This week in West Midlands Combined Authority:

Future of West Midlands Development Hinges on New Spatial Strategy

The Local Scrutiny Committee met on Monday 12 October 2026, to discuss the West Midland Spatial Development Strategy (SDS) and receive an update on bus governance. The SDS is a crucial new regional planning policy designed to guide future development, shape decisions around housing, land, infrastructure, and connectivity, and provide certainty for investment across the region.

Shaping the Region's Future: The Spatial Development Strategy

The Spatial Development Strategy (SDS) is being developed to address significant shortfalls in housing and employment land supply. Leo Pollak, Head of Policy, explained that the SDS will act as a spatial investment framework, working alongside local and neighbourhood plans. It aims to coordinate infrastructure development and enable collective action with neighbouring authorities.

Key principles guiding the SDS include Infrastructure Before Growth, Brownfield First, and Enhancing the functions of green spaces. The strategy is being developed through intensive collaboration with local authority planners, officers, a Residents' Assembly, and a political steering group.

Councillors raised concerns about the potential impact on Green Belt land, particularly the Meriden gap between Solihull and Coventry. Pollak clarified that the SDS does not draw Green Belt boundaries, which remains the responsibility of local authorities. However, the strategy can highlight rationales for growth in specific locations and encourage a focus on enhancing the functions of existing Green Belt land.

The SDS will not make site allocations but will describe broad areas of growth. It will consider various spatial scenarios, with a focus on enhancing the functions of green spaces, biodiversity value, and recreational access. The strategy is also looking at estate renewal and densification as alternatives to Green Belt release.

The timeline for the SDS development is provisional, with stages including evidence gathering, public engagement, an issues and options paper, a draft SDS, examination, and adoption. The strategy is intended to provide a consistent basis for discussions with neighbouring authorities regarding the distribution of housing and employment growth.

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Bus Governance: A New Era for Public Transport

Pete Bond, Director of Integrated Transport Services, provided an update on the acquisition of West Midlands Bus Limited. The acquisition was agreed by the WMCA board in July, with the business expected to begin operating as West Midlands Bus Limited from 1 November, and acquisition completion scheduled for 1 December.

The committee reviewed proposed governance arrangements for West Midlands Bus Limited, which will include an independently appointed chair and two non-executive directors, alongside two senior representatives from the combined authority. These representatives will have a scrutiny and engagement role, with limited voting rights to ensure the independence of the bus service.

Concerns were raised about the independence of the bus service and the equitable distribution of new zero-emission buses. Bond acknowledged that the equitable distribution of electric buses is a long-term process, influenced by infrastructure availability and the upgrade of existing diesel vehicles. He assured members that efforts have been made to maintain access standards and that the franchising model will provide mechanisms for improved reliability, punctuality, and passenger experience.

The committee also discussed the current network size, which is at 83% of its pre-COVID level, while patronage has recovered to 95%. This means more passengers are travelling on fewer miles, with a focus on reducing less densely filled trips.

Learn more about the Local Scrutiny Committee meeting

Other Matters

The committee also reviewed the Action Tracker, Work Programme, and WMCA Board Forward Plan. The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 30 November 2026.

This week in West Midlands Combined Authority:

£12.8 Million Boost for Cycle Route, But Concerns Raised Over Business Impact

The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) Investment Board met on Monday 21 September 2026, approving a significant £12.8 million for a new cycle route in Birmingham. The A45 Coventry Road Cycle Route Phase 2 project aims to create 2.7km of improved walking and cycling infrastructure, enhancing safety for vulnerable road users and supporting Birmingham's Road Harm Reduction Strategy. This corridor has seen a concerning number of collisions in recent years, including 6 fatal and 21 serious injuries over the past five years.

However, the decision wasn't without debate. Councillor Ray Nock voiced concerns about the potential impact of cycle lanes on local businesses and delivery costs. I am mindful of the impact, he stated, It's got to be done sympathetically and with reverence. We don't want to close businesses. We don't want to put, you know, more stress on, you know, £2 a litre diesel for delivery costs.

In response, Jason Griffin, Head of Transport Projects at Birmingham City Council, clarified that the project would not reduce the number of vehicular lanes but would narrow them. He also noted that only around 12 car parking spaces would be lost and that smart crossings might cause minor delays. Councillor Chris Garghan also raised questions about the usability and connectivity of the proposed route, particularly in relation to existing and future phases. Phil Havenhand, Programme Lead for CRSTS at Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), assured members that work was underway to ensure seamless connectivity.

The project is funded through the City Regions Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS) and Transport for City Regions (TCR) programmes. The board also approved the extension of the Outline Business Case submission deadline for the Chelmsley Wood Town Centre Phase 1 North-west Quarter project to December 2028.

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Investment Programme Update: 9 Projects Flagged as 'Red' Amidst Skills Development Focus

The Investment Board received an update on the WMCA's Investment Programme, noting that as of 31 August 2026, approved grant funding totals £835.2 million. While 85 projects have approved funding, with 42 completed, nine projects are currently flagged with a 'red' status, indicating significant delivery challenges. This is an increase of one project since the previous report. Projects with a 'red' status include Solihull Town Centre Public Realm and Chelmsley Wood Town Centre.

