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South Lakeland and Eden DCs are considering a shared chief executive as part of plans for an efficiency alliance. The joint chief is one of a number of options identified in a report on shared services which will be debated at the next full council meeting of each authority next week. Both councils agreed last year to formalise talks on forming the joint management and delivery alliance, which could save a potential £4m over the next four years. They have drawn up a business case, using best practice from the IDEA, together with a joint consultative committee made up of union and non-union representatives from each council. The report forecasts the shared CEO could save £210,000 over three years and has identified the potential for a further £450,000-saving through a joint management team. Cllr Keith Phillips, leader of Eden, described the business case for a services alliance as ‘compelling', adding that there would be tough decisions to make this year in order to secure the council's long-term viability. He said: ‘Sharing services is not without its complexities, but represents a long-term solution for both parties.' Cllr Brendan Jameson, leader of South Lakeland, said it was a real chance for both authorities to make financial savings, both now and in the future. He added this was a positive way forward for both authorities in the current climate of local government. If the move is given the green light, it will the first such partnership in the north-west of England. The other potential benefits outlined by the report include an increased level of customer satisfaction through improved public services, and released revenue savings to control council tax.

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WHITEHALL

Districts could share CE in efficiency drive

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