To update the committee on the progress of the re-thinking governance working group.

The democratic services manager presented the report and highlighted the progress which the re-thinking governance working group had made.   It was noted that there had been a number of focus group meetings and a survey in connection with planning had been undertaken.   The working group would be working through the action plan attached at appendix B in order to inform the recommendations to Council in May 2021.  These recommendations would fall into two categories, either a procedural or constitutional change.   The working group would more be meeting fortnightly in order to ensure that the deadline of Council in May 2021 would be met.

It was further noted that there would be further member engagement and engagement with members of the public.  This engagement should be largely completed by the time of the next progress update in March 2021.

Further work was required in order to make recommendations with regard to the structure of the governance arrangements and these would include standing panels, task and groups etc.

Any changes to the Constitution could be amended if they do not deliver the anticipated improvements.  

Working group were thanked for their work and it was noted that there would be a further progress update at the March committee meeting.

RESOLVED that 

The report be noted.