrutiny

Concerns over late-night noise and potential public nuisance have been raised regarding an application for a premises licence for Discount Food and Wine. The Licensing Hearing Sub Committee was scheduled to consider the application for the premises at 165-167 Stand Lane, Radcliffe, M26 1JR.

The applicant, VS House Limited, sought to sell alcohol for consumption off the premises. While initial proposed hours were until midnight, discussions with Public Health led to an agreement to restrict alcohol sales to between 08:00 and 23:00. Greater Manchester Police also proposed conditions to the licence, including staff training on age verification and maintaining a refusals log, alongside requirements for the CCTV system.

However, a local ward councillor raised significant objections, citing concerns about the proposed hours, potential noise, anti-social behaviour, and litter in the predominantly residential area. The proximity to a primary school also raised concerns about the protection of children from harm. The committee had to consider these representations alongside the four licensing objectives outlined in the Licensing Act 2003: the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm.

The Licensing Hearing Sub Committee met on Wednesday 23 September 2026. You can find more details about this meeting here: Licensing Hearing Sub Committee.

Council Pushes for Anti-Racism and Integrated Social Care

Bury Council is taking steps to embed anti-racist principles across its operations and to create a more integrated approach to social care. The Employment Panel met on Wednesday 23 September 2026 to discuss a new two-year Anti-Racism Organisation Strategy and the establishment of an all-age commissioning function.

A Commitment to Being Anti-Racist

The proposed strategy aims to move the council from being merely non-racist to actively anti-racist, aligning with the GM Race Equity Framework. This initiative responds to rising instances of antisemitism, Islamophobia, and racism, with a focus on embedding anti-racist principles in policies, procedures, workforce development, leadership, and service delivery. The strategy outlines six key goals, including ensuring systems support anti-racist outcomes and amplifying the voices of ethnic minority communities.

Streamlining Social Care for All Ages

Following recommendations from an independent review, the council is looking to establish a new all-age commissioning function. This integrated approach aims to improve outcomes for residents, strengthen preventative services, and enhance market management across both children's and adult social care. By bringing commissioning activities together, the council hopes to achieve greater efficiency and better support for individuals throughout their lives.

The Employment Panel also reviewed minutes from a previous meeting and a report on post-redesignation for Legal and Democratic Services.

You can find more details about this meeting here: Employment Panel.

Standards Committee Reviews Member Conduct and Ombudsman Findings

The Standards Committee met on Thursday 24 September 2026 to discuss how to maintain high standards of conduct among councillors, review the council's Code of Conduct, and consider the findings of the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman. The committee also received an update on the Public Office (Accountability) Bill, often referred to as Hillsborough Law.

Strengthening Member Development and Conduct

The committee reviewed the Member Development Programme for 2026/27, which includes mandatory training on areas like the Code of Conduct, GDPR, and Health and Safety. The programme aims to ensure councillors are well-equipped to serve the public. A review of the council's Code of Conduct was also undertaken, with the aim of identifying any necessary amendments or clarifications to ensure it remains robust and aligned with current best practices.

Learning from the Ombudsman

The committee received the annual review from the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman (LGO) for 2025-26. While the number of complaints received by the council saw a slight decrease, the report highlighted that 86% of investigated complaints were upheld. The council maintained a strong compliance rate with the Ombudsman's recommendations, demonstrating a commitment to addressing issues raised.

Hillsborough Law and Public Accountability

An overview of the Public Office (Accountability) Bill, or Hillsborough Law, was provided. This proposed legislation aims to place a statutory duty of candour and assistance on public authorities, reinforcing expectations of honesty and accountability. The report detailed potential implications for both officers and elected members, suggesting that the council may need to review its governance and information management arrangements if the Bill is enacted.

You can find more details about this meeting here: Standards Committee.

Health Scrutiny Committee Focuses on Carers, Workforce, and Regional Health Issues

The Health Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday 24 September 2026 to discuss crucial updates on support for carers, workforce development in the care sector, and regional health scrutiny matters.

Supporting Carers and Building the Care Workforce

An update on the Adult Bury Carers Strategy 2025-2029 highlighted efforts to ensure unpaid carers are recognised, valued, and supported. The Bury Carers' Hub presented its impact, detailing how it helps carers access information, advice, and improve their wellbeing. The committee also received an update on the Bury Care Academy (BCA), an initiative focused on developing the social care workforce. The BCA's achievements in engaging providers, supporting recruitment, and delivering training programmes were presented, along with future plans to enhance skills and leadership within the sector.

Regional Health Updates

The committee received updates on Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) Joint Health Scrutiny meetings, covering topics such as maternity services, early childhood disadvantage, and the Greater Manchester Care Record. Discussions also touched upon the Voluntary, Community, Faith and Social Enterprise (VCFSE) sector's perspective on health inequalities and updates on service reconfiguration reports.

You can find more details about this meeting here: Health Scrutiny Committee.

Other Matters

Licensing Hearing Sub Committee Considers Premises Licence

The Licensing Hearing Sub Committee met on Tuesday 22 September 2026. The meeting was scheduled to consider an application for a premises licence for Discount Food and Wine.

You can find more details about this meeting here: Licensing Hearing Sub Committee.

Planning Control Committee Cancelled

The Planning Control Committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday 22 September 2026 was cancelled.

You can find more details about this meeting here: Planning Control Committee.