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The decisions as the council's minutes record them. A plain-language summary follows once it has been written.
RESOLVED that the minutes of the meeting held on 30 June 2026 be received and confirmed as a correct record.
RESOLVED that Cabinet – (a) approve the Denbighshire County Council Digital Strategy 2026 – 2031 (Appendix 1 to the report), and (b) confirms that it has read, understood and taken account of the Wellbeing Impact Assessment (Appendix 2 to the report) as part of its consideration.
RESOLVED that Cabinet – (a) approves the procurement strategy and the invitation of competitive bids for works to provide residential units on the upper floors and to renovate the ground floor commercial units of properties at 64 High Street and 2 – 4 Wellington Road in Rhyl as set out in the Commissioning and Contract Award Form (Appendix 1 to the report), and (b) confirms that it has read, understood and taken account of the Wellbeing Impact Assessment (Appendix 2 to the report) as part of its consideration.
RESOLVED that Cabinet note the budgets set for 2026/27 and progress against the agreed strategy.
RESOLVED that Cabinet’s forward work programme be noted. Having declared a personal and prejudicial interest in the following two items, the Leader, Councillor Jason McLellan, withdrew from the meeting. The Deputy Leader, Councillor Julie Matthews, assumed the Chair for the remainder of the meeting.
RESOLVED that Cabinet – (a) approves a maximum two-year extension of the 41 Supported Living contracts to enable completion of a programme of work, and (b) confirms that it has read, understood and taken account of the Well-being Impact Assessment (Appendix 1 to the report) as part of its consideration.
RESOLVED that Cabinet – (a) confirms that it has read, understood and taken account of the Well-being Impact Assessment (Appendix A to the report) as part of its consideration, and (b) agrees in principle to provide additional funding subject to a further report to Capital Scrutiny Group and Cabinet following determination of the external fundraising applications and clarification of the amount required. The meeting concluded at 11.25 am.
Apologies for absence had been received from the Chief Executive.
Councillor Jason McLellan declared a personal and prejudicial interest in agenda item 9 Supported Living Contracts – Extension Approval because his son was employed by one of the companies mentioned in the report. Councillor Jason McLellan also declared a personal and prejudicial interest in agenda item 10 North Wales Joint Archive Project because his wife worked on the project for Flintshire County Council.
No urgent matters had been raised.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED that the minutes of the meeting held on 30 June 2026 be received and confirmed as a correct record.
The minutes of the Cabinet meeting held on 30 June 2026 were submitted. RESOLVED that the minutes of the meeting held on 30 June 2026 be received and confirmed as a correct record.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED that Cabinet – (a) approve the Denbighshire County Council Digital Strategy 2026 – 2031 (Appendix 1 to the report), and (b) confirms that it has read, understood and taken account of the Wellbeing Impact Assessment (Appendix 2 to the report) as part of its consideration.
Councillor Julie Matthews presented the report seeking Cabinet approval of the Council’s Digital Strategy 2026 – 2031 which set out the strategic direction for how the Council would use digital, data and technology to deliver services over the next five years. It replaced the previous Strategy which covered the period to 2025. The Digital Strategy set out: a clear vision for “A digitally confident Council – delivering inclusive, secure and efficient digital services designed around residents’ needs”, four guiding principles to inform all digital decision-making and investment, and nine strategic objectives to drive transformation and improvement. It established a clear framework for long-term digital transformation, informed by a comprehensive evidence base. It would help build a more resilient, efficient and effective Council, better equipped to respond to changing needs, and support wider priorities for climate and nature, community wellbeing and financial responsibility. The Head of Corporate Support Service: Performance, Digital and Assets and Chief Digital Officer attended for this item. The Head of Service thanked all those who had contributed to the development of the Strategy, which had been informed through engagement with staff, elected members and senior leaders, together with external benchmarking and assessment of the Council’s current digital capabilities. The Strategy represented a one-Council approach and included specific delivery services under each of the nine objectives. The Chief Digital Officer provided a comprehensive overview of the Strategy, highlighting the introduction of new technologies, improving access to services for residents, and enabling staff and councillors to work more effectively. He outlined the four key digital principles: (1) customer-centred