This week in Lancashire:

Public Rights of Way Decisions: Bridleways Approved, Footpaths Diverted Across the County

The Regulatory Committee met on Wednesday, 3 June 2026, to make decisions on a series of applications concerning public rights of way. The committee considered proposals for the creation, diversion, and extinguishment of footpaths and bridleways across Lancashire, impacting access and land use in various communities.

Bridleway Near Farington Moss Ratified

The committee ratified the confirmation of The Lancashire County Council Bridleway between Bannister Lane and Moss Lane adjacent to Flensburg Way Farington Definitive Map Modification Order 2025 . This decision followed an administrative oversight where the order was inadvertently confirmed without a final committee decision. The committee was satisfied that sufficient evidence supported the addition of the bridleway to the definitive map and statement, and as no objections were raised after the order's advertisement, the confirmation was ratified. This means a new bridleway will be officially recorded, potentially improving access for horse riders and cyclists in the Farington Moss area.

Lathom Footpaths Remain Footpaths

An application to upgrade footpaths along Cranes Lane and Lady Alice's Drive in Lathom to bridleways was rejected. Despite historical maps suggesting the routes were significant and potentially used by vehicles, later documents described them as private occupation roads. The evidence was considered too finely balanced, and without later user evidence, there were insufficient grounds to upgrade the paths beyond their current recorded status as footpaths. This decision means the routes will continue to be accessible only on foot.

Footpath Extinguished at Eavesdale, Skelmersdale

The committee approved the extinguishment of a section of Footpath FP0802019 at Eavesdale, Tanhouse, Skelmersdale. This section of footpath was no longer needed for public use as it passed through the playing field of the Eavesdale Family Hub. Extinguishing this path will enhance the privacy and security of the family hub, with an alternative route remaining available. This decision prioritises the safety and functionality of community facilities.

Diversions Approved for Privacy and Safety

Several footpath diversions were approved across the county, primarily for reasons of privacy, security, and health and safety. These included diversions at:

• The Cross Keys Inn, Whitechapel, Preston: To improve privacy and security for holiday accommodation.
• Quilter Close, Accrington: Due to a new housing development, ensuring privacy and security for residents.
• De Tabley Mews, Ribchester: To protect the privacy and security of residents, as the path passed through their gardens.
• Woodside Crescent, Newchurch, Rossendale: For privacy and security, as the path passed through residential gardens.
• Swallows Barn, Pendleton: For health and safety reasons, as the path passed through a working farmyard.
• Wholaw Tongue Farm, Whitewell Bottom, Rossendale: For health and safety reasons, as the existing paths passed through a working farmyard.

These diversions aim to balance public access with the needs of landowners and the safety of the public, particularly in areas with working farms or private residences.

Farington Moss Bridleway Application Rejected

An application to add a bridleway across Farington Moss, west of Flensburg Way, was rejected. While the route appeared on some historical maps, the evidence was deemed insufficient to infer public bridleway or footpath rights. The lack of modern or historical user evidence, combined with the route's original creation as a private carriage road, led to the decision not to make a definitive map modification order. This means the route will not be officially recognised as a public bridleway.

• What's at stake? These decisions directly impact public access to land across Lancashire. Diversions and extinguishments can affect how residents and visitors navigate the countryside, while the creation or rejection of bridleways influences recreational opportunities for horse riders and cyclists. For landowners, these decisions can impact privacy and land management.
• What's being discussed? The committee reviewed evidence related to historical use, map records, and landowner intentions to determine the status of public rights of way.
• What's the impact? The outcomes of these decisions will shape the network of footpaths and bridleways available to the public, influencing recreational access and the management of land across Lancashire.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Regulatory Committee meeting documents.

Cabinet Meeting Addresses Local Government Reorganisation and SEND Reforms

The Cabinet met on Thursday, 4 June 2026, to discuss critical strategic issues facing Lancashire, including the ongoing process of local government reorganisation and the vital reforms needed for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

Responding to Government Proposals for Local Government Reorganisation

A key item was the council's response to government proposals for local government reorganisation in Lancashire. The report outlined a joint response prepared by the county's Leaders and Chief Executives, aiming to provide input on the preferred model for interim implementation structures, the membership and roles within Joint Committees and Implementation Teams, and the returning officers for future elections. While consensus was reached on many points, the report indicated that not all 15 councils agreed on every aspect. This response is crucial for shaping the future governance of Lancashire and ensuring a smooth transition.

