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a)   
That Council approves, in principle, the
establishment of a South Midlands Authorities Joint Committee
comprising the six local councils in the South Midlands Area with
terms of reference to be agreed and brought back before Council for
decision.
 
b)   
That the Leader be authorised, in consultation with
the Executive Director for Place & Economy (Deputy Chief
Executive), to submit an Expression of Interest to Government for
greater devolution of powers and funding to the local
level.
 
c)   
That it be noted a report will be presented to
Council to approve membership and the Terms of Reference of the
Joint Committee, and to advise Councillors of the response from
Government on the Councils Expression of Interest.
 
Reason for Decisions:
·        
To enable the Council to progress
discussions with the other five authorities in the South Midlands
on formalising joint working, so that proposals can be developed
and considered at a future Council meeting. This is important
following the wind-up of the South Midlands Local Enterprise
Partnership (SEMLEP) and the transition of associated
responsibilities to the six local authorities and hosted by West
Northamptonshire Council.
·        
The recommendations also enable the
Council to submit an Expression of Interest to Government relating
to future devolution. A further report will be brought regarding
participation in a South Midlands Authorities Joint Committee and
any response from Government.
 
Alternative Options Considered:
·        
The Council could choose not to engage
with the other South Midlands local authorities on proposals for
joint governance in relation to the activities formerly managed by
SEMLEP, or not explore the options for devolution. Either approach
could result in the Council losing an opportunity to realise
potential opportunities to deliver better outcomes for residents of
our area.