This week in Oxfordshire:

Council Approves £14.5 Million for Cowley Branch Line and Overhauls Family Support Services

Oxfordshire County Council's Cabinet met on Tuesday, July 14th, making significant decisions that will impact transport infrastructure and the support offered to families. A substantial £14.5 million funding package was approved for the Cowley Branch Line, a project aimed at boosting economic growth and connectivity. Simultaneously, the council endorsed the strategic direction for Best Start Family Hubs, a key initiative designed to provide comprehensive support for families from pregnancy through to young adulthood.

Funding Secured for Cowley Branch Line

The Cabinet approved up to £14.5 million in funding for the Cowley Branch Line, a project seen as vital for housing delivery, economic growth, and achieving net-zero objectives. This funding will be drawn from retained business rates from the Oxfordshire Enterprise Zones. The Cowley Branch Line is a core component of the OxRail 2040 plan, which aims to modernise and expand rail infrastructure across the county.

• Why it matters: This investment is expected to unlock significant economic benefits and improve transport links, potentially making commuting easier and supporting new housing developments. For residents, this could mean better access to jobs and services, and a more sustainable transport network.
• Potential Outcomes: The scheme is anticipated to contribute to economic growth and encourage a shift towards public transport. However, the report noted that future funding shortfalls or additional borrowing costs would require further decisions.

Councillor Laura Gordon, Cabinet Member for Environment and Economy, presented the report, highlighting the scheme's strategic importance.

Link to Cabinet meeting

Best Start Family Hubs to Transform Family Support

The council also approved the strategic direction for Best Start Family Hubs, a cornerstone of the Best Start in Life Plan. This initiative aims to improve child development outcomes by establishing five primary hubs, each supported by a network of additional sites. These hubs will offer integrated services for families, from pregnancy up to age 19 (or 25 for those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities - SEND).

• Why it matters: This is a crucial step towards providing a more cohesive and accessible support system for families. For vulnerable families, these hubs can be a lifeline, offering early intervention, parenting support, and access to a range of services in one place. The aim is to improve child development and reduce inequalities, particularly for children eligible for free school meals.
• Key Features:
  • Five primary hubs aligned with District and City Council boundaries.
  • Annual funding of £0.5 million for three years to support the voluntary, community, faith, and social enterprise (VCFSE) sector.
  • Close integration with existing Youth Offer programmes.

Councillor Sean Gaul, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, emphasised the importance of early intervention and integrated support.

Link to Cabinet meeting

Council Invests in Public Health Services and Local Infrastructure

Several delegated decisions were made last week to bolster public health services and support local infrastructure projects.

New Contracts for Children's Substance Use Services and Pharmacy Support

Councillor Kate Gregory, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Inequalities, approved the commissioning of a new Substance Use Service for Children and Young People. This service, with an annual budget of up to £700,000, aims to improve early intervention and support for young people affected by substance use. The decision also recommissioned several vital primary care and community pharmacy services, including contraception, NHS Health Checks, and drug use shared care.

• Why it matters: These services are critical for the health and wellbeing of residents. The new children's service addresses a gap in targeted support, while the recommissioned pharmacy services ensure continued access to essential healthcare interventions, particularly for vulnerable populations. These initiatives align with the council's commitment to tackling health inequalities and promoting healthy lives.

The new commissioning process for the children's service aims to improve delivery and outcomes, addressing a target that had not been met by the current service. The recommissioned pharmacy services will continue under new contracts for up to seven years.

Link to Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Public Health and Inequalities meeting

Drainage Infrastructure and Bridge Maintenance Receive Funding

Councillor Liz Leffman, Cabinet Member for Highways Construction and Repair, approved the release of £4 million from capital reserves to bolster drainage infrastructure over the next two financial years. Additionally, a contract worth over £4.8 million was approved for maintenance works on the A40 Dukes Cut Wolvercote Bridge.

• Why it matters: Adequate drainage is essential for preventing flooding and maintaining road safety, particularly in the face of changing weather patterns. The Wolvercote Bridge maintenance is crucial for supporting housing and economic growth in West Oxfordshire. These investments ensure the resilience and functionality of vital infrastructure.

The drainage funding will support repairs, investigations, and improvement schemes, contributing to a Greener Oxfordshire. The bridge maintenance is part of the wider HIF2 A40 scheme, supporting development in the region.

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

Active Travel Guidance and Speed Limit Changes Approved

Councillor Gareth Epps, Cabinet Member for Transport, approved new guidance for street works to better support active travel and implemented several speed limit changes across the county. The Active Travel Guidance for Street Works aims to improve the experience for pedestrians and cyclists during roadworks.