SEND Reform Plan for Inclusive Education

The Cabinet was also scheduled to consider a SEND Reform Plan, a requirement from the Department for Education. This plan details Lancashire's proposals for making the school system more inclusive and for reducing the high needs block deficit. The principles of the plan focus on early identification and support, local mainstream inclusion, fair and consistent entitlements, effective provision, and integrated working between education, health, and care services. The aim is to create a system where children and young people with SEND receive support in inclusive settings, improving workforce capacity and stabilising finances.

Public Realm Agreements Extended

The meeting also discussed proposed adjustments to the dates of the Public Realm Agreements with all 12 Lancashire district councils. These agreements delegate certain highway authority functions to district councils. The proposal was to extend these agreements until 31 March 2027 to ensure continuity of service leading up to Local Government Reorganisation.

Parking Restrictions in West Lancashire and Halton

The Cabinet was also to consider proposals for various parking restrictions in West Lancashire, including No Waiting at Any Time restrictions in Ormskirk to address obstructive parking and facilitate traffic movement. Additionally, a proposal for a 20-minute Limited Waiting restriction on High Road, Halton, Lancaster City, was to be discussed, aiming to provide short-stay parking for a new nursery while preserving overnight parking for residents.

• What's at stake? The decisions on local government reorganisation will fundamentally alter how services are delivered across Lancashire, impacting everything from council tax to the availability of local services. The SEND reform plan is critical for the future of children with special educational needs and their families, aiming to ensure they receive the support they need to thrive in inclusive environments. Parking restrictions directly affect residents' daily lives and local traffic flow.
• What's being discussed? The Cabinet is addressing the strategic direction of local government in Lancashire, the crucial reforms needed to improve support for children with SEND, and practical matters like parking and service agreements.
• What's the impact? These decisions will have a long-term impact on the structure of local governance, the quality of education and support for vulnerable children, and the daily lives of residents through changes in service delivery and local infrastructure.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Cabinet meeting documents.

This week in Lancashire:

Council Charts Course for Improvement: Corporate Peer Challenge Praised, Priorities Set for 2026/27

Lancashire County Council's Cabinet met on Tuesday, 19 May 2026, to review the findings of a significant Corporate Peer Challenge (CPC) and set the council's priorities for the upcoming year. The CPC, an independent assessment of the council's performance, highlighted strong leadership and a clear drive for improvement, while also identifying areas for further development. The council has responded with a robust action plan aligned with its Moving the Dial priorities for 2026/27.

The Moving the Dial plan focuses on six key areas where concentrated effort will have the greatest impact:

• Improving services for Children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND): This aims to ensure children and young people receive the support they need to thrive.
• Adult Health and Wellbeing: Focusing on faster, more joined-up access to support for adults.
• Transforming Highways: With a significant £5 million allocated for preventative surface treatments and maintenance, the aim is to improve road conditions across the county.
• Strengthening Civic Pride: Initiatives to foster a greater sense of community and belonging.
• Ensuring Financial Sustainability: Through service transformation and efficiency.
• Managing Local Government Reorganisation (LGR): Preparing for the significant changes ahead.

The Cabinet also endorsed a strategic direction for adult social care, aiming to develop a future model of care through co-production with service users, carers, providers, and communities. A pilot with the Voluntary, Community, Faith and Social Enterprise (VCFSE) sector will explore more flexible, community-based day models. This approach acknowledges the value residents place on familiar routines and local connections, while seeking to improve services.

The Director of Public Health's Annual Report for 2025/26 was also considered, highlighting that Lancashire is at a pivotal moment for health, wellbeing, and prosperity. The report calls for system-level changes to address persistent inequalities, rising long-term sickness, an ageing population, and avoidable early deaths. The Cabinet supported five calls to action, focusing on a Best Start for children, making Lancashire an attractive place for working-age people, breaking the long-term sickness trap, establishing neighbourhood health as the default operating model, and ensuring LGR and devolution work for health equity.

The meeting also saw the approval of the Home to School Transport Policy for 2027/28, with no changes to existing pupil entitlements, and the The Lancashire Way Education Strategy 2026-2028, which prioritises partnership, inclusion, and high expectations.

A significant item was the acknowledgement of recommendations from Phase One of the Southport Public Inquiry. The Council expressed deep regret for identified failures and committed to implementing all recommendations directed to it. A Cabinet Oversight Group will be established to oversee this crucial work.

