This week in Lancashire:

£7.4 Million Boost for Young Families: Best Start in Life Hubs Approved

Lancashire is set to see a significant investment in early years support with the approval of the Best Start in Life Family Hubs Programme. The council's Cabinet has greenlit the implementation plans and allocated £7.4 million in funding to establish 12 integrated hubs across the county. This initiative builds on the success of the Sure Start programme, aiming to provide a vital safety net for families with young children.

The funding, which includes £347,000 for development grants and £7.1 million for delivery grants from 2026 to 2029, is outcome-based. This means the council will be closely monitoring the programme's success in improving early childhood development and school readiness. Councillor Azhar Ali OBE welcomed the funding, highlighting its potential to make a massive difference, particularly in deprived areas. He also stressed the importance of supporting migrant communities with literacy and numeracy, a focus that will be integrated into the hub's services.

These hubs are designed to be a one-stop shop for families, offering support, guidance, and connection. By bringing essential services under one roof, the programme aims to strengthen families, ensuring children have the best possible start in life and are better prepared for school. This proactive approach is expected to reduce reliance on statutory services in the long run, benefiting both children and the wider community.

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

£14 Million Allocated for Urgent School Repairs

Thousands of pupils across Lancashire will benefit from essential building repairs thanks to a £14 million allocation approved by the Cabinet. This funding, provided by the Department for Education, will address high-priority condition repairs in community, voluntary controlled, and maintained schools across the county.

The capital strategy for schools focuses on condition-led investment for 2026-27. This means that schools most in need of urgent repairs to their buildings will be prioritised. The approved list of projects, which includes a 10% contingency, will ensure that essential maintenance can be carried out promptly. This investment is crucial for maintaining safe and effective learning environments for students and staff.

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

Chief Executive's Secondment to Combined County Authority Extended

The Employment Committee has approved the extension of the Chief Executive's secondment to the Lancashire Combined County Authority (LCCA). Mark Winn will continue to serve as the LCCA's Chief Finance Officer (Section 73 Officer) for another 12 months, from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027. This arrangement is in place to support the LCCA's governance and financial planning during its crucial early operational years.

Councillor Ged Mirfin raised concerns about the Chief Executive's workload, particularly in light of the rapidly changing agenda due to Local Government Reorganisation (LGR). He stated, My only concern was about the time that Mark might have to dedicate to this. And the fact that we are dealing with an agenda which is rapidly changing in light of LGR. Jacquie McGeachie, Interim Director of People Services, explained that the LCCA's costs are covered by constituent members and that the authority is seeking capacity funding which could allow for the recruitment of permanent staff. Councillor Azhar Ali OBE acknowledged the workload concerns but emphasised the need for collaboration during the infancy of new structures like the LCCA, noting the strength of the council's senior management team. The committee agreed to review the arrangement in three to six months.

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

Pension Fund Governance and Regulatory Updates

The Lancashire Local Pension Board met on Tuesday, 14 April 2026, to discuss a range of important updates concerning pension administration, regulatory changes, and the strategic future of the fund. Key discussions included the progress of the Pensions Dashboard initiative, the LCPF Risk Register, and the implications of Local Government Reorganisation (LGR).

The Board received an update on the Scheme Advisory Board's (SAB) Peer Support project, designed to foster best practice among Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) administering authorities. The project is currently in its pilot scoping phase, with a pilot planned for the summer.

Updates on pension-related training were also presented, with a focus on ensuring Board members and Pension Fund Committee members have the necessary knowledge to comply with new requirements. The Lancashire Local Pension Board Annual Workplan 2026/27 was also approved, including a new fund-specific conflict of interest policy.

Significant regulatory changes were detailed, including a 3.8% increase in pensions from April 2026 and updates on scheme improvements related to access and fairness. The Board also discussed the ongoing work on the McCloud remedy and the Pensions Dashboard connection, with daily reporting to the Money Helper Service expected from November 2026.

The LCPF Risk Register was reviewed, with new risks identified related to Local Government Reorganisation. The Board was assured that the fund is in a strong position due to the experience of key personnel.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Lancashire Local Pension Board meeting documents.

