CEO steps down amid investigation, Talent bank initiative, Capita launches self-build scheme…

Chief executive steps down amid new probe
Bryn Parry-Jones has stepped down as chief executive of Pembrokeshire CC with immediate effect. The news comes after it was revealed that the police have launched a fresh investigation into payments made by the council in lieu of employer pension contributions. The Wales Audit Office ruled the payments were unlawful but an original police investigation found no evidence of wrongdoing.

Thurrock benefits from procurement aid scheme
Thurrock Council has delivered more than £200,000 of savings through an initiative run by the Local Government Association. The LGA’s East of England branch is running a “talent bank” to help authorities improve their commissioning and procurement processes. Thurrock has introduced a corporate policy that no contract will be extended without a full performance and cost review.

Capita launches self-build mortgage scheme
Treasury advisor Capita Asset Services has launched a new mortgage product to help local authorities encourage the amount of self-build housing. The mortgage is available to citizens who wish to buy land from councils to build their own property. Traditionally, lenders have been wary of lending on self-build properties. Under Capita’s scheme the council will cover the cost of build to completion when the mortgage will be taken over by a commercial lender.

Glasgow City Deal
Glasgow has formally signed off its City Deal agreed with politicians in London. The agreement will see the UK and Scottish governments contribute £500m each to a £1.13bn fund aimed at boosting the Clyde Valley’s infrastructure. Councils will borrow a further £130m. The deal will also see a regional plan to help disadvantaged groups find work, while support for the life sciences sector will also be increased.

Councils forced to bail-out school meals initiative
Councils have been forced to divert money from other budgets to meet the government’s promise of a free school meal for all pupils aged seven and under, according to the Local Government Association. The association says that government funding to implement the scheme has fallen short in almost half of council areas. This is despite a promise from central government to fund the initiative in full.

Troubled Families programme expands
Communities secretary Eric Pickles has announced an expansion of the government’s Troubled Families programme, to help vulnerable younger children from struggling homes to get a better chance in life. The programme sees councils pool budgets with other agencies to turn troubled families around. The scheme will now be expanded from school-aged children to those under five, and will include a new focus on improving poor health.