This week in South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority:

Barnsley Interchange: Tackling Anti-Social Behaviour with a Multi-Agency Approach

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee met this week, with a significant portion of the discussion dedicated to the persistent issue of anti-social behaviour at the Barnsley Interchange bus station. Councillor Joshua Bacon brought the issue to the committee's attention, highlighting the disruption caused by groups of young people, particularly during school holidays and weekends. This behaviour has not only affected passengers but has also led to assaults on staff working at the facility.

In response, Rebecca Brookes confirmed that a multi-agency meeting involving the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA), South Yorkshire Police, and Barnsley Council has already taken place. A coordinated action plan is now in place, which includes:

• Increased high-visibility police patrols around the interchange.
• Additional security and staffing.
• Enhanced CCTV coverage.
• Intelligence sharing between partners.

Councillor Yvonne Sykes suggested exploring options like the my card for free youth travel, noting the proximity of a youth centre. However, Councillor Joe Otten suggested that while the youth centre issue might be more of a Barnsley Council concern, the broader anti-social behaviour problem could be better addressed through direct meetings with SYMCA officers. Councillor Bacon expressed interest in how SYMCA could collaborate with local authorities to tackle anti-social behaviour more broadly across South Yorkshire, suggesting a joint approach with the Police and Crime Commissioner scrutiny body. The committee agreed to allow its chair and vice-chair to discuss a way forward for the work programme on this issue.

The impact of this behaviour is significant, particularly for vulnerable groups. Passengers, including the elderly, have expressed concerns about safety and the disruption to their journeys. Ensuring the interchange is a safe and welcoming space is crucial for maintaining public confidence in transport services.

• Overview and Scrutiny Committee Meeting Details

Integrated Settlement Outcomes Framework: Balancing Flexibility with Focus

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee also received an update on the integrated settlement outcomes framework, a key agreement with the government. Andy Leverton, Assistant Director for Data Planning and Performance, explained that SYMCA is expected to report to the government every six months over the next three years, with the first report due at the end of September.

While welcoming the increased flexibility in the framework, which allows for reallocation of funds between different pillars, Councillor Michael Naughton cautioned against losing focus on crucial indicators. He stressed the need for a robust performance management framework. Councillor Joe Otten questioned the rationale for the economic development pillar having no cap on money being moved out of it, given the authority's focus on economic regeneration. Mr. Leverton clarified that this flexibility allows for reallocation to areas like skills and employment if deemed more critical for driving economic growth.

Concerns were also raised that the revised outcomes framework, with its 26 headline metrics, might become too vague. Councillor Alexi Dimond highlighted the importance of adequate revenue funding for ongoing engagement and welcomed the focus on participant remuneration. The committee noted the report and identified areas for further scrutiny.

This framework is vital for securing government funding and ensuring that South Yorkshire's priorities are met. The balance between flexibility and maintaining a clear focus on key outcomes is essential to ensure that public money is used effectively to benefit residents.

• Overview and Scrutiny Committee Meeting Details

Developing a New Engagement Strategy: Listening to Communities

Liam Ronald-Cloughan, Director of Strategy and Partnership, and Adam Leach, Principal Officer for Engagement, presented an update on the development of SYMCA's engagement strategy and toolkit. The ambition is to foster a consistent organisational culture of participation and trust, moving away from engagement being a one-off activity. The strategy aims to complement, rather than duplicate, existing engagement work by local authorities and other partners.

Four emerging roles for SYMCA in engagement were outlined: direct engagement, coordinating engagement, enabling engagement, and observing and learning. Councillor Joe Otten raised a concern about the absence of a specific role for when people directly approach the authority with issues, suggesting SYMCA should be a primary point of contact for regional matters. Mr. Leach responded that the observing and learning role includes listening, and the proactive nature of the strategy aims to make SYMCA more visible.

Councillor Yvonne Sykes suggested the Mayor could hold regular Q&A sessions at local town halls. Councillor Joshua Bacon questioned the strategy's effectiveness in ensuring people can object to proposals, not just shape them. Mr. Leach confirmed the strategy aims to shift power to communities and mentioned the development of lived experience panels.

