Councillor Worrall introduced the report and stated that this was an important step towards delivering a fresh Start for Thurrock and the code is key to ensuring that the Council operates with transparency, accountability, and integrity. Whilst it is not a statutory requirement, implementing the Local Code is considered good practice and aligns with the Improvement and Recovery Plan. The Code consolidates all the Councils governance and accountability processes into a single document, setting clear standards for how the council will function moving forward.

Councillor Worrall explained that the code has been developed in line with CIPFA guidance and with input from across the organisation. Through the Annual Governance Statement, performance will be tracked against the code, making sure that any areas needing improvement are addressed with action plans. The final adoption of the Code is planned for Full Council in October.

The Leader agreed it was a significant step forward for the Authority, the document was clear and easy to read and he commented that it was a shame it wasn’t in place previously.

RESOLVED:

2.1      Cabinet approved and agreed to adopt the draft Local Code of Governance

Reason for the decision: as outlined in the report

This decision is subject to call-in