Issue - meetings

That the Committee is satisfied with the Council’s progress on Alternative Delivery Models within the national policy context and emerging proposals for the Welsh Government.

The Chief Officer, Organisational Change introduced a report to update Members on the national position on Alternative Delivery Models (ADMs) as set out in the Welsh Government (WG) commissioned document ‘Is the Feeling Mutual?’.  This was in line with the approach being taken by the Council on ADMs.  The WG document highlighted the necessity for ADMs in public service delivery in Wales and provided a framework for the development of ADMs.  Following consultation earlier in the year, WG was currently developing a national action plan with support package to assist councils in delivering ADMs.  It was anticipated that the national framework would set a common approach for councils on issues such as managing contracts, legalities and human resources, and that the action plan would be implemented promptly to help sustain services and protect jobs through ADMs.

Following comments from Councillor Nigel Steele-Mortimer on the risks in Section 4 of the report, the Chief Officer, Organisational Change explained that since writing the report, the national action plan had been published and thereby demonstrated a level of commitment from WG.

Councillor Dave Mackie spoke about the Council’s achievements on ADMs and the expectation for WG funding as there was no capacity in Town and Community Councils.  He added that there were still issues around asset transfers including the need for more flexibility for the organisations involved.  The Chief Officer, Organisational Change referred to the Community Asset Transfer process on finding solutions at a local level and the need for discussions on funding at an early stage.  The Chief Executive spoke about the differences between funding for County Councils and that for Town/Community Councils where a range of grants could be accessed.  He welcomed the recognition from WG on ADMs on which Flintshire’s progress had been acknowledged nationally.

Councillor Paul Shotton commented on examples of asset transfers involving innovative solutions.  In relation to the transfer of Connah’s Quay swimming baths, it was reported that the legal process had been finalised and the new organisation would take over on 31 May.

RESOLVED:

That the Committee is satisfied with the Council’s progress on Alternative Delivery Models within the national policy context and emerging proposals for the Welsh Government.