and inclusive by design, (2) simple, secure and sustainable, (3) one council working together, and (4) governed, prioritised and outcome-focused. He also provided an overview of the nine strategic objectives and illustrated how they would be delivered through a range of planned workstreams and projects. Cabinet welcomed the Strategy, noting the significant work undertaken in its development and the benefits it would deliver, particularly for residents. Members also praised the Strategy’s presentation, noting that it was clear, well-structured and easy to navigate, and that it would be published on the Council’s website should it receive approval. Questions were raised regarding investment priorities, securing best value for money, future-proofing digital capabilities, and ensuring sufficient capacity and resources to deliver the Strategy effectively. Assurances were also sought that all residents could access services in ways appropriate for them. Officers responded to members’ questions as follows – · confirmed that the principle of investing appropriately in digital transformation and securing value for money was embedded in the Strategy, specifically within Objective 9 – Digital Delivery and Governance. This objective aimed to ensure that digital investment was aligned to corporate priorities and delivered measurable benefits. The principle had also been reflected in the Chief Finance Officer Statement within the report · outlined the commissioning and procurement process for technological change, explaining that all technology and ICT-related systems were required to undergo review and approval by ICT and Digital Services. Such systems were assessed from a technical perspective, with careful consideration given to procurement routes, contractual arrangements and the flexibility to withdraw from longer-term contracts at appropriate points. This approach recognised the rapid pace of technological advancement and changing market conditions · in terms of delivery capacity, it was emphasised that responsibility for implementing the Strategy fell to the Council as a whole and not just ICT and Digital Services. Delivery of the objectives would be shared across a range of service areas and incorporated into work plans over the next five years. The importance of making effective use of existing budgets was highlighted while maximising opportunities to secure grant funding and investment from both the UK and Welsh Governments with regard to digital enabled change, particularly in areas such as planning and social care · in response to questions regarding residents’ ability to speak directly with a member of staff when contacting the Council, rather than relying solely on automated services, officers advised that this related to a specific project under Objective 1 concerning digital access and customer services, which was being led by Corporate Support Service: People. Members were encouraged to continue to engage with the development of the digital services platform project to ensure it met residents’ needs. However, a key principle underpinning the Strategy was that services should remain accessible to all residents and the Strategy provided sufficient direction and flexibility to ensure that the differing needs of all residents could be accommodated when accessing services. Councillor Jon Harland referred to the lack of an ethical procurement strategy and asked what steps were being taken for the future removal of companies associated with human rights violations or genocide from the Council’s ICT contracts. Councillor Julie Matthews responded that the Council remained committed to strengthening its approach to ethical procurement. While specific actions were still being developed, the aim was to ensure that procurement practices reflected recognised standards relating to human rights, sustainability and responsible supply chains. Any future strategy would need to comply with UK legislation, Welsh Government guidance and due diligence processes. The current Procurement Strategy was being reviewed in 2027, at which point further updates would be provided. In response to further questions, the Corporate Director: Governance and Business set out the legal position. The review of the Procurement Strategy would be undertaken having regard to the legislative framework for local government. RESOLVED that Cabinet – (a) approve the Denbighshire County Council Digital Strategy 2026 – 2031 (Appendix 1 to the report), and (b) confirms that it has read, understood and taken account of the Wellbeing Impact Assessment (Appendix 2 to the report) as part of its consideration.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED that Cabinet – (a) approves the procurement strategy and the invitation of competitive bids for works to provide residential units on the upper floors and to renovate the ground floor commercial units of properties at 64 High Street and 2 – 4 Wellington Road in Rhyl as set out in the Commissioning and Contract Award Form (Appendix 1 to the report), and (b) confirms that it has read, understood and taken account of the Wellbeing Impact Assessment (Appendix 2 to the report) as part of its consideration.
