DEVON County Council is targeting value for money as one of six key goals this year.

This move is part of broader efforts to ensure its finances remain stable, part of which involves targeting areas where money could be better spent or embracing technology to reduce costs.

For instance, the council has been working to reduce its reliance on agency staff in its social services’ departments because they cost more than employees.

The value for money and financial sustainability focus is one the six agreed areas the council will focus on this year under chief executive Donna Manson, who took the job 18 months ago.

In its climate change, environment and transport division, it will have a “commissioning board” to improve how it buys services and more closely scrutinise what it pays for them.

Part of this focus will involve reviewing contracts “to ensure best value”, Devon’s cabinet has heard.

Cllr Phil Twiss (Conservative, Feniton and Honiton), cabinet member for finance, said: “I very much welcome, from a financial perspective, the creation of a commissioning board to make sure we get the best value for money, as local authorities are often seen as a soft touch or cash cow by some providers,” he said.

“I think it’s great to really keep a close eye on what we’re spending.”

Caroline Leaver (Lib Dem, Barnstaple South) welcomed the move but questioned why it hadn’t been in place previously.

And Cllr Carol Whitton (Labour, St David’s and Haven Banks) agreed the move showed “considerable activity from officers and senior leaders”.

By Bradley Gerrard