Decision details

To extend a contract to recruitment consultancy Carrington West for Planning Policy Manager for a further two months (up to 30th June 2025) to allow the time to test an alternative approach via the Cheltenham, Gloucester Tewkesbury Strategic and Local Plan Team.

There remains an ongoing challenge with recruitment in planning at a senior level. The challenge in the planning sector at senior levels is well evidenced nationally and unfortunately Cheltenham has not escaped this challenge.

To ensure we address capacity issues in dealing with planning policy work which is critical as we are preparing the Cheltenham, Gloucester and Tewkesbury Strategic and Local Plan, maintaining the current contractor is essential to delivery of the Council’s Statutory function. Working with HR and with the support of the Chief Executive and S151 officer, this decision aligns the current consultancy role with our capacity challenges and corporate priorities. A further officer decision will set out the next steps.

Not to extend the contract – The Authority is at an important time in working on the Cheltenham, Gloucester and Tewkesbury strategic and local plan and not filling the vacancy would mean extremely limited senior officer support/no support would be given from Cheltenham to this Plan. This is not an option given the priorities and ambitions of the Council.

Engagement with HR and Finance, Chief Executive and Deputy Chief Executive alongside regular updates to the Cabinet portfolio lead.