Local government faces the challenges of the 21st century in better shape than it has been for many years and this report looks at the challenges faced by local authorities. Hypothetical examples are used to discuss the differing frameworks that local authorities can use to make strategic choices that suit their locality. By taking these tough decisions, councils will make themselves 'fit for purpose' so that they can actually deliver on these choices.
All local authorities must respond to the imperatives of the Government's reform agenda: service improvement; community leadership; and democratic renewal. Indeed, there is a great deal of agreement within local government concerning the validity and desirability of these goals.
This paper discusses:
- the challenge of strategic choice
- the strategic choice agenda
- organisational implications
- putting strategic choice into practice
- looking to the future
This report clarifies the nature of the strategic choices open to local government and provides a mechanism for linking purpose, through strategy, to the design of the structures and means by which the council operates.