Work together plan welcomed

Nov 24 2009 by Alison Rennie, Paisley Daily Express

A REPORT which examines how local authorities can work together more effectively was yesterday “broadly welcomed” by the leader of Renfrewshire Council.

Eight councils, including Renfrewshire, asked Sir John Arbuthnott to look into how they could share services and work together.

Renfrewshire Council Leader Derek Mackay has welcomed the results of the review and stressed the plans are not about cost-cutting.

He said: “There’s no desire and no need to go down the time-consuming route of restructuring local authorities. It’s essential that the people we serve have clear, identifiable and accountable link with their local councils.

“The impact of the economic downturn and the need for councils to make unprecedented savings means we all need to take a more strategic approach to the services we provide and the way we provide them.

“This review has helped to take that process forward. Along with the other local authorities in the Clyde Valley, we’ll be discussing the options and issues raised in the report.

“Overall, I am confident that Renfrewshire Council is well placed to meet the coming challenges of how best to provide affordable and sustainable services with fewer resources than in the past.”

Sir John’s report has found there are possibilities for working together in health and community care, waste management, roads maintenance, property and fleet management and maintenance, workforce planning and some aspects of education services.