GCC February 2026 News
Council welcomes government investment in specialist SEND support
Gloucestershire County Council has welcomed new Government investment to support children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The council highlighted that the reforms build on strong foundations already established across the county.
https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/gcc-news/news-february-2026/council-welcomes-government-investment-in-specialist-send-support/
Gloucestershire launches gully monitoring pilot project to tackle flood risks
A new pilot scheme has been launched in Cheltenham to monitor water gullies more effectively. The initiative aims to better predict and manage flood risks by using improved monitoring technology.
https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/gcc-news/news-february-2026/gloucestershire-launches-gully-monitoring-pilot-project-to-tackle-flood-risks/
Council approves £698.4 million budget
Gloucestershire County Council has approved its ambitious £698.4 million budget for 2026/27. The plan sets out spending priorities for the year ahead, including investment in key services.
https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/gcc-news/news-february-2026/council-approves-698-million-budget/
First award announced under £1.1 million Grassroots Neighbourhood Fund
The first project to benefit from the new Grassroots Neighbourhood Fund has been confirmed, with £3,000 granted to support the Youth Manager role at Brockworth Link Youth Club.
https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/gcc-news/news-february-2026/first-project-announced-under-grassroots-neighbourhood-fund/
Fostering Service celebrates debut novel by young person in care
A young person in Gloucestershire’s care system has published his first novel at the age of 17. Gloucestershire County Council’s Fostering Service celebrated the achievement.
https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/gcc-news/news-february-2026/fostering-service-celebrates-debut-novel-young-person-in-care/
Celebrating over a year of Youth Hubs supporting young people
The county is marking more than a year of impact from its commissioned Youth Hubs, delivered in partnership with three not‑for‑profit organisations.
https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/gcc-news/news-february-2026/celebrating-over-a-year-of-youth-hubs/
County council takes action on race day traffic ahead of Cheltenham Festival
In preparation for the Cheltenham Festival (10–13 March 2026), the council is implementing measures to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow.
https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/gcc-news/news-february-2026/county-council-helps-steer-race-day-traffic/
Fire safety guidance issued for holiday let hosts
Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service is encouraging Airbnb and holiday‑let hosts to review fire safety arrangements ahead of the Festival.
https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/gcc-news/news-february-2026/fire-safety-guidance-for-hosts-ahead-of-cheltenham-festival/
Local Nature Recovery Strategy goes live
The council has published Gloucestershire’s first Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS), including 113 proposed actions to restore nature and improve biodiversity.
https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/gcc-news/news-february-2026/local-nature-recovery-strategy-goes-live/
New Gloucestershire Business Board launched
A new Gloucestershire Business Board has been set up to strengthen the voice of local businesses and drive the county’s economic direction.
https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/gcc-news/news-february-2026/new-gloucestershire-business-board-launched/