• Why it matters: Promoting active travel is key to reducing carbon emissions and improving public health. Clearer guidance during street works ensures that cyclists and pedestrians are not unduly inconvenienced or put at risk. The speed limit changes, part of the Vision Zero strategy, are intended to enhance road safety for all users.

The meeting also saw the approval of increased prices for the MyBus ticketing scheme to ensure its financial sustainability and the implementation of highway improvements in Didcot, including new crossings and cycleways.

Link to Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Transport meeting

Other Matters

• The Audit & Governance Committee met on Wednesday, July 15th. While the meeting was held, the information status is pending council publication, meaning detailed minutes and transcripts are not yet available. The committee was scheduled to review the council's financial performance and governance for the 2025/26 financial year, including treasury management, the statement of accounts, and the counter fraud plan. Link to Audit & Governance Committee meeting
• The Thames Valley Fire Control Joint Committee met on Monday, July 13th. This committee reviewed the performance and financial outturn for the 2025/26 financial year for the Thames Valley Fire Control Service. Discussions also covered updates on the Inter Authority Agreement and the technology replacement programme. Link to Thames Valley Fire Control Joint Committee meeting
• The Shareholder Committee (Cabinet Committee) met on Tuesday, July 14th, to approve changes to the governance and structure of Enterprise Oxfordshire, including the establishment of new advisory boards and the expansion of company membership. A new Managing Director for Enterprise Oxfordshire was also appointed. Link to Shareholder Committee (Cabinet Committee) meeting
• The Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Adults met on Tuesday, July 14th, approving new contracts and extensions for supported living services, including a new contract for the Banbury Cross development and extensions for learning disability and autism supported living services. Link to Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Adults meeting
• The Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Children and Young People met on Tuesday, July 14th, approving the use of the Families First grant to support Children's Social Care reform in Oxfordshire. Link to Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Children and Young People meeting

This week in Oxfordshire:

Council Pushes Forward with Autism Strategy and Health Inequality Plans

The Oxfordshire Health & Wellbeing Board met on Thursday, July 9th, to discuss a crucial new strategy for autistic individuals and to review progress on tackling health inequalities across the county.

All-Age Autism Strategy Aims for Better Support

The Board considered the proposed Oxfordshire All-Age Autism Strategy 2026-2031. This strategy, developed through extensive consultation, aims to address long-standing issues faced by autistic people, including long waits for diagnosis, fragmented support, and barriers to education and employment.

• Why it matters: This strategy is vital for ensuring autistic residents receive the understanding, support, and opportunities they deserve. It seeks to create a more inclusive environment where autistic individuals can thrive, from childhood through to adulthood. The strategy acknowledges that the upcoming Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) could impact its delivery, highlighting the need for adaptable planning.
• Key Priorities:
  • Improving community awareness and understanding of autism.
  • Enhancing support for autistic children and young people in education.
  • Ensuring access to appropriate health and care services.
  • Streamlining autism assessment and support processes.
  • Addressing housing and employment needs.
  • Improving interactions with the criminal justice system.

The Board was asked to endorse the strategy, paving the way for its publication and implementation.

Embedding the Marmot Approach to Tackle Health Inequalities

The Board also received an update on the progress of embedding the Marmot approach in Oxfordshire. This approach, guided by the Institute of Health Equity, focuses on addressing the social determinants of health to reduce inequalities.

• Why it matters: Health inequalities mean that some communities experience poorer health outcomes than others, often due to factors like income, housing, and access to services. The Marmot approach aims to create a fairer society where everyone has the opportunity to live a healthy life. This work is crucial for ensuring that all Oxfordshire residents, regardless of their background, can achieve their full health potential.
• Progress Highlights:
  • Best Start in Life: Recommendations from the Starting Stronger, Fairer Futures in Oxfordshire report are being integrated into existing structures to reduce inequalities for children and young people.
  • Fair Employment and Good Work: Opportunities are being explored to strengthen links between schools and employers and address barriers to employment.
  • Healthy Standard of Living: Initiatives are underway to improve housing conditions and financial security for residents.
  • Rural Inequalities: Targeted community engagement is being conducted in priority rural areas to understand and address specific barriers.

The Board was asked to note the progress made and agree that measures to address health equity should be embedded within the refreshed Health and Wellbeing Strategy.

