Gloucestershire Lib Dems: September report
Calling for Better Rail Links for Gloucestershire
Cabinet Members Cllr Roger Whyborn and Cllr Julian Tooke have written to the Rail Minister to press for better rail connections between Gloucestershire and South Wales, making the case for improved services that will benefit residents, businesses and visitors.
By championing stronger transport links, we are working to improve access to jobs, education and opportunities, support economic growth and ensure Gloucestershire remains well connected to neighbouring regions.
20 Mph Update
We have published an update on proposals to introduce new 20mph speed limits and other road safety measures in Cirencester, Siddington and Preston, following public engagement earlier this year.
See the amendments to the proposals here - https://haveyoursaygloucestershire.uk.engagementhq.com/cirencester-and-preston-safer-roads-and-community-20s
Keeping Residents Updated on the Coombe Hill Development
We are continuing to work with partners to deliver the Coombe Hill development and have invited residents to attend a further public information event to learn more about the plans and ask questions. Community engagement remains a key part of the project, with local feedback helping to shape the development as it progresses.
The drop-in event will take place on Wednesday 30 September 2026 from 3.30pm – 7pm at The Swan Inn, Tewkesbury Road, Coombe Hill, GL19 4BA.
New Highways Hub
In October, we'll be launching a new Highways Hub, giving county councillors a single place to access key information, report issues and track progress. By bringing tools and resources together in one location, the Hub will make it easier to find information, reduce delays and cut down on emails sitting in inboxes, helping issues be resolved more quickly.
Gloucestershire Tech Week Returns
We are partnering with CyNam to co-produce flagship events at Gloucestershire Tech Week 2026.The event will help local businesses strengthen their cyber resilience, explore new opportunities and connect with industry experts, supporting economic growth and helping Gloucestershire remain at the forefront of the UK's cyber sector.
Businesses can view the full programme and register at https://glostechweek.co.uk/
Natural Flood Management
We recently visited Newent to see Natural Flood Management projects that are helping reduce flood risk, improve wildlife habitats and strengthen local landscapes.
By working with landowners, communities and partners, we are supporting practical, cost-effective solutions that help make Gloucestershire more resilient to flooding while delivering benefits for people and nature alike.
More Specialist School Places for Gloucestershire Children
We have approved a new five-year strategy to increase specialist education provision for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
The plan will help create additional specialist places across the county, ensuring more families can access the right support closer to home while helping children and young people achieve the best possible outcomes
Helping Vulnerable Women Rebuild Their Lives
We have approved plans for a new countywide support service for women facing multiple challenges, including homelessness, domestic abuse, poor mental health and addiction.
By bringing services together and providing more stable funding, we can offer better coordinated support and help more women move towards safety, recovery and independence.
Helping Schools Monitor Air Quality
We are giving primary schools across Gloucestershire the opportunity to take part in a new air quality monitoring project, helping them better understand local pollution and its impact on pupils.
Around 100 new air quality sensors are now available for schools across the county, providing real-time data and supporting practical action on issues such as traffic and idling. The project will also link schools with air quality education and sustainable travel initiatives, helping create healthier environments for children while building a better picture of air quality across Gloucestershire.
Investing in Cinderford Fire Station
We have approved additional funding for improvement works at Cinderford Fire Station, helping ensure the facility can continue to support firefighters and serve the local community for many years to come.
The investment will enable the project to move forward and forms part of our wider commitment to providing Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service with modern, fit-for-purpose facilities so crews can continue delivering the high-quality service residents rely on.
Supporting Young People at Trevone House
We have approved plans to continue providing supported accommodation at Trevone House, helping young people make a successful transition towards independent living.
The service provides a safe and supportive environment where young people can develop essential life skills, build confidence and access the guidance they need as they prepare for adulthood.
Applications open for Thriving Communities Grant scheme
The scheme supports activities that help adults stay well, connected and independent, while reducing isolation and strengthening local communities. Since launching in 2018, the programme has supported more than 480 initiatives and invested nearly £3.2 million in groups across the county.
Applications are now open and close on 16 October. For full eligibility criteria and details about how to apply, visit https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/thriving-communities-grants
Continuing Adoption Services Across the Region
We have approved a new contract for Adoption West, ensuring Gloucestershire can continue working with neighbouring councils to deliver adoption services across the region.
The partnership helps children find loving and stable homes while providing ongoing support for adoptive families. By working together, councils can share expertise and resources to achieve the best possible outcomes for children and young people
Helping More People Stay Healthy and in Work
We have approved arrangements for Gloucestershire's WorkWell programme, helping people with health conditions or disabilities find employment, stay in work and improve their wellbeing.
The programme will provide tailored support to residents who may be struggling because of physical or mental health challenges, helping them overcome barriers to work and access the support they need.
Improving Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles for Adults and Children’s Services
We have approved the replacement of wheelchair accessible vehicles used by both adults' and children's services, helping ensure residents can continue to travel safely and comfortably to the services and support they need.
The new vehicles will provide a more reliable and accessible transport service for some of Gloucestershire's most vulnerable residents, supporting independence and helping people remain connected to their communities.
Strengthening Gloucestershire's Care Workforce
We have approved a new strategy to help recruit, train and retain the care workers who support vulnerable adults across Gloucestershire.
The strategy focuses on strengthening the independent care sector workforce, helping care providers attract skilled staff, develop careers in care and improve retention
Investing in New Firefighter Safety Equipment
We have approved the replacement of breathing apparatus used by Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service, ensuring firefighters have modern, reliable equipment to keep themselves and our communities safe.
This investment will help crews respond effectively to emergencies while continuing to provide the high-quality service residents rely on.