Decision details

Kathryn Molloy presented a report (circulated) which provided the LEP Board with an update on the LEP Assurance Framwork Review process.

It was noted that in October 2016 Government issued a revised National Assurance Framework which superseded the 2014 Local Enterprise Partnership National Assurance Framework.  The purpose of the new framework is to ensure that LEPs have in place the necessary systems and processes to manage delegated funding from Government budgets effectively.

County Council officers have undertaken a review of the LEP's Assurance Framework against the Government's new framework.  The LEP's Assurance Framework is found to be fully compliant.

However, it was recommended that following the announcement of Growth Deal 3 funding to LEPs, that a further review be undertaken to identify any areas for further improvement, in line with the revised National Assurance Framework.

In addition, the LEP Network, with Government support, has instigated an officer-led LEP Buddy Peer Review.  The Lancashire LEP has been asked to review the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire LEP.  The Greater Lincolnshire LEP will review Lancashire.  The Peer Review will take place through face-to-face meetings of LEP pairs which will begin in mid-February.

Resolved:  The LEP Board:

(i)  Noted the contents of the report, specifically that County Council officers have undertaken a review of the LEP’s Assurance Framework against the Government’s new National Assessment Framework and it is found to be fully compliant;

(ii)  Authorised Lancashire County Council’s Section 151 Officer to submit a letter, on behalf of the Accountable Body for the LEP, to DCLG’s Accounting Officer by 28 February 2017 certifying that the LEP’s local assurance framework has been agreed, is being implemented, and meets the revised standards set out in the National Assurance Framework;

(iii)  Authorised the Chair of the Growth Deal Management Board, with the support of County Council officers, to undertake a rapid review of the LEP’s LGF procedures to identify any areas for further improvement, in line with the revised National Assurance Framework, and report any proposed changes to the Board at its next meeting;

(iv)  Reconfirmed that Mike Damms is the nominated Board member to represent and engage with the SME business community as the LEP's SME Champion;

(v)  Considered appropriate mechanisms to ensure meaningful local public engagement in the refresh of the LEP’s SEP and in reporting progress against the delivery of the SEP, including key projects; and

(vi)  Authorised the County Council’s Director of Economic Development, with the support of County Council officers, to fully participate in the LEP Network’s LEP Buddy Peer Review.