Plans to tighten oversight and sharpen accountability across a major council strategy have been set out, with leaders backing a structured approach to track progress and performance.
Teignbridge District Council’s Executive has agreed new governance and monitoring arrangements for its One Teignbridge Council Strategy 2025–2030, setting out how delivery will be managed and scrutinised in the coming years.
The decision was taken at a meeting on Tuesday, May 5, where members approved proposals to oversee implementation through a defined framework of performance groups, reporting structures and partnerships.
The strategy, originally launched to the public in February 2024, followed consultation with residents, businesses and community groups. Feedback helped shape six priority areas: community, economy, environment, homes, infrastructure, and a set of overarching principles guiding how the council operates.
It was formally adopted in January 2025, with an accompanying action plan approved later that year outlining key projects and initiatives linked to those priorities.
Under the new arrangements, each priority area will be overseen by a dedicated performance group made up of senior officers, executive members and directors. These groups will meet quarterly to review progress, assess risks and monitor delivery against agreed targets.
Performance data will then be reported to senior management and subsequently to overview and scrutiny and executive committees, providing democratic oversight.
A publicly accessible dashboard will also be introduced to allow residents and stakeholders to view real-time updates on key performance indicators and project progress, replacing reliance on periodic reports alone.
The council said the governance structure is designed to ensure transparency, improve coordination and allow early identification of issues or delays. It also includes partnerships with community organisations, businesses and other stakeholders to support delivery across the district.
The report highlights that without clear monitoring and oversight, there is a risk of reduced accountability, weaker decision-making and limited ability to respond to emerging challenges.
Financially, the strategy will be delivered within existing budgets and staffing structures, with costs largely linked to officer time, data management and engagement activities.
Environmental considerations are also embedded within the plan, including commitments to address climate change, reduce emissions and protect green spaces and coastal areas.
Council leaders said the framework will help ensure priorities identified by residents remain central to decision-making, particularly ahead of wider local government reorganisation.
