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Permission sought for new primary school in Sawtry

The village of Sawtry in Cambridgeshire has moved one step closer to a new Primary School.

The County Council has submitarted detailed plans for the proposed Saltbrook Primary Academy.

The two-form entry school will serve families in the growing northern area of the village, where significant housing development has increased demand for local education places.

Outline planning permission for the new school was granted in 2021 as part of the wider approval for development in northern Sawtry.

Land was safeguarded within those plans to ensure space for a new primary school to accommodate up to 420 pupils once fully complete, with a dedicated on-site early years facility.

The new school will be delivered in two phases. First there will be construction of a one-form entry primary school for 210 pupils, alongside an early years setting offering up to 52 places, subject to demand. At this stage, all required infrastructure will be readied to allow two-form entry model when required.

Management of the early years provision will be put out to tender closer to the time of opening.

Cambridgeshire County Council has confirmed that the school will be operated by Meridian Trust, which already runs a number of successful schools across the region.

The council, the Department for Education and Meridian Trust will jointly determine the exact opening date, ensuring it aligns with both population needs and the sustainability of Sawtry’s existing schools.

It is anticipated that Saltbrook Primary Academy will initially open to reception year pupils only, with numbers growing gradually as each new year group progresses.

Cllr Edna Murphy, Chair of the County Council’s Children and Young People Committee, welcomed the submission of the plans. “I’m very pleased to see the planning application submitted for the new Saltbrook Primary Academy, to serve a growing community in Sawtry,” she said.

“We want all children in Cambridgeshire to have opportunities to thrive, so we’re building this new school to make sure that in the future we can continue to offer people living in Sawtry an education close to home.”

The design of the new school has been carefully developed to meet modern sustainability standards and support Cambridgeshire’s broader environmental goals.

The building will incorporate roof-mounted solar panels, natural ventilation, and energy-efficient lighting systems to minimise its carbon footprint and operational costs. These features are intended to help the council move towards its target of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2045 and align with national sustainability principles for new schools set out by the Department for Education.

Saltbrook Primary Academy takes its name from the village’s historical links to the salt trade. Sawtry, originally known as Saltrede in the Domesday Book of 1086, was once a medieval trading centre for salt.

Over the centuries, the village has evolved into a thriving community with a population of over 6,000 residents and a strong local identity.

The village, which lies around eight miles north of Huntingdon, is represented by a parish council and local councillors on both the district and county councils.

Sawtry has seen steady growth in recent years, and the new primary school is viewed as an essential part of its ongoing development, ensuring that the growing number of young families in the area have access to high-quality local education.

The project is part of the County Council’s long-term commitment to expanding and improving educational provision across Cambridgeshire in response to population growth and housing developments. By planning ahead and investing in sustainable, the council aims to ensure every child can attend a local school that meets their needs.

With the planning application now formally submitted, work could begin on-site following approval, paving the way for a new generation of Sawtry children to learn and grow in a purpose-built, environmentally responsible setting that reflects both the community’s heritage and its ambitions for the future.

Norfolk’s next generation of leaders invited to join Youth Parliament

Young people across Norfolk are being offered the opportunity to gain the experience, understanding, and skills necessary to make a real difference by applying for a seat in the Norfolk Youth Parliament

Norfolk County Council is calling on aspiring future councillors and/or Parliamentarians aged 11 to 18 to stand for election. The initiative offers a chance to represent their peers, impact decision-making at all levels, and gain valuable experience in politics and public service more widely.

Members of the Youth Parliament (MYPs) work with/alongside local councillors, MPs, and youth organisations. There, they can effectively advocate for the issues that matter most to young people. Areas including education, cost of living, mental health, climate change, and wider social equality.

Successful candidates will also be included in visiting parties to the UK House of Commons, national youth conferences, and various local government events.

Youth Parliament members are elected every two years through a democratic process open to all 11–18-year-olds living or studying in Norfolk. The council’s Participation Team will provide full support to help candidates run their campaigns — from crafting persuasive messages to connecting with other young voters.

Cllr Penny Carpenter, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said:

“Youth Parliament is a powerful platform for young voices and helps inform key decisions at Norfolk County Council to better meet the needs of children and young people. I look forward to meeting the new members and listening to their thoughts on current issues.”

All costs associated with the role, including transport, will be covered by the council, ensuring the opportunity is open to everyone regardless of background.

