West Berkshire Council scrutiny in opposition hands
A councillor from an opposition party has chaired the council’s watchdog committee for the first time since the new administration was elected last month.
The Scrutiny Commission is responsible for reviewing council decisions, policies and services.
The invitation to an opposition party to chair the commission is one of the priorities set out by the new Liberal Democrat administration following the elections in May.
Carolyne Culver (Green, Ridgeway) heads the meeting, with Dominic Boeck (Con, Aldermaston) as the deputy.
The leader of West Berkshire Council Lee Dillon (Lib Dem, Thatcham North East) says the move will allow for a more independent scrutiny of the work of the council.
Ms Culver added: “We made a good start at last night’s Scrutiny Commission, discussing the establishment of a group to look at lessons learned from the Covid pandemic, and examining call ins including Monks Lane Sports Hub.
“We also discussed our work programme for the next few months including early years care, educational attainment for children on free school meals, sewage and water infrastructure, and progress with the council’s environment strategy.
“I look forward to working with my colleagues on the commission.”
Councillor Culver will talk about her new role on Kennet Radio’s Saturday Chatterday tomorrow between 11am and 1pm.
