URL: https://democratic.trafford.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1524

Decision Maker: Executive Member for Economy and Regeneration

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose: This report seeks approval to continue to fund two posts, whose contracts end on 31 March 2026, from Trafford’s EDRG allocation 2026/2027. Being as EDRG allocations for each local authority are yet to be formally approved by the GMCA, and overall proposals to utilise EDRG will be subject to Executive approval in June 2026,  delegated authority is sought to extend these posts to the end of March 2027 in advance to provide security for the two staff members and ensure continuity of delivery.

Content: This report seeks approval to continue to fund two posts, whose contracts end on 31 March 2026, from Trafford’s EDRG allocation 2026/2027. Being as EDRG allocations for each local authority are yet to be formally approved by the GMCA, and overall proposals to utilise EDRG will be subject to Executive approval in June 2026,  delegated authority is sought to extend these posts to the end of March 2027 in advance to provide security for the two staff members and ensure continuity of delivery. (1)               That the continued funding of the Project Officer and Social Value Co Ordinator posts from the anticipated EDRG allocation 2026/2027 for the period 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027, be approved, subject to receipt of the EDRG grant from Greater Manchester Combined Authority.   (2)               That it be noted that the decision to make the posts permanent will be taken by the Corporate Director of Place under the Scheme of Delegation to Officers (Part 3, Section 4) in accordance with the Council's HR policies.   (3)               That the Corporate Director of Place, in consultation with the Director of Finance and Systems, be authorised to take such steps as are necessary to give effect to this decision.   (4)               That the decision be deemed as urgent and not subject to call-in, for the following reason:   The contracts of the two officer posts expire on 31 March 2026. Any delay caused by the call-in process would seriously prejudice the Council's interests by creating a gap in service delivery for the EDRG programme, risking the loss of experienced staff to alternative employment, and potentially jeopardising the Council's ability to deliver against GMCA grant conditions from 1 April 2026. The likelihood of material financial loss arises from the risk that replacement recruitment costs and programme delivery delays would significantly exceed the cost of maintaining continuity. It was recommended that the Executive Member for Economy and Regeneration approves extending the two posts outlined above to provide security for staff affected, retain them in the Team and ensure the continued activity and delivery of corporate priorities. The following alternative options were considered:   (a) Not to extend the posts: This would result in the loss of two experienced officers, disruption to EDRG programme delivery, and risk to the Council's ability to meet GMCA grant conditions and maximise social value outcomes.   (b) To extend on a temporary basis only pending formal GMCA approval: While this would reduce financial risk, it would not provide the employment stability recommended by Human Resources and could result in the loss of staff to more secure employment.   (c) To defer the decision until after GMCA approval on 27 March 2026: This would leave insufficient time to process contract extensions before 31 March and create uncertainty for the staff affected.   On balance, the recommendation as per the report provides the best outcome for service continuity and staff retention.   None.

Date of Decision: March 13, 2026