This week in Northumberland:

Schools' Funding Decisions: Balancing Budgets Amidst Falling Pupil Numbers

The Schools' Forum met on Wednesday, 25 February 2026, to tackle the critical task of allocating the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) for the 2026/27 academic year. This funding is the lifeblood of our schools, directly impacting the resources available for teaching, support staff, and essential learning materials. The decisions made here have a profound effect on the educational experience of every child in Northumberland, and particularly on how well our schools can support students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Read more about the Schools' Forum meeting.

The primary challenge facing the forum was the continued decline in pupil numbers. Between October 2025 and the previous year, there was a further decrease in student numbers, a trend that directly reduces the funding allocated to the Schools Block. This is a significant concern, as it means less money is available for mainstream education.

Key Funding Allocations for 2026/27:

• Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG): The overall grant for Northumberland was notified by the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA).
• Schools Block: Projected to receive £254,598,886. However, this figure is impacted by a proposed de-delegation of £411,488 and a transfer of £1,271,296 to the High Needs Block. The falling pupil numbers are a significant factor influencing this block's funding.
• High Needs Block: Proposed budget of £63,797,742 before deductions. This block faces increasing pressure due to the rising number of Education, Health and Care (EHC) plans[^1], which are crucial for supporting children with SEND. The report indicated a savings requirement of £6,825,682 for this block.
• Early Years Block: Proposed rates for 2026/27 included increases for 3-4-year-olds, 2-year-olds, and under 2-year-olds, as well as for the Early Years Pupil Premium (EYPP) and the Disability Access Fund (DAF).
• Central Schools Services Block (CSSB): Proposed allocation of £2,368,365, an increase from the previous year, partly due to the inclusion of previous grant funding. However, concerns were raised about a shortfall in historic funding compared to estimated commitments.

A key recommendation was to use up to £66,010 from the Growth Fund to support additional places at Seaton Valley High School from September 2026. The final formula values for the Schools Block and the resulting School Budget Shares were to be delegated for approval to the Executive Director of Children Services and the Lead Member for Children's Services and Deputy Leader of the Council.

The meeting also noted communications from f40, an organisation advocating for better education funding for local authorities, welcoming the government's write-off of local authority SEND deficits. This highlights the ongoing national conversation about fair funding for education.

Community Partnerships Address Local Concerns: Traffic, Tourism, and Town Centres

On Thursday, 26 February 2026, the Castle Morpeth Community Partnership and the North Northumberland Community Partnership held a joint meeting to discuss a range of issues affecting residents across these areas. From traffic safety in villages to the promotion of tourism and the vitality of town centres, these partnerships are vital for ensuring local voices are heard and acted upon. Read more about the Castle Morpeth Community Partnership meeting and Read more about the North Northumberland Community Partnership meeting.

Traffic Safety in Longhirst: A Petition for Action

A significant focus was a petition concerning traffic safety in Longhirst. Residents voiced serious concerns about vehicle speeds through the village, with survey data revealing speeds as high as 66 mph. The petition highlighted worries about the safety of pedestrians, particularly vulnerable individuals, and the impact of speeding on parked cars and footpaths.

However, the Highways Improvement Team Manager's assessment suggested that speed reduction measures were not necessary on the village approaches, describing the roads as essentially open countryside. While a 20 mph speed limit was not planned, and speed data did not indicate a widespread problem, the potential for dropped kerbs was to be investigated. Councillor Ed Dungait, the Ward Councillor, expressed disappointment but welcomed the consideration of footpaths in the Local Transport Plan (LTP) and offered to support costed options with his Member Local Improvement Scheme funding. This illustrates the council's process of balancing resident concerns with technical assessments and available resources.

Parking Pressures in Ponteland and Morpeth

Parking issues were also a major talking point. In Ponteland, concerns were raised about airport-related parking in residential areas and at the Leisure Centre. Measures such as advisory signs, double yellow lines, and planned 24-hour stay limits in the Leisure Centre car park were discussed as ways to manage the situation.

