Decision details

For Cabinet to discuss and agree revisions to the Service Devolution and Asset Transfer Policy

Buckinghamshire Council made a commitment to devolution of property and assets to Town and Parish Councils and other community organisations as part of the Unitary business case. To support the Council’s devolution programme, a Service Devolution and Asset Transfer Policy had been published in November 2019 setting out the approach and arrangements for the devolution of the responsibility for running services and community asset transfer. Over time, the approach to the management of the programme had been refined as the new Council had learnt more about the devolution of assets, particularly following the implementation of five pilot projects.

Cabinet received a report with an updated policy for approval that better reflected the current approach in order that a clear direction of travel was given to Town and Parish Councils and other local organisations who might be interested in pursuing a devolution opportunity.  Cabinet Members were asked to note several small changes in the updated policy, as follows:

·      A clearer focus on the process for the devolution of assets.

·      Reference to freehold only being considered on an exceptional basis, with a final decision made by Cabinet.

·      The Devolution Board considering the criteria with which to assess applications on a case-by-case basis.

·      Heads of Terms to be agreed at the end of the ‘Expressions of Interest’ stage to help applicants develop a business case that responds to any specification or terms provided by the Council.

·      Car parks owned and/or run by Buckinghamshire Council where they generate income, hold an operational benefit, or retain a commercial interest were out of scope. The previous version had a blanket approach to all car parks being out of scope.

RESOLVED –

That the updated Devolution and Asset Management Policy be AGREED.