Archived decisions

APPLICATION UNDER BEACON COUNCIL SCHEME - "RETHINKING CONSTRUCTION"

1. The Government's Beacon Council scheme aims to identify and share examples of good practice so that local government as a whole can learn, and improve services. Successful Councils enter into an agreement with the Government to share with other authorities their experience, practices and lessons learned. Beacon status is awarded for a year and a special grant is payable to support dissemination plans. The scheme has been running since 1999 and the County Council submitted applications in the first two years. In the first year it was awarded Beacon status, along with other partners in the Project Integra for sustainable development. An application in the second year under the theme of accessible services reached the shortlisting stage but was ultimately unsuccessful. No application was made in the third year (round 3).

2. Following scheme guidance on the themes for round 4, the Cabinet has decided to submit an application under the theme "Rethinking Construction". This is a Government sponsored initiative, the principle objective of which is to improve the performance of the construction industry, including public and private sector clients, by focusing on the demonstration of innovation and excellence and the sharing of best practice. The County Council's procurement initiatives have developed to reflect the corporate strategy and genuine approach to Best Value principles through preferred suppliers and partnering the supply chain. The application of Rethinking Construction principles underpinned the pathfinder review of the Highways Maintenance Service in 1999 and will form the core element of the Property Services review due next year. Accordingly, although there are many factors to be taken into consideration, the application must have a very realistic chance of success. Shortlisted applicants will be notified in November and a final decision will be made in April 2003.

3. Full details of the County Council's approach are contained in its application form for Beacon Council status, copies of which are available on request to the Chief Executive.

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