A robust engagement strategy is crucial for ensuring that the voices of all residents, especially those from vulnerable groups, are heard and considered in decision-making processes. This strategy aims to build trust and ensure that SYMCA's work is grounded in the lived experiences of the communities it serves.

• Overview and Scrutiny Committee Meeting Details

Mayor Oliver Coppard Addresses Key Issues

Mayor Oliver Coppard attended the meeting to answer questions from committee members on a range of topics.

• Big Clean Programme: The Mayor confirmed the Big Clean programme is in train, with initial activity in Maltby. He stated that proceeds of crime money will be used, alongside community payback, voluntary groups, and South Yorkshire Police. He acknowledged that the £8,000 raised so far is insufficient for the scale of ambition and that further funding will come from the Mayoral Priority Fund.
• Transport Accessibility: Mayor Coppard detailed ongoing work on procuring a new fleet of trams and buses, with accessibility concerns at the forefront. He also mentioned plans to improve bus and tram stops and highlighted the recent programme of on-demand bus services, particularly beneficial for older communities. He acknowledged challenges with community transport, stating that on-demand services are part of this work and SYMCA is open to ideas for improvement.
• Road and Rail Links and Supertram Expansion: The Mayor expressed optimism about pushing for improved road and rail links to Manchester and Supertram expansion, citing enthusiasm from the Mayor of Greater Manchester.
• Vision Zero and Net Zero: Mayor Coppard defended the focus on Net Zero, highlighting its potential for jobs and growth, and stated that SYMCA must address both Net Zero and Vision Zero. He acknowledged the challenges of road safety in South Yorkshire and stressed the need for a collective effort.
• Scrutiny and Public Engagement: The Mayor agreed that scrutiny of the organisation and his role needs to increase and improve. He suggested a greater role for the press and media, and alternative methods of scrutiny such as citizens' juries. He also discussed the ongoing process of giving mayors more control over planning decisions, emphasizing the need for adequate funding and a preference for a brownfield approach to development.

The meeting concluded with the committee noting the report on the engagement strategy and Mayor Coppard's attendance.

• Overview and Scrutiny Committee Meeting Details

This week in South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority:

Budget Approved: £171 Million Invested, But Inflationary Pressures Loom

The South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) Board met this week, approving the budget outturn for the 2025/26 financial year and revised estimates for 2026/27. A record £171 million was invested across South Yorkshire during the last financial year, with income generation exceeding targets by £21 million, partly due to higher interest rates. However, the Board also acknowledged ongoing inflationary pressures stemming from the conflict in the Middle East, which are expected to offset some of the income surpluses.

Gareth Sutton, Executive Director of Resources and Investment, presented the financial report, highlighting that while revenue activity was close to budget, there were notable fluctuations in transport and growth sectors. Movements to reserves were approved, and the revised budget for 2026/27 anticipates income surpluses that will help manage in-year cost pressures and support further investment.

The decisions mean that despite global economic challenges, South Yorkshire is continuing to invest significantly in its future. However, the acknowledgement of inflationary pressures serves as a reminder that the cost of services and projects could increase, potentially impacting the delivery of some initiatives or requiring careful management of public funds.

• Mayoral Combined Authority Board Meeting Details

Major Investment in Doncaster and Sheffield: Active Travel and Innovation Boosted

The SYMCA Board also gave the green light to several key programme initiatives, injecting vital funding into projects designed to improve local infrastructure and foster innovation.

Doncaster's Active Travel Network Gets a Boost: The Northern Local Centre Improvement project in Doncaster will receive £11.65 million in grant funding. This scheme aims to create better walking, wheeling, and cycling routes across several local centres, making it easier and safer for residents to get around without a car. This investment is particularly important for those who rely on active travel for their daily commute or for accessing essential services, potentially reducing transport costs and improving public health.

