Innovative approach gains national recognition for OIC

Orkney Islands Council has been awarded the ‘Outstanding Achievement Award for Innovation’ by APSE, the Association of Public Sector Excellence, which works with more than 300 local authorities throughout the UK.

Paul O’Brien, APSE’s Chief Executive, said the Council was a well-deserved winner having demonstrated a proactive approach in developing plans for income generation with the potential to deliver many benefits for Orkney.

“This award for outstanding achievement recognises the innovation that’s clearly apparent in a Council wide approach to finding ways to combat the impact austerity measures will have on public services,” he said.

“This strategic approach should be of great benefit to Orkney’s economy and local community, as well as the Council itself.”

OIC faces twin challenges. Funding from Government is expected to reduce further in future, while demand for many Council services continues to grow. To help address this, the Council is looking at ways to generate additional income - through investment in renewables, for example.

OIC Chief Executive Alistair Buchan said: “Our Elected Members have a clear vision of the entrepreneurial approach they want the Council to take in finding ways to help us overcome the financial challenges that lie ahead.

“We are actively focussing on projects that potentially provide income for the Council, to offset some of the pressures for cuts to services our community values and depends upon.

“We are still at the early stages of development, but I am pleased that APSE has recognised this innovative approach at a national level.”