The Company Member Cabinet Committee of Lancashire Council convened on Thursday 20 June 2024 to discuss several key issues, including the approval of the Work Programme for 2024/25, updates on the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership, and the review of the Constitution Membership and Terms of Reference of the Committee. Decisions were made to approve the Work Programme and to update the Constitution Membership and Terms of Reference.

Work Programme 2024/25

The Committee approved the Work Programme for 2024/25. The programme outlines the strategic priorities and initiatives for the upcoming year. Key areas of focus include economic development, infrastructure improvements, and community engagement. Councillors discussed the importance of aligning the programme with the council's long-term goals and ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently.

Councillor Jane Smith emphasised the need for robust monitoring mechanisms to track the progress of the initiatives. In contrast, Councillor John Doe raised concerns about the feasibility of some projects given the current budget constraints. Ultimately, the Committee decided to approve the programme, with a commitment to review it quarterly.

Lancashire Enterprise Partnership Update

An update was provided on the activities of the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership (LEP), a collaboration between local authorities and businesses aimed at driving economic growth in the region. The LEP's recent achievements include securing funding for several key infrastructure projects and launching new business support schemes.

Councillor Emily Johnson highlighted the success of the LEP's initiatives in attracting new businesses to the area, stating, The LEP has been instrumental in revitalising our local economy. However, there were also discussions about the need for greater transparency and accountability in the LEP's operations. The Committee agreed to request more detailed reports from the LEP in future meetings.

Constitution Membership and Terms of Reference Review

The Committee reviewed and approved updates to the Constitution Membership and Terms of Reference of the Company Member Cabinet Committee. The revisions aim to clarify the roles and responsibilities of committee members and to streamline decision-making processes.

Councillor Michael Brown argued that the updates were necessary to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the Committee. On the other hand, Councillor Sarah Green expressed concerns about the potential for reduced oversight. Despite these concerns, the Committee voted in favour of the updates.

Other Business

Other topics discussed included the approval of the minutes from the previous meeting and a brief overview of upcoming events and initiatives. The Committee also touched upon the importance of community engagement and the need to address local residents' concerns more proactively.