Supporting Entrepreneurs with AMRC Start-up: The AMRC Start-up project, based at the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) in Sheffield, will receive a £2 million grant. This initiative is designed to support entrepreneurs and accelerate the growth of new businesses, fostering innovation and creating skilled jobs in the region. For aspiring business owners, this funding could be the lifeline needed to turn innovative ideas into successful ventures.

The Board also endorsed the submission of a proposal for an Apprenticeship Brokerage Pilot to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). This pilot aims to build on the success of the existing apprenticeship hub, providing brokerage support to employers and young people. This is crucial for ensuring that young people have access to quality training and career pathways, particularly those who may face barriers to employment.

• Mayoral Combined Authority Board Meeting Details

Doncaster Sheffield Airport: Fair Work and Future Funding Under Scrutiny

A key discussion point during the public question session at the Mayoral Combined Authority Board meeting centred on the future of Doncaster Sheffield Airport (DSA). Dave Pike from the Trades Union Congress (TUC) North East, Yorkshire and Humber, raised concerns about ensuring fair working conditions in contracts linked to the airport's redevelopment.

Mayor Oliver Coppard acknowledged the TUC's vital role in the campaign to save DSA and committed to working with them. He explained that while Doncaster Council and Fly Doncaster Limited directly control airport procurement, SYMCA's standard tender specifications include requirements for equality, diversity, living wage, and social value. The Mayor assured that SYMCA would engage with Doncaster Council and Fly Doncaster to ensure fair working practices are implemented. This is a critical issue for the workforce, as it directly impacts their pay, job security, and overall working environment.

The Mayor also addressed questions regarding the South Yorkshire Airport City Programme and ongoing lease renegotiations with Peel Group. He confirmed that SYMCA has provided over £16 million to support the project, with further funding conditional on lease changes. Negotiations are ongoing, with most lease variations agreed in principle, though a turnover rent clause remains under discussion. The Mayor stressed that public funding is protected and that programme planning continues towards a spring 2028 reopening, with forecasts and delivery plans under review. This ongoing dialogue is essential for safeguarding public investment and ensuring the long-term viability of the airport as a significant employer and economic driver for the region.

• Mayoral Combined Authority Board Meeting Details

Other Matters

Local Nature Recovery Strategy Consultation Continues

The public consultation on the draft Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) is ongoing, with two weeks remaining before it closes on July 31st. This strategy aims to protect South Yorkshire's natural environment for future generations and address pressures facing these vital spaces. Residents are encouraged to participate and share their views.

• South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority Website

Whitestone Solar Farm Engagement

A second community event was held to discuss the proposed Whitestone Solar Farm development. Further engagement opportunities are planned for the end of August. Mayor Coppard reiterated his view that the scheme is too big and in the wrong place, emphasizing the need for both government and developers to listen to local concerns.

• South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority Website

This week in South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority:

Devolution Act Reshapes Local Power, Scrutiny Gets Sharper Teeth

The South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) is set to see significant shifts in its powers and responsibilities following the implementation of the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act 2026. This landmark legislation, which received Royal Assent in April 2026, codifies existing devolution arrangements and introduces new, expanded powers for Mayoral Combined Authorities (MCAs).

The Act designates mayors as responsible for fire and rescue services where geographical areas align, as is the case in South Yorkshire. This means the Mayor will oversee the Community Risk Management Plan, fire budgets, and the appointment of the Chief Fire Officer. While this integration aims to streamline services, concerns were raised about the financial implications of fire and rescue services not being ring-fenced, potentially impacting other SYMCA budgets. Safeguards are promised, including scrutiny of budget proposals and material spending changes.

Crucially, the Act reforms scrutiny functions, granting committees greater powers to summon individuals and access information. This means the Overview and Scrutiny Committee can now summon the Mayor, MCA members, officers, and any appointed commissioners to attend meetings and answer questions. The public will also have a statutory right to submit petitions to the scrutiny committee.

The legislation also grants MCAs increased authority over strategic planning, with a statutory duty to produce a spatial development strategy. Furthermore, it introduces a health improvement duty, requiring SYMCA to improve health outcomes and reduce inequalities across all its functions.