Progress on Preventing Homelessness

Caroline Green, Chief Executive of Oxford City Council, provided an update on the work of the Prevention of Homelessness Directors Group (PHDG). The group has been focusing on refreshing its strategy, strengthening collaboration with housing providers, and improving joint working between adult social care and housing services.

• Why it matters: Homelessness and rough sleeping have profound impacts on individuals' health, safety, and wellbeing. This group's work is essential for ensuring that vulnerable people receive the support they need to secure stable housing and prevent them from falling into crisis.

The Board was asked to note the report on the PHDG's progress.

Link to Oxfordshire Health & Wellbeing Board meeting

Council Commits to Carbon Neutrality with Updated Plan

The Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Environment and Economy met on Friday, July 10th, approving the publication of the council's updated Carbon Management Plan and its latest Greenhouse Gas Report.

Ambitious Targets for Emission Reduction

Councillor Laura Gordon, Cabinet Member for Environment and Economy, approved the publication of the 2026 updated Carbon Management Plan (CMP) and the 2024/25 Greenhouse Gas (GHG) report. The CMP outlines Oxfordshire County Council's strategy to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030.

• Why it matters: Tackling climate change is a critical priority for the council and for the future of Oxfordshire. This plan demonstrates a commitment to reducing the council's environmental impact through concrete actions, which ultimately benefits all residents by contributing to a healthier planet and mitigating the effects of climate change.
• Key Achievements and Projections:
  • A 3% reduction in operational emissions in 2024/25, bringing the total reduction to 73% against the 2010/11 baseline.
  • Projections indicate emissions could be reduced by approximately 85% by 2030.
  • Ongoing decarbonisation of the council's property portfolio and continued electrification of its vehicle fleet.

Challenges remain, including securing funding for future property decarbonisation projects and potential delays in fleet electrification. The upcoming Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) also introduces uncertainty regarding the council's future estate.

Link to Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Environment and Economy meeting

Other Matters

• The Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Future Economy and Innovation met on Monday, July 6th. The information status for this meeting is pending scraping. Link to meeting
• The Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Community Wellbeing and Safety met on Thursday, July 9th. The information status for this meeting is pending scraping. Link to meeting
• The Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Local Government Reorganisation and Human Resources met on Thursday, July 9th. The information status for this meeting is pending scraping. Link to meeting

This week in Oxfordshire:

Council Approves School Expansions and Special School Remodelling

Oxfordshire County Council is investing in its educational infrastructure, with decisions made to expand primary and secondary school capacity and to remodel a special school. The Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Transformation meeting on Friday, July 3rd, approved funding agreements that will create hundreds of new school places and improve facilities for students with special educational needs.

Grove CE Primary School Expansion to Meet Growing Demand

Over £2 million has been approved for the construction of a new teaching block at Grove CE Primary School. This funding will enable the Oxford Diocesan Schools Trust (ODST) to expand the school, adding 105 pupil places and a 39-place nursery. This expansion is a direct response to increasing pupil numbers in the north of Grove, driven by local housing development.

• Why it matters: This investment ensures that local children have access to school places within their community, reducing the need for long commutes and supporting families. The addition of a nursery will provide crucial early years education. The project aims for Net Zero Carbon in Operation, incorporating sustainable features like air source heat pumps.
• Project Details: The total project budget is £9.494 million, funded by Section 106 contributions and corporate resources.

Faringdon Community College to Get Modernised Facilities

A funding agreement with Cambrian Learning Trust has been approved, releasing over £2 million to construct new accommodation at Faringdon Community College. This project will replace four temporary buildings that are no longer fit for purpose.

• Why it matters: This upgrade will provide a modern and efficient learning environment for students at Faringdon Community College. The new buildings will incorporate sustainable design, including air source heat pumps and photovoltaic panels, and will include electric vehicle charging points.
• Project Details: The project budget is £6.100 million, fully funded by Section 106 contributions.

Mabel Prichard Special School to Expand

Funding has been approved for the remodelling and expansion of Mabel Prichard Special School, a special school academy in Oxford. This expansion will create 23 additional spaces to meet the rising demand for special school places.

• Why it matters: This is a vital step in ensuring that children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) receive the specialist support they require. The expansion will involve remodelling existing accommodation and improving access, aligning with Oxfordshire's SEND Sufficiency Delivery Strategy.
• Project Details: The project budget is estimated to exceed £2 million, funded from the SEN High Needs capital allocation.

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

Council Reviews Constitution and Scrutiny Reports

The County Council met on Tuesday, June 30th, to discuss a range of governance matters, including proposed amendments to the Council's Constitution and the annual reports from its scrutiny committees.

