Worcestershire county council this week became the first area in the country to launch a detailed plan towards trimming £35bn off the cost of the public estate.
The Worcestershire Partnership capital and asset pathfinder (CAP) strategy predicts £125m in capital receipts and £280m of running costs savings can be found from the area’s public buildings over 25 years.
The Midlands county is the first of six pathfinder areas throughout England to launch its strategy, which has been cited by central government as an example for others to follow.
Government findings show that £35bn over 10 years can be saved as a result of better management of public assets.
The strategy was worked up in tandem with district councils, Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Authority, West Mercia Police Authority and the Homes and Communities Agency.
Worcestershire’s public estate spans 1,300 properties and is worth £3bn.
Councillor Adrian Hardman, leader of Worcestershire county council, said: “We are truly leading the way towards achieving greater community benefit through better use of property and assets throughout our towns and villages.”
nick.whitten@estattesgazette.com