Past experience from previous MYPs shows that while the whole thing can be hard work, it is ultimately interesting, rewarding, and worthwhile.

In 2024 Sophia Paffett, who was a year 12 student at Springwood High School, swept to victory in her election with a majority of 2,322 votes. This gave her the opportunity to represent West Norfolk in the UK Youth Parliament.

“I had to run a campaign against three other candidates in the area,” explained Ms Paffett.

“We all had to attend debriefings on how to run our campaign, then we all shot a video talking about why we would like to be elected, what skills we have, and what we hope to achieve.

“For me, this is the one of the most exciting things to happen to me,

“It allows me to actually solve problems, even if they are small ones. Additionally, it gives me experience in the field…talk to councillors, partake in work experience, sit in on select committees, and partake or sit in on important debates.”

“I am currently pursuing a future in politics, and this will give me the ability to actually make a difference and shape the world around me.”

Applications are open until Friday 7 November, and young people can apply online via the Norfolk County Council website. No prior experience is needed — just enthusiasm, commitment, and a passion for change.

Those interested can find more details or seek support by contacting rebekah.wakefield@norfolk.gov.uk and potential applicants can apply here.

For young people ready to make their voices heard, this is a chance to gain an understanding at an early age that could go on to shape Norfolk’s future.

Celebrate every festive moment with Costa Coffee’s NEW Christmas menu

It’s time to ‘jingle all the way’ to your local Costa Coffee this Friday (24^th October), as they unwrap their new Christmas menu.

From pecan, mint, orange, pistachio and many more delights filling the menu, we couldn’t be more excited to try the Nation’s Favourite Coffee Shop’s new festive flavours this week.

Christmas in every cup

The star of this year’s festive drinks is the NEW Butter Pecan Cookie Latte – topped with light whip and butter pecan cookie pieces. It is sure to be a sugary celebration of Christmas in a cup!

Customers will also be able to rediscover their beloved festive favourites tomorrow, with the Mint Hot Chocolate, Terry’s Chocolate Orange® Hot Chocolate and the Black Forest Hot Chocolate making their return. Each promises to capture the magic of the season and evoke the comfort of a long-awaited hug.

Also returning is the Caramel Nutcracker Range – available as a Hot Chocolate, Latte and Iced Latte. This will be showcased alongside the classic Gingerbread Latte – which, together, bring a joyful nod to childhood festive memories.

If the sound of ‘gingerbread’ has excited you – the range does not end here. The Costa Coffee’s Barista Creations Gingerbread Latte Sachets bring a barista-quality, festive beverage straight to your mug at home or work and are available to purchase in major supermarkets. It couldn’t be easier!

You also don’t need to worry about missing out on these delights if you’re a busy and constantly on-the-move individual, as from Thursday 23^rd October, the Caramel Nutcracker Range can be enjoyed at Costa Express machines nationwide, and the NEW Butter Pecan Cookie Latte, Hot Chocolate and Iced Latte are available exclusively at Costa Express machines in Shell service station locations.

To round off your in-store Costa Coffee experience, everyone is invited to embrace The Costa Christmas Catch Up with its limited-edition Christmas cups, available in all sizes in stores and in regular and large at Costa Express machines nationwide.

This year, the cups are made to celebrate connection, being wrapped in the signature Costa Coffee red, and adorned with charming outdoor wintry scenes. They are designed to bring a touch of seasonal cheer to every sip by reflecting the warmth of festive moments shared together.

Festive food for every mood

Costa Coffee’s festive food menu is also back – and looks like an absolute *sleigh – being packed with hearty toasties and irresistible sweet treats.

The three wise men (… or should we say in-house Costa team) are serving up returning festive favourites – such as the Turkey & Trimmings Toastie, Pigs & Blankets Toastie, Brie & Cranberry Toastie, Turkey Feast Sandwich, and the Brie, Bacon & Cranberry Panini – to fulfil lunchtime cravings.

There are also quality options for those with a sweet tooth, with Costa Coffee’s exciting new range! The Dubai Style Pistachio Tiffin will be available from Thursday 6^th November – bringing a rich fusion of chocolate, pistachio and festive crunch to your lips – and the NEW Caramel Nutcracker Cookie Sandwich will also take to the stage – with layers of hazelnut frosting and caramel being placed between two dark chocolate cookies.

