Decision details

1.

Title of Item/Report

Powering our Future - Transformation Reviews Update

2.

Record of the Decision

Consideration was given to a report that provided a further update following the report to Cabinet in May on the progress of the Council’s Powering Our Future Programme and its contribution to closing the Medium-Term Financial Plan (MTFP) budget gap.

The programme set out a framework to modernise services, improve outcomes for residents and ensure long-term financial sustainability in the context of rising demand and cost pressures. Phase 1 had identified £9.9m of savings, with a number of projects now in delivery.

The February budget report highlighted significant ongoing pressures, particularly within Children’s and Adults’ Social Care, Home to School Transport, and SEND, where demand and complexity continued to rise faster than funding. This had resulted in a projected budget gap of £6.7m in 2026/27, increasing to £13.8m in 2027/28 and £18.4m in 2028/29.

In response, a Phase 2 programme of Transformation Reviews was underway, focusing on efficiency measures, council-wide initiatives, and outcome-based service reviews. The report provided an update on progress, with a particular emphasis on front-loaded efficiency savings, while further detailed reports on outcome-based reviews would follow. Savings identified within Phase 2 so far were £5,220,000 in 2026/27 and £3,520,000 per annum in future years.

RESOLVED that the progress of reviews to date and the activity towards closing the budget gap across the Medium Term Financial Plan be noted.

3.

Reasons for the Decision

To note the progress of Powering our Futures Transformation Mission and financial implications to date. 

4.

Alternative Options Considered and Rejected

None

5.

Declared (Cabinet Member) Conflicts of Interest

None

6.

Details of any Dispensations

None

7.

Date and Time by which Call In must be executed

Not applicable, report for noting only.