Issue - decisions

1.      It has been decided to undertake a full market testing exercise to determine the most cost effective and efficient way to deliver waste management, street care and grounds maintenance services and so improve VFM of these services for Council Tax payers.

2.      Cabinet’s commitment has been given to implementing the findings of this particular market testing exercise if a well defined and robust business case is established that supports this course of action, subject to paragraph 3 and 4 below.

3.      It has been noted that further reports will be brought forward throughout the course of this market testing exercise if key decisions need to be made.

4.      It has been noted that, further to paragraph 3 above, before any contract or tender is awarded as a result of the market testing of waste management, street care and grounds maintenance services, a report will be brought to Cabinet to seek its agreement.

5.      That, subject to specific agreement with the relevant portfolio holder, approval has also been given to the principle and practice of market testing Council services where it is considered that the external market might provide greater opportunities to achieve better value for money, efficiencies and effectiveness in service delivery, as part of the Strategic Business Review programme or as distinct projects.

6.      It has been noted that the Trades Unions have been informed of this proposal and that management are seeking positive and active engagement of the Trades Unions in pursuing this programme, to ensure that the proper interests of all employees, whether Union members or not are duly considered.

7.      Working together with other Councils on market-testing has been endorsed by Cabinet where this enables potential mutual benefits and sharing of the costs of market-testing, as long as such joint working does not fetter future discretion by this Council.