If that wasn’t enough, there is also the NEW Festive Spice Muffin coming our ways – packed with fruit and sticky toffee sauce for the ultimate seasonal bite. To make this even sweeter, for each purchase a 25p donation will go to the Costa Foundation – a charity with the aim of improving the life chances of children in coffee growing communities – through helping them access a safe, quality education.

Returning favourites will also be back to delight – from the Iced Penguin Gingerbread Biscuits (available from the 6^th November), Berry Red Velvet Mini Loaf, Chocolate & Caramel Nutcracker Cake, Gingernut Loaf Cake and Festive Bakewell Tart.

Costa Coffee’s Global Food and Beverage Innovation Director, Nishant Bhatia, has said: “This Christmas, we’re bringing festive moments to life with a menu full of joy and indulgence. From our brand-new Butter Pecan Cookie Latte and Dubai-Style Pistachio Tiffin to returning favourites like the Pigs in Blanket Toastie, every drink and bite is designed to make those Christmas catch-ups and family gathering feel extra special.”

The offerings do not end here though – as Costa Coffee are expanding their festive magic beyond food and drink – with this year’s merchandise and gifting range, absolutely perfect for coffee-lovers.

This year they are offering:

Festive Cups – From stainless steel and plastic travel cups to a classic ceramic design, perfect for sipping in style.

Cappuccino Gift Set – Complete with a stencil, mug, and duster – a thoughtful gift for budding baristas.

Costa Coffee Plushies – Cuddle up this Winter with branded plushies shaped like a Costa Coffee cup or a festive gingerbread character.

So, whether you’re dashing the halls for a caffeine fix, catching up with friends and family, looking for the perfect stocking filler, or simply craving a delicious taste of the season – Costa’s new festive menu is sure to scratch your Christmas itch.

Launching tomorrow – Friday 24^th October!

Groundbreaking Ceremony Launches 17 New Supported Living Homes in King’s Lynn

Construction is officially underway in King’s Lynn on a transformative new development of 17 modern supported living homes designed to help people with care and support needs live independently and confidently within their community.

The milestone was celebrated with a traditional groundbreaking ceremony attended by representatives from Norfolk County Council, Golden Lane Housing, Avenues Group, HBV Group, and ATEL Design and Build, who have worked together to make this ambitious project a reality.

The new development will comprise 10 apartments and seven bungalows, each tailored to provide residents with comfortable, accessible, and adaptable homes. Every property has been carefully designed to support individuals with diverse needs, enabling them to live fulfilling, independent lives with access to high-quality, person-centred care.

As part of Norfolk County Council’s £18 million supported living capital programme, the King’s Lynn development represents a major step forward in expanding housing options across the county. It will also create more than 20 new jobs, opening opportunities for existing care professionals and those interested in joining the sector.

Councillor Alison Thomas, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Services at Norfolk County Council, spoke at the ceremony, highlighting the project’s role in transforming lives and communities.

“We are delighted to celebrate this important milestone for new supported living in King’s Lynn. This housing will enable people to get the right level of support for their needs, while helping them to enjoy a full and active life in the community.

Working together on our third scheme with Golden Lane Housing and Avenues marks an exciting step in our collaborative efforts to help people in Norfolk thrive in new specialist homes.”

The project builds on successful partnerships that have already delivered supported living schemes in Swaffham and Norwich, reflecting a growing commitment to person-centred care and community-based living across Norfolk.

Emily Collinson, Director of Development and Growth at Golden Lane Housing, said:

“We are incredibly proud to begin work on our new specialist housing development in King’s Lynn with all our key partners who have helped make this happen.

This project will create much-needed homes for adults with a learning disability and autistic people, allowing them to live independently in their own community, close to the friends, family, and support networks that are so important to them. We can’t wait to see our first tenants move into their homes next year.”

Golden Lane Housing will oversee the completed development, ensuring that residents benefit from a safe, well-managed, and inclusive environment. Avenues Group—a specialist care provider—will deliver personalised care and support services, helping residents achieve their personal goals and develop lasting community connections.

Those interested in joining the project’s growing care team are encouraged to pre-register their interest with Avenues Group by emailing recruitment@avenuesgroup.org.uk
. The new roles will provide rewarding opportunities for individuals who want to make a real difference in people’s lives.

Jo Land, Group Chief Executive of Avenues, shared her enthusiasm for the project:

“This development represents an opportunity for us to welcome new colleagues into our community of dedicated people, all focused on providing high-quality, person-centred support to local residents.

Every role will make a real difference in people’s lives, helping them feel valued, supported, and part of their community. By working alongside trusted partners, we will strengthen community connections and create a place where people can smile, laugh, grow – and achieve great things.”

Behind the scenes, the project is being delivered by HBV Group and ATEL Design and Build, both of whom bring extensive expertise in creating purpose-built supported living schemes across the UK.

Oliver Carroll, Development Director at HBV Group, said:

“We’re proud to be working with our partners to deliver these new homes in King’s Lynn. Every project like this is about more than bricks and mortar—it’s about creating opportunities for people to live with greater independence and connection to their community. It’s fantastic to see another development in Norfolk moving forward, and we’re committed to ensuring every detail reflects the needs and aspirations of the people who will call these homes their own.”

Neil MacKrell, Construction Director at ATEL Design and Build, added:

“This is a great milestone for everyone involved in the project. Our team is focused on delvering high-quality, accessible homes that meet the needs of residents now and in the future. We’re pleased to see work officially begin on site and look forward to completing another scheme that makes a real difference. The collaboration between all partners has been excellent and is key to the project’s success.”

Once complete, the King’s Lynn homes will stand as a model for what collaborative, community-focused development can achieve—combining quality design, compassionate care, and long-term sustainability.

With construction now underway, the project marks not just the start of a building programme, but the beginning of new opportunities for independence, inclusion, and belonging for residents across Norfolk.

Frankie & Benny’s Conjures Up a Spooktacular Feast of Savings This Halloween

With so much talk being populated with themes of Christmas already, it’s easy to forget that Halloween is only next week!

Luckily for us, Frankie & Benny’s – the much-loved New York-Italian family favourite – is celebrating the spookiest season of the year properly, with bone-chilling deals and spooky specials that are guaranteed to delight families without haunting their wallets.

Marking the restaurant’s 30^th birthday, F&B’s are conjuring up some frighteningly good value-for-money treats which are sure to beat the current cost of living.

Since opening in 1995, F&B’s has been the go-to place for families, friends and celebrations – so this is the perfect time to transform their restaurants into haunted havens, where big plates, bold flavours and scary-good savings come together for a feast to remember.

So, are you in the mood for some freakishly good food?

Between 27^th-31^st October, restaurants will hold ‘Witching Hour’ between 4pm-5pm, where all mains (excluding Signature Grills) are priced at just £6.66 – a devilish-ly good deal for anyone grabbing a bite before trick-or-treating.

Following on from this, between 31^st October-2^nd November, anyone who is brave enough to arrive in costume, will be rewarded a treat of their own… A completely FREE portion of Spooky Skins (which usually cost £7.95).

And, to make things even more ghoulish, chefs have also summoned up a trio of limited-edition dishes, including the Hellfire Burger, Screamin’ Skins and the Eye Scream Sundae! The Werewolf of Wall Street cocktail will also be featured – ensuring that the whole family can tuck into something wickedly tasty.

No need to wait, however, as until the 31^st October Kids Eat Free Monday to Friday – giving the perfect treat for little monsters during the spooky season.

Marketing Director at Frankie & Benny’s, Sarah Sculpher, has said: “Halloween should be about treats, not terrifying bills. That’s why we’ve brewed up a cauldron of offers that make celebrating with the whole family both fun and affordable. With savings big enough to raise the dead and a menu full of spooky surprises, we’re inviting everyone to feast, laugh and make memories without the fright of overspending.”

These Halloween offers and specials are available nationwide at Frankie & Benny’s throughout October, excluding airports and selected event venues.

So now’s the time… gather your ghouls, dress for the occasion, and get ready to sink your teeth into the spookiest savings of the season – because at Frankie & Benny’s this Halloween, the only thing scarier than the food is how little you’ll pay.

For more information, click here.

Cambridgeshire social workers win national recognition at 2025 awards

Five outstanding social workers from Cambridgeshire County Council have been recognised for their dedication and impact at the 2025 Social Worker of the Year Awards, one of the most prestigious events in the profession. The awards celebrate individuals and teams who make a profound difference in people’s lives and highlight the vital role social workers play across communities, care settings, and social justice initiatives.

Cambridgeshire’s social care professionals were nominated across five categories, with two taking home Gold awards and three receiving Silver. Sharon Ndoro, Social Care Practice Development Lead, was named International Social Worker of the Year, and Thabang Thacker, Service Manager for Targeted Support in Children’s Social Care, won Social Justice Champion of the Year. Both were praised for their leadership and commitment to improving lives through compassionate, inclusive practice.

Silver awards went to three more members of the council’s social care teams. Fran Marshall, Principal Social Worker for Adults, was recognised for Practice Leadership and Management (Adult Services). Karen Rodgers, Practice Development Lead in Adult Services HR and Learning and Development, received Silver for Practice Educator of the Year, acknowledging her work in mentoring and training new social workers. Alex Giasemidis, a Palliative Care Social Worker, was named runner-up in the Adult Social Worker of the Year category, in recognition of her sensitive and transformative work supporting individuals and families through end-of-life care.

The ceremony also included an emotional tribute and standing ovation for Nora Hanna, a much-respected team manager in the Adult Social Care Deprivation of Liberty team, who was nominated for an award but sadly passed away last week. Her contribution to social work in Cambridgeshire was described as “immeasurable” by colleagues.

Held on Friday, 17 October, the awards brought together professionals from across the UK to celebrate excellence in social work. With 18 categories in total, the event highlighted achievements in areas such as leadership, equality, innovation, and best practice.

Dr Stephen Moir, Chief Executive of Cambridgeshire County Council, said the recognition reflected the exceptional quality and commitment of the council’s social care teams. “I’m incredibly proud of all our colleagues who have been recognised at this year’s Social Worker of the Year Awards,” he said. “Their dedication and professionalism in helping us to create a more caring Cambridgeshire make a real difference in the lives of the people they support every day. These awards are a testament to the impact of their work and the strength of our teams across adult social care, children’s services, and learning and development.”

Councillor Graham Wilson, Chair of the Adults and Health Committee, said he was delighted to see Cambridgeshire’s adult social care professionals recognised on a national stage. “Their commitment to supporting people with dignity, compassion and expertise is truly inspiring,” he said. “These awards highlight the vital role they play in our communities, and I’m delighted to see their efforts celebrated in this way.”

Councillor Edna Murphy, Chair of the Children and Young People Committee, praised the achievements of those working in children’s services. “I’m absolutely thrilled to see our children’s social care professionals being honoured for their exceptional work,” she said. “Their dedication to safeguarding and empowering children and families is at the heart of everything we do, and this recognition reflects the passion and dedication they bring to some of the most challenging and rewarding roles in public service.”

Cambridgeshire County Council has consistently championed professional development in social care, supporting innovative training, wellbeing initiatives, and leadership programmes for its staff. The success of its nominees at this year’s awards highlights the council’s ongoing investment in people and practice.

Across the county, social workers provide vital support to individuals and families facing complex and sensitive challenges — from protecting children at risk and promoting independence in adults to helping those with disabilities and life-limiting illnesses. The recognition of five social workers from one local authority underscores the strength and quality of Cambridgeshire’s approach to care.

As the winners return to their teams, they are being celebrated not only for their awards but for their example — embodying what the Social Worker of the Year Awards are designed to honour: compassion, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to improving lives.

Norfolk defies national trend with rise in adoptive parents

Norfolk is defying national trends by increasing the number of adoptive parents coming forward, even as adoption interest declines across the UK. While there has been a 12% drop nationally in families considering adoption this year, Norfolk County Council’s Adoption Service has seen a remarkable 53% rise in approved adopters compared to last year.

In the 2024/25 period, 43 adoptive households were approved in the county, up from 28 the previous year. Among them, 37 were couples and six were single adopters. The council has also reported an encouraging rise in adopters from global majority backgrounds and the LGBTQ+ community, reflecting the diversity of families willing to provide stable, loving homes.

The news comes during National Adoption Week, which this year focuses on challenging common myths about who can adopt. Cllr Penny Carpenter, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said the increase in adopters was “brilliant news” for children waiting for families but added that the need for more remains urgent.

“The rise in adoptive parents is fantastic, as it gives more children in our care the love and stability they need to flourish,” she said. “But we can’t stop here — there are still children waiting for their forever families. Even if people are only just thinking about adoption, we’d encourage them to come forward. It might not be right for you now, but it could be perfect in the future.”

Every adoption story is unique, and Norfolk’s Adoption Service works to carefully match children with the right parents. Richard Potter, an adopter from the county, shared how adoption changed his family’s life. “We always wanted to be parents, but it was never quite the right time,” he said. “After I lost a leg in an accident, we realised how precious life is and wanted to give something back. Adoption was the ideal route for us — Theo was the perfect match, and four years later, we can’t imagine life any other way. Every child deserves to be loved and given a chance at a normal, happy life.”

This year’s National Adoption Week campaign highlights how adoption doesn’t require a “perfect home.” Research shows that 86% of prospective adopters worry about needing ideal living conditions, yet most adoptive families live in ordinary homes — 41% in properties with two bedrooms or fewer, 65% without gardens, and 25% in rented accommodation.

Celebrity chef and adoptive mother Prue Leith, who supports the campaign, said: “When I adopted my daughter, it was in the kitchen that we bonded most — over meals, mess and everyday life. Adoption is messy, joyful, challenging and real. It gives a child a place at the table, and that’s where love truly grows.”

Around 250 children come into care in Norfolk each year, though not all will require adoption. Some return to their birth families, others live with relatives or remain in long-term foster care. Currently, Norfolk Adoption Services is seeking families for 10 children who are waiting to be matched with adoptive parents.

Norfolk approves new Devolution Deal

Councillors in Norfolk have backed a landmark plan to deliver new powers and funding for jobs, transport, housing and economic growth, paving the way for a devolution agreement that could reshape governance in the region.

On 16 October, after debate at full council earlier in the day, Norfolk County Council’s cabinet voted to proceed with devolution.

Under the Government’s devolution priority programme, Norfolk and Suffolk councils have been offered the transfer of powers and funding from Whitehall, enabling decisions on skills, transport, housing and growth to be made locally. In addition, the arrangement would include a multi-million pound investment fund lasting for 30 years, to be spent on county priorities.

Cllr Kay Mason Billig, leader of Norfolk County Council, described the decision as historic and long-awaited. She said the region would now have the opportunity to decide where to invest millions for the benefit of residents, and would gain a seat “at the UK’s top table”. She added that devolution, together with the new investment fund, would allow local leaders to respond to needs on training, industrial and housing sites, and transport links to connect Norfolk and Suffolk and unlock growth.

Devolution required the support of both county councils. Suffolk County Council’s cabinet voted in favour earlier, on 2 October, and Norfolk’s cabinet decision now completes that requirement. The plan envisages that, from May 2026, a mayor elected by local voters will lead a new combined authority comprising the mayor and councillors from the two counties.

The newly formed authority and mayor would assume responsibility for a range of functions including local transport, skills and jobs, housing development, economic growth, regeneration, and environmental and climate change policy. From 2027, the mayor and combined authority could also take on responsibilities for policing and crime commissioner functions and fire and rescue authority functions.

The benefits proposed for devolution include a directly elected mayor giving Norfolk and Suffolk a stronger voice with central government, the ability to target funding to local priorities, greater freedom to unlock employment and housing sites, investment in skills and business attraction, and the possibility of securing further powers and funding in future.

This agreement builds on earlier moves earlier in the year. In January, Norfolk council debated its interest in joining the Government’s priority devolution programme. At that time, ministers had invited councils to express interest in devolved powers, particularly in two-tier areas such as Norfolk, where county and district councils both share responsibilities. Councillor Mason Billig noted that while central government had pushed for quick decisions, joining the priority list was essential to avoid being left behind in accessing funding and influence. She also emphasised collaboration with district councils to consider local government reorganisation and unitary authority structures.

If ministers agree to Norfolk and Suffolk entering the devolution programme, proposals to form a mayoral combined authority covering the two counties would be further developed. Elections for the mayor could take place in May 2026. The timing is critical, as in previous devolution negotiations, local election schedules have been postponed to allow new governance models to be established before elections.

Devolution is central to the Government’s broader vision for redistributing power away from Whitehall and towards local regions. The Devolution White Paper outlines a framework in which Mayors, working within Strategic Authorities, will have stronger roles in transport, housing, skills, and regeneration. The White Paper proposes that Mayors have authority to manage multi-year investment budgets (Integrated Settlements), call in strategic planning decisions, and align regional services such as energy, health, and public services boundaries. One goal is to end a “deals-based” approach and embed devolution in law, giving clearer powers from the start.

In the housing and planning domain, devolution plans include giving areas the requirement to adopt Spatial Development Strategies, allowing Mayors to intervene in major planning applications, and introduce a Mayoral Infrastructure Levy to ensure new developments come with supporting infrastructure. In parallel, Mayors would gain oversight of housing grant funding and be empowered to steer affordable housing strategy.

In skills and employment, devolution would remove ringfences from funding streams such as Skills Bootcamps and Free Courses for Jobs, giving authorities flexibility to align education and training with regional business needs. Mayoral Strategic Authorities would also take joint ownership of Local Skills Improvement Plans alongside employer bodies and take roles in youth employment guarantees.

In transport, the new authority would have control over local transport infrastructure, bus networks, and influence over rail services in partnership with central organisations. The Devolution White Paper promises that frictions in taking buses back under public control will be reduced, and that Mayors will have stronger powers to plan roads and coordinate networks with less oversight.

On environment and climate goals, devolved powers will allow Mayors and authorities to manage retrofit programmes, deliver local energy strategies, coordinate nature recovery, and lead local heat network planning. Combined authorities would also have roles in shaping energy infrastructure in partnership with national operators.

Public services integration is another dimension of the devolution model. The White Paper signals that where geographic alignment exists, Mayors could take over responsibilities for policing, fire and rescue, health improvement, and local NHS partnerships. Over time, the ambition is to realign institutions such as job centres, police, probation, and health services so that services are more coherent and accountable locally.

Local government reorganisation is also in focus. In areas with two tiers of local government, restructuring into unitary authorities may offer efficiencies, clearer accountability, and stronger local capacity. The White Paper encourages councils in two-tier areas to propose reorganisations in tandem with devolution models, with the goal of creating authorities of scale and avoiding delay in implementing devolution.

The Norfolk and Suffolk devolution scheme represents a major change in how decisions are made and how public funding is allocated. By placing economic, housing, transport and many public services under regional control, the region hopes to respond more responsively to local needs and priorities rather than being subject to central government direction. The model promises greater accountability through a directly elected mayor and aligns with the national ambition to shift power to local communities.

However, the success of this endeavour will depend heavily on the relationships between county, district, and parish councils, ensuring that local voices are heard and that reorganisation does not alienate communities. As the new authority forms, delicate balances must be struck between regional planning and local autonomy.

With councillors now backing devolution and the necessary support from both counties secured, Norfolk and Suffolk are poised to begin implementing the next phase—engaging in detailed negotiations with government, working with neighbouring councils, setting up the combined authority framework, and preparing for a mayoral election in 2026. If all goes to plan, the region will have greater control over its future, better aligned resources for growth, and a platform to shape its destiny.

Broadland and South Norfolk Celebrate Unsung Heroes at 2025 Community Awards

Last night, on 16 October, Broadland celebrated its local unsung heroes at the Broadland Community Awards 2025, held at The Royal Norwich Golf Club in Weston Longville. Now in its twelfth year, the awards are organised by Broadland District Council and sponsored by Clarion Housing alongside a range of local businesses. They recognise the outstanding contributions of volunteers who make a real difference in communities across the district.

Cllr Caroline Karimi-Ghovanlou, Chair of Broadland District Council, said the awards “illuminate the extraordinary individuals and organisations whose quiet acts of service ripple through Broadland, transforming lives and uplifting communities. Their unwavering dedication, deep compassion, and remarkable resilience are the heartbeat of our district. It was a true honour to stand among them and celebrate the spirit that makes Broadland not just a place but a community defined by kindness, strength, and hope.”

Awards were presented across ten categories, each highlighting the impact of individuals and organisations making a tangible difference locally. The Business in the Community Award went to The Shoulder of Mutton in Strumpshaw, where Bob and Dani have transformed a village pub into a hub of connection and care.

Laura Wilkinson received the Rising Star Award for her work with Social Moments Enterprise, improving Broadland’s food pantries and youth programmes.

Fiona Worner, founder of St Faiths Sunflowers, took home the Environmental Champion Award for her work revitalising green spaces and fostering community spirit.

Go Paddle Norfolk, led by Katie, won the Healthy and Active Award for their inclusive and environmentally conscious approach, while The Black Dog Music Project received the Connecting Communities Award for using music to support mental health recovery.

The Volunteer of the Year Award went to Gillian Alexander for more than twenty years of dedicated service to local schools and Brownies, leaving a lasting legacy. Social Moments Enterprise was named Community Organisation of the Year, and Penny Goodman was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award for decades of service in Buxton.

The Young Achiever Award was presented to Ruby Everson, a young carer and advocate whose resilience and ambition to become a barrister inspired everyone in attendance.

The ceremony celebrated the remarkable efforts of residents who go above and beyond to support others, demonstrating the strength, compassion, and commitment that define Broadland’s communities.