Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 7
7
Accepted
ODP highlights critical role of operational capability at all levels for public services.
Conclusion
We asked why operational capability is so important for government. The ODP told us about the important roles its members have in serving citizens, such as in jobcentres, the Passport Office and dealing with planning applications. The ODP explained that the getting the right capability at all levels, from front line staff to senior leaders, was the first stage along the way towards outstanding public services.10 Departmental Heads of Profession from the Home Office and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) provided examples of how the ODP was supporting them to deliver services, such as by providing capability frameworks and training courses for them and their staff.11
Government Response Summary
The government agrees with the committee's conclusion, stating that the recommendation is implemented. They highlight ongoing efforts like sponsoring PAS to provide expert support and resources to local planning authorities and regular engagement through the Chief Planner's Newsletter.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Recommendation implemented The department recognises the importance of effective engagement across government departments and with diverse stakeholders. The department will look to build upon and extend existing channels of engagement. It will remain the case that the developer contributions is a predominantly locally-led process, where priorities are rightly determined at the local level; noting that contributions from developers must sit alongside considerations of the overall viability of development schemes. The department sponsors PAS to provide expert support to LPAs on a range of planning matters. This includes tailored support to 70 councils between 2021 and 2025 to improve their governance and delivery of developer contributions. Extensive resources have been published on the PAS website, including a good practice guide for Infrastructure Funding Statement, guides for local authorities to improve the governance of developer contributions and how to navigate infrastructure delivery planning. In addition, the government's Chief Planner meets regularly with the Chief Planners of the devolved administrations, and the Chief Planner’s Newsletter provides guidance, policy and legislative updates, and advice to LPAs in England on a regular basis.