This week in Oxfordshire:

Pension Fund Committee Reviews Investment Strategy and Constitution Changes

The Pension Fund Committee met on Friday, September 4th, to discuss crucial financial and governance matters concerning the Oxfordshire Pension Fund. Key topics included a review of the fund's investment strategy, proposed changes to the council's constitution, and reports on investment performance and climate-related disclosures.

Approving the Investment Strategy Statement

A significant item on the agenda was the approval of the Investment Strategy Statement (ISS), alongside the Local Investment Policy and the Cash Management Policy. The ISS outlines how the pension fund's assets will be invested to meet its long-term liabilities.

• Why it matters: The ISS is fundamental to ensuring the financial security of pensions for current and future retirees. A well-defined strategy aims to balance risk and return, safeguarding the fund's ability to pay pensions while also considering ethical and environmental factors. The committee was recommended to approve these key policy documents.

Aligning the Constitution with LGPS Regulations

The committee also considered proposed changes to the council's constitution to align with new Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) regulations. These reforms, introduced on June 30th, 2026, aim to modernise the governance and administration of LGPS funds.

• Why it matters: Changes to the constitution ensure the council's governance structures are up-to-date and compliant with national regulations. This is vital for the smooth operation and legal standing of the pension fund. The committee was recommended to note the report and propose these changes to the Council via the Audit and Governance Committee.

Climate Change and Investment Performance

The committee reviewed the draft Annual Report and Accounts, including the Taskforce on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) report. This report details the fund's progress against its Climate Change Policy targets. An independent investment advisor also provided an overview of financial markets and the fund's investment performance.

• Why it matters: Increasingly, pension funds are expected to consider the impact of climate change on their investments and to report on their strategies for managing climate-related risks and opportunities. This ensures long-term financial sustainability and aligns with growing public and regulatory expectations.

The meeting also covered the fund's risk register, governance and communications, and administration reports. Several items were designated as exempt, meaning they were discussed in private due to the disclosure of sensitive information.

Link to Pension Fund Committee meeting

Faringdon Community College Secures £7 Million for New Teaching Block

Councillor Dan Levy, Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Transformation, approved a £7 million funding agreement on September 4th to support the construction of new teaching accommodation at Faringdon Community College. The funding will enable Cambrian Learning Trust (CLT) to replace four outdated temporary teaching buildings with permanent facilities.

Addressing Urgent Accommodation Needs

The project budget has increased from an initial estimate of £6.1 million to £7.362 million. This rise is attributed to inflation, increased material costs, and the need to meet Biodiversity Net Gain[^1] requirements set by Vale of White Horse District Council planners. The college's existing temporary buildings are no longer fit for purpose, impacting the learning environment for students.

• Why it matters: This investment directly impacts the educational experience of students at Faringdon Community College. Providing modern, permanent facilities is crucial for effective teaching and learning, ensuring a safe and conducive environment for young people.

The project is fully funded by Section 106[^2] contributions. To ensure the project is delivered cost-effectively under a single contract, the council agreed to forward fund £1.301 million of the secured funding. Without this, CLT would only be able to afford the first phase of construction, potentially leading to higher costs for the second phase.

The decision is subject to a call-in period, meaning it will become effective on September 9th unless called in for review by a Scrutiny Committee.

Link to Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Transformation meeting

£6.2 Million Grant Secured for Didcot Northern Perimeter Road

On September 3rd, Councillor Liz Leffman, Cabinet Member for Highway Construction and Repair, approved the acceptance of £6.2 million in grant funding for the Didcot Northern Perimeter Road (NPR3) scheme. This funding, originally received by South Oxfordshire District Council, will contribute to the delivery of this key transport infrastructure project.

Connecting Didcot and Supporting Growth

The Didcot NPR3 scheme is described as a vital missing link in the strategic transport network for Didcot. It aims to connect the A4130 Abingdon Road and A4130 Hadden Hill corridors, incorporating walking and cycling infrastructure.