Councillor Alan James sought advice from the Monitoring Officer as to whether he should declare a personal interest in the item, as the project was located within his ward. The Monitoring Officer advised that no declaration of interest was required. Councillor Rhys Thomas presented the report seeking Cabinet approval of the procurement strategy and the invitation of competitive bids for works to provide residential units on the upper floors and to renovate the ground floor commercial units of properties at 64 High Street and 2 – 4 Wellington Road in Rhyl. Cabinet had previously approved the North Wales Regional Regeneration Plan 2018 – 2035 enabling access to Welsh Government Targeted Regeneration Investment funding, and the submission of outline projects and delegated authority to accept and spend funding. One project involved acquiring and renovating key buildings on Rhyl High Street to provide modern residential accommodation above and retail space at ground floor level. The Council had acquired the former Granite Store at 64 High Street and 2 Wellington Road, and adjacent premises at 4 Wellington Road for this purpose. Works were now required to create residential units on the upper floors and refurbish the ground floor commercial units. Consequently, Cabinet was asked to approve the procurement strategy and invitation of competitive bids as set out in the report. The Lead Officer – Housing Development provided further detail. He reported that planning permission had now been granted and further work had been undertaken on the technical design of the buildings, including their internal layout and mechanical and electrical services. The Council was therefore in a position to invite tenders for the delivery of those works. Subject to Cabinet approval, a tender would be issued through the North Wales Construction Framework the following month. Following evaluation of the submissions, works were expected to commence on site in November 2026, with completion and handover anticipated in autumn 2027. Cabinet welcomed the project, recognising its importance as part of the wider regeneration of Rhyl, bringing key properties back into use to enhance the area. It was noted that the residential units would be let at an intermediate rent through the Tai Teg Register to people in employment with a local connection, supporting the town’s economic regeneration. Members stressed the importance of progressing the project as quickly as possible and highlighted the need for a coordinated approach with other High Street regeneration works to minimise disruption to businesses and residents, together with effective communication arrangements. In response, the Lead Officer – Housing Development confirmed that discussions had taken place with engineers and contractors involved in the High Street improvements to ensure a coordinated approach. The appointed contractor would also communicate directly with affected businesses and residents. Councillors Barry Mellor and Alan James, who sat on the LRF Central Promenade and Public Realm Project Board, provided assurance that robust engagement was taking place with local businesses as part of the wider regeneration programme, including drop-in sessions, to support planning and mitigate disruption. Councillor Rhys Thomas thanked Cabinet for their support and highlighted the importance of revitalising other town centres in the county, noting work was ongoing to progress projects in other areas, including Corwen and Denbigh. RESOLVED that Cabinet – (a) approves the procurement strategy and the invitation of competitive bids for works to provide residential units on the upper floors and to renovate the ground floor commercial units of properties at 64 High Street and 2 – 4 Wellington Road in Rhyl as set out in the Commissioning and Contract Award Form (Appendix 1 to the report), and (b) confirms that it has read, understood and taken account of the Wellbeing Impact Assessment (Appendix 2 to the report) as part of its consideration.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED that Cabinet note the budgets set for 2026/27 and progress against the agreed strategy.
Councillor Delyth Jones presented the finance report for 2026/27 detailing the latest financial position and progress against the agreed budget strategy. A summary of the Council’s financial position was provided as follows – · the net revenue budget for 2026/27 was £308.905 (£290.735m in 2025/26) · an overspend of £302k was forecast for service and corporate budgets due mainly to pressures from shortfall in car park income · set out current risks and assumptions relating to corporate and service budgets · proposals to achieve a balanced budget for 2026/27 amounted to £3.170m and progress in delivering savings would be monitored and tracked going forward · an update on Schools, Housing Revenue Account and Treasury Management. The Lead Member also highlighted two key areas currently forecasting overspends: Education and Children’s Services (£16k), due to increased independent living costs within Children's Services from rising demand and complexity of needs, and Planning, Public Protection and Countryside Services (286k), largely as a result of a shortfall in car parking income and planning and building control fees. New car parking charges and revised charging periods had been introduced in July 2026 to help address rising costs and inflation. Progress in delivering the required savings to achieve a balanced budget would continue to be monitored, with an update to be included in the finance report to Cabinet in October. The Head of Finance and Audit added that, as an early monitoring report in the financial year, there had been little movement in budgets which was typical at this stage and consistent with the position reported in previous years and by other local authorities. The focus of the report therefore was on highlighting areas of risk, which would continue to be monitored and reported to Cabinet throughout the year. Councillor Diane King welcomed the 4.93% increase in school funding for 2026/27 to cover pay inflation and no reduction in their budgets, noting that school budgets remained under severe pressure. She welcomed the additional £1.7m allocated to help meet the growing demand from learners with additional learning needs. The Leader noted that the timetable for the budget setting process was currently being developed and encouraged all members to attend those sessions over the next few months to inform budget discussions going forward. RESOLVED that Cabinet note the budgets set for 2026/27 and progress against the agreed strategy.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED that Cabinet’s forward work programme be noted. Having declared a personal and prejudicial interest in the following two items, the Leader, Councillor Jason McLellan, withdrew from the meeting. The Deputy Leader, Councillor Julie Matthews, assumed the Chair for the remainder of the meeting.