Refining the Council's Constitution

The Audit and Governance Committee presented proposed amendments to the Council's Constitution. These changes, developed by the Constitution Working Group, aim to refine the council's governance framework. The Council was asked to approve these amendments, which will be incorporated into the Constitution following their endorsement.

• Why it matters: The Council's Constitution sets out the rules and procedures for how the council operates. Ensuring it is up-to-date and effective is crucial for transparent and efficient decision-making, which ultimately benefits residents by ensuring accountability and clarity in council operations.

Scrutiny Committees Report on Year's Work

The Council received the Scrutiny Annual Report for 2025/26, detailing the work undertaken by scrutiny committees throughout the year. The Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee (JHOSC) also presented its annual report, outlining its activities and recommendations.

• Why it matters: Scrutiny committees play a vital role in holding the council's executive to account and ensuring that services are meeting the needs of residents. These reports provide a valuable overview of their work and highlight areas of focus and concern.

Motions Address Key Resident Concerns

Several motions were put forward by councillors, addressing issues of direct concern to residents:

• Support for Individuals with Motor Neurone Disease (MND): A motion called for a review of the County Council's role in the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) to ensure timely assessments and adaptations for individuals living with MND.
• Climate Adaptation: A motion highlighted climate impact as a strategic risk and requested increased investment in climate adaptation capacity and initiatives for flood mitigation and heat island reduction.

• Dangerous Parking: A motion aimed to address pavement parking and its impact on those with limited mobility, calling for an enforcement mechanism and a letter to the Minister for Local Transport.

• Why it matters: These motions demonstrate the council's engagement with pressing issues affecting residents' daily lives, from health support to environmental concerns and public safety.

Link to County Council meeting

Local Pension Board Reviews Business Plan and Risk Register

The Local Pension Board met virtually on Friday, July 3rd, to review the council's Annual Business Plan for 2026/27, discuss the latest risk register, and consider reports on governance and administration.

Ensuring Financial Security for Pensioners

The Board reviewed the Annual Business Plan and the risk register, both of which had previously been considered by the Pension Fund Committee. These documents are crucial for ensuring the sound management and long-term sustainability of the Oxfordshire Pension Fund.

• Why it matters: The decisions made by the Pension Fund Committee and scrutinised by the Local Pension Board directly impact the financial security of thousands of current and future pensioners. A robust business plan and a well-managed risk register are essential for meeting the fund's obligations and protecting members' retirement incomes.

The Board also discussed the fund's structure post-Local Government Reorganisation and reviewed a paper concerning the approval of a Senior LGPS Officer.

Link to Local Pension Board meeting

This week in Oxfordshire:

Council Tackles Public Health Challenges: Gambling Harms, Drug Use, and Mental Wellbeing on the Agenda

The Health Improvement Partnership Board met on Thursday, June 25th, to address critical public health issues, including the growing concern of gambling harms, strategies for supporting individuals with drug and alcohol dependencies, and the ongoing development of mental health services.

Addressing Gambling Harms with New Funding

A significant focus of the meeting was the presentation on preventing the harms caused by gambling. With new public health requirements and dedicated funding, the council is stepping up its efforts to tackle this issue. The discussion covered the national landscape, including the introduction of a statutory gambling levy, and outlined strategic objectives for Oxfordshire. These include building local capacity, conducting a health needs assessment, strengthening partnerships, and embedding prevention within local policy.

• Why it matters: Gambling addiction can have devastating consequences for individuals, families, and communities, leading to financial ruin, mental health problems, and social isolation. This initiative aims to provide crucial support and reduce the prevalence of these harms.
• Key Objectives:
  • Increase awareness of gambling harms.
  • Reduce health and social inequalities linked to gambling.
  • Develop a comprehensive local strategy.

The report referenced national and local evidence, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. The Gambling Act 2005[^4] provides the legislative framework for gambling regulation in Great Britain, and this initiative seeks to leverage local authority powers to mitigate its negative impacts.

New Strategy to Combat Drug and Alcohol Harms

The board also discussed key priorities for supporting people who use drugs and alcohol, outlining the direction for a new Oxfordshire Drugs and Alcohol Strategy for 2027-2030. The proposed strategy aims to create an environment where it is easier for everyone to live free from drug and alcohol harms. It is built around five core aims: tackling underlying causes, addressing drug supply, strengthening prevention and early intervention, improving treatment and harm reduction, and supporting recovery.

