January 2026 Samford Report
20mph Speed Limit Policy
Suffolk County Council is introducing a simplified policy allowing communities to more easily
apply for 20mph limits in residential and pedestrian-heavy areas. Schemes will be locally funded
and assessed based on traffic speeds, road character, and presence of vulnerable road users.
Council Budget 2026/27
The Council outlines an £850m budget focused on protecting frontline services amid rising
demand—especially in adult and children’s social care. Proposals include £46.5m in savings, a
4.99% Council Tax rise, and continued capital investment in transport, education, and
infrastructure.
Fostering Documentary with Adam Buxton
A new short documentary follows local foster families to raise awareness of the urgent need for
more carers. The film highlights real experiences and encourages families to consider fostering.
SEND Improvement Recognised
The Department for Education notes significant progress in Suffolk’s SEND services—particularly
governance, leadership, and timeliness—but sets clear expectations for further improvement,
especially around communication and lived experience of families.
One Suffolk Local Government Reform
The Council confirms its support for “One Suffolk,” a proposal for a single unitary authority. It
argues this model will save money, streamline services, and protect vulnerable residents, versus
alternative plans to split the county into three authorities.
Major Anglo-Saxon Burial Ground Found at Sizewell C
Archaeologists uncover a nationally significant early medieval burial site, including elite “princely”
burials with weapons and a horse. The dig is one of the largest of its kind and will feature on BBC
Two’s Digging for Britain.
Highways Rating Appeal
The Council is challenging a Department for Transport “Red” rating, stating that £10m of
expenditure was incorrectly omitted and would have resulted in an “Amber” rating instead.

Youth-Led Public Health Report
Young people shaped the 2025 Annual Public Health Report through three hackathon events,
focusing on wellbeing, mental health, and community action. The report is video-based and
highlights lived experiences from youth across Suffolk.
£350k Investment in Northgate Running Track
Funding has been approved to resurface the athletics track at Northgate Sports Centre, ensuring
its use for the next 20 years, with Northgate High School taking on operational management
from April 2026.
New Provision for Children with Complex Needs
Plans are progressing for a new Ofsted-registered residential facility in Saxmundham to support
children with complex needs, reducing reliance on costly private placements and improving local
care provision.
Two New Primary Schools
The Council proposes appointing academy trusts for new primary schools planned for North
Felixstowe and Brightwell Lakes, both expected to open in 2028 and designed with
carbon-neutral standards.
Mayor of Ipswich Visits Fire & Rescue Service
The Mayor spent a day with Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service to deepen understanding of
prevention, protection, and operational response.
Free Meal Planner to Help Reduce Food Waste
Feel Good Suffolk is partnering with FiveDinners.com to offer households free access to
personalised meal planning tools to support healthy eating, reduce food waste, and save money.