Discussions also touched upon parking challenges in Morpeth, specifically the lack of adequate parking for motorhomes and the general scarcity of public toilets. These issues directly affect the visitor experience and the accessibility of the town for residents and tourists alike.

Promoting Northumberland: Tourism and Local Development

The partnerships also engaged in an informal discussion about promoting tourism in Northumberland. Sarah McMillan, Director of Economy & Growth, explained the role of Visit Northumberland as the official Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LEP). The Destination Management Plan (DMP) aims to enhance Northumberland's appeal as a visitor destination, ensuring a high-quality experience that respects local communities and the environment, while fostering economic growth.

Concerns were raised about the need to lobby for the dualling of the A1 Road, which is crucial for improving connectivity and accessibility to the region. The development of a statutory registration scheme for short-term holiday lets was also discussed, indicating a move towards better regulation and management of the tourism sector.

Library and Customer Service Redesign: A New Approach to Public Access

The Communities and Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday, 25 February 2026, to review significant proposals for the redesign of Northumberland's library and customer services. This initiative, part of the council's Universal Front Door strategy, aims to create a more integrated and accessible service for all residents, ensuring that everyone can easily access the support and information they need. Read more about the Communities and Place OSC meeting.

The proposed redesign seeks to combine the expertise of library and customer service staff to offer a seamless experience. This includes developing a new hub and cluster model for libraries, with different levels of service at hub, primary, and secondary libraries. The plan also involves expanding the network of volunteer-managed Community Access Libraries (CALs) and exploring new digital solutions, such as open access libraries and automated bookshelves.

A public consultation on these proposals was scheduled to commence on 16 February 2026 and conclude on 13 April 2026. This consultation is vital for gathering resident feedback and ensuring the new service model meets the diverse needs of the community. The council is operating under the framework of the Public Libraries and Museums Act 1964, which mandates the provision of a comprehensive and efficient library service.

Other Matters

• The Constitution committee meeting scheduled for Friday, 27 February 2026, was pending council publication.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of meetings scheduled for the next 7 days:

• The South East Planning Committee is scheduled to meet on Monday 09 March 2026.
• The Health and Wellbeing OSC is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 03 March 2026 to discuss GP access, pharmacy provision, and review minutes from previous Health and Wellbeing Board meetings.
• The Strategic Planning Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 03 March 2026 to consider planning applications and receive an update on Section 106 agreements.
• The Family and Children's Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Thursday 05 March 2026 to discuss the Early Help Annual Report, the Annual Representations Report, and the School Organisation Plan.
• The Cabinet is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 10 March 2026 to discuss various council matters.
• The West Planning Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 10 March 2026 to consider planning applications.
• The Health and Well-being Board is scheduled to meet on Thursday 12 March 2026 to discuss various council matters.

This week in Northumberland:

Council Grapples with Budget and Service Delivery Amidst Financial Pressures

Northumberland County Council convened on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, facing critical decisions about the council's financial future and the services it provides. The meeting's agenda was dominated by the proposed budget for the upcoming year and the medium-term financial plan, alongside discussions on the council's pay policy and the appointment of key executive roles. These decisions will have a direct impact on residents, particularly vulnerable groups, by shaping the resources available for essential services. Read more about the County Council meeting.

Budget and Financial Planning: The Foundation of Services

The council's financial plans are the bedrock upon which all services are built. The discussions around the Budget 2026-27, the Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) 2026-30, and the 30-Year Business Plan for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) are crucial for ensuring the council can meet its obligations. These plans dictate how public funds are allocated, influencing everything from social care provision to road maintenance.

