Issue - meetings

To consider the outcome of the review of the decision taken by Cabinet on 25 April 2023 relating to Applications Shortlisted for Shared Prosperity Funding which had been subject of a call-in to scrutiny and considered by Partnerships Scrutiny Committee on 18 May 2023.

RESOLVED that Cabinet –

(a)       recognises that Partnerships Scrutiny Committee upheld the Cabinet decision of 25 April 2023, insofar as it related to the projects shortlisted by the Core Partnership Group for approval, and

(b)       in consultation with relevant lead Officers will consider the mechanism for implementing the recommendations of the Scrutiny Committee as referred to in paragraphs 3.2 – 3.6, in an appropriate and timely manner.

Councillor Peter Scott, Vice-Chair of Partnerships Scrutiny Committee presented the report detailing the findings and recommendations of the Scrutiny Committee following consideration of the call-in of the Cabinet decision taken on 25 April 2023 relating to Applications Shortlisted for Shared Prosperity Funding.

In brief, the Committee had been reassured that the process utilised for dealing with applications and shortlisting had been robust, fair and professional. However, it was felt that communicating about aspects of Shared Prosperity Funding with elected members were rather weak and fragile.  Consequently, the Committee had recommended that Cabinet uphold its decision insofar that it related to the projects shortlisted by the Core Partnership Group for approval, and in doing so agree further measures as set out in paragraphs 3.2 – 3.6 of the report with a view to strengthening communication arrangements.

The Leader thanked Councillor Scott for reporting on the scrutiny debate and recommendations.  Given that the Scrutiny Committee had upheld the Cabinet decision, and taking into account the lateness of the report back on the recommendations, with further consideration needed in terms of the mechanisms for their implementation, the Leader proposed an amendment to the report recommendations to reflect those issues and how best to progress them.  Cabinet agreed, particularly highlighting the need for a robust Communication Plan and appropriate engagement.  Councillor Huw Hilditch-Roberts asked that Cabinet agree in principle to the broad recommendations and an appropriate timescale for implementation.  The Leader acknowledged those comments.

RESOLVED that Cabinet –

(a)       recognises that Partnerships Scrutiny Committee upheld the Cabinet decision of 25 April 2023, insofar as it related to the projects shortlisted by the Core Partnership Group for approval, and

(b)       in consultation with relevant lead Officers will consider the mechanism for implementing the recommendations of the Scrutiny Committee as referred to in paragraphs 3.2 – 3.6, in an appropriate and timely manner.