The Conservative-run County Council has today announced plans to set up a Value for Money Board, as pledged in the Party's 2017 local election manifesto.

The board will scrutinise Council contracts to make sure they are giving value for money and will include members of the business community and voluntary sector.

The Cabinet Member for Council Services, Councillor Angelique Foster, who will also serve on the board, said: 

"Making sure that the council works as efficiently and effectively as possible is one our key aims, and the Value for Money Board will help to ensure that we do just that.

"By seeking advice and help from those in the business community and the voluntary sector we will be able to make sure we are buying what we need, as efficiently and effectively as possible."

The Board will be responsible for scrutinising the Council's contracts with third party organisations, which, in the 2016/17 financial year, amounted to more than £200m.