THE LEADER of the Democratic Group has slammed the Conservatives for their ‘embarrassing’ and ‘pointless’ political infighting which a report has found has led to delayed decision making at Malvern Hills District Council.
Coun Sarah Rouse’s damning statements follow the findings of a Government assessment on how the council operates, seen by the Observer, which claimed the annual change of portfolio holders and the possibility of yearly leadership changes have caused instability.
In the last decade alone there have been five changes of leadership.
And Coun Rouse said during her four years with the authority, the months leading up to May were the most disruptive while the members of the Conservative group ‘challenged each other for control’.
“This last year has been particularly disruptive with new portfolio holders who it seemed, at times, did not fully grasp their roles,” she said.
“As an independent councillor, such political infighting is both pointless and embarrassing.
“The focus should be on our priorities, not on who has fallen out with who in the controlling group.”
The ‘Peer Challenge’ assessment recommends council chiefs review the governance arrangements to ensure the process of appointing a leader allows a focus on longer term priorities.
It added improvements should also be made to the authority’s planning committee arrangements so the quality of decision making supports economic growth and housing.
In response, Coun David Chambers, leader of Malvern Hills District Council, said while councils up and down the country were watching services fail due to financial pressures, the report should be celebrated.
“It makes it clear Malvern Hills District Council is financially sound, delivering on its ambitions and is run by a team of highly-motivated and committed staff and councillors,” he said.
“My focus has, is and always will be on the job and serving the needs of residents and I have never been distracted from that goal for a single minute.
“Far from damaging decision-making, electing a leader annually actually allows us to set a longer-term plan than those that elect in four year cycles, offering more certainty, continuity and clarity for residents, businesses and partners regarding our priorities.”
“I’d hope Coun Rouse would join with me in congratulating our staff and fellow councillors on a ringing endorsement of everything we have achieved and continue to strive for,” he added.