Combined Authority Adopts Transport Strategy and Consults on Implementation Plan

The Lancashire Combined County Authority (LCCA) met on Tuesday, 14 April 2026, and took significant steps towards transforming transport across the region. The Authority formally adopted the Lancashire Local Transport Plan (LTP) Core Strategy, a statutory document outlining transport priorities for 2025-2045. This strategy focuses on four key workstreams: Connecting Lancashire, Transforming Travel Choices, Safe and Vibrant Communities, and Future-Ready Networks.

Following this, the Authority approved the draft Local Transport Plan (LTP) Implementation Plan for public consultation. This plan details specific schemes and strategies to be delivered between 2026 and 2030, translating the Core Strategy's long-term ambitions into a concrete four-year delivery programme. Councillor Alistair Bradley emphasised the need for cross-border working, particularly with Greater Manchester, to ensure seamless travel.

The Authority also received updates on the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), noting concerns about the fund's conclusion in September 2026 and the potential impact on local businesses and residents. Leaders intend to raise the issue of a successor programme with the Minister for Devolution.

In other business, the Authority approved the proposed Members' Allowance Scheme for 2026/27, including an annual allowance for the Independent Chairs of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee and the Audit and Governance Committee. The Pay Policy Statement for 2026/27 was also agreed, confirming the continued appointment of statutory officers through secondment agreements.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Lancashire Combined County Authority meeting documents.

Other Matters

• The Environment, Economic Growth and Transport Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday, 23 April 2026. While the full summary is not yet available, the committee's remit covers crucial areas for the county's development and infrastructure.
• The Audit, Risk and Governance Committee met on Monday, 27 April 2026. This committee plays a vital role in ensuring the council's financial probity and effective risk management.
• The Health and Adult Services Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday, 22 April 2026. This committee scrutinises the council's health and social care services, ensuring they meet the needs of residents, particularly vulnerable groups.
• The Community, Cultural, and Corporate Services Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday, 30 April 2026. This committee oversees a broad range of council services, from libraries and museums to corporate property and digital services.

This week in Lancashire:

NHS Healthcare Shake-Up: Council Demands Secretary of State Review of Shaping Care Together Programme

Lancashire County Council's Health and Adult Services Scrutiny Committee has unanimously decided to formally request a call-in to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care regarding the NHS Shaping Care Together programme. This urgent move signals deep concerns about the decision-making process and the potential negative impact on local health services, particularly for residents in West Lancashire.

The committee's decision stems from the NHS Shaping Care Together Joint Committee's resolution on 13 March 2026, which proposed significant changes to urgent and emergency care. Councillors voiced strong objections to the process, with Councillor Shaun Crimmins describing the meeting timings as atrocious and noting that feedback from previous scrutiny sessions was not adequately addressed. Councillor Gaynor Hargreaves summarised the sentiment, stating, Because of what's just been said, it sounds like to me that the process wasn't followed. It just feels like it's fell down somewhere.

A major point of contention is the perceived lack of consideration for vulnerable groups. Councillor Crimmins highlighted that areas like Skelmersdale, which has a higher proportion of disabled and deprived residents, were not adequately considered. Concerns were also raised about insufficient clarity on related services and a feeling that the outcome was predetermined.

The potential impact on West Lancashire was a significant focus. Councillor County Mark Jewell pointed out that while the report acknowledges increased travel distances, the planned mitigations are unclear, making accessibility a major issue. The potential loss of maternity services at Ormskirk Hospital was also a major concern, with Councillor County Thomas de Freitas expressing worry that this was not adequately addressed. She stated, Really if you're looking at the bigger picture, which I think is what we're looking at, we're looking at the bigger picture. So that would also mean we'd lose maternity services, most likely.

The capacity of Southport Hospital to handle increased patient numbers, including both adult and children's A&E services, was questioned. Councillor Hargreaves emphasised the critical nature of travel times for children, stating, Those few minutes could make a difference to life and death.

The committee resolved to draft a formal letter to the Secretary of State, in addition to the online submission, to ensure their concerns are fully articulated. The next ordinary meeting of the Health and Adult Services Scrutiny Committee is scheduled for 22 April 2026.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Health and Adult Services Scrutiny Committee meeting documents.

This week in Lancashire:

Urgent Call to Secretary of State Over A&E Co-location Decision

Health and Adult Services Scrutiny Committee members are set to decide whether to ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care to intervene in a controversial decision to co-locate adult and children's Accident and Emergency (A&E) services at Southport and Formby District General Hospital. The decision, made by the NHS Shaping Care Together Joint Committee on 13 March 2026, is facing scrutiny over concerns about the consultation process and its potential impact on vital healthcare services.

