This week in Staffordshire:

Council Navigates Roadworks and School Investments Amidst Busy Cabinet Agenda

Staffordshire County Council's Cabinet met on Wednesday, 15 April 2026, tackling crucial issues from managing the county's roads to investing in its schools. The meeting saw the approval of a new Traffic and Network Management Plan and the Capital Programme for Schools, alongside discussions on economic development and the council's forward plans.

Keeping Staffordshire Moving: A New Traffic Management Plan

The Cabinet has given the green light to the Traffic and Network Management Plan, a comprehensive framework designed to balance essential roadworks and events with the need to keep Staffordshire's roads flowing. With vehicle mileage on the network having increased by 33% over the last 20 years to a staggering 6 billion vehicle miles annually, managing this complex system is a significant challenge.

Councillor Peter Mason, Cabinet Member for Strategic Highways, highlighted the increasing weight and size of vehicles, including electric cars, which can weigh over two tons, placing greater strain on road infrastructure. The plan aims to improve coordination with the approximately 70,000 permit holders who undertake works on the network each year, over 60% of whom are utility or third parties.

Key strategies within the plan include:

• Network Hierarchy Management: Prioritising works based on the importance of the road.
• Activity Coordination: Minimising disruption by scheduling works efficiently.
• Asset Protection: Safeguarding road infrastructure from damage.
• Traffic Demand Management: Using technology and data to intelligently manage traffic flow and reduce congestion.

Councillor Janet Higgins raised concerns about ensuring collaboration with utilities, a challenge acknowledged by Councillor Mason. He stated that while legislative changes to compel cooperation have had mixed success, the council is working to foster an environment where works are planned well in advance, especially on key networks. The plan itself does not introduce new financial or legal commitments but consolidates existing practices into a clearer framework.

The approval of this plan is intended to support the council's Staffordshire Roadmap to a Better Network and minimise disruption for residents and businesses.

Find out more about the Traffic and Network Management Plan here.

Investing in Our Future: The Capital Programme for Schools

The Cabinet also approved the Capital Programme for Schools 2026-2027, outlining significant investment in school buildings and facilities. Councillor Janet Higgins, Cabinet Member for Education and SEND, emphasised the programme's commitment to providing Staffordshire's children with the best possible start in life.

Key priorities for investment include:

• Safe, Warm, and Dry Schools: Ensuring basic but essential conditions for learning.
• Mainstream Engagement: Developing resource bases to support children with high needs within their local schools.
• STEM Provision: Strengthening science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education.
• Toilet Refurbishments: Improving facilities that have a significant positive impact on pupil behaviour, safety, and well-being.
• Long-Term Planning: Including feasibility work for a new all-through SEND school in Rugeley.

While awaiting final confirmation of Department for Education funding, the council has adopted a prudent approach based on previous allocations. The programme will be reviewed once the final figures are announced. Councillor Marie Shortland highlighted the positive impact of modernised toilet facilities, noting their role in reducing bullying and creating a safer environment.

Explore the Capital Programme for Schools 2026-2027 here.

Other Matters

• The Staffordshire County Council Constitution Committee meeting, scheduled for Wednesday, 15 April 2026, was intended to discuss the fundamental framework governing the council's operations. The agenda indicated a comprehensive review of the constitution, including its role, purpose, and the various committees and officer structures that underpin its functioning. This meeting was scheduled to adopt and review the council's constitution, which outlines how decisions are made, the roles of elected members and officers, and the rights of citizens. More details about the Staffordshire County Council Constitution meeting can be found here.
• The Standards Panel meeting, scheduled for Monday, 13 April 2026, was postponed. This panel typically deals with complaints of breaches of the Code of Conduct by elected members. You can find more information about the Standards Panel meeting here.

This week in Staffordshire:

Children's Services Show Marked Improvement, But Vigilance Remains Key

Staffordshire's children's services are showing significant positive changes, according to the findings of a recent Ofsted focused visit. The Safeguarding and Education Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday, 09 April 2026, to review these encouraging outcomes. Inspectors noted a strengthened leadership team and improved practices within the services responsible for protecting and supporting children.

