Meeting: Cabinet (County Hall, Durham - Committee Room 2 - 05/03/2009 10:00:00 AM)
Item: A3 LGR Update
1. This report provides an update on the LGR programme.
Current Position
2. A detailed report was prepared for the last County Council meeting on 27th February (a copy of which is attached at Appendix A). As a result there is not much to add to update Cabinet on the progress of the LGR programme.
(To view Appendix A please refer to the pdf attachment, the County Council papers of 27 February 2009 or alternatively refer to hard copies held in Corporate Services)
HR
3. The consultation with staff on the proposals for ring fencing and slot-ins at Tier 4 level commenced last week. This will end on the 12th March when shortlists will be finalised for the interviews to take place during the period Wednesday 25th March through to Thursday 9th April. Some interviews however are to be delayed until later in April to allow the Heads of Service who are to be appointed following the external recruitment process an opportunity to be involved.
4. Within the next few weeks staff will be formally advised of which Service grouping they will be in from 1st April pending the full restructure to be undertaken after Vesting Day.
Day 1 Planning
5. The ‘rapid response’ arrangements for the period after Vesting Day have now been finalised which will ensure immediate action can be put in place should there be any service or operational issues. This will be led by Terry Collins, Corporate Director Neighbourhood Services and managed through the LGR programme office. This should ensure any foreseen events can be dealt with quickly and service levels maintained during the changeover period.
Communication
6. Early in March members will receive a detailed briefing note on arrangements for Vesting Day. This will include contact details for the new Council, key contacts for specific issues and arrangements for members support and facilities.
Members Seminars
7. During March three seminars are planned for Members on the following dates: · 4th March - 12.30pm and 6.30pm
o Economic development landscape present and future
· 9th March - 12.30pm and 6.30pm
o Constitution
· 26th March - 12.30pm and 6.30pm
o Day 1 arrangements
o Member support
o Service delivery
o AAP update.
8. The seminar on the 26th March will cover the information supplied in the Members briefing note issued earlier in the month and provide details of any last minute changes being introduced.
Priorities
9. The following critical decisions remain outstanding and are planned to be brought to Cabinet for agreement at the next meeting on the19th March.
· Fees and Charges
· Corporate Plan
· Corporate Enforcement Policy
· Licensing Policies.
Recommendation
10. Cabinet are asked to note this latest progress report on the LGR programme.
Attachments
LGR Update 5th March 2009 v0.1.pdf