• What's at stake? These decisions directly impact the quality of essential services for all residents, particularly vulnerable groups. Improvements in SEND support, adult social care, and public health are vital for the wellbeing of children, adults, and the elderly. The investment in highways aims to improve safety and reduce disruption for all road users. The focus on civic pride and financial sustainability ensures the council can continue to deliver effectively. The response to the Southport Inquiry demonstrates a commitment to learning from past tragedies and preventing future harm.
• What's being discussed? The Cabinet reviewed the findings of an independent Corporate Peer Challenge, the council's strategic priorities for the year ahead, and detailed plans for adult social care, public health, education, and transport. The response to the Southport Public Inquiry was also a key focus.
• What's the impact? The decisions made will shape the delivery of services across Lancashire, aiming for greater efficiency, improved outcomes for residents, and a stronger, more resilient county. The commitment to co-production in adult social care and the focus on prevention in public health signal a more resident-centred approach.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Cabinet meeting documents.

Council Elects New Chairman and Vice-Chairman, Approves Constitution and Financial Thresholds

Lancashire County Council's Full Council convened on Thursday, 21 May 2026, to elect its new Chairman and Vice-Chairman, and to approve key governance documents. Councillor Lee Hutchinson was elected as the new Chairman, and Councillor Clive Balchin as Vice-Chairman, both pledging to serve impartially.

The council approved the Constitution of the County Council 2026/27, incorporating amendments to enhance governance and scrutiny. A significant change was the reduction of the financial threshold for Key Decisions from £2.2m to £1.9m for 2026/27. This aims to ensure that more significant financial decisions are subject to greater scrutiny, providing better oversight and accountability.

The Annual Governance Statement 2025/26 was noted, confirming that the council's governance arrangements provide satisfactory assurance. The updated Code of Corporate Governance 2026/27 was approved, aligning with national best practices. Ms Zara Cohen was appointed as an independent person to assist in handling allegations of members' misconduct, reinforcing the council's commitment to transparency and fairness.

The council also confirmed the membership of its committees for 2026/27, reflecting political proportionality, and appointed representatives to the Lancashire Combined County Authority and various outside bodies. Reports from the Audit, Risk and Governance Committee, Employment Committee, Pension Fund Committee, and Overview and Scrutiny Committees were received and noted.

• What's at stake? These decisions are fundamental to the effective and transparent operation of local government. The election of leadership ensures continuity and impartiality. The revised financial thresholds mean that more significant spending decisions will undergo closer scrutiny, protecting public funds. The updated governance code and the appointment of an independent person strengthen accountability and public trust.
• What's being discussed? The council reviewed and approved its governing documents, including its constitution and code of governance, elected its ceremonial leaders, and confirmed committee memberships.
• What's the impact? These procedural and governance decisions underpin the council's ability to operate effectively and accountably. They ensure that decisions are made with appropriate oversight and that the council adheres to high standards of conduct and financial management.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Full Council meeting documents.

Corporate Parenting Strategy and Care Leaver Support Under Review

The Corporate Parenting Board met on Wednesday, 20 May 2026, to discuss the final version of the Corporate Parenting Strategy 2026/2030. This strategy outlines the council's commitment to supporting children in its care and care leavers. The meeting also included updates on district team activities, participation initiatives, and the leaving care local offer, ensuring that young people in care have access to the support they need to transition successfully into adulthood.

The board received updates from the District Team and young people from LINX/CLF (Lancashire's Children in Care Council/Care Leavers Forum) on their activities. Roxanne McAllister, Senior Manager for Children in our Care and Care Leavers, presented an update on the Leaving Care Local Offer, which aims to provide comprehensive support for young people transitioning out of care. Jennifer Robertshaw, Head of Service for Children in our Care and Care Leavers, provided an update on the council's whole-council approach to corporate parenting, ensuring all departments understand their role in supporting children in care.

• What's at stake? For children in care and care leavers, these discussions are crucial for their future. A robust corporate parenting strategy and effective leaving care support are vital for ensuring they have the opportunities and resources to succeed, preventing them from falling into homelessness, unemployment, or other disadvantages.
• What's being discussed? The board reviewed the council's long-term strategy for supporting children in care and care leavers, alongside updates on current services and initiatives.
• What's the impact? The successful implementation of the Corporate Parenting Strategy and the Leaving Care Local Offer will directly improve the life chances of some of the county's most vulnerable young people, helping them to achieve independence and build fulfilling lives.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Corporate Parenting Board meeting documents.

