Overview

We are carrying out a review of the councils’ Constitutions to ensure that they comply with legislative provisions and represent best practice. The intention is to develop clearer, more succinct and harmonised Constitutions, whilst still reflecting the sovereignty and values of each council. They will be more accessible and easier to use, modern, transparent, simple, flexible and facilitate accountable decision-making.

Although the Constitutions have been regularly updated on a piecemeal basis, they have not been thoroughly reviewed for several years and there is need to ensure that they are fit for purpose for a modern local authority in the 21st century.

The review will be thorough and take on board a variety of perspectives, including expert input and the views of local councillors as well as senior officers. We are seeking all councillors' views on how the Constitutions could be improved in two ways:

1. An initial whole membership consultation and involvement process by way of this online survey.
2. Discussions with leading members, including the Leaders and Chairs of each Council, plus group leaders, Executive members, and other senior members.

It is intended that when a suitable draft has been prepared based upon the views of members taken above, the usual process of consideration by Governance Committee and any working group will be followed.

A report with proposed amendments to the Constitution is intended to be presented to each Council for adoption at the Annual Meeting in May 2025.

The survey is quite short and will enable us to focus our attention on areas of shared concern. It is really important all members respond; all views are valid and will really help with this piece of work.

Please complete and return the questionnaire by Friday, 15 November 2024. We look forward to receiving your views.