Lead Member: Councillor Heather Kidd, Leader

Lead Officer: Paul Clarke, Service Director – Strategy & Change

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet:

1.     Noted the report of the LGA Corporate Peer Challenge Progress Review undertaken on 12th May 2026.  

2.     Noted that the CPC recommendations, along with subsequent feedback from the Progress Review, will continue to inform the Council’s plans for improvement and financial sustainability 

The Deputy Leader presented the report which assessed progress against recommendations made following the Peer Challenge undertaken in 2025.

Members welcomed the positive findings and acknowledged the contribution of officers and staff in driving improvement across the Council. Reference was made to strengthened financial controls, improved governance arrangements, clearer strategic direction and a more collaborative organisational culture. It was noted that the Council remained at an early stage in its improvement journey and that maintaining momentum would be essential.

During discussion, members highlighted the continuing challenges associated with financial sustainability, organisational capacity and the delivery of transformation programmes. The importance of measurable outcomes, robust scrutiny and reducing reliance on Exceptional Financial Support was emphasised. Cabinet noted that transformation programmes across service areas were progressing and that further reporting on delivery and performance would be brought forward through the Council’s improvement framework.

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet:

1.     Noted the report of the LGA Corporate Peer Challenge Progress Review undertaken on 12th May 2026.  

2.     Noted that the CPC recommendations, along with subsequent feedback from the Progress Review, will continue to inform the Council’s plans for improvement and financial sustainability