What we’re doing

The study will cover the capital planning arrangements put in place by principal councils to deliver their well-being objectives and deliver value for money. It will include understanding the evidence used by councils in drawing up capital plans, their approach, and their financial considerations. It will also consider how councils apply learning from others and ensure there is sufficient oversight of capital planning arrangements

Why we’re doing it

Capital spending is how organisations acquire, create, or upgrade assets that they own or have the right to control. These assets are then used by an organisation in the delivery and achievement of corporate objectives. Capital investment by councils is a significant area of spending but has generally not grown significantly in ‘real’ terms since 2008. Lower investment may pose significant value for money risks, such as delayed or missed projects costing more over time, due to the impact of inflation or assets requiring maintenance instead of disposal.

When we’ll report

Winter 2025