• Why it matters: This project is crucial for supporting planned housing and economic growth in Didcot, aligning with the town's Garden City aspirations. The road is expected to reduce congestion, improve air quality, and provide a much-needed alternative route around the town. For residents, this means potentially smoother commutes and a healthier environment.

The total capital funding for the project is £14.721 million. The acceptance of this grant provides significant financial certainty. The report noted that the delivery of the NPR3 scheme is dependent on confirmed funding.

The meeting also addressed a question from a County Councillor regarding delays and cost increases for the project. Councillor Leffman explained that the delivery timeline is coordinated with developers and that options are being explored to ensure value for money.

Link to Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Highway Construction and Repair meeting

Electric Vehicle Charging Bays and Road Safety Measures Approved

Councillor Gareth Epps, Cabinet Member for Transport, made several decisions on September 3rd to advance sustainable transport and road safety across Oxfordshire.

Countywide EV Charging Rollout

The rollout of electric vehicle (EV) charging bays across the county was approved. While the general plan was agreed, some specific locations will be subject to amendments or further public consultation.

• Why it matters: Expanding EV charging infrastructure is essential for encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles, which is a key strategy for reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality. This benefits all residents by contributing to a cleaner environment.

Road Safety Improvements

Several road safety measures were also agreed upon, including:

• A permanent two-way cycling arrangement for Sheep Street in Bicester.
• A 40mph speed limit on the A4095 between Bladon and Long Hanborough.
• 20mph limits in Great Tew, Westwell, and Shepherds Pit Lane.

Decisions were also made regarding parking restrictions in Wantage and Bath Street, Oxford City, with some proposals approved, amended, or deferred for further consultation.

• Why it matters: These measures directly impact the safety of all road users, particularly vulnerable pedestrians and cyclists. Lowering speed limits in residential areas and near schools is a proven method for reducing the severity of accidents and creating safer communities.

Link to Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Transport meeting

Other Matters

• The Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Local Government Reorganisation and Human Resources meeting was scheduled for Thursday, September 3rd. The information status is pending scraping, meaning details of any decisions made are not yet available. Link to Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Local Government Reorganisation and Human Resources meeting
• The Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Public Health and Inequalities meeting was scheduled for Tuesday, September 1st. The information status is pending scraping, meaning details of any decisions made are not yet available. Link to Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Public Health and Inequalities meeting
• The Remuneration Sub-Committee (Appraisals) met on Tuesday, September 1st. The meeting's agenda included the election of a Chair and Deputy Chair, and the approval of minutes from a previous meeting. A significant portion of the meeting was held in private to consider an exempt report relating to an individual. Link to Remuneration Sub-Committee (Appraisals) meeting

This week in Oxfordshire:

Council Leader Approves New Role to Boost Strategic Plan Delivery

Councillor Tim Bearder, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, has approved the creation of a new role: Deputy Cabinet Member for Strategic Plan Delivery. This decision, made on Thursday, August 27th, aims to strengthen the political capacity to drive forward the council's agreed Strategic Plan priorities and improve the organisation of Cabinet business.

Enhancing Strategic Delivery

The new role is designed to be advisory, with no executive decision-making powers. The Deputy Cabinet Member will support the Leader and Cabinet Members in progressing key priorities, championing specific projects, and assisting with policy development. This move is intended to ensure that the council's strategic goals are met more effectively.

The report presented to Councillor Bearder highlighted that this initiative directly supports the delivery of the council's Strategic Plan and agreed Cabinet priorities by providing additional political capacity. Importantly, the role will not attract any additional Special Responsibility Allowance, and any officer support will be managed within existing resources.

The decision will take effect on Wednesday, September 2nd, unless called in by a Scrutiny Committee.

Link to Delegated Decisions by Leader of the Council meeting

Other Matters

• The minutes from the meetings held on May 11th and May 21st, 2026, were approved.

This week in Oxfordshire:

Firefighters' Pension Scheme Appeals Committee Meets in Private

The Firefighters’ Pension Scheme Appeals Committee convened on Thursday, August 13th. The primary focus of the meeting was a confidential report containing exempt information relating to an individual.