• Budget and Priorities Engagement: A summary of how resident and partner feedback has shaped the council's priorities for the next four years was presented. This engagement is vital to ensure that the council's plans reflect the needs of the community.
• Housing Revenue Account (HRA): The proposed HRA Budget and MTFP, along with the 30-year Business Plan, are key to maintaining and improving council housing. The plan aims to deliver value for money and enhance the customer experience for tenants, while also addressing inequalities.
• Section 25 Assessment: A report under Section 25 of the Local Government Act 2003 was presented, providing the Section 151 Officer's assessment of the council's financial standing. This is a statutory requirement to ensure the council's financial robustness.
• Revenues and Benefits Policies: Updates to policies governing revenues and benefits were discussed, impacting how residents access financial support and pay their council tax.
• Council Tax Setting: The council was presented with the necessary financial information to set the Council Tax for 2026-27. This decision directly affects the cost of living for every household in Northumberland.

Pay Policy and Executive Appointments: Shaping Leadership

The council also addressed its Pay Policy Statement for 2026/27, which outlines how staff are remunerated, particularly for senior roles. Ensuring fair pay and value for money is a constant challenge.

Key executive appointments were also on the agenda:

• Executive Director of Transformation and Resources - s151 Officer: The appointment of Jon Ritchie to this crucial role, which includes statutory financial responsibility, was considered. Alison Elsdon was also noted as a potential acting Deputy s151 Officer.
• Chief Fire Officer: The appointment of Keith Carruthers to lead the Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service was also on the agenda.

Licensing and Regulatory Matters: Ensuring Public Safety and Standards

The Licensing and Regulatory Subcommittee met on Thursday, 19 February 2026, to address procedural matters and review sensitive reports from the Cabinet Member for Public Safety. While the specific details of the reports were discussed in private due to the likely disclosure of exempt information relating to individuals, the subcommittee's role is vital in upholding standards and ensuring public safety. Read more about the Licensing and Regulatory Subcommittee meeting.

The meeting began with the Election of Chair and the Disclosure of Members' Interests, standard procedures to ensure impartiality and transparency. The subsequent review of reports from Councillor G Stewart, the Cabinet Member for Public Safety, highlights the council's commitment to addressing issues that could impact the well-being of residents. The decision to exclude the press and public from these discussions underscores the sensitive nature of the information being considered, often involving personal circumstances that require confidentiality.

Other Matters

• The North Planning Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday, 19 February 2026, was cancelled.
• The North Northumberland Community Partnership met on Thursday, 19 February 2026, to discuss various community matters.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of meetings scheduled for the next 7 days:

• The Communities and Place OSC is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 25 February 2026 to review proposed changes to library and customer services, an update on the North East Museums Partnership, and the Community Risk Management Plan.
• The Schools' Forum is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 25 February 2026 to discuss the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) for 2026/27, including proposed formula values for allocating funds to schools.
• The Health and Wellbeing OSC is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 03 March 2026 to discuss GP access, pharmacy provision, and review minutes from previous Health and Wellbeing Board meetings.
• The Strategic Planning Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 03 March 2026 to consider planning applications.
• The Castle Morpeth Community Partnership and North Northumberland Community Partnership are scheduled to hold a joint meeting on Thursday 26 February 2026 to discuss local issues including the Destination Management Plan and the Northumberland Library Service.
• The Family and Children's Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Thursday 05 March 2026 to discuss matters related to family and children's services.

This week in Northumberland:

Budget Decisions and Service Redesigns Loom Large for Cabinet

The Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, 10 February 2026, was set to tackle some of the most significant decisions facing the council, with the proposed budget for the upcoming financial year and the medium-term financial plan taking centre stage. These decisions will shape how services are delivered and how public money is spent across Northumberland for years to come. Read more about the Cabinet meeting.

The budget proposals, alongside the medium-term financial plan, are crucial for ensuring the council can continue to provide essential services, particularly for vulnerable groups. Any cuts or shifts in funding could have a direct impact on everything from social care to waste collection.

