Decision details

The Leader introduced the report of the Chief Executive (previously circulated) advising Members of changes which had been made in relation to partnership working in Darlington, which involved replacing the current Partnership Board by a Public Sector Executive Group (PSEG).  It was also reported that, subject to approval by Council, the Sustainable Community Strategy (SCS) would cease to be used as a strategic lead for the Borough, with the lead in future being provided to partners by the Council Plan.

It was reported that the membership of the PSEG would include senior officers from key public sector bodies and its key aims would be to gain a common understanding of the issues facing Darlington; collective horizon scanning, maximising the benefits of public sector resources; reviewing and planning initiatives to deliver success; advise on its on governance issues and seek approval where appropriate; work and support the private and voluntary sector to deliver programmes and projects and to act as the key Programme Board for key initiatives.

Reference was made to the background to the establishment of the Darlington Partnership, which had become the Local Strategic Partnership (LSP), when Government legislation required local authorities to establish a LSP; its various statutory roles, funding and support, mainly by the public sector; its duty to agree and deliver a SCS; and its success in delivering a number of successful projects over many years.

It was reported that a further report on how the new partnerships arrangements were working would be submitted to Cabinet in October 2021.

RESOLVED – (a) That the new approach to partnership working in Darlington, as detailed in the submitted report, be noted.

(b)  That the great contribution to Darlington made by current and past Members of the Darlington Partnership, be recognised.

(c)  That the change of emphasis with the Council Plan standing as the Council’s lead strategy, be approved, and the Council cease to have a separate Sustainable Community strategy.

(d)  That, subject to approval by Council, authority be delegated to the Assistant Director, Law and Governance to make consequential amendments to the constitution.

(e)  That a report be submitted to Council for consideration and approval.

REASONS – (a) To refresh partnering in Darlington continues to thrive and acknowledge the general work done.

(b)  For the matter to be considered by Council in accordance with the procedure for making changes to documents that are part of the policy framework.

(c)  To enable appropriate amendments to the constitution to be made.?????