County council sets out 'areas of focus for 2025-26 in document

Lancashire County Council has released a document which will set its core priorities over the next 12 months. 

'Our areas of focus for 2025-26' identifies key areas following the election in May, building on the existing Council Plan to reflect the priorities of the new administration.

The document will be considered by the council's cabinet next week.

It sets out how the council's aspirations will be translated into key programmes and action, and is spearheaded by council leader Stephen Atkinson, who was ratified as leader of the council at a meeting of the full council on 22 May.

The document details several new commitments, including a forensic efficiency review of the council budget to ensure savings will be delivered and to identify further efficiencies, working closely with frontline staff.

In addition, it sets out commitments to respond to central government initiatives on devolution and local government reorganisation, ensuring that any changes are informed by the views of residents.

It was also revealed this week that Coun Atkinson has been appointed as one of the five vice chairs of the LGA following his nomination as leader of Reform UK's newly established Local Government Association (LGA) group.

Coun Stephen Atkinson, leader of Lancashire County Council, said: "Lancashire is a remarkable county with a proud history and strong communities.

"We are living in challenging times and our goal is to prioritise our resources towards the things that make the biggest difference to our residents.

"Good roads and a strong economy are vital to our quality of life and we are determined to pave the way for more local jobs and investment across the county.

"We must also confront long-standing challenges head on, particularly services for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and Adult Social Care.

"We can't do this overnight but we can make significant strides if we prioritise, plan carefully, and be agile in our approach.

"This new document provides a summary of the major changes planned for the year and sets out how we plan to build a better Lancashire, together."

As vice chair of the LGA, Coun Atkinson, who attended the LGA Annual Conference and Exhibition in Liverpool this week, will play a crucial role in shaping the strategic direction of the LGA and local government policies.

Vice chairs also have the opportunity to engage with key stakeholders, including government ministers and other influential figures, helping to build valuable connections and partnerships.

Cllr Atkinson said: “I’m honoured to take on this responsibility at such a pivotal moment for Lancashire and local government as a whole.

“Our group will champion common-sense policies, fiscal responsibility, and a renewed focus on delivering services that truly matter to residents.

"We are here to listen, lead, and make a difference.”

The cabinet will be asked to approve the 'Our areas of focus for 2025-26' document at its next meeting on Thursday 10 July.

It will also be asked to authorise the chief executive and executive leadership team to undertake the necessary actions to ensure the successful delivery of the programmes within it.

Progress will be considered through the county council's regular governance processes, including cabinet and the overview and scrutiny committee.