Employment Committee Discusses Lancashire Renewables Pay Award

The Employment Committee met on Tuesday, 19 May 2026, to discuss the annual pay award and employment terms and conditions for Lancashire Renewables. Due to the sensitive nature of the information, this item was held in private session, citing commercial confidentiality.

• What's at stake? Decisions on pay awards and terms and conditions directly affect the livelihoods of employees at Lancashire Renewables and can impact the council's ability to attract and retain skilled staff.
• What's being discussed? The committee reviewed the proposed pay award and employment terms for Lancashire Renewables.
• What's the impact? The outcome of these discussions will influence the working conditions and remuneration for staff within Lancashire Renewables, potentially affecting service delivery and employee morale.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Employment Committee meeting documents.

This week in Lancashire:

Early Years Support Under the Microscope: Council Tackles Childcare Sufficiency and SEND Reforms

The Children, Families and Skills Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday, 14 May 2026, to delve into the crucial areas of early years education and childcare, and the ongoing SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) Priority Action Plan. The discussions highlighted the council's efforts to ensure sufficient childcare places, improve the take-up of early years entitlements, and navigate significant reforms within the SEND system.

Ensuring Enough Childcare for All

The committee received an update on the state of childcare provision across Lancashire. While the overall number of childcare places for children aged 0-4 is deemed sufficient, some specific areas, known as School Planning Areas (SPAs), are experiencing a deficit. To address these localised gaps, the council has secured £2.2 million in early years capital funding, which has already supported the creation of 500 new places in priority areas. The ongoing School Based Nursery Programme is also set to further boost capacity over the next three years.

The take-up of funded early years entitlements for three and four-year-olds is strong, exceeding national averages. However, challenges remain in encouraging uptake for two-year-old entitlements, particularly in areas like Preston, Pendle, and Hyndburn, with West Lancashire also identified as a priority. Targeted outreach and communication strategies are being implemented to address these disparities, including working with family hubs and community groups.

Concerns were raised about the new statutory duty to ensure sufficient childcare for children up to 14 years old, including after-school and holiday clubs. While the council is assessing the landscape, there is currently no additional funding or staff allocated for this duty. A specific request was made for a report detailing current provision and future plans for children aged 11-14, an age group where provision is notably lacking.

• What's at stake? For working parents, the availability of affordable and accessible childcare is essential for their employment and financial stability. Gaps in provision can force parents to reduce working hours or leave the workforce, impacting family income and the local economy. For children, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, early years education is vital for development and school readiness.
• What's being discussed? The committee examined the Childcare Sufficiency Audit, the take-up rates for early years entitlements, and the quality of provision. They also discussed the challenges of staff recruitment and retention in the early years sector, exacerbated by low wages.
• What's the impact? The council's efforts aim to ensure that all families can access the childcare and early education support they need, contributing to better outcomes for children and supporting parents' ability to work.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Children, Families and Skills Scrutiny Committee meeting documents.

SEND Reforms: A New Era for Special Educational Needs Support

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to an update on the SEND Priority Action Plan (PAP). Paul Turner, Director of Education and Inclusion, detailed the progress made since the Ofsted inspection in February 2025, highlighting improvements in governance, the timeliness and quality of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), and workforce capacity. The backlog of historic EHCPs has been substantially reduced, and the number processed within the statutory 20-week timeframe has increased significantly.

The committee heard about the upcoming SEND reform plan, a three-year strategy driven by national government policy, aiming to fundamentally change the SEND system in Lancashire. The focus is on greater inclusion in mainstream schools, reserving specialist provision for children with the most significant needs. This plan is due to be submitted to the Department for Education by June 2026, with the potential to write off a significant portion of the high-needs block deficit if accepted.

Discussions also covered the neurodevelopmental (ND) pathway, with progress being made in shifting from a diagnosis-first model to a needs-based approach. Communication and engagement with parent carers have been a key focus, with efforts to embed co-production and improve the SEND Directory and Local Offer website.

However, concerns were raised about the clarity of messaging to parents regarding the upcoming SEND reforms, potential anxieties about the removal of EHCPs, and the need for clearer communication about support for children with disabilities who may not require an EHCP. The quality of EHCPs and the challenges of ensuring consistent support across the system were also discussed.

