Manager needed to work between Norfolk council as improvement plans stagnate
Breckland Council are one of a number of authorities involved in the Greater Thetford Partnership. Pictures: Keith Mindham - Credit: Photo: Keith Mindham Photography
A group of local authorities could create a new role to work between them after fears that plans to improve an area of Norfolk will stagnate.
The meeting was held at King's House in Thetford. Picture: Conor Matchett - Credit: Archant
The Greater Thetford Partnership (GTP) Board, a joint group with members from Thetford Town Council, Breckland Council, Norfolk County Council, Croxton Parish Council and Kilverstone and Brettenham Parish Council is creating the role of greater Thetford partnership relationship manager.
Its purpose is to drive improved access to health services, ensure a good supply and mix of quality housing, and changes to the road infrastructure of the town.
Speaking at the GTP meeting on Wednesday, July 17, councillor Terry Jermy said to employ someone with the skills needed a substantial salary must be offered.
But Thetford Town Council does not have a budget to pay their wages.
Terry Jermy who is chair of the board at Charles Burrell Centre and a town, district, and county councillor. Picture: Conor Matchett - Credit: Archant
All the councils would have to work together to fund the role but because of Thetford's lack of funds it was suggested by former town Mayor and Breckland councillor for Thetford Castle, Roy Brame, that office space could be provided by the town council instead of money.
If an agreement can not be reached by the councils then the hiring of the manager would be pushed back to 2020.
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Other authorities involved in the group will now decide how they wish to progress and a further meeting will be held in September.
The purpose of the GTP is set out in a draft document that outlines its goals. But this is out off date as work is completed in the area before the GTP meets to discuss what needs to be done.
Breckland councillor Roy Brame. Picture: Conor Matchett - Credit: Archant
Mr Jermy added: "The plan is very good, it covers a huge number of different issues and is a good plan to work towards but it is not kept up-to-date.
"We know that is why we have the capacity to create this post to keep it up to date and relevant but the key aspet 0f the role is to look for leadership opportunities between our different objectives and make them better than they are. But it is a good plan to work towards."