The Shaping Care Together programme, a collaboration between NHS Cheshire and Merseyside and NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Boards, aims to address urgent and emergency care challenges. While the co-location at Southport and Formby was the preferred option after extensive consultation, councillors have raised questions about the timeframe, the range of options considered, and the exclusion of interdependent services like maternity.

The Health and Adult Services Scrutiny Committee will review the grounds for requesting the Secretary of State to call-in the decision, a power introduced by the Health and Care Act 2022. This move could have significant implications for healthcare provision in Southport, Formby, and West Lancashire, potentially affecting access to emergency care for thousands of residents.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Health and Adult Services Scrutiny Committee meeting documents.

Council Property Strategy: Balancing Assets with Community Needs

The Community, Cultural, and Corporate Services Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday to review the council's property strategy. This strategy aims to manage and develop Lancashire's vast property portfolio, valued at approximately £2.2 billion, over the next five years. The core principles include ensuring assets meet service needs, deliver value for money, and are compliant and fit for purpose.

A key focus is the implementation of a corporate landlord model, centralising management and control of all council properties. This approach is intended to improve efficiency and cost control. The committee discussed the disposal process for surplus properties, which prioritises community asset transfers and offers to public sector partners before considering open market sales, guided by the council's Community Assets Policy.

• What's at stake? Decisions about the council's property portfolio directly impact the services residents receive and the availability of community spaces. For example, how surplus buildings are managed could mean new community facilities or a loss of local assets.
• What's being discussed? The committee made several recommendations, including clarifying delegation levels for property disposals, ensuring the Community Asset Transfer Policy is accessible to all councillors, and standardising service delivery across council buildings. They also reviewed the progress of the £20 million+ Farington Cricket Facility, which includes a commitment to 750 hours of free community use annually.
• What's the impact? The strategy aims to ensure the council's estate is fit for the future, supporting service delivery and community needs. The Farington Cricket Facility, for instance, is intended to be a hub for schools, community clubs, and health and wellbeing initiatives, extending its benefit beyond elite sport.

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

Combined Authority Navigates Audit, Governance, and Financial Risks

The Lancashire Combined County Authority - Audit and Governance Committee convened on Monday to review critical aspects of the Authority's operations. Key decisions included the approval of the Internal Audit Annual Plan and Strategy for 2026/27, which will focus on priority areas such as transport transition and adult skills funding. The committee also approved the Corporate Risk and Opportunity Register, highlighting new risks related to business support delivery and future governance arrangements post-Local Government Reorganisation (LGR).

• Why it matters: Robust audit and governance are essential for public trust and the effective use of taxpayer money. The Authority, which is preparing to take on Local Transport Authority functions and adult skills funding, needs strong oversight to manage its expanding responsibilities.
• What's being addressed? The committee reviewed updates on the Authority's progress, including its first year of operation and upcoming devolution of functions. They also discussed the indicative audit risk briefing from external auditors, KPMG, and the VAT recovery arrangements, which will allow the Authority to reclaim VAT on its activities from December 2025.
• What's the impact? These discussions ensure that the Lancashire Combined County Authority operates with transparency and accountability, managing financial risks effectively and preparing for significant changes, including the potential impact of Local Government Reorganisation.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Lancashire Combined County Authority - Audit and Governance Committee meeting documents.

Public Rights of Way: Bridleway Upgrades and Footpath Modifications

The Regulatory Committee met on Wednesday to consider applications regarding public rights of way. The committee resolved to upgrade a section of Whitley Road, Upholland, to a bridleway, acknowledging historical vehicular rights but concluding insufficient evidence existed for full carriageway status. They also agreed to modify the definitive map to remove a recorded footpath section where public carriageway rights are now recognised.

Additionally, a route from Monks Gate, Tatham, to Park House, Hornby, was agreed to be upgraded to a restricted byway. This decision acknowledges historical vehicular rights, but due to the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006, mechanically propelled vehicle rights have been extinguished.

