Oldham: we’re going places

OLDHAM Council has made landmark improvements over the last two years according to a new report.

Securing Metrolink’s arrival in the town centre, a high satisfaction rate for waste disposal and street cleaning, the success of the Sports Development Service and an outstanding fostering service were highlighted as key achievements.

The Oldham Improvement Board (OIB) was set up when Charlie Parker joined the council as chief executive in October, 2008.

OIB is made up of local councillors and representatives from the Audit Commission, Government Office North West and the Regional Improvement and Efficiency Board.

Three former chief executives, Sir Les Elton (Gateshead Council), Steve Jones (Wigan and Blackburn Councils) and Stella Manzie (Coventry City Council), were also on the board.

Mr Parker identified a series of weaknesses that needed addressing and further flaws were pinpointed in an Audit Commission assessment.

The OIB was asked to oversee the wide-ranging plans and monitor progress on key areas. Its final report will be presented to cabinet members on Wednesday.

It also flags up Oldham’s highly-rated Adult Learning Service and outstanding Pupil Referral Unit.

Steve Jones said: “It was the council itself that decided it needed to plan a programme to implement quite a radical change.

“The council has also understood that while the changes were going on they were not the things that the people of Oldham talked to each other about in their pubs, clubs and societies.

“What’s really important to the people of Oldham is that there are tangible improvements to the services that are either provided or commissioned by the council and its partners.

“If Oldham can continue to be consistent to that theme it’s my belief that the improvement programme will continue for many years to come.”

The report to cabinet sets out proposals for how the council can continue to build on its new framework of strong governance, accountability and challenge to ensure the improvements are long term.

Council leader Howard Sykes said: “Setting this programme in place back in 2008 was a key decision that saw Oldham Council embark on a rapid improvement journey.

“This document highlights clear evidence that we have made significant progress and I would like to thank the Board for their invaluable work and insights.

“Oldham Council is now ready for the next stage of its development, which will be even more challenging as we strive to work smarter and faster against unprecedented financial pressures.

“That will require difficult decisions and major adaptations in the way that we work – and what we deliver. But we should use this report as a positive driver for all staff as proof that significant changes are always attainable through their commitment and innovation to deliver better services for residents.”