Key Financial and Service Decisions:

• Budget 2026-27 and Medium-Term Financial Plan (MTFP) 2026-2029: The Cabinet was due to review the proposed Revenue Budget for 2026-27 and the MTFP for 2026-2029, as well as the Capital Budget and Capital MTFP. These documents outline the council's financial strategy and spending plans, taking into account government funding settlements.
• Redesign of Library and Customer Services: Proposals for transforming how library and customer services are delivered were on the agenda. The aim is to create a universal front door to improve access to council services for everyone, ensuring that no one is left behind. This could mean changes to how residents interact with the council for information and support.
• Redevelopment of Foundry House in Bedlington: The Cabinet was to consider plans to redevelop the Foundry House site in Bedlington for complex care services. This includes a Council-owned and operated complex care facility and specialist bungalow accommodation. This is a critical step in addressing the growing need for specialist care for vulnerable adults.

Other Important Discussions:

• School Admission Arrangements: The meeting was to be informed of consultation outcomes regarding school admissions for the 2027/2028 academic year and review the Home to School Transport Policy for September 2025. Ensuring fair access to education for all children is paramount.
• Revenues and Benefits Policies 2026-27: Updates and proposed amendments to policies governing revenues and benefits were scheduled for discussion, impacting how residents access financial support.
• Corporate Fraud Policies for 2026-27: The council's approach to counter-fraud activity was to be reviewed, ensuring that public funds are protected from misuse.

Licensing and Regulatory Updates: Ensuring Standards Across the County

The Licensing & Regulatory Committee and the Licensing Committee both met on Wednesday, 11 February 2026, to review the council's licensing activities and policy development work. These committees play a vital role in ensuring that businesses and activities operating within Northumberland meet required standards, contributing to public safety and well-being. Read more about the Licensing & Regulatory Committee meeting and Read more about the Licensing Committee meeting.

Quarterly Activity and Policy Development:

• Quarterly Activity Update: Both committees were scheduled to receive an update on licences determined by subcommittees and delegated officers during the third quarter of the financial year. This included data on Hackney carriages and private hire vehicles, animal activity licensing, and other licensable activities. This oversight ensures that services impacting residents are operating within the law and to acceptable standards.
• Policy Refresh: The Licensing & Regulatory Committee was to receive an update on the development of the Northumberland Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Policy. The Licensing Committee was to review progress on refreshing licensing policies for both the Gambling Act 2005 and the Licensing Act 2003. These policy updates are crucial for adapting to changing regulations and ensuring fair and effective licensing practices.

Health and Well-being Board Tackles Inequalities and Healthy Lifestyles

The Health and Well-being Board met on Thursday, 12 February 2026, to address critical issues concerning health inequalities and promoting healthy lifestyles across Northumberland. The discussions highlighted the council's commitment to improving the health outcomes for all residents, with a particular focus on those most at risk. Read more about the Health and Well-being Board meeting.

Addressing Health Inequalities:

• Northumberland Inequalities Plan: A key item was the review of progress made in addressing inequalities across the county. The report detailed achievements in reducing the significant 17-year gap in healthy life expectancy between the most and least deprived areas. This work is vital for ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to live healthy and fulfilling lives, regardless of their background.
• Healthy Weight Alliance: An annual update on the Healthy Weight Alliance was presented, highlighting concerning trends in adult obesity and a social gradient in overweight prevalence among children. The alliance's work aims to tackle these issues through various initiatives, including promoting healthier food options and addressing advertising of unhealthy products.

Forward Planning for Health and Wellbeing:

• Board's Forward Planning: The Board discussed changes to its forward planning and reporting approach, aiming for more focused reporting and greater involvement from a wider range of organisations. This ensures that the Board's work remains relevant and impactful in addressing the health and well-being needs of the community.

