The council Plan along with the Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) comprise the council's key strategic planning framework. The plan will continue to map out an ambitious vision for the borough while managing the challenges faced.

The plan follows the three priorities of:

To meet the cross-cutting objectives the plan sets out the nine priority areas which are overseen by members of the council's cabinet focussing on delivery of the things that matter to residents. One additional promise is set to make sure the council is well-run and works with communities.

The council is responsible for ensuring that its business is conducted in accordance with the law and proper standards, and that public money is safeguarded, properly accounted for and used economically, efficiently and effectively. The council also has a duty under the Local Government Act 1999 to make arrangements to secure continuous improvement in the way in which its functions are exercised, having regard to a combination of economy, efficiency and effectiveness.

The council has approved and adopted a Code of Corporate Governance, which is consistent with the principles of the CIPFA / SOLACE Framework Delivering Good Governance in Local Government 2016. The framework provides a structure to assist authorities in their governance approach, ensuring accountability, transparency and effective decision-making.

The Annual Governance Statement explains how the council has complied with the code and meets the requirements of regulation 6(2) Accounts and Audit Regulations 2015.