25 July 2003
Councils will have to produce just eight major service plans by 2006 after ministers unveiled details of long-awaited cuts in the number of documents that must be submitted to Whitehall.
The overhaul, launched by local government minister Nick Raynsford on July 22, fleshes out the promise made last November to slash the number of plans and strategies authorities have to give ministers.
Councils will still have to draw up a Best Value performance plan and a community strategy. They will also have to submit a housing strategy, an education plan, a strategy for children and young people, a local transport plan, a local development document, and a civil contingencies plan.
Some will also have to produce a few specific plans, such as an air quality action plan if pollution is a problem, and they will continue to contribute to plans produced by partner agencies.
Authorities rated excellent will see a further reduction, producing just a Best Value performance plan, a community strategy, a local development document, and an education plan. Three-star education authorities will be exempt from this last requirement.
Raynsford said the changes would bring 'substantial benefits' to councils and illustrated the government's commitment to loosening central controls.
'Some people have doubted our commitment to extend freedoms and flexibilities to local authorities. Today's announcement makes it absolutely clear that we are on course to deliver on our pledges.'
Local Government Association chair Sir Jeremy Beecham said: 'This is a good start but the government needs to go further and quicker in removing unnecessary controls that stifle local innovation.'
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