Lead Member: Councillor Heather Kidd, Leader

Lead Officer: Tanya Miles, Interim Chief Executive

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet:

1.     Considered and recommended the draft Corporate Plan 2026-30 (with amendments) to Council for approval

2.     Noted the underlying need for financial recovery and sustainability, the need to align delivery commitments to the Council’s financial position, and the potential impact on service standards

3.     Noted that a performance framework will be developed (and presented to Cabinet on 10th June 2026) providing a basis for reporting progress, delivery and impact against the priority outcomes – including:

(i)              a set of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), including the relevant Local Outcome Framework measures

(ii)             a set of key delivery commitments against each of the priority ambitions

(iii)           an annual review report, summarising delivery over the previous 12 months, and refreshing the commitments for the next 12 months (to ensure alignment with our financial position and sustainability)

The Leader introduced the report which sought approval of the Corporate Plan for 2026-2030 by Cabinet and Council.

Cabinet noted that it had been developed rapidly to reflect the Council’s current financial position and to provide a clear strategic direction. It was emphasised that the Plan would be a living document, supported by an action plan and delivery commitments to be refreshed annually to ensure alignment with financial sustainability.

Members highlighted the importance of the Plan in guiding future decision-making, particularly in prioritising resources and improving customer responsiveness. Amendments were proposed to strengthen references to customer service, transport integration, housing delivery, economic strategy, and inclusion of the library strategy. Members noted that these amendments would be incorporate in the appendix which will be taken to full Council for adoption.

During discussion, Members broadly supported the strategic intent but raised concerns regarding presentation, prioritisation of economic growth, and the need for clearer emphasis on prevention, integration with partners, and place shaping. The financial constraints facing the Council were acknowledged as a key challenge impacting delivery, including limitations on capacity and missed economic opportunities.

It was also noted that the effectiveness of the Plan would depend on the forthcoming action plan and measurable outcomes, with strong Member support for ongoing scrutiny involvement and cross-party engagement.

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet:

1.     Considered and recommended the draft Corporate Plan 2026-30 (with amendments) to Council for approval

2.     Noted the underlying need for financial recovery and sustainability, the need to align delivery commitments to the Council’s financial position, and the potential impact on service standards

3.     Noted that a performance framework will be developed (and presented to Cabinet on 10th June 2026) providing a basis for reporting progress, delivery and impact against the priority outcomes – including:

(i)              a set of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), including the relevant Local Outcome Framework measures

(ii)             a set of key delivery commitments against each of the priority ambitions

(iii)           an annual review report, summarising delivery over the previous 12 months, and refreshing the commitments for the next 12 months (to ensure alignment with our financial position and sustainability)