• What's at stake? These decisions impact how people can access and use public land, affecting walkers, horse riders, and cyclists. The careful consideration of historical evidence ensures that public rights are accurately recorded and protected.
• What's happening? The committee reviewed extensive historical map and documentary evidence to determine the appropriate classification of these routes.
• What's the impact? The upgrades and modifications ensure that public rights of way are correctly recorded, providing clarity for users and protecting these valuable community assets for future generations.

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

This week in Lancashire:

• The Environment, Economic Growth and Transport Scrutiny Committee discussed the rollout of electric vehicle infrastructure and reviewed public rights of way processes.
• The Development Control Committee approved plans for a green waste composting facility expansion and a children's care home.
• The Pension Fund Committee approved the fund's strategic plan and budget, alongside a revised funding strategy statement.
• The Company Member Cabinet Committee reviewed the performance of Lancashire Renewables Limited and noted the wind-down of the Lancashire Environmental Fund.

Environment, Economic Growth and Transport Scrutiny Committee - Thursday 19 March 2026

The Environment, Economic Growth and Transport Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday, 19 March 2026, to discuss the expansion of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure and the processes for managing public rights of way. Key decisions included the formulation of recommendations to the Cabinet Member regarding the EV infrastructure strategy and an agreement to defer decisions on delegating authority for Definitive Map Modification Orders and Public Path Orders pending further review.

Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure

The committee received an update on the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) programme, a national initiative aiming to increase public EV charging points, particularly for residents without off-street parking. Lancashire has been allocated £10.1 million in capital funding to deliver at least 6,000 charging sockets by 2030. The council is partnering with a commercial entity for this, requiring no capital investment from the council itself, and will benefit from a revenue share.

Alongside the LEVI programme, an in-house service for cross-pavement cable channels (cable trays) is being developed to enable residents to charge EVs from their domestic supply. A successful trial has resulted in a waiting list of over 230 residents, with £650,000 expected from a government fund to subsidise costs.

Concerns were raised about the potential impact on the electricity grid, the practicality of cable trays in terraced housing, and the commercial viability of charging point deployment. Councillors highlighted challenges in terraced streets, including parking issues and cable theft risks. Suggestions included exploring shared cable trays and lamppost charging. Assurances were given that grid capacity is being discussed with the electricity network operator, and LEVI funding can support necessary substation upgrades. The cable tray scheme is a subsidised service for residents, and the council will receive a revenue share from the LEVI programme.

The committee agreed to formulate recommendations to the Cabinet Member, including exploring dual charging arrangements with cable trays and investigating the cost viability of lamppost charging.

Public Rights of Way Processes

The committee reviewed a report on potential efficiencies in public rights of way processes, prompted by an Ombudsman's investigation into delays in processing Definitive Map Modification Orders (DMMOs). The report outlined several options for streamlining processes, including:

• Signage: Replacing traditional fingerposts with cheaper and quicker waymark arrows (coloured discs), though landowner consent may be required.
• Gates and Stiles: Investigating DEFRA grants to replace stiles with gates for improved accessibility.
• Obstructions and Deterrent Signs: Serving formal notices immediately on those responsible for obstructions or misleading signs, rather than initial polite requests.
• Enforcement Notices: Delegating authority for preparing and serving enforcement notices to the Public Rights of Way Service to streamline the process.
• Definitive Map Modification Orders (DMMOs) and Public Path Orders (PPOs): Exploring delegation of decisions to officers or adopting a hybrid approach involving local members to reduce delays caused by committee cycles.

Concerns were raised about potential loss of public trust and transparency with delegated decisions. Following discussion, the committee agreed to recommend that officers be able to serve notice for obstructions and deterrent signs. However, decisions on delegating authority for DMMOs and PPOs were deferred pending further review of the overall process. The committee also agreed to seek clarification from the Cabinet Member on improving the DMMO process.

Environment, Economic Growth and Transport Scrutiny Committee Work Programme 2025/26

The committee reviewed its work programme for 2025/26. An in-year request to review street lighting was considered and agreed to be added to the April schedule. The committee noted that 25,434 lighting columns are over 40 years old and in poor condition, with replacements delayed due to budget constraints. A report on the street works permits lane rental scheme was deferred to June 2026. Key lines of inquiry for the next meeting were confirmed, including the adequacy of gully cleaning criteria and the need for representation from Highways Maintenance and Flood Risk Management teams. The Tourism Growth Strategy was added to the work programme for 2026/27.

