Redesign fundamentally changing the way the council does things

The work of the Redesign Board has been considered by Council today.

The Redesign Board is fundamentally changing the way the council does things. We are continuing with a programme of reviews which focus on providing the best possible service in the most efficient way.

In recent months we have carried out a substantial piece of work looking at ways to save money and become more energy efficient and arrangements have been put in place to provide staff with access to car clubs through a pilot at selected sites from May as an alternative to using their own cars for work journeys. Additionally we are progressing with a Solar Energy Project which when completed will produce substantial income for the Council.

The music tuition service transferred to High Life Highland on 1 April, following a recommendation by the Redesign Board this should substantially improve the provision of music tuition throughout the Highlands.

Recruitment of a new solicitor post and a para-legal apprenticeship will be underway this month. These new posts will reduce the need for external consultancy in particular areas of advice.

Chair of Redesign Board, Convener Bill Lobban said: “These projects are proof that a Redesign approach is an excellent way of transforming the Highland Council. Being open-minded and innovative stands us in very good stead to help manage the huge financial challenges we increasingly face. Our future success is fundamentally a result of staff involvement, leadership, and cross-party working.”

Ongoing reviews include Preventative Childrens’ Services, Car Parking and Building Trade Services, as well as looking at how communities can be involved further in redesign.

Information on Redesign workshops and Board meetings is available on the website https://www.highland.gov.uk/info/20003/committee_information/696/redesign_of_the_highland_council_board/2