Their final report applauds positive achievements
A team of senior councillors and officers from other authorities has praised EHDC after an extensive review into its operations.
The delegation interviewed staff and councillors, examined projects and processes and looked at what EHDC is doing well and what can be improved.
The exercise, called a Corporate Peer Challenge, lasted more than a year and included two visits and regular check-ups. It has now been completed and the final report published.
You can read the final report here
In an overwhelmingly positive report that followed their initial visit in January 2025, the team praised the council as 'well-run' and 'strong and sustainable'.
Staff were lauded as ‘passionate’ and ‘committed to the council and residents’.
There were recommendations on where the council could improve, with the team asking to see more councillor training, improvements in the council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee and more opportunities for service managers.
The emergence of Local Government Reorganisation in 2025 meant that some of the recommendations had to be changed to accommodate the council’s new priorities as it moves towards its closure in 2028.
Cllr Richard Millard, EHDC Leader said: “The Corporate Challenge Team were very impressed with the work we are doing here.
“To get such a glowing report from our peers is very satisfying and it reflects very well on all the hard work and expertise they found among staff and councillors here.
“Of course, with Local Government Reorganisation approaching this is the last review of this type the council will see, so it is pleasing to have such a positive endorsement."
The Corporate Peer Challenge final report reads: “There have been some really positive achievements, particularly around establishing the forum for the service managers to meet, raising their profile and influence within the organisation, as well broadening member development and improving Overview and Scrutiny in the organisation.
“Where the Council has needed to pivot on some of the recommendations because of LGR, it has done so in a way that has been understandable and transparent and with the aim of ensuring that all staff have opportunities to prepare for LGR.
“It is clear that EHDC wants to be the best Council it can be by the time LGR happens.”