Plans for an ambitious strategic alliance between Boston Borough Council and East Lindsey District Council have been given the go-ahead.
The alliance – set to save £15.4m over the next 10 years – was first considered by the Councils earlier in the month. Tonight, East Lindsey District Council has given the final go-ahead, which means the alliance will come into effect on July 1, 2020.
In agreeing the proposals, Councillors agreed to appoint Rob Barlow current Chief Executive of East Lindsey District Council as Joint Chief Executive/Head of Paid Service.
Both Councils will work to adopt a shared Management Team over the next three months, before a wider joining of workforces across both Councils over the coming two years.
Both Councils will retain their own identity and will continue to be accountable to their local communities, whilst making substantial savings.
The alliance will provide the Councils with a stronger shared voice when seeking to influence how local services are delivered and when looking to secure growth funding from Government in the future.
In a joint statement from the Leaders of both Councils, Councillor Paul Skinner (BBC) and Councillor Craig Leyland (ELDC), said: “We are extremely pleased to see that the alliance has been agreed by both Councils. Though we have always worked closely, a formal partnership will strengthen both organisations as we seek to deliver our growth ambitions and look to overcome future challenges. By working closer together, we will be able to continue to deliver the services our residents expect in a more efficient and innovative way.”
Rob Barlow, who will take up the position of Joint Chief Executive from July 1, said: “This is a really exciting opportunity for both Councils to work more closely together. I very much look forward to supporting all Councillor groups and bringing colleagues together. I know that the move will prove massively beneficial to all our teams; our colleagues will be able learn from one another and look to develop as we seek to improve services and deliver on both Councils’ ambitious Corporate Plans.”