The integrated front door, the primary point of contact for concerns about a child's safety, has seen marked improvements in how quickly concerns are addressed and decisions are made. The response to concerns about adults in positions of trust, including the work of the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO), has also been enhanced. Nicholas Lakin, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, praised the dedication of frontline staff, acknowledging their tireless efforts in driving these improvements.

However, areas for further development remain. The quality of how initial contacts are recorded needs attention, and the management of social worker caseloads is an ongoing focus. To ensure these improvements are sustained and become embedded practice, the committee has rightly scheduled a follow-up meeting for September.

The committee also reviewed data concerning return home interviews for children who go missing. While the council's performance in offering these interviews is strong, there is a push for greater transparency regarding the timeliness of data sharing and the accuracy of information provided by third-party organisations. Ann Edgeller, Shadow Portfolio Holder for Education and SEND, emphasised the importance of consistent social worker support, viewing these interviews as a cry for help stemming from traumatic backgrounds. The committee's commitment to scrutinising these vital services ensures that the well-being of vulnerable children remains at the forefront of the council's agenda.

You can find more details about the Safeguarding and Education Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting here.

Corporate Performance and Future Plans Under Scrutiny

The Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday, 08 April 2026, to review the council's performance and its strategic direction for the future. Key discussions included the Integrated Performance Report for Quarter 3 of the 2025/26 financial year, the proposed Delivery Plan for 2026-27, and the contract award for a new Finance and HR system.

The committee noted the Integrated Performance Report, which summarises the council's progress against its strategic objectives. While overall performance was reviewed, the committee specifically requested more detailed information regarding the flexibility of the District Highways Programme. They also noted that anticipated additional capital investment in Children's Services is expected to lead to improvements in the 2026/27 financial year.

The Delivery Plan 2026-27, which outlines the council's strategic priorities, was also a key topic. These priorities include supporting residents through early help, fostering economic growth, investing in infrastructure, creating safe communities, and ensuring operational efficiency. The committee's focus on the Burntwood Health Centre and the methods for monitoring the plan's performance indicates a strong desire for tangible progress and accountability. The committee resolved to note the plan and its alignment with the new Strategic Direction 2026-2028, with a commitment to reviewing the full Delivery Plan and Key Performance Indicators at a future meeting.

The committee also noted the contract award for a new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system and managed payroll service. While the specific details of the contract were not extensively debated in this public session, questions were raised regarding its implementation, potential service changes, continuity planning, and the implications of Local Government Reorganisation (LGR). These are crucial considerations, as a robust Finance and HR system underpins the council's ability to deliver services effectively and efficiently to all residents.

You can find more details about the Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting here.

Other Matters

• The Countryside and Rights of Way Panel meeting scheduled for Friday, 10 April 2026, was cancelled. This means discussions on the management of the county's natural landscapes and public access routes will be delayed. Here is a link to the meeting page.

This week in Staffordshire:

Quarry Expansion Sparks Outcry Over Noise and Visual Impact, Council Approves Varied Conditions

Residents and parish councils are raising serious concerns about the potential for increased noise and visual blight as Staffordshire County Council considers changes to planning conditions at Pyford Brook Quarry. The Planning Committee met on Thursday, 2 April 2026, to discuss an application from Cemex UK Operations Limited to vary conditions on their existing mineral planning permission. The application seeks to regularise the as-built development of the plant and buildings, which differ from approved plans, and to amend conditions relating to out-of-hours working for the concrete plant, primarily to supply HS2 construction works.

Three parish councils – Auroas, Fradley, and Kings Bromley – have objected, alongside several members of the public. Their concerns centre on noise pollution, the visual impact of the expanded plant, increased traffic, and the potential for unchecked out-of-hours operations.

