Decision details

The Committee considered the report which provided an update on the LGA Corporate Peer Challenge Action Plan, revisit report and non-statutory Best Value Notice.

In relation to the Corporate Peer Challenge Action Plan, it was highlighted that 51 of the 73 actions had been completed and that 4 of the 18 recommendations from the Peer Challenge had been implemented.  There had been significant progress in senior officer recruitment, improved financial reporting and development of the Cheshire East Plan.  The LGA Corporate Peer Challenge Revisit had acknowledged progress was being made but had highlighted the inconsistent pace and the need for clearer outcomes.

An overarching Corporate Improvement Plan was being developed, which would supersede the Corporate Peer Challenge Action Plan, and would be brought to the next meeting of the Committee for approval.

It was noted that the Assurance Panel would be issuing a formal letter to Council in July 2025 and clarification was sought that the letter would be from the Chair of the Panel and not involve any Cheshire East members or officers on the Panel.

Concerns were raised about the delay in the review of the Council’s decision-making framework and the importance of making changes sooner rather than later to ensure better decision making and efficient scrutiny. 

RESOLVED (unanimously):  That the Committee

1               note the progress in delivering the Corporate Peer Challenge Action Plan.

2               note the LGA Corporate Peer Challenge revisit report and Best Value Notice at Appendices 2 and 3 to the report.

3               agree the approach and timeline for developing an overarching Corporate Improvement Plan, as set out in paragraph 15 of the report, including agreement of the Plan at the Committee’s meeting in August 2025.