This report seeks to progress the appointment of an Independent Assurance Panel, in response to the Ministerial External Assurance Review report, as agreed by the Policy and Resources Committee on 30 November 2021 (minute 93 refers) and as endorsed by Council on 6 December 2021.

The role of the Panel is to act in an advisory capacity to support the Council in delivering its Improvement and Financial Recovery Plan to the satisfaction of Council Members and the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC).

Resolved – That an Independent Assurance Panel be appointed for a period of up to three years consisting of the following membership:

Carolyn Downs (Chair)

Richard Paver

Quentin Baker

Sean Hanson

Claire Hogan

Cllr Shaun Davies

Cllr Mike Wilcox

Cllr Janette Williamson

Cllr Tom Anderson

Paul Satoor

To ensure compliance with the Council’s response to the DLUHC External Assurance Review.

No other options have been considered as it is imperative that the Council complies with its response to the Review and the establishment of an Independent Assurance Panel is a key element of that response.