The Cabinet forward work programme was presented for consideration and members noted the following additions – · Secondary Free School Meals – added to September · Ysgol Plas Brondyffryn project – added to October RESOLVED that Cabinet’s forward work programme be noted. Having declared a personal and prejudicial interest in the following two items, the Leader, Councillor Jason McLellan, withdrew from the meeting. The Deputy Leader, Councillor Julie Matthews, assumed the Chair for the remainder of the meeting.
RESOLVED that under Section 100A of the Local Government Act 1972, the Press and Public be excluded from the meeting for the following items of business on the grounds that it would involve the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 14 of Part 4 of Schedule 12A of the Act.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED that Cabinet – (a) approves a maximum two-year extension of the 41 Supported Living contracts to enable completion of a programme of work, and (b) confirms that it has read, understood and taken account of the Well-being Impact Assessment (Appendix 1 to the report) as part of its consideration.
Councillor Elen Heaton presented a confidential report seeking Cabinet approval to extend a number of supported living contracts in order to maintain continuity of care while a programme of work was completed to ensure compliance with legislative requirements, support the Council’s core values, and strengthen contracts. Some background was provided on the purpose of supported living services and the requirement to ensure their procurement complied with the Council’s Contract Procedure Rules and the Procurement Act 2023. Details were also given on work being led by a multi-disciplinary group to develop a more strategic, informed and practical approach to future service delivery. Cabinet approval was sought for extensions of up to two years to existing contracts, although it was anticipated that a number of these would be completed within the first year of the extension period. Cabinet considered the report and discussed the long term commissioning arrangements for supported living with the Head of Adult Social Care and Homelessness and the Service Manager – Support Services. Members accepted the need to extend the current contracts to allow further work to be undertaken to improve the Council’s approach to recommissioning in the future and best serve those that relied on such services. Cabinet particularly welcomed the meaningful engagement with service users, their families and advocates to ensure their views and preferences remained at the forefront of any contract discussions. It was also noted that the model had the potential to support individuals currently in residential placements who may no longer require that level of provision, as well as those placed outside of the county, enabling them to remain within their local communities where appropriate. RESOLVED that Cabinet – (a) approves a maximum two-year extension of the 41 Supported Living contracts to enable completion of a programme of work, and (b) confirms that it has read, understood and taken account of the Well-being Impact Assessment (Appendix 1 to the report) as part of its consideration.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED that Cabinet – (a) confirms that it has read, understood and taken account of the Well-being Impact Assessment (Appendix A to the report) as part of its consideration, and (b) agrees in principle to provide additional funding subject to a further report to Capital Scrutiny Group and Cabinet following determination of the external fundraising applications and clarification of the amount required. The meeting concluded at 11.25 am.
Councillor Emrys Wynne presented a confidential report updating Cabinet on progress made with the Joint Archive Project and sought Cabinet’s agreement in principle to underwrite additional match funding. The Joint Archive Service Manager and Project Manager attended for this item and provided an update on the project. Cabinet was advised that RIBA stage 3 had been completed and work on RIBA stage 4 (detailed design and tendering process) had commenced to ensure funding timescales could be met. It was stressed that the cost of the construction element of the project, which accounted for the majority of the project cost, would not be known until completion of RIBA stage 4 in October 2026. Members were also informed that the project had passed the Development Phase Review, enabling the submission of a Delivery Phase application for the Heritage Fund grant. As a result of changes to the project costs, Cabinet agreed to amend the report recommendation to remove the specific funding amount pending cost certainty and a further report to Cabinet in December 2026. Cabinet also noted Welsh Government’s recent funding announcement for archive projects, where North East Wales Archive was mentioned for receiving funding via Welsh Government’s Priorities for Culture & Enhanced Local Sector Support revenue grant schemes. Members were further advised that efforts were ongoing to identify and secure external grant funding wherever possible in order to minimise the Council’s financial contribution and maximise overall investment. RESOLVED that Cabinet – (a) confirms that it has read, understood and taken account of the Well-being Impact Assessment (Appendix A to the report) as part of its consideration, and (b) agrees in principle to provide additional funding subject to a further report to Capital Scrutiny Group and Cabinet following determination of the external fundraising applications and clarification of the amount required. The meeting concluded at 11.25 am.
Councillors must say when they have a personal link to something being discussed, such as a job, a property or a family member. A prejudicial interest is one strong enough that the councillor usually leaves the room and takes no part.
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