The Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday 29 July 2026 to discuss the Greater Lincolnshire Housing Strategy, the development of Transport Hubs, and the Quarter 1 Finance and Performance Update. The committee also reviewed the Procurement Strategy and Contract Procedure Rules, and agreed its Annual Work Programme for 2026-2027.

Housing Strategy

The committee received an update on the progress of the Greater Lincolnshire Housing Strategy, which aims to accelerate housing delivery, unlock stalled sites, and increase affordable housing across the region. The strategy, developed in collaboration with local authorities and Homes England, outlines six core aims, including developing a coordinated approach to infrastructure through a Spatial Development Strategy and improving housing options for residents and veterans. The committee was informed about various government funding streams, such as the Social and Affordable Homes Programme and the National Housing Bank, which will support these objectives. Discussions highlighted the importance of addressing market viability, potential financial liabilities, and ensuring alignment between local plans and the combined authority's strategy. The committee noted the progress made and provided observations on market conditions and potential disalignment between strategic and local plans. The committee recommended that the procurement strategy and contract procedure rules be adopted by the authority.

Transport Hubs and Local Assurance Framework

The committee considered the development of Transport Hubs across Greater Lincolnshire, with pilot schemes planned for North Hykeham and Gainsborough. These hubs aim to integrate different modes of transport to create seamless journeys and support economic growth. The report outlined the requirements of the Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority's Local Assurance Framework, which ensures that transport investments are developed transparently and represent value for money. The committee was asked to note the progress of the Transport Hub programme, provide observations on the pilot schemes, and comment on the assessment criteria for future projects. Concerns were raised regarding local member involvement in consultation, and reassurance was sought about ongoing conversations with transport providers to ensure the reliability of services. The committee also discussed the potential for charging facilities and solar panels at transport hubs. The committee noted the progress of the transport hub programme, the development of the pilot schemes, and the intention to call for future projects.

Quarter 1 Finance and Performance Update

The committee received an update on the Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority's financial position at the end of Quarter 1 of the 2026-27 financial year. The report indicated a balanced revenue position and that the capital programme was on track, with no significant financial risks identified. Progress was highlighted across key programmes, including adult skills, transport, housing, and economic growth. The committee was informed that most of the Authority's Corporate Plan priorities were progressing well, with nine out of twelve rated Green. However, areas for improvement were noted, including the UK Shared Prosperity Fund underspend and delivery continuity risks on brownfield funding workstreams. The committee was asked to note the report and provide observations on the format and approach to future performance reporting, with a move towards more outcomes-based reporting anticipated.

Procurement Strategy and Contract Procedure Rules

The committee reviewed the proposed Procurement Strategy and Contract Procedure Rules for the Combined Authority. The strategy sets out the Authority's approach to procurement, aiming for transparency, value for money, and support for economic, environmental, and social outcomes. The Contract Procedure Rules provide the operational framework for procurement activities, including thresholds for tendering and approval processes. The documents were developed in consultation with Lincolnshire County Council, which provides procurement services to the Combined Authority. The committee was asked to comment on the policy prior to its consideration by the Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority for adoption. The committee recommended that the procurement strategy and contract procedure rules be adopted by the authority.

Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority Overview and Scrutiny Committee Work Programme

The committee reviewed and agreed its Annual Work Programme for 2026-2027. The programme includes a mix of topics for policy development, pre-decision scrutiny, and policy or service reviews, with a focus on areas where the committee can have the most impact. Key areas identified for in-depth scrutiny include Energy Security: Power and Water and the GLCCA Budget Proposals for 2027-28. The committee also noted the Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority Forward Plan of Key and Non-Key Decisions and agreed to change the date of a future meeting. The terms of reference for the Overview and Scrutiny Committee were also noted.