Other Matters

• The South East Planning Committee and the West Planning Committee meetings scheduled for Monday, 09 February 2026, and Tuesday, 10 February 2026, respectively, were cancelled.
• The Rights of Way Committee meeting scheduled for Wednesday, 11 February 2026, was also cancelled.
• The Ashington & Blyth Community Partnership met on Wednesday, 11 February 2026, to discuss the work of Citizens Advice, community well-being initiatives, and public engagement. Read more about the Ashington & Blyth Community Partnership meeting.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of meetings scheduled for the next 7 days:

• The Licensing and Regulatory Subcommittee is scheduled to meet on Thursday 19 February 2026 to discuss reports from the Cabinet Member for Public Safety.
• The North Northumberland Community Partnership is scheduled to meet on Thursday 19 February 2026 to discuss various community matters.
• The County Council is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 18 February 2026 to discuss the council's budget, financial plans, pay policy, and officer appointments.
• The Schools' Forum is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 25 February 2026 to discuss school funding matters.
• The Castle Morpeth Community Partnership is scheduled to meet on Thursday 26 February 2026 to discuss community matters.
• The Communities and Place OSC is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 25 February 2026 to review the council's regulatory and enforcement functions.

This week in Northumberland:

Schools Face Funding Uncertainty as Pupil Numbers Decline

Northumberland's schools are grappling with a significant financial challenge as pupil numbers continue to fall, impacting the allocation of the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG). The Schools' Forum met on Wednesday, 21 January 2026, to discuss the proposed formula values for distributing the £374,951,618 DSG for the 2026/27 academic year. Read more about the Schools' Forum meeting.

The core issue is a drop of 529 pupils between October 2024 and October 2025, a decline that translates to over £3 million in lost funding for schools. This trend, attributed to a falling birth rate and an increase in students attending special schools, puts pressure on mainstream school budgets.

Key Funding Decisions:

• Total DSG: £374,951,618 allocated for 2026/27, an increase of £26,531,412 from the previous year.
• Schools Block: Allocated £254,598,886, but this is £2.363 million less than initially indicated due to falling pupil numbers.
• High Needs Block: Set to receive an indicative £63,797,742, an 8.6% increase, but subject to deductions.
• Early Years Block: Allocated £54,186,625, with proposed increases to base rates and deprivation supplements.
• De-Delegation: A decision was to be made on de-delegating funding for services like a Contingency Fund, Free School Meal eligibility, Trade Union Facility Time, and English as an Additional Language (EAL) support, totalling £411,488.

The proposed formula values aim to reduce the gap between local funding rates and the National Funding Formula (NFF). A crucial decision was the potential 0.5% transfer from the Schools Block to the High Needs Block, amounting to £1,271,296, to support students with special educational needs. The Minimum Funding Guarantee (MFG) was proposed to be set at 0% to maximise support for schools.

Health Protection and Tobacco Control Take Centre Stage

The Health and Well-being Board convened on Thursday, 22 January 2026, to review critical public health initiatives and safeguarding efforts across Northumberland. The meeting provided updates on the Northumberland Health Protection Assurance and Development Partnership (HPADP), the Northumberland Tobacco Control Partnership (NTCP), and the use of Health Impact Assessments (HIAs) in planning. Read more about the Health and Well-being Board meeting.

Tackling Disease and Promoting Health:

• Health Protection: The HPADP's annual report highlighted efforts to combat communicable diseases, including seasonal flu, rising sexually transmitted infections, and chronic hepatitis C. The establishment of the Northumberland Vaccination Engagement Group and initiatives to improve flu vaccination uptake were key points. Environmental hazards, such as private water supplies and the new Air Quality Strategy, were also discussed.
• Tobacco Control: The NTCP's update focused on reducing smoking prevalence, which currently affects around 22,000 residents. The partnership aims to reduce smoking rates to 5% or less by 2030. The proposed Tobacco and Vapes Bill, aiming to create a smoke-free generation, was noted. Local actions under the NTCP's eight-strand strategy were detailed, including engagement, advocacy, price increases, and support for quitting.
• Health Impact Assessments: The use of HIAs in major planning applications was reviewed. These assessments identify potential health impacts of developments, with the council requiring HIAs for larger schemes to ensure new developments contribute positively to public health.

Safeguarding Children and Adults:

The Northumberland Children and Adults Safeguarding Partnership (NCASP) presented its annual report, covering October 2024 to April 2025. This report detailed progress in safeguarding children and adults, learning from reviews, and training initiatives, reinforcing the council's commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals.

