Issue - meetings

To consider the draft Consolidated Action Plan relating to recommendations made in key external reviews of the Council and to acknowledge the progress to date.

The Deputy Chief Executive introduced the Consolidated Action Plan to address external reviews. The plan integrated recommendations from various external reviews, including the Public Interest Report 2022, CIPFA Capital Assurance Report 2023, LGA Corporate Peer Challenge Follow Up Review 2023, and the Best Value Inspection Report 2025. The plan aimed to ensure progress in improving governance, financial processes, risk management, and value for money. Key actions included developing a comprehensive improvement and recovery plan, enhancing the finance function, and addressing procurement efficiency. The Plan also emphasised the importance of regular updates to the Audit Committee and Corporate Policy and Resources Committee, with an annual report to full Council.

The Committee thanked the project team and all contributors for their efforts in developing the Action Plan, noting that it had been long requested and was welcomed by the Committee. The Chair echoed this sentiment, recognising the significance of the plan’s delivery. The Deputy Chief Executive confirmed that the Committee’s appreciation would be relayed to the project team.

The Committee queried the current format of the 'Lead' column, which often included multiple names, and sought clarification on how lead responsibilities were communicated. The Deputy Chief Executive emphasised the importance of clearly identifying both a lead councillor and a lead officer for each action. It was acknowledged that the plan remained under refinement and that feedback on identifying key responsible individuals would be considered as part of the ongoing process.

The Committee sought clarification regarding reference CR8 within the Action Plan, specifically querying the role of the Chair of the Community Wellbeing Committee in the planning application process. The Deputy Chief Executive confirmed that a response would be provided following the meeting.

The Committee resolved to consider the draft Consolidated Action Plan relating to recommendations made in key external reviews of the Council and to acknowledge the progress to date.