Falkirk and Clackmannanshire agree next stage of collaborative development work

Councillors from both local authorities approved proposals to begin detailed design and development work following a joint ‘Discovery Project’ carried out earlier this year. 

The Discovery Project examined how closer collaboration could improve resilience, reduce duplication and help both councils manage growing financial pressures. Based on its findings, a first group of priority service areas will now move into a design phase where detailed business cases will be prepared.

This stage will focus on testing proposals and assessing where joint working could bring the greatest benefit. No changes are being made to how services are delivered and any future proposals for implementation would be brought back to the councils for decision following full assessment and consultation.

The initial areas to be explored include revenue and benefits, economic development, HR and payroll, procurement, regulatory services, support services linked to education and to social care. These were identified as offering strong potential for improved value and long-term sustainability.

To support this work, Falkirk and Clackmannanshire Councils have secured up to £2 million from the Scottish Government’s Invest to Save fund. This funding will help resource the design phase without placing additional pressure on service budgets. 

Kenneth Lawrie, chief executive of Falkirk Council, said: “Falkirk Council has agreed that we should now design and test a set of collaborative options with Clackmannanshire Council and other potential partners.

“This stage is about detailed assessment, not immediate change. Business cases will be developed and brought back to Members before any decisions on future service models are made.”

Clackmannanshire Council chief executive Nikki Bridle added: “Collaboration with Falkirk Council and other partners will make us more resilient, more flexible and better prepared to face the challenges of the future.

“Councillors have now agreed to allow the next, detailed stage of this collaborative development work to begin.

 “No immediate changes will occur, instead the focus will shift to testing proposals and assessing where joint working could bring the greatest benefit.

Throughout the design phase, staff and trade unions will be kept informed and involved, with regular updates provided as work progresses.