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Modernising Local Government

Modernisation Strategic Outline Case

The Department is developing a Strategic Outline Case to support the development of the Modernisation Programme for local government.  The purpose of the SOC is to identify the high level benefits and costs associated with the modernisation programme, and to develop the necessary information base to allow the sector to assess the next steps in the process.  

Deloitte have been appointed as the Department's advisor, and work has begun consulting with the sector, with a Chief Executives forum and a data collection exercise already underway.

Please read the Terms of Reference (2927KB)PDF Document. Opens in a new window.Opens in a new window. for the review. The study is expected to report in April 2008.  

Modernisation Programme

The modernisation programme has two major work strands led by modernisation sub-groups.

Major Work Strands

“In parallel with the review of the Local Government aspects of the RPA, work on modernising Local Government is being driven forward through two major work strands:

  1. Strengthening the way Local Government works by
    - modernising the policy and legislative framework within which they operate
    - addressing the capacity of members to deliver accountable citizen-centred services.
  2. Improving the way in which Local Government works in terms of delivering services in a way which is standardised, simple and provides value for money, thus enabling resources to be released to improve front line service delivery.

Both major strands cover very large and complex work and project areas. Substantial work will be needed to look at options, costs and benefits over both. strands. The work will also take account of the work and recommendations made by the nine previous TaskforceOpens in a new window. sub-groups.

LGRD are seeking funding to support the reform and modernisation programme, including financial resources for a modernisation challenge fund.

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Modernisation Sub-Groups

For this initial phase of the modernisation programme up to early 2008, two modernisation working groups have been established as sub-groups of the Strategic Leadership BoardOpens in a new window. to take forward each of the two strands of modernisation work. This is an interim arrangement, pending agreement on long-term implementation structures.

Subgroups of the Strategic Leadership Board:

SLB Sub-Group AOpens in a new window.– Legislative Framework & Capacity Building

SLB Sub-Group BOpens in a new window.– Service Improvement

When this phase of the work is complete, and the outcome of the review of RPA decisions is known, the sub-group structure will be reviewed to meet the needs of an integrated implementation programme relating to modernisation and structural reform.”

Modernisation Seminars

A series of Modernisation Seminars has been setup, based on the work of the modernisation sub-groups. The seminars are open to all council members and staff and are designed to inform debate on the many modernisation issues facing local government.

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