Agenda item - Progress update against Corporate Key Performance Indicators Q2 2016/17

Report of the Chief Executive (copy attached).

That the Committee review progress in relation to Corporate KPIs, particularly corrective measures outlined for 'red' and 'amber' indicators; provide ongoing support and challenge to lead officers to bring performance back on track.

86.1       The Committee considered a report of the Chief Executive in relation to Progress update against Corporate Key Performance Indicators Q2 2016/17. The report sought to update performance progress for the period 1 April 2016 to 30 September 2016 (Quarter 2) in relation to Corporate Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).

86.2       Councillor Mitchell welcomed the increased recycling rates in the city.

86.3       In response to Councillor G. Theobald it was explained that the Audit & Standards Committee had also discussed the number of outstanding audit recommendations; this had been due to a combination of issues including long-term sickness, but it was hoped the move towards the Orbis Partnership would help with this. Councillor A. Norman, as Chair of the Audit & Standards Committee, noted that the Internal Audit Team was very small and there was ongoing work to improve the number of completed audit recommendations.

86.4       In response to Councillor Wealls it was explained that it had not previously been the working practice of the Planning Department to seek extensions to the eight week determination deadline for planning applications, whereas this was standard practice in most other local authorities, and was advocated by the Planning Advisory Service. Officers acknowledged that the Planning Service had been underperforming, whilst there was still much to do, the measures that had been taken in the last 12 months were having a significant impact. It was the intention that the dialogue with Members would continue as the improvements were made to the service.

86.5       Councillor Sykes welcomed the report, and noted the importance of this information coming before Members. In response to a query it was explained that the level of stress related staff sickness was of concern; it was acknowledged that the Council had a duty of care to all staff. Stress audits were undertaken across the organisation, this work was lead and monitored by the corporate health and safety team.

86.6       The Chair put the recommendation to the vote.

86.7       RESOLVED – That the Committee review progress in relation to Corporate KPIs, particularly corrective measures outlined for 'red' and 'amber' indicators; provide ongoing support and challenge to lead officers to bring performance back on track.