Agenda item

The Cabinet considered a report of the Chief Executive which outlined progress towards achieving the strategic ambitions and objectives set out in the 2024-28 council plan to members, senior managers, employees and the public (for copy of report, see file of minutes).

The Leader of the Council explained that the report provided insights into how the Council were dealing with the many challenges faced along with other local authorities up and down the country. The transparency of strategic planning and performance management arrangements were welcomed and something that the Joint Administration continued to champion. Councillor Hopgood was pleased that feedback from residents and customers had been expanded into this report. Notably, the Council continued to deliver strong performance, despite the challenges created by the impact of growing demands and inflation driven headwinds.

Overall, economic performance remained strong across a range of performance measures and the longer term perspective on key measures was good. The employment rate was better than the rate 20 years ago and the unemployment rate was low. There had been a 10% increase in available jobs across the county since 2010 and demand for development land and industrial and office premises of all sizes was high. It was expected to exceed targets in securing more investment for companies and over the last two years had exceeded the annual target for inward investments. The new employability programme, growing visitor economy, ‘The Story’, the expanded Park and Ride operation, family hubs, and targets in relation to the Environment were all highlighted as areas of good performance.

Each Cabinet Portfolio Holder then provided an update on performance in relation to their specific portfolios.  Highlights included the shortlisting of the Council for the National Recycling Awards, Digital Durham Programme, robust and resilient cybersecurity, the inclusive economic strategy, £1.23 billion into the visitor economy in 2023 which had exceeded anything ever before, increased gym memberships, and a ‘good’ rated Care Quality Commission review of Adult Services.

Resolved:

That the recommendations in the report be approved.