Confidential Report on Individual Matters

The committee was scheduled to review a report prepared by the Deputy Chief Executive (Section 151 Officer). This report contained information deemed exempt under the Local Government Act 1972, meaning it was not made public to protect the identity and personal details of a specific individual. The agenda indicated that the public interest in keeping this information confidential outweighed the public interest in disclosing it. If any discussion was to take place regarding this report, the committee would have been required to pass a resolution to exclude the public.

The meeting also included standard procedural items such as apologies for absence, the election of a Chair, and declarations of interest. Guidance was provided to councillors on declaring disclosable pecuniary interests, other registrable interests, and non-registrable interests, and how these might affect their participation in discussions and voting.

Link to Firefighters’ Pension Scheme Appeals Committee meeting

This week in Oxfordshire:

Council Approves Changes to Adult Social Care Charges, Impacting Vulnerable Residents

Oxfordshire County Council's Cabinet met on Tuesday, July 28th, and approved significant changes to the Adult Social Care (ASC) Charging Policy. These adjustments, which include reductions in Disability Related Expenditure (DRE) allowances and the introduction of new daily and weekly charges for transport and telecare services, are set to take effect from August 3rd. While the council states these changes are necessary for financial sustainability and to align with other local authorities, they have raised concerns about the potential impact on vulnerable residents.

Key Changes to Adult Social Care Charges:

• Disability Related Expenditure (DRE) Allowance Reduced: The initial DRE allowance, which helps cover extra costs incurred due to a disability, will be reduced from 35% to 25%. This change is projected to generate an estimated £1.2 million in additional income for the council.
  • Why it matters: For individuals receiving adult social care, DRE allowances are crucial for managing essential expenses related to their disability. A reduction could mean less disposable income, potentially impacting their quality of life and ability to manage their specific needs. Safeguards remain in place, allowing individuals to request an individual assessment if their actual disability-related costs exceed the allowance.
• New Daily Transport Charge: A flat rate of £10 per day will be introduced for transport arranged by Adult Social Care. This is expected to generate approximately £0.3 million in income.
  • Why it matters: For those who rely on council-arranged transport for essential appointments or social activities, this daily charge could become a significant financial burden, potentially leading to reduced independence and increased social isolation.
• Weekly Telecare Charge Introduced: All users of telecare services will now be charged the actual cost of the service, which is £9.87 per week. A six-week free trial will be offered for those being discharged from hospital as part of a reablement package. This change is anticipated to generate around £0.3 million in income.
  • Why it matters: Telecare services provide vital safety nets for many, particularly older and vulnerable residents. An increase in cost could make this essential service less accessible, potentially impacting safety and peace of mind for those who rely on it.

During the meeting, Councillor Rebekah Fletcher, Cabinet Member for Adults, acknowledged concerns raised by other councillors regarding the potential disproportionate impact on disabled people, older people, those on low incomes, rural residents, and carers. She emphasised that the changes represent a return to previously applied rates and are necessary due to the council's financial position. The consultation feedback indicated that 52% of respondents felt the proposed changes would have a negative impact.

Link to Cabinet meeting

Confidential Discussions on Oxfordshire Care Partnership Agreement

The Cabinet also approved recommendations from an exempt report concerning the re-negotiation of the Project Agreement with the Oxfordshire Care Partnership (OCP). The OCP is a joint venture responsible for maintaining council-owned care homes and providing care services. The details of this agreement were not made public due to their confidential nature, relating to financial and business affairs.

• Why it matters: The OCP plays a vital role in delivering care to some of Oxfordshire's most vulnerable residents. Any changes to their agreement could impact the provision and quality of care services offered in council-owned facilities.

Link to Cabinet meeting

Other Matters

• The Cabinet met on Tuesday, July 28th, and approved significant changes to the Adult Social Care Charging Policy, including adjustments to Disability Related Expenditure (DRE) allowances, the introduction of a daily transport charge, and a new weekly charge for telecare services. The Cabinet also approved the re-negotiation of a project agreement with the Oxfordshire Care Partnership (OCP). These decisions will become effective at 5.00 pm on 3 August 2026, unless called in for review. Link to Cabinet meeting