Oldham Council to consider new interim governance arrangements to make council 'transparent'

Councillors are due to discuss the proposals at a meeting on Wednesday 16 September.

A report to full council recommends a series of changes to the arrangements currently in place.

Chief Executive Shelley Kipling is exercising delegated powers under emergency governance measures to allow council services and statutory functions to continue.

The new proposals include continuing regular cross-party meetings involving all political group leaders to discuss major decisions, priorities and risks.

The report also proposes enhanced scrutiny arrangements before significant decisions are taken.

Interim Lead Member roles would be created for each of the council’s four directorates.

The positions would provide political oversight and advocacy but would not carry executive decision-making powers.

The report recommends allocating the roles to the leaders of the council’s four largest political groups, Labour, Reform UK, The Oldham Group and the Liberal Democrats.

The council said the proposals had been developed following legal advice, discussions with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and engagement with political group leaders.

Since June, decisions have continued to be taken in areas including children’s services, adult social care, highways maintenance and economic development.

Chief Executive Shelley Kipling said: "Our absolute priority is ensuring residents continue to receive the services and support they rely on every day while we work towards a longer-term political solution.

"The proposals being considered this week represent a strengthening of the governance arrangements already in place. They provide greater transparency, stronger democratic oversight and clear political engagement, while ensuring decisions can continue to be taken effectively and in the best interests of Oldham.

"This has been a result of significant work and co-operation between the group leaders, who I would like to thank for their efforts to get us to this place. Whilst no replacement for the leadership model we are intended to have, this is a step in the right direction.

"Residents can be reassured that services are continuing, statutory responsibilities are being met and robust safeguards are in place to support the Council's ongoing work."

Oldham Council will consider the report and its recommendations on 16 September.