Decision details

RESOLVED

(1)      That Cabinet approve the proposed North East Derbyshire 2025-26 UKSPF programme.

(2)      That approval of variations to the final Investment Plan is delegated to the Director of Finance and Resources and Section 151 Officer, in consultation with the Leader, Portfolio Holder for Growth and Assets and Managing Director, should amendments be required by EMCCA.

(3)      That Cabinet agree that NEDDC remains the accountable body for the multi-Authority Derbyshire Accelerator contract for 2025-26, subject to receiving a 4% administrative contribution from participating Local Authorities.

REASONS FOR DECISION 

(1)      Approval of the Investment Plan will enable timely submission of a balanced programme of activity that can respond at pace to meet the needs of the District and accesses additional investment of £1,050,067 UKSPF resources for local determination.

(2)      Delegating responsibility to the Director of Finance and Resources and Section 151 Officer, in consultation with the Leader and Managing Director, to approve any amendments to the final Investment Plan submission enables any requirements raised by EMCCA to be addressed at pace.

(3)      Extending the Councils leadership of the Derbyshire Accelerator contract ensures continuity of the business advisors and programme currently working in the localities, derisking the concern that skilled and experienced support will be lost to the local business base.

OTHER OPTIONS CONSIDERED AND REJECTED 

(1)      Not to approve the proposed Investment Plan. The Plan has been developed and based upon engagement with officers and stakeholders in terms of what activity can realistically be delivered at pace and ensure appropriate positive impact within the 12-month operational period. Budget allocations are based upon experience and identified costs. Approving the Investment Plan would enable access to UKSPF resources for local benefit.

(2)      Not to delegate the authority to approve necessary amendments to the Director of Finance and Resources and Section 151 Officer, in consultation with the Managing Director, Portfolio Holder for Growth and Assets and Leader of the Local Authority, would result in delivery delays which could impact the success of activity currently being mobilised subject to final approval by EMCCA. The UKSPF Investment Plan will support cross-District, cross-Portfolio activity and be compliant with established financial regulations. It is prudent that the Section 151 Officer has this responsibility should it be required.

(3)      To withdraw the Council’s role as accountable body for the Derbyshire Accelerator would destabilise the continuity of quality business support at a time when it is particularly required by the sector.

This was a Key Decision.  The call-in period for this decision will run until Monday 10 March 2025