Development Control Committee - Wednesday 18 March 2026

The Development Control Committee met on Wednesday, 18 March 2026, approving two planning applications. Permission was granted for the expansion of a green waste composting facility at Tarnbrick Farm, Kirkham, and for the conversion of a residential property into a children's care home at 9 Harwood Lane, Great Harwood.

Tarnbrick Farm, Kirkham: Green Waste Composting Facility Expansion

The committee approved an application for a change of use of land from agriculture to green waste composting at Tarnbrick Farm, Kirkham. The proposal includes a new access road, a workshop building, and an extension to a storage building. The site, approximately two hectares, has operated as a green waste composting facility for many years.

Concerns raised by residents included potential increases in noise, odour, traffic, and health risks from dust and bioaerosols. Objections also related to the proximity to residential properties on Parkinson Lane, the lack of landscaping from a previous 2008 scheme, and the location of the new access road.

The committee was informed that the proposal aims to improve site functionality rather than intensify operations. New buildings and improved circulation are designed to mitigate impacts on neighbouring amenity and the rural landscape. Technical assessments indicated that drainage and highway matters could be addressed. The recommendation to approve was subject to conditions, including a revised landscaping scheme to address outstanding issues from 2008 and mitigate visual impacts. Biodiversity Net Gain¹ was discussed as a separate requirement from landscaping. Operating hours will remain unchanged, and odour control is managed by an Environment Agency permit. The application was approved.

9 Harwood Lane, Great Harwood: Children's Care Home

Planning permission was granted for the change of use of a residential property at 9 Harwood Lane, Great Harwood, to a Class C2 residential institution, to be used as a home for up to two young persons aged 11-17, with a maximum of two carers overnight. This application was brought before the committee as it relates to a county function.

Lancashire County Council supported the proposal, highlighting a pressing need for local, high-quality homes for children in care. The Senior Manager of Child Residential Homes for Lancashire County Council emphasised that the home would be small, family-focused, and designed to blend into the neighbourhood, operating comparably to a typical family household.

Local residents raised concerns about the suitability of the property on a quiet residential street, citing potential increases in noise, activity, traffic, and parking problems, as well as a loss of privacy. Concerns were also raised about proximity to a primary school and public house, and the potential for an over-concentration of similar uses.

The committee noted that national policy supports such applications, and the proposal aligns with Hyndburn Borough Council's planning policies. Councillors noted that issues encountered with care homes were typically with privately run establishments, not those operated by the county council. The committee was satisfied that the property was suitable, parking provision adequate, and that the development would not create an over-concentration of similar uses. The application was approved.

The committee also noted decisions taken by the Director of Environment and Regulatory in accordance with the County Council's Scheme of Delegation. The date of the next meeting was confirmed as Wednesday, 29 April 2026.

Pension Fund Committee - Friday 20 March 2026

The Pension Fund Committee met on Friday, 20 March 2026, to approve the Lancashire County Pension Fund Strategic Plan for 2026-2029 and the budget for 2026-2027. The committee also approved a revised Funding Strategy Statement and noted updates on governance matters, including the fund's risk register and a new breaches policy.

Lancashire County Pension Fund Strategic Plan and Budget Approved

The committee approved the Lancashire County Pension Fund Strategic Plan for 2026-2029 and the operating budget for 2026-2027. The strategic plan includes a review of the fund's investment strategy statement, development of relationships with new LPPI client funds, preparations for local government reorganisation, and responses to legislative and regulatory changes within the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS). The 2026-2027 budget represents a 10.8% reduction on the previous year, attributed to lower actuarial work and economies of scale from the expansion of LPPI.

During the discussion on the budget, concerns were raised about the general inflation assumption of 3.2%, questioning its realism in light of global events. The Head of Fund acknowledged potential short-term inflation increases and stated the fund would monitor this, reporting back in the mid-year budget report.

Revised Funding Strategy Statement Approved

A revised Funding Strategy Statement was approved. This document consolidates related policies and reflects parameters agreed in January, aligning with guidance from the Scheme Advisory Board (SAB). It covers broader policies, including the admission and termination of employers from the fund, and details procedures for how the fund's assets are shared between individual employers.

