Decision details

RESOLVED:

1          That the implementation of the recommendations emanating from the Transformation Review of the Parks and Countryside service be agreed as detailed in annexe 1 to the Executive report;

2          That the development of a country park be agreed subject to further feasibility work.

The Parks and Countryside review forms part of the Council’s Transformation Programme and over the last nine months it has been exploring ways in which the savings target of £400k could be achieved whilst transforming the way in which the service is delivered. The outcome of the review demonstrated that a saving in the region of £476k delivered over 3 years could be achieved.

The Plan Phase Gateway review held on 21st March 2018 saw members support the direction of travel to enhance and maintain the service and to move ahead with the five recommendations presented to them.

The option of ‘No change’ was considered. This would mean continuing with the Parks and Countryside service in its current form with no major changes. This option was not selected as no savings could be achieved.

All sourcing options were explored, including make, buy, share and divest. Recommendations include make, divest and buy options but sharing options have not been recommended at this time.

Contracting out parts of or the rangers service as a whole was explored but is not recommended at this time as the ranger service holds the key to many of the income generating projects, particularly the practical enhancement and management of Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace (SANGS) and has the existing skill set to deliver a single Natural Estate approach to land management.

The opportunity to share the Parks and Countryside service or elements of it with other local authorities was explored. Due to the different structures, systems and responsibilities and the way in which land is held and managed by other councils, it appears that there would be no particular benefits/savings that could be secured through the sharing of services with these councils at this time. Although this should  be kept under review.

None.