Maidstone Borough Council

Strategic Leadership and Corporate Services

Overview and Scrutiny Committee

Tuesday 4 March 2014

Report prepared by Christian Scade

1.          The Capital Programme Review (Follow Up)   

1.1        Issue for Consideration

1.1.1   The Committee to consider an update on the recommendations of the Capital Programme Review.

1.2        Recommendation of the Head of Policy and Communications

1.2.1  That the Committee note the current position with regard to the recommendations of the Capital Programme Review and consider whether a further update should be produced for consideration at a future meeting.   

1.3        Reasons for Recommendation

1.3.1   At its meeting on 22 May 2012, the Corporate Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee agreed to carry out a review (via a Working Group) of the Council’s Capital Programme.

1.3.2   The review sought to establish a means by which the Council could continue to deliver an ambitious Capital Programme, exploring borrowing options and innovative ways of utilising the Council’s available finances and assets.

1.3.3   The Working Group’s investigations progressed to considering the Council’s involvement in developments which contribute to and promote economic growth.

1.3.4   Having considered their evidence, the Committee put forward a wide range of recommendations and these were considered by Cabinet on 12 June 2013. The current position is noted at Appendix A.      

1.4        Alternative Action and Why Not Recommended

1.4.1   The Committee could decide not to consider whether any recommendations are outstanding but this would prevent the Committee from ensuring that important findings from the Review are not overlooked.

1.5        Impact on Corporate Objectives

1.5.1  The Council’s Strategic Plan 2011-2015 lists “For Maidstone to have a growing economy; For Maidstone to be a decent place to live; and Corporate and Customer Excellence” as key priorities. The recommendations, and action taken as a response, of the Capital Programme Review, contribute to the fulfilment of these objectives.    

1.6.    Background Documents

1.6.1  None