URL: https://cmttpublic.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=2022

Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose:

Content: Cabinet considered the report of the Assistant Chief Executive which sought approval of two new strategies – the Digital Strategy, ‘Digital Ambition 2025-28’ (attached at appendix 1) and the Data Strategy, ‘From Data to Impact 2025-28’ (attached at appendix 2).   Members were informed that these intrinsically linked strategies aimed to drive service improvement, evidence-based decisions and digital innovation to support residents and communities.  In addition, the delivery of these two strategies would be underpinned by robust work programmes, which would be included within the Council’s Annual Delivery Plan 2026/27 and progress would be monitored and reported through the quarterly corporate performance reports brought to Cabinet.   Members noted the vision, aspirations and digital commitments as set out in the report and further noted that both strategies had been shaped through a collaborative process, informed by the council’s Digital Transformation Member Working Group and engagement with council services and partners.    Councillor Nathan Pardoe, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Economy, Regeneration and Digital Transformation, led the discussion on the item as proposer and the item was seconded by Councillor Louise Gittins, Leader of the Council.   Cabinet Members welcomed the report and the two Strategies and acknowledged the challenge of digitising the council’s services.  They recognised the extent of the work involved in reaching this point, including the decoupling of the shared service model which had been in place with Cheshire East Council since Local Government Reorganisation in 2009.  Members felt that using evidence and insight was really important to help drive change and improve council services and that it was important to respond to resident demand for digital services without excluding those residents who preferred other contact methods.  All staff involved were thanked for their hard work in reaching this point, in particular the council’s Digital, Data and Technology Team.   DECIDED:    That 1)            the ‘Digital Ambition 2025-28’ Strategy and the ‘From Data to Impact 2025-28’ Strategy be approved; and 2)            the embedding of data and digital principles outlined in the report and the significance of these strategies in relation to the Council’s transformation agenda be supported.   Reason for Decision   1)            The digital and data strategies set out a clear framework to support the Council in the delivery of its strategic objectives and to improve outcomes for its residents and communities. 2)            These strategies are of significant importance because they underpin what the Council aims to achieve through the Borough Plan missions. Without high[1]quality, accessible and well-governed data, it will not be possible to deliver the seamless digital services, predictive analytics and proactive interventions that residents expect.   Alternative Options An option is not to approve these strategies. However, it is good practice to have both Digital and Data Strategies in place to underpin the delivery of modern Council services and so this option is not recommended.

Date of Decision: December 10, 2025