Decision details

The Pest Control Service has experienced ongoing uncertainty about its future for several years and has, as a result, been maintained in its historical delivery model. This has allowed neither development nor efficiency savings to be achieved and the service continues to operate at a cost to the council.

The financial planning process for 2015-2016 and beyond has determined that a saving of £60K will be achieved through the removal of the subsidy for delivery of the pest control service and the service budget has now been reduced to reflect this.

A recent review of Enforcement within Cheshire East recommended that the Pest Control Service should be reviewed to determine whether the council should continue to operate the service or consider alternative delivery options.  The report examined the different delivery options available and in relation to the national picture.

These pressures provide a real opportunity to review the current pest control service and determine the council’s approach to sustainable service delivery within 2015-2016 and beyond.

1.    That detail in relation to the current provision of pest control services within Cheshire East, and the financial implications of various service delivery models that have been considered as part of a full review of the service, be noted.

2.    That the proposal for the reduced service delivery model be approved as the most appropriate way forward to meet financial savings and to underline the commitment of Cheshire East Council to the treatment of public health pests.

3.    That the Principal Manager: Regulatory Services and Health be authorised to implement the reduced service delivery model in conjunction with any necessary consultation with staff, Trade Unions and Human Resources.

4.    That the Principal Manager: Regulatory Services and Health be authorised to communicate any changes to pest control service delivery to relevant internal and external stakeholders.