Delivering value for money, driving innovation and improving services through technology were among the key themes discussed at the latest meeting of Warwickshire County Council’s Cabinet.
Cabinet approved over £2m of funding for adaptations to four existing schools across the county to increase early years provision, future capacity and SEND provision, keeping more children in their local communities and reducing the costs of their education. Read more: Substantial investment in local schools and SEND provision approved.
In line with other work to address the impact on residents of the cost of living, Cabinet also approved the Warwickshire Food Plan 2026-2028, which seeks to address food insecurity amid ongoing pressures on food production and rising household costs, while promoting healthier diets and improved access to nutritious and affordable food.
Supporting the Council’s commitment to efficiency and modernisation, the new Customer, Digital and Data Strategy, approved by Cabinet, will harness technology and innovation to transform how residents access and interact with council services.
Cabinet also considered the Council’s Quarter 1 Financial Monitoring Report, which provided an update on the authority’s financial position, alongside the latest Integrated Performance Report, setting out progress against key performance indicators.
Members noted positive progress in several priority areas, including a strong early performance under the new highways maintenance contract, with increased levels of first-time pothole repairs.
The annual Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman report showed Warwickshire continuing to perform strongly when compared with similar county councils. The report highlighted a reduction in complaint numbers and an improved remedy rate. Cabinet also approved an updated statement on modern slavery and human trafficking.
Councillor George Finch, Leader of Warwickshire County Council, said: “When we agreed the Council Plan, we committed to ensuring that every pound spent delivers the greatest possible value for Warwickshire residents.
"So, in approving the allocation of over £2m to be spent on expanding or refurbishing schools, we have not only looked at how it can create the most benefit for the local community, offering more nursery places, increased SEND provision and more school capacity, but also whether this investment today will save money in future years.
"The Food Strategy is another key thread of the Council Plan. Not only will it help families feeling the impact of the cost of living, but it will instil better habits that will lead to better health and better performance in schools. Because food-centred community activity is so integral, it also empowers residents to build social connections and develop skills that will contribute to their local communities.”
Watch Cllr Finch talking about September's Cabinet meeting here: https://youtube.com/shorts/T5cX7tsIetE
The Cabinet papers and livestream for this meeting can be found here: Warwickshire County Council Cabinet - 10 September 2026