A key point of contention is Cemex's request to change the requirement for prior approval from the county council for out-of-hours concrete supply to a simple prior notification. Cemex argues this is to avoid unnecessary delays, aligning with national planning policy that discourages duplicating legislation, especially as HS2 works have separate approvals under Section 61 of the Control of Pollution Act 1974[^1]. However, objectors, including Councillor Stuart Threlfall representing Auroas Parish Council, argue this change would strip the local community of its ability to assess and comment on such requests. Councillor Stephen Cox, speaking for Kings Bromley Parish Council, also criticised the landscape and visual impact assessment, suggesting photographs were presented in a way that downplayed the site's visibility and highlighted that the increase in the height of aggregate bins is a significant material change.

Despite these objections, the committee voted to permit the application, subject to modified conditions. The report concluded that while the plant site has been constructed differently from approved plans, these changes do not result in an unacceptable adverse visual impact, given their temporary nature and subsequent removal. Regarding out-of-hours working, the committee agreed to the change to prior notification, citing national planning guidance.

The decision to approve the variations, while aiming to streamline operations for a major infrastructure project, leaves residents concerned about the long-term impact on their local environment and quality of life.

You can find more details about the Planning Committee meeting here.

Council Performance and Future Plans Under Scrutiny

The Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday, 31 March 2026, to review the council's performance and strategic direction. Key discussions included the Integrated Performance Report for Quarter 3 2025/26, the Delivery Plan 2026-27, and the contract award for a new Finance and HR system.

The committee noted the Integrated Performance Report, which summarises the council's performance against its strategic measures. While overall performance was reviewed, the committee specifically requested more information regarding the flexibility of the District Highways Programme. They also noted that anticipated extra capital investment in Children's Services is expected to lead to improvements in 2026/27.

The Delivery Plan 2026-27, which outlines the council's strategic priorities, was also discussed. These priorities include supporting people through early help, fostering economic growth, investing in infrastructure, creating safe communities, and ensuring efficiency. The committee's focus on the Burntwood Health Centre and the methods for monitoring the plan's performance indicates a desire for tangible progress and accountability. The committee resolved to note the plan and its alignment with the new Strategic Direction 2026-2028, with a commitment to reviewing the full Delivery Plan and Key Performance Indicators at a future meeting.

The committee also noted the contract award for a new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system and managed payroll service. While the details of the contract were not extensively debated in this public session, questions were raised regarding implementation, service changes, continuity planning, and potential implications of Local Government Reorganisation (LGR). These are crucial considerations, as a robust Finance and HR system underpins the council's ability to deliver services effectively and efficiently.

You can find more details about the Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting here.

Other Matters

• The Economy, Infrastructure and Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting scheduled for Wednesday, 1 April 2026, was cancelled. This means discussions on critical infrastructure and community development plans will be delayed. Here is a link to the meeting page.

This week in Staffordshire:

Schools Face Mounting Deficits as High Needs Block Overspend Reaches Critical Levels

Staffordshire's schools are grappling with a severe financial crisis, with the High Needs Block facing a projected overspend of £45 million for the current financial year. This alarming figure, consistent with previous reports, means the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) reserve, already in deficit by £53.6 million at the start of the year, is on track to reach nearly £100 million by the end of 2025-26. The Schools Forum met on Thursday, 26 March 2026, to confront this escalating deficit and discuss the implications for educational provision across the county.

The High Needs Block, which funds support for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), is under immense pressure. While Staffordshire's allocation for 2026-27 has increased to £156 million, this represents a cash-flat settlement once legacy grants are accounted for, and is £7 million lower than anticipated. This shortfall means that none of the additional funding will be used to repay historical deficits, which are forecast to balloon to between £430 million and £515 million by 2030-31 without intervention.

The government's proposed High Needs Stability Grant, intended to cover 90% of historic SEND deficits, offers a potential lifeline, but detailed information on payment timings and support for future deficits is still awaited. This uncertainty places immense strain on schools, potentially impacting the quality and availability of crucial support for vulnerable pupils. The report highlighted that for 2026-27, special school budgets will be set with a Minimum Funding Guarantee (MFG) of 0%, meaning funding levels will be maintained on a like-for-like basis. However, despite this, a significant overspend of over £60 million is still anticipated in 2026-27.