Governance Matters and Risk Register Noted

The committee received an update on governance and risk matters, confirming compliance with The Pensions Regulator. A new standing report was introduced to consolidate governance and risk items. The fund's financial statements for 2024-2025 have been approved by external auditors and published online. An updated breaches policy was also presented for approval, with the fund reporting no material breaches to The Pensions Regulator over the past year.

The fund's risk register was reviewed, with no changes to the risks listed or their scores. However, a new risk associated with preparations for local government reorganisation in Lancashire will be introduced from the next quarter. Concerns were raised about the fund's reliance on global equities and the impact of political behaviour on stock markets, with questions about investing more in the UK and consulting members on investment preferences. The Head of Fund indicated that a review of the investment strategy statement, including consultation, would be brought to the next committee meeting in June.

Fit for the Future Governance Arrangements Approved

The committee approved arrangements for the Fit for the Future programme, which includes enhanced skills and knowledge requirements for all involved with the pension fund, extending to substitutes attending Pensions Committee meetings. The committee also agreed to appoint an independent person with a broader remit covering investments, governance, and administration, rescinding a previous decision to appoint a new independent investment advisor. This change is to ensure compliance with the Fit for the Future governance programme.

Pension Related Training Record and Plan Noted

The committee noted the pension-related training record for 2025-2026 and approved the training plan for 2026-2027. Suggestions were made to include details of members who have completed specific training, such as LOLA modules, to identify qualified deputies.

Lancashire Local Pension Board Workplan Noted

The workplan for the Lancashire Local Pension Board for 2026-2027 was noted. The plan includes a review of the fund's policies, a detailed review of pensions administration services, and updates on the fund's progress towards local government reorganisation (LGR).

Responsible Investments Report Received

The committee received LPPI's quarterly responsible investment update for Q4 2025. Key highlights included a significant UK housing acquisition programme, involving a joint acquisition with the Northern Pool that brings over 5,000 homes under ownership, with plans to increase this to 15,000 over the next decade. LPPI has also been redesignated as a signatory to the UK Stewardship Code.

During the discussion, inquiries were made about the inclusion of social and affordable housing within investment plans. It was confirmed that a £50 million investment has been made into a national social housing fund, alongside other LGPS and non-LGPS investors. While the primary objective is risk and return, diversification across the UK is expected, including potential investment in Lancashire.

Pension Administration Performance Update Received

The committee received an update on pension administration performance for October to December 2025. Performance against benchmarks was generally positive. A key focus remains on improving employer notifications of retirements to ensure seamless payment of pensions. Efforts are underway to address volatility in notification volumes and explore best practices. A significant reduction in deferred benefits cases was attributed to automation and a dedicated team focused on clearing pending leave ahead of the valuation.

The next meeting of the Pension Fund Committee is scheduled for Friday, 19 June 2026, commencing at 10:00 am.

Company Member Cabinet Committee - Thursday 19 March 2026

The Company Member Cabinet Committee met on Thursday, 19 March 2026, to review the performance and future plans of Lancashire Renewables Limited and the Lancashire Environmental Fund. The committee approved the work programme for 2026-27 and endorsed the business plans for both organisations, while also noting the impending wind-down of the Lancashire Environmental Fund.

Work Programme 2026-27

The committee approved the updated work programme for the Company Member Cabinet Committee for the 2026-27 period. This revised programme reflects an increase in the number of meetings to five per year, aiming for a more even distribution of business. The intention is for no more than two companies to report to each meeting, unless exceptional circumstances dictate otherwise.

Lancashire Renewables Limited - Service Performance Review and Annual Business Plan 2026/27

The committee reviewed the performance of Lancashire Renewables Limited, a company in which Lancashire County Council holds an 87.5% share. The report detailed the company's service delivery and its alignment with shareholder strategic priorities. The committee agreed with the performance assessment and endorsed the Annual Business Plan and strategic priorities for the 2026/27 financial year.

Lancashire Environmental Fund – Service Performance Review, Draft Accounts 2025 and Corporate Governance Checklist 2026

The committee received an update on the Lancashire Environmental Fund, a company where Lancashire County Council holds a 25% stake. The committee noted the draft annual accounts for the year ending 2025, with the audit scheduled for April. The Corporate Governance Checklist for 2026 was approved. Significantly, the committee also noted that the company will be wound down in an orderly manner, in accordance with proposed timelines.