The Director of Finance advised members that the deregulation of the Postal Services market In January 2005 had presented an opportunity for the Council to examine possible financial and efficiency savings within the current postal service.

His report outlined the work carried out in the light of market changes, made recommendations for change, and outlined the potential efficiency savings that could be achieved.

Resolved: That

(1)  the Council continue to contract with Royal Mail for postal services at an annual cost of approximately £664,000.

(2)  the adoption of the efficiencies identified in the report to achieve financial savings of £82,000 per annum be approved.