The meeting also addressed the government's SEND reforms, which propose a more inclusive, mainstream-first approach with a stronger emphasis on early intervention. While the intention is to reserve Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) for the highest-need pupils, the practical implications for existing support structures and funding remain a significant concern for schools.

You can find more details about the Schools Forum meeting here.

New Council Leader Appointed Amidst Calls for Reform and Accountability

Staffordshire County Council has a new leader following the County Council meeting on Thursday, 26 March 2026. Councillor Martin Murray was appointed as the Leader of the Council, with Councillor Hayley Coles taking on the role of Deputy Leader. The appointment comes at a critical juncture for the council, with significant challenges and calls for reform.

During the meeting, opposition councillors voiced concerns about the council's recent performance, citing utter chaos and rolling scandals. Councillor Alex Farrell, Deputy Leader of the Opposition, directly addressed Councillor Murray, urging him to tackle issues such as the Peter Mason scandal and the state of the county's roads, which he described as never been worse. He also highlighted that council tax has increased by 3.99%, contrary to a pledge to lower taxes. Councillor Jill Hood echoed these sentiments, appealing for a more collaborative approach and reiterating calls for Councillor Mason's removal.

Councillor Murray, in his acceptance speech, acknowledged the upcoming changes due to Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) and devolution, stating, It gives Staffordshire a voice, and I hope it brings the great city of Stoke-on-Trent back into the fold and to make this county whole once again. He expressed his honour and pride in leading the council and pledged to focus on stability and getting the job done. The appointment of new leadership will be closely watched to see how effectively these challenges are addressed and if the promised reforms are implemented.

You can find more details about the County Council meeting here.

Mental Health Services Under Pressure as Demand Outstrips Capacity

The Health and Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Monday, 23 March 2026, to review the current state of mental health services across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent. The committee heard that while some services are performing well, significant challenges remain, particularly in managing demand and ensuring timely patient discharge.

• Talking Therapies: This service is generally meeting national targets, with 71.3% of those completing treatment showing reliable improvements. However, access was slightly below target for the last quarter, though improvements are expected by year-end due to ongoing recruitment.
• Children and Young People's Mental Health: Access targets are being met, with nearly 18,000 young people seen by community mental health services in the past year. Wait times are still a concern, but 48% of children are seen within four weeks, exceeding the national average.
• Mental Health Support Teams (MHSTs) in Schools: Currently, 67% of schools have access to MHSTs, with plans to reach 100% coverage by 2029-30. This phased rollout aims to ensure equitable access, with the Stay Well service providing complementary support to schools without MHSTs.
• Crisis and Inpatient Services: A major challenge is the out-of-area usage of mental health inpatient beds, exacerbated by delays in patient discharge. These delays are attributed to a lack of suitable care packages or placements, and national requirements for facility improvements. On a positive note, Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent rank third nationally for average length of stay in mental health admissions.
• Delayed Discharges: The committee heard that while social care assessments are generally completed within the 28-day target, the lack of suitable community placements and supported living accommodation is the primary cause of delays. This issue highlights the critical need for integrated support between health and housing providers.
• SEND Reforms: The new white paper on SEND was discussed, with concerns raised about potential funding shifts to mainstream schools and the impact on dedicated services. The committee acknowledged the need for integrated support within schools but stressed that the practicalities and funding streams are yet to be determined.

The committee's discussions underscore the ongoing need for investment and strategic planning to ensure that mental health services can meet the growing demand and provide timely, effective support to all residents.

You can find more details about the Health and Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting here.

Other Matters

• The Pensions Committee and Pensions Board were scheduled to meet on Friday, 27 March 2026, to discuss the Staffordshire Pension Fund's training plan, business plan, actuarial valuation, and climate-related disclosures. However, the meeting for the Pensions Board has a status of PENDINGSCRAPING, and the Pensions Committee meeting has a status of PENDINGCOUNCIL_PUBLICATION, meaning detailed information is not yet available. More details about the Pensions Committee meeting can be found here. More details about the Pensions Board meeting can be found here.