Planning Decisions: Bamburgh Hotel and Lucker Children's Home Under Scrutiny

The North Planning Committee met on Thursday, 22 January 2026, to make decisions on several planning applications, including a proposed hotel in Bamburgh and a change of use for a property in Lucker to a children's home. Read more about the North Planning Committee meeting.

Bamburgh Hotel Proposal Faces Local Opposition

A key application was for 5-6 Front Street, Bamburgh, Northumberland, NE69 7BW, which proposed converting holiday cottages and former hospitality premises into a six-bedroom hotel. While the applicant sought to create a new hospitality offering, the plans attracted objections from local residents and Bamburgh Parish Council. Concerns centred on parking provision and the potential impact on the village's already strained parking situation. The site's location within the Bamburgh Conservation Area and an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) added to the scrutiny.

Lucker Children's Home Sparks Highway Safety Concerns

The committee also considered an application for Chapeltrees Cottage, Lucker, Belford, Northumberland, NE70 7HS, to change its use from a dwellinghouse to a residential institution (Use Class C2) for two children in care. Adderstone With Lucker Parish Council and neighbouring residents raised concerns about highway safety, particularly due to the proximity of the A1 and the lack of footpaths. Questions were also raised about the suitability of the rural location for children requiring significant supervision and the potential impact on emergency service response times.

Section 106 Agreements Update

The committee received an update on Section 106 agreements, which are crucial for ensuring that developers contribute financially to local infrastructure and facilities. These contributions help to mitigate the impact of new developments and ensure they benefit the community.

Other Matters

• The Employment Appeals Committee met on Monday, 19 January 2026, to consider an employment matter. Read more about the Employment Appeals Committee meeting.
• The Schools' Forum met on Wednesday, 21 January 2026, to discuss the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) for 2026/27, including proposed formula values for allocating funds to schools. Read more about the Schools' Forum meeting.
• The Health and Well-being Board met on Thursday, 22 January 2026, to discuss public health and safeguarding matters, including annual updates on health protection, tobacco control, and health impact assessments. Read more about the Health and Well-being Board meeting.
• The North Planning Committee met on Thursday, 22 January 2026, to consider planning applications and receive an update on Section 106 agreements. Read more about the North Planning Committee meeting.
• The Firefighters' Pension Scheme Local Pension Board met on Tuesday, 20 January 2026, to discuss the Firefighters' Pension Scheme, including monitoring reports and pension settlements. Read more about the Firefighters' Pension Scheme Local Pension Board meeting.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of meetings scheduled for the next 7 days:

• The Tynedale Community Partnership is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 27 January 2026 to discuss a petition for a 20mph speed limit in Ovingham, policing updates, and appointments to outside bodies.
• The Communities and Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 28 January 2026 to review the implementation of the Regulation and Enforcement Plan and discuss the committee's work programme.
• The Audit and Standards Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 28 January 2026 to consider the council's financial statements, corporate risk management, and the Treasury Management Strategy.
• The Corporate Services and Economic Growth Overview and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Monday 02 February 2026 to review the council's budget and financial plans, and the committee's work programme.
• The Strategic Planning Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 03 February 2026 to consider planning applications for mineral extraction and residential development, and receive an update on Section 106 agreements.
• The Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 04 February 2026 to discuss the future of Religious Education in schools and review the council's development plan.
• The Cabinet is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 10 February 2026 to discuss various council matters.
• The Ashington & Blyth Community Partnership is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 11 February 2026 to discuss various council matters.
• The Licensing & Regulatory Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 11 February 2026 to discuss various council matters.
• The Licensing Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 11 February 2026 to discuss various council matters.
• The Health and Well-being Board is scheduled to meet on Thursday 12 February 2026 to discuss various council matters.
• The County Council is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 18 February 2026 to discuss various council matters.
• The North Planning Committee is scheduled to meet on Thursday 19 February 2026 to discuss various council matters.
• The North Northumberland Community Partnership is scheduled to meet on Thursday 19 February 2026 to discuss various council matters.