• Why it matters: Drug and alcohol misuse significantly impacts individuals' health and wellbeing, as well as placing a strain on public services. This strategy is vital for providing effective support, reducing harm, and promoting recovery within the community.
• Cross-cutting Themes: Reducing inequalities, tackling stigma, embedding lived experience, and improving partnership working are central to the strategy.

While Oxfordshire's drug and alcohol harms are lower than national averages, the report highlighted that harm is not evenly distributed, with higher rates in areas of deprivation and among inclusion health groups. This underscores the importance of targeted interventions.

Update on Keystone Hub Mental Health Service

An update was provided on the Keystone Hub mental health service, detailing its progress at a community level and how it supports individuals affected by alcohol, drugs, and gambling. This service plays a crucial role in providing integrated support for those facing complex challenges.

The Health Improvement Partnership Board[^1] is responsible for overseeing public health initiatives, and its discussions are guided by the Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2024-2030[^2].

Link to Health Improvement Partnership Board meeting

Council Reviews Education and Safeguarding: Child Sexual Abuse, SEND Reforms, and Family Hubs

The Education and Young People Overview & Scrutiny Committee met on Friday, June 26th, to scrutinise vital areas of education and safeguarding for children and young people in Oxfordshire. Key discussions included the findings of a major inspection into child sexual abuse, the progress of the Best Start in Life plan, and the lifting of a Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) improvement notice.

Joint Targeted Area Inspection into Child Sexual Abuse

The committee considered a report from a Joint Targeted Area Inspection (JTAI) into the multi-agency response to child sexual abuse within families in Oxfordshire. This inspection, conducted by Ofsted and other inspectorates, examined how agencies collaborate to safeguard children.

• Why it matters: Child sexual abuse is a deeply serious issue with profound and lasting impacts on victims. Effective multi-agency working is paramount to ensuring children are protected and perpetrators are brought to justice. The findings of this inspection are crucial for identifying areas for improvement in safeguarding practices.

Best Start in Life Plan and Family Hubs Progress

The committee reviewed the Best Start in Life Plan, which aims to improve child development from pregnancy to school entry, and the development of Best Start Family Hubs. These hubs are designed to provide integrated support to families, offering a welcoming space for parenting advice, home learning, and early intervention.

• Why it matters: Ensuring children have the best possible start in life is fundamental to their future success and wellbeing. Family hubs provide a vital point of access for support, helping to address challenges early and build stronger families.

Lifting of SEND Improvement Notice

An update was provided on the Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) Improvement Notice issued in 2023. The committee was informed that the Secretary of State for Education has decided to lift this notice, acknowledging the progress made by the local area partnership.

• Why it matters: This marks a significant step forward for SEND services in Oxfordshire. While the notice is lifted, the council remains committed to continuous improvement through a revised SEND Priority Action Plan and in response to national SEND reforms. This ensures that children and young people with SEND receive the support they need to thrive.

Link to Education and Young People Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting

Council Explores Future of Bus Services and Flag-Flying Protocol

The Place Overview & Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday, June 24th, to discuss the future of bus services in Oxfordshire and a proposed protocol for flying flags on council buildings.

OxBUS 2040: A Vision for Bus Transport

The committee considered OxBUS 2040: Plan for Bus and the Enhanced Partnership Plus (EP+). This long-term plan aims to transform bus transport and connectivity across Oxfordshire by 2040. It focuses on improving connectivity and infrastructure, climate action, and positioning the bus as a place shaper.

• Why it matters: Reliable and accessible public transport is essential for connecting communities, supporting the economy, and reducing carbon emissions. This plan is crucial for ensuring that bus services meet the needs of residents now and in the future, particularly as the county grows.
• Key Themes:
  • Better, safer journeys for all.
  • Seamless travel and integrated ticketing.
  • A clean, green bus network.

The plan acknowledges challenges such as funding constraints and the need for decarbonisation, while also highlighting opportunities for improved customer experience. The EP+ framework is intended to deliver these ambitions, with £6 million of capital funding identified to support its measures.

Standardising Flag-Flying Protocol

The committee also reviewed a proposed Protocol for Flag Flying for Oxfordshire County Council. This protocol aims to establish a clear and consistent framework for displaying flags on council buildings, ensuring compliance with legislation and national guidance.

• Why it matters: While seemingly a minor issue, a clear protocol ensures that flag flying is managed respectfully and appropriately, reflecting community values and national significance. It provides a structured process for considering requests and maintaining consistency.

The protocol details arrangements for routine flag flying, including specific annual commitments, and outlines a process for considering one-off requests.

Link to Place Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting