The following challenges were being managed during quarter 3, 2025 to 2026.
Future government funding arrangements
The provisional financial settlement from government proved to be in line with expectations. Bracknell Forest is set to receive only a 0.16% core spending power increase over the next 3 years. This is the worse settlement of any unitary authority in England and the sixth worst of any council with social care and education responsibilities.
While the future looks set to be extremely difficult, the council is starting from as strong a position as can reasonably be expected. The forecast in-year general fund budget monitoring position is much closer to budget than has been the case for a few years. It is too early to be complacent, but indications are that a balanced position is realistically achievable by the year end.
The draft revenue and capital budget is under public consultation and will inform the final budget proposals to be considered by the Cabinet and Council in February 2026
In addition, the government’s announcement on the future approach to special educational needs and disability (SEND) services and treatment of accumulated deficits on the dedicated schools grant remains unknown.
School places
Demand for specialist places
Demand for specialist places and pressure on independent non-maintained special schools remains high.
There are market sufficiency risks in:
- SEND placements
- adult care packages
- children’s placements
In other words, there are not enough suitable services or providers. Delivery is being managed very closely to make sure that statutory services are delivered.
Forest View School
The plan for Forest View School for autistic children at Buckler’s Park remains under review following communication from the Department for Education (DfE) and proposal of 2 options. The council are currently considering the options and are required to advise the DfE their preferred option by 27 February 2026.
School results
Key stage 4 provisional results released in October show that attainment 8 scores for disadvantaged pupils remain below the same group nationally.
Attainment 8 and the percentage achieving level 4+ in English and maths are slightly above national overall.
Adult social care
Workforce shortages continue in some adult social care teams. There is delay on the progress of a digital monitoring system. The 16+ semi-independent framework is delayed.
Recycling contamination
Recycling contamination is worse (17% against 14.5% target), driven by resident behaviour. The data will continue to be monitored closely and communications are planned across various channels to encourage correct use of the blue recycling bins during 2026.
Initial Site Development plan
Activity on the Initial Site Development plan for surplus land at the depot remains paused while registered providers assess the outcome of the government's spending review, before committing to any new developments. The Homes England funding prospectus is due for publication imminently and the Joint Venture are to contact housing associations in January to gauge reaction and interest in the site.
Open Space for Public Value and Suitable Alternative Natural Green Space
No new permissions securing Open Space for Public Value (OSPV) or Suitable Alternative Natural Green Space (SANG) land were granted during the quarter, with progress dependent on large‑scale applications. While there is potential for OSPV and SANG to be secured in the remainder of the year, meeting the annual forecast is partly outside of the council's control.
There may be instances when a large scheme is approved and will secure the whole year target amounts. However, it is not likely that the annual target will be met.
Legal costs
Income recovery for legal costs for Section 106 agreements are below forecast and the year end forecast is not likely to be met. Payments are dependent on external factors, including the number and timelines of agreements.