The purpose of this report is for Cabinet to consider the:

·         Closure of the Rising to the Challenge  Programme

·         Progress on the implementation of the Root and Branch Reviews

·         Outstanding actions from the Root and Branch Reviews and proposals for the Herefordshire 2020 Review

THAT:

(a)          the achievements and lessons learned from the Rising to the Challenge Programme as set out in Appendix One be noted;

(b)          progress with the implementation of the Root and Branch Reviews as set out in Appendix Two be noted;

(c)          the relevant Directors be authorised to jointly produce and implement delivery plans for the phase 2 and 3 reviews and report to Cabinet or Cabinet Member(s) as appropriate; and

(d)          it be agreed that the scope of the Herefordshire 2020 Review be extended to include all remaining work from the review programme as set out in paragraphs 10.8 to 10.14 of the Report.

The recommendations are made to ensure an effective close down of the Rising to the Challenge Programme and to seek Cabinet approval of the outputs and further work from the Root and Branch Review Programme.

The proposals from the Root and Branch Reviews will change to reflect other priorities and/or different approaches as necessary.  However, Council has already agreed the savings associated with these as part of the Medium Term Financial Strategy.  Completion of the programme is essential to set out the future direction of the Council and to address the financial challenges ahead.