The board also discussed the development of skills and qualifications, with Councillor Ray Nock suggesting that issues around local authority-led skills and employment gaps should be referred to the WMCA scrutiny board. Ed Cox, the Chief Executive, highlighted a new systemic approach to construction skills, with approximately £70 million attracted to a package designed to provide opportunities for young people and workers. A briefing on this construction skills package will be provided, and the scrutiny board will be asked to examine the topic in more detail.

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Employment Committee Meeting Cancelled

The Employment Committee, scheduled to meet on Friday 25 September 2026, was cancelled. The committee was due to discuss the appointment of an Executive Director of Strategy and Policy in a private session.

Learn more about the Employment Committee meeting

This week in West Midlands Combined Authority:

Audit Committee Reviews Financial Health and Internal Controls Amidst Ongoing Scrutiny

The Audit, Risk & Assurance Committee of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) met on Tuesday 15 September 2026. The committee, responsible for overseeing the WMCA's financial reporting, internal control, and risk management, reviewed several key reports. These included proposed revisions to the Minimum Revenue Provision (MRP) Statement, the Internal Audit Charter, and an update on the WMCA's corporate risks. The discussions highlighted the WMCA's commitment to robust financial governance and ensuring public funds are managed effectively, particularly important for vulnerable residents who rely on the stability of these services.

Strengthening Financial Planning with Revised MRP Statement

The committee considered a revised Annual Minimum Revenue Provision (MRP) Statement for 2026-2027. The MRP is a statutory charge against revenue to account for the cost of borrowing to fund capital expenditure. The proposed amendments aim to ensure the WMCA's approach aligns with guidance from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) and reflects best practices. These revisions are crucial for accurate financial forecasting and ensuring that the WMCA can continue to fund essential services and infrastructure projects that benefit all residents, including those on lower incomes who are most affected by financial instability. The report recommended endorsing the revised statement for approval by the WMCA Board.

Internal Audit Charter: Enhancing Oversight and Accountability

A key item was the review of the updated Internal Audit Charter for 2026/27. This charter defines the purpose, authority, and reporting lines of the Internal Audit function, which plays a vital role in providing independent assurance on the WMCA's governance, risk management, and internal control processes. Updates to the charter are designed to strengthen its alignment with international standards and current WMCA governance. Clearer terminology and enhanced authority provisions are intended to ensure that internal audit can effectively identify and report on areas for improvement, safeguarding public funds and ensuring services are delivered efficiently and equitably. The committee was asked to approve the charter, endorsing the outlined mandate and access rights.

Corporate Risk Update: Navigating Geopolitical and Devolution Challenges

The committee received a quarterly update on the WMCA's principal corporate risks. This report detailed how recent decisions have influenced the current risk landscape and outlined steps to embed Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) across the authority. A new corporate risk related to geopolitical instability was highlighted, with potential impacts on the WMCA's finances and capital programmes. The devolution of rail powers was also classified as a strategic theme, underscoring the complex and evolving nature of the WMCA's responsibilities. Understanding and managing these risks is paramount to ensuring the continued delivery of vital services, especially for those who are most vulnerable to economic and political disruption.

Assurance Performance: Embedding the Single Assurance Framework

The Assurance Performance Report for the first quarter of 2026/27 was reviewed. This report provides assurance that the WMCA is embedding its Single Assurance Framework (SAF), which supports project management capability. The report details thematic programme assurance information from WMCA projects, highlighting trends in business case assessments, risk appraisals, and change requests. Identifying and mitigating risks within the assurance process is essential to ensure that public money invested in projects delivers the intended benefits for residents.

Learn more about the Audit, Risk & Assurance Committee meeting

Investment Zone Board Meeting Notes: Focus on Strategic Development and Business Support

The Investment Zone Board met on Thursday 17 September 2026. While details of the meeting's outcomes are pending publication, the board's remit is to drive economic growth and job creation across the West Midlands through strategic investment and business support initiatives. These initiatives are designed to create opportunities and improve the economic well-being of residents, particularly in areas targeted for regeneration.

Learn more about the Investment Zone Board meeting

This week in West Midlands Combined Authority:

£406 Million Transport Funding Allocation Approved Amidst Calls for Black Country Clarity

The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) Board met on Friday 11 September 2026, approving the allocation of £406 million in Transport for City Regions (TCR) capital funding. This significant sum will be split equally between Growth Corridors and Network Needs, aiming to accelerate transport projects across the region. While the principles for allocation were agreed, some councillors raised concerns about the clarity of funding for the Black Country.

Shaping the Region's Transport Future

The WMCA Board endorsed the allocation of the remaining £406 million in TCR capital funding. This funding is crucial for strengthening strategic transport links and improving budget management. The allocation will be split equally between Growth Corridors, which focus on housing and economic development, and Network Needs, covering public transport, highways maintenance, and road safety.