• What's at stake? For children and young people with SEND and their families, these reforms are critical. The aim is to create a more inclusive and effective system that provides timely and appropriate support, enabling them to reach their full potential. Misunderstandings or a lack of clear communication could lead to anxiety and a feeling of being left behind.
• What's being discussed? The committee reviewed the progress of the SEND Priority Action Plan, the upcoming SEND reform plan, and the impact of these changes on children, young people, and their families. The role of mainstream schools in supporting children with SEND and the transition to new support models were key discussion points.
• What's the impact? The success of these reforms hinges on clear communication, effective implementation, and genuine partnership with parents and carers. The goal is to create a system that is more responsive to the diverse needs of children and young people with SEND, ensuring they receive the right support at the right time.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Children, Families and Skills Scrutiny Committee meeting documents.

Lancashire House Project Update

An update was provided on the Lancashire House Project, a supported accommodation initiative for young people leaving care. Cohort 4 is progressing well, with young people actively engaged in independence preparation. Property availability is improving, and the project is working with district councils to enhance housing pathways for care leavers.

Other Matters

The committee also noted the work programme for 2025/26, which outlines planned scrutiny activities across children's social care, children's services, and education and skills.

This week in Lancashire:

Domestic Abuse Support Under Scrutiny: Council Tackles Hidden Harm and Service Gaps

The Community, Cultural, and Corporate Services Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday, 30 April 2026, to examine the council's vital work in tackling domestic abuse and ensuring the quality of school meals. The committee heard that domestic abuse accounts for a staggering 20% of all recorded crime in Lancashire, with nearly 18,000 offences reported in the last year alone. The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 places significant duties on the council to provide support within safe accommodation and deliver a local strategy.

The council's public health approach focuses on prevention, early intervention, and accessible community-based support. Key services include:

• Safe Accommodation: Providing 190 units across the county, with specialist provision for victims with complex needs.
• Community Outreach: Offering specialist support for victims who do not access refuge or safe-house accommodation.
• Behaviour Change Programmes: A 10-week programme for 11-19 year olds displaying abusive behaviours in their relationships, aiming to prevent future perpetration.
• Healthy Relationships Programme: A school-based programme for secondary schools focusing on consent, digital abuse, and healthy relationships.

The committee discussed the immense financial and social costs of domestic abuse, estimated at nearly £847 million in Lancashire in 2025. Concerns were raised about the impact of the cost of living crisis on families experiencing abuse and the challenges faced by the voluntary sector in providing support. Recommendations included providing councillors with briefing sessions on domestic abuse, updating emergency contact cards, and considering increased funding for these crucial services. The committee also reviewed the Lancashire County Council Schools Catering Service, the largest maintained local authority school catering service in England, serving approximately 68,000 meals daily. The service operates on a hybrid public-sector commercial model, focusing on quality, nutrition, sustainability, and social value, with 55% of ingredients sourced locally.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Community, Cultural, and Corporate Services Scrutiny Committee meeting documents.

Audit and Governance: Council Reviews Financial Health and Risk Management

The Audit, Risk and Governance Committee met on Monday, 27 April 2026, to review the council's financial audit progress, internal audit reports, and risk management strategies. Key decisions included the approval of the draft Annual Governance Statement for 2025/26 and a recommendation for the adoption of the refreshed Code of Corporate Governance for 2026/27.

The committee received an update from Grant Thornton on the external audit for the 2025/26 financial statements of both Lancashire County Council and the Lancashire County Pension Fund. The audit is progressing well, with interim fieldwork indicating no significant issues. A key point highlighted was the government's decision to bring forward the deadline for publishing financial statements to January of the following year, with Grant Thornton committed to signing off the accounts by the end of November 2026.

The Head of Internal Audit reported that the service is now fully staffed, a positive development after a challenging year. 56% of the internal audit plan has been completed, with a further 26% in draft or progressing, placing the service in a good position for the annual report in July. Assurance levels have remained consistent, with themes often revolving around the need for greater consistency in the application of controls across the board.

The committee also reviewed the Corporate Risk and Opportunity Register, noting that several risk scores have decreased, particularly in areas such as adult social care demand, SEND, and school places. The risk relating to the Southport Inquiry has moved from the confidential to the public register following the publication of Phase 1 findings.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Audit, Risk and Governance Committee meeting documents.

Development Control Committee Meeting Cancelled

The Development Control Committee meeting scheduled for Wednesday, 29 April 2026, was cancelled.