While the Act clarifies many aspects of devolution, guidance on operationalising certain powers, such as the power to convene local partners, is still being developed. The government has indicated that the Devolution Act is a floor, not a ceiling, suggesting further devolution is possible through a formal right to request process.

• Overview and Scrutiny Committee Meeting Details

Bus Franchising Rolls On: New Buses, New Routes, New Challenges

South Yorkshire's journey towards integrated public transport under the South Yorkshire People's Network is gathering pace, with significant progress reported on the bus franchising programme. The decision to move to bus franchising was taken in March 2025, with the aim of improving reliability, integration, accessibility, and environmental performance.

Key milestones achieved include the acquisition of six bus depots and the launch of procurement for the first batch of new buses. An additional £50 million in government funding has been secured to support fleet investment. The first phase of franchised services is targeted for Sheffield and Doncaster in September 2027, with full rollout by the end of the decade.

Passengers in Doncaster can expect to see fleet renewal, with new, more accessible, zero-emission buses. The programme aims to halt the decline in bus patronage and encourage growth, a key indicator of success. Challenges remain, particularly in addressing connectivity for rural villages, shift workers, and evening travel, with plans for demand-responsive services and matching vehicle size to demand being explored.

The committee also discussed the importance of data in driving decisions. Currently, bus operators are not compelled to share detailed data on passenger journeys, which hinders the ability to optimise routes and services effectively. The new franchising model aims to rectify this by giving SYMCA control over this data.

• Overview and Scrutiny Committee Meeting Details

Audit Committee Tackles Financial Health and Safety

The Audit, Standards and Risk Committee convened this week, focusing on the financial outturn for 2025/26, internal audit progress, and health and safety performance. Councillor Mike Levery was elected as the new Chair, with David Phillips appointed as Vice-Chair.

Financial Outturn and Audit Plans

The Treasury Outturn Report for 2025/26 indicated that Treasury Management Investment income exceeded the budget due to higher than forecast investment balances and returns. The Police Fund also significantly exceeded its budget due to an upfront grant payment. The MCA maintained an under-borrowed position, and officers will continue to monitor market conditions for opportune external borrowing. The committee reviewed the draft unaudited Statement of Accounts for 2025/26, noting the consolidation of SYMCA, the Chief Constable's accounts, and South Yorkshire Future Trams Limited (SYFTL). The external audit by KPMG is underway, with a focus on rebuilding assurance following prior disclaimed audit opinions.

Health and Safety: A Positive Picture with Room for Improvement

Deb Kilvington, the incoming Head of Health, Safety and Wellbeing, presented a positive health and safety update for January to March 2026. Key highlights included zero accidents or near misses involving SYMCA staff and contractors. Crime and disorder incidents saw a slight reduction, and vandalism instances fell significantly by almost 50%. However, concerns were raised about slip, trip, and fall incidents at Barnsley Interchange, with plans for new floor surfaces and improved signage in development.

Internal Audit Reports: Procurement and Investment Zones

Several internal audit reports were presented, including findings on Procurement, Investment Zone Governance, and SYFTL Key Financial Controls. While overall opinions were positive (Reasonable Assurance and Green ), areas for strengthening controls were identified, particularly concerning compliance monitoring, documentation of ethical considerations, and updating policies. Management has agreed to implement all recommended actions.

• Audit, Standards and Risk Committee Meeting Details

Other Matters

Mayoral Combined Authority Board Meeting

The Mayoral Combined Authority Board is scheduled to meet next week. Key items on the agenda include the financial outturn for 2025/26, a revised budget for 2026/27, and programme approvals for investment schemes and grant acceptances. The Board will also receive an update on delegated authorities.

• Mayoral Combined Authority Board Meeting Details

This week in South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority:

Police Scrutiny: Tackling Disproportionality and Building Trust

The South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) Community Confidence Board met this week to confront difficult but vital issues surrounding policing in our region. Mayor Oliver Coppard emphasised the importance of these conversations, stating, It is vital that we create spaces like this one, where we can have open and honest conversations, focusing on issues that matter to people in South Yorkshire. The board delved into stop and search, use of force, hate crime, and the Police Race Action Plan, aiming to understand the realities on the ground and how public perception aligns with police practice.

