The local authority watchdog said other councils can learn from North Ayrshire’s approach to change and innovation, with strong governance, funding and support in place to help deliver savings and wider benefits for the future. It highlighted the council’s commitment to consulting and engaging with local people, adding that these trusted relationships with the community are “critical, with difficult decisions ahead”. 

In its report, the Accounts Commission highlights how the council is working with the other Ayrshire councils and local partners, exploring sharing services and doing things differently. Now, it said, the council needs to take this ambition further, including securing partnerships to help deliver wider regional economic growth and regeneration.  

Jo Armstrong, chair of the Accounts Commission, said the council has shown it is fully aware of significant financial challenges and service pressures ahead. Work is ongoing to find sustainable solutions to address a significant funding gap – the council recognises this position risks the future delivery of services.  

“North Ayrshire Council is an exemplar of how to do change and innovation well, and other councils can learn from what they are doing and how they’re doing it,” said Jo Armstrong. “The council is thinking big as it looks at sharing more services and focusing on what needs to change, but it hasn’t lost sight of its core commitment to improving residents’ lives and actively listening to its communities.  

“Councillors and senior staff now need to continue acting with confidence, collaboration and across political parties, to focus on delivering change and economic growth across the region.”

Councillor Marie Burns, leader of North Ayrshire Council, said: “Community engagement – listening to the views of the people we provide services to - is a key factor in our approach to making life better for our residents. So, seeing our approach to Community Asset Transfers, the fact that we work alongside our young people and truly engage broadly on our Budget is satisfying. We will continue to listen to our communities and enable them to shape our council.”