Council aim to protect their frontline services

Plans underway to unite with neighbouring authorities

- STEWART MCCONNELL

Plans Council leader Susan

Plans have been hatched for Stirling Council to join forces with two neighbouring authorities to consider ways of collaborating on the delivery of services across the Forth Valley region.

And Council Leader Susan McGill firmly believes the approach could help safeguard frontline services, cut out duplication and remain financially sustainable.

Councillors recently approved proposals to work with Clackmannanshire and Falkirk councils to develop potential models for integrated and shared service delivery.

The decision reflects the significant financial and service pressures facing Scottish local government, alongside the national direction set out in the Scottish Government's Public Service Reform Strategy.

A member officer group will oversee Stirling's wider transformation programme and six-monthly progress updates will be provided to Council.