Stop and Search: A Stark Reality

Chief Superintendent Simon Wanless presented data revealing that Black individuals are 3.1 times more likely to be stopped and searched than white individuals in South Yorkshire. While the positive outcome rate for searches is consistent across all ethnic groups, meaning officers find items in roughly one in three searches regardless of ethnicity, the disproportionality in who is stopped remains a significant concern. Efforts are underway to improve the recording of reasonable grounds for searches, with 92.4% now meeting the required standard. A new Stop, Search, Safeguard programme mandates a vulnerable child form for every stop search of a person under 18, aiming to ensure their welfare is considered.

Use of Force: Examining Disparities

The data on the use of force also highlighted disproportionalities, with Black individuals being 2.1 times more likely to have force used against them compared to white individuals when considering the general population. This disparity significantly reduces when looking only at those being arrested, suggesting the issue is linked to the arrest cohort rather than indiscriminate use of force. The force has seen a substantial increase in the recording of use of force incidents, with body-worn video used in 88% of instances. A mandatory Vulnerable Child Form is now in place when force is used on a child, with data shared with Children's Social Care.

Hate Crime: A Growing Concern

Superintendent Shaz Wood reported a slight increase in hate crime volumes over the past 26 months, with a particular rise in online offences. Race remains the largest strand of hate crime, accounting for 69% of all incidents. Muslim victims represent the largest proportion of hate religion crimes. A key challenge identified is the lower rate of positive action taken for female victims of hate crime, especially within the Muslim community, who are less likely to support prosecutions. Efforts are being made to tackle under-reporting through targeted engagement with schools and under-represented community groups.

Police Race Action Plan: Progress and Challenges

The Police Race Action Plan (PRAP), launched locally in October 2024, focuses on six key themes, including building an anti-racist workforce, increasing representation, and improving community relations. Progress has been made in delivering Inclusion Matters training to over 70% of the workforce and reaching an eight-year high in new recruits from ethnic minority backgrounds. However, challenges remain in increasing representation in senior ranks and improving Black communities' confidence to report crime.

The discussions highlighted the complex nature of policing and the ongoing efforts to build trust and ensure fair treatment for all communities in South Yorkshire.

• Community Confidence Board Meeting Details

Mayoral Combined Authority Board: Shaping South Yorkshire's Future

The South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) Board convened this week, marking the start of the municipal year with key decisions on governance and investment. Mayor Oliver Coppard highlighted the region's growing presence on the national stage, stating, South Yorkshire has a huge amount to offer, and with more than 1,000 delegates coming through our pavilion, it mattered that we showed the best of who we are.

Governance and Constitutional Updates

The Board approved amendments to the MCA's Constitution, incorporating changes brought about by the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act 2026. This includes new powers for the Mayor, such as the general power of competence and the ability to appoint commissioners. The Board also approved the annual corporate governance update, noting progress in risk management and endorsing the revised Code of Corporate Governance.

Record Investment and Programme Approvals

A significant £168 million was invested across South Yorkshire in the 2025/26 financial year, marking a record year for investment. The Board noted the Capital Investment Programme Outturn Report, showcasing a wide range of projects in development, delivery, and completion. Several schemes received full approval, including active travel projects in Sheffield and the Highways Maintenance Incentive Funding 2026/27. The Board also endorsed expressions of interest for the Third National Forest Programme and the Bloomberg Philanthropies Youth Climate Action Fund programme.

Electrifying South Yorkshire's Buses

A key item flagged was the commencement of depot electrification for the bus franchising programme. This crucial step will enable the deployment of a fleet of electric buses across the region, a move that will significantly improve air quality and public transport for residents.

• Mayoral Combined Authority Board Meeting Details

Other Matters

Business Advisory Board Meeting

The Business Advisory Board is scheduled to meet next week. This board, comprised of private sector members, plays a vital role in advising on economic development and business growth strategies for South Yorkshire.

• Business Advisory Board Meeting Details