Management Options for Countryside Services

Client: Wokingham Borough Council
Similar to other Local Authorities, Wokingham is seeking to manage its assets and services in the most cost effective and sustainable way. There is a determination to maintain Parks and Open Spaces within the borough into the long term and to minimise risks associated with declining council budgets and pressures on non-statutory services. The Council was very aware of the need to investigate further innovative income generation methods, to ensure that services are protected and enhanced.

We identified and assessed different options in terms of how the service could be delivered. Governance and delivery models  included: Continuation of the management of the service delivered by the Local Authority; management of the service delivered  by a Charitable Body / Community Interest Company / Mutual formed by the Local Authority; management of the service delivered by a Private Management Company; management of service delivered by an existing Non-Governmental Organisation or a combination of the above. Our report set out: the strengths and weaknesses of current delivery model; future challenges to service provision and solutions; detailed delivery options for the long term and advice on then preferred option with supporting financial information.

How can we help?
If you have any questions about carrying out a review of delivery options for countryside services or would like to discuss our work please don’t hesitate to call Richard Linington on 07866 742628 or email richard@pslplan.co.uk