The Board also approved the acceptance of up to £700 million in new debt and grant-based investment tools, including the Mayoral Revolving Growth Fund, the Housing Acceleration Fund, and the City Densification Fund. These funds are designed to facilitate new, recyclable investment, with the aim of capturing returns to fund future projects. To manage these sophisticated financial instruments, the WMCA plans to increase capacity within its Investment Team, with revenue support provided by the government.

Councillor Patrick Harley, representing the City of Wolverhampton Council, welcomed the funding but sought greater clarity on the specific allocations for the Black Country. He noted that while £150 million was mentioned for Black Country growth corridors, the overall position, including network needs, was less clear. We probably did with a bit more clarification there, he stated, adding that the report doesn't provide sufficient information to establish our actual allocation or expected benefit. He also stressed the need for Black Country authorities to have a clear and equitable role in the governance of both Black Country portfolios.

Mayor Richard Parker acknowledged these concerns, committing to making funding allocations more explicit and ensuring Black Country authorities have a real role in the governance and oversight of projects in your boroughs.

The Board also approved a revised members' allowances scheme, increasing the Mayor's allowance to £105,035 and setting the Deputy Mayor's allowance at £27,309.10. New allowances were also recommended for Commissioners and Vice-Chairs of committees.

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Addressing Rough Sleeping with Dedicated Funding

The WMCA Board received the first quarter financial monitoring report for 2026/27, which indicated a forecast increase in corporate income of approximately £10 million, largely due to higher interest rates and additional grants. This positive income is offset by a pressure on business rates income. The report also detailed a revenue underspend of £7 million for the previous financial year.

Crucially, the Board approved the proposed allocations of the Rough Sleepers grant to local authorities. This funding is vital for supporting vulnerable individuals facing homelessness. The Mayor highlighted his recent visit to Coventry City Council's rough sleeping team, noting the incredibly traumatic lives of those experiencing homelessness and the need for a collective response involving health, local government, and housing services. This grant allocation is a direct step towards addressing these critical needs.

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Bus Reform Progress and Project Robin Update

The Mayor provided an update on the ongoing bus reform programme, highlighting the success of Project Robin, which has secured bus services across the region. He noted that the franchising model is now being rolled out nationally. He also thanked Dudley Council, its leader Councillor Patrick Harley, and chief executive for their leadership in responding to the recent fires in Stourbridge, praising the community's response and the support provided to those who lost their homes.

The Mayor also addressed the situation facing JLR, stating that the WMCA's skills team had identified funds to support those who may lose their jobs. Part of our job is helping ensure this isn't support for JLR, but supporting those workers to ensure that we can retain them in this region, he said.

Learn more about the WMCA Board meeting

State of the Region Report Highlights Strengths and Challenges

The Local Scrutiny Committee met on Monday 7 September 2026, to discuss the West Midlands State of the Region 2026 report. The report, a statutory requirement, provides an overview of the region's economic and social conditions, highlighting both its strengths and areas requiring urgent attention.

People: A Young Population Facing Persistent Inequalities

The report identifies the West Midlands' young demographic, with a median age of 37.4 years, as a significant strength. However, it also points to persistent challenges, including ethnic inequalities, poverty, and labour market barriers. Over a third of children in the WMCA area live in poverty, and apprenticeship statistics remain considerably below levels seen a decade ago. Councillor Jamie Campbell raised concerns about child poverty indicators worsening despite economic growth, asking for evidence that WMCA investment is reducing inequality.

Businesses: Recovery and Innovation Amidst Skills Shortages

The region's economy has largely recovered from the pandemic, with GDP above pre-pandemic levels and increasing investment in research and development. However, the report flags graduate retention as a key challenge, with only about half of graduates staying in the region. Concerns were also raised about the impact of artificial intelligence on entry-level job opportunities. Councillor Keith Allcock highlighted the skills mismatch in apprenticeships, particularly for small and medium-sized engineering companies.

Places: Progress in Transport and Connectivity, but Housing Insecurity Looms

Significant progress is being made in transport, digital connectivity, and environmental sustainability. However, housing affordability and insecurity have emerged as major barriers to inclusive growth. The report notes that many households spend almost 30% of their income on rent, and the number of households seeking homelessness support has increased. Councillor Izzy Knowles highlighted the interconnectedness of these issues, questioning how the report's findings would be used to address housing insecurity and safety on public transport.

Story: Encouraging Talent to Stay and Thrive

The report underscores the challenge of retaining young talent, with many leaving the region for opportunities elsewhere. Lower levels of volunteering and a perceived limited influence over local decision-making were also noted. The report suggests that to make the West Midlands the best place to live, work, and visit, the region must create opportunities and a quality of life that encourages people to stay.

The committee also discussed the bus reform programme, with Natalie Penrose providing an update on the West Midlands Bus Franchising Programme. The WMCA will act as the client organisation, setting the vision and managing contracts with bus operators, who will be responsible for operational delivery. The programme is on track, with invitations to tender for Tranche 1 contracts released on 17 August 2026.

Learn more about the Local Scrutiny Committee meeting