Local councils explore strategic partnership arrangements
At a Cabinet meeting on Wednesday 12 October, Melton Borough Council has agreed to explore the establishment of a Strategic Partnership arrangement with Harborough District Council which could see the two councils working more closely for the benefit of both councils and their communities by next year.
Following the retirement of the Chief Executive at Harborough District Council earlier this year, the local authority has been exploring future leadership options and is keen to consider establishing a partnership with another council. Their initial assessment has identified Melton Borough Council as a suitable fit and their preferred partner with whom they would like to explore the opportunity further Melton Borough Council have confirmed their interest and both councils are now seeking to develop a business case to fully explore the opportunities, risks and potential benefits of such an approach.
Leader of Melton Borough Council, Cllr Joe Orson said :
“We have positive relationships and a strong track record of collaboration with our neighbouring districts. The initial analysis and early discussions with the Leader of Harborough District Council demonstrate this has the potential to be a very positive and productive alliance between the two councils, offering the opportunity for more joint working on common challenges and opportunities, as well as increased resilience and effectiveness in the services we deliver to our communities. We will need to build a business case to fully assess all the implications and to ensure this this is the right option for us both and our communities. I’m also keen to ensure we engage widely with all members, our staff and stakeholders throughout the business case development and I look forward to reviewing it fully at our council meeting in December.”
Harborough District Council and Melton Borough Council already collaborate on several services including Lifeline (personal alarm systems), out of hours service and parking enforcement. This would be the first time two district authorities in Leicestershire have considered a formal partnership arrangement together offering the potential to support each other by sharing learning and capacity, reduce duplication, increase efficiency and improve outcomes for residents.
The councils will be engaging with a number of stakeholders while developing the business case and talking to other successful strategic partnerships between councils to identify areas of best practice.
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