Agenda item

Members gave consideration to the progress report for the Thriving Places Thematic Business Plan, as introduced by the Director for Planning, Regeneration & Communities. She explained that the report provided an update for deliverables, performance and strategic risks aligned to the Thriving Places aim of West Lindsey District Council’s Corporate Plan. The Thematic Business Plan set out how the Council’s priorities for 2026/27 would be delivered, ensuring services and programmes contributed effectively to the Corporate Plan aims. The plan provided a clear line of sight from strategic objectives through to delivery, performance measurement, and risk management.

Members heard details of the three core components presented within the report, those being Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), with performance assessed against agreed targets using a Red/Amber/Green (RAG) rating; Key Deliverables, with projects being managed through the Council’s Project Management Office (PMO) to provide a consistent and robust approach to project delivery; and Strategic Risks, which were considered as those faced by the Council which, if materialised, would adversely impact the delivery of corporate priorities.

The report replaced the biannual performance and delivery reports previously considered by committees. It was noted that the performance indicators representing the performance of the markets in Gainsborough remained in red, with the performance improvement plan having also been refreshed. Members heard the performance was moving steadily in the right direction and it was expected to move out of the improvement plan. Other indicators highlighted included the food, health and safety inspections, which were being affected by the implementation of a new case management system and the retirement of a long serving member of staff. Additionally, the performance of the waste service indicator relating to missed bins was reporting as red, and the Committee was joined by the Head of Waste and Street Cleansing to answer any specific queries relating to that service.

Members welcomed the report and, in particular, praised the ongoing work and improvements in the town centre of Gainsborough. In response to a question regarding vacant units in the town centre, it was explained that, whilst there was not a performance indicator relating to that data, it was a highlighted deliverable under the themes of the Corporate Plan. Members were advised that the response to a similar question posed to Full Council would be shared with the Committee.

In response to a question from a Visiting Member regarding the reduced percentage rates of fly-tipping being collected, it was agreed that the breakdown of data would be circulated to the Committee. Specifically, it was enquired as to whether the drop in collection rates was due to an increased amount of fly-tipping, or because there was slippage in making the collections.

A Member of the Committee reiterated praise for the improvements in Gainsborough town centre, and, in relation to the market performance indicators, enquired as to whether an indoor market could be a feasible option. It was confirmed this had been considered in the past, however was not viable in Gainsborough. It was noted that, in comparison to the performance of the markets in previous years, there was a notable improvement, with Officers working closely with stall holders and traders, and local businesses providing anecdotal evidence of the benefits of the improved offering. It was acknowledged that there were challenges, however Officers were committed to ensuring the continued growth and success of the markets.

Members also praised the success of local traders offering mobile services, for example food and drinks trucks at local events. It was noted that there was now a meeting of local business owners which aided the continuity of growth, and involved them in the conversations around the town centre.

With no further comments or questions, the Chairman noted the recommendations contained within the report and, having been proposed, seconded, and voted upon, it was

            RESOLVED that

a)    the aligned deliverables, performance, and strategic risks of the associated Corporate Plan aim had been duly assessed; and

b)    the Quarter One Thematic Business Plan report be approved.