Decision details

(i)  To note any recommendations made by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee (OSMC), as reported verbally at the meeting and which, if approved by Council, will be reflected in the final version of the Council Strategy (2016-2020).

(ii)  To recommend the draft Council Strategy 2016-2020, attached as Appendix 1, to Council for approval.

The Council Strategy is a key element in the Council Policy Framework, as it sets the direction of travel and priorities for the council for 2016-2020. It will influence all other council strategies and policies developed during this period, as well as council spending decisions. Whilst it sets the overarching strategic direction for the council, ongoing review and changes will be necessary over the three year period, in response to a number of factors. Delegated authority is therefore sought to review and make changes in the future.

An option is not to publish a strategy: this is not recommended as it is important for the Council to provide a clear and accessible statement of intent to its staff, residents and stakeholders.