Audit Office says NWDA’s response to downturn was ‘Strong’

THE NORTH West Regional Development Agency response to the economic downturn was rated as “Strong” in a review conducted by the National Audit Office (NAO).

The ranking was given in an Independent Supplementary Review carried out by the NAO on behalf of the government.

It looked at how effectively the regional development agencies prioritised and implemented programmes higher value added programmes during the downturn, and subsequent preparation efforts for an upturn.

The NAO praised the agency for being “proactive and fleet of foot” in re-prioritising its work and gave it a “good” rating for the way in which programme changes were implemented.

It also said there were key areas for improvement, including an improvement of the processes used to demonstrate how it has responded to stakeholder feedback and in developing its evaluation processes.

The agency’s chief executive, Steven Broomhead, said: “This inspection has allowed us to take stock of how well we have responded to the downturn and the progress we have made in our systems,” he said.

“It’s especially pleasing that the assessment recognises the major achievements in the last 12 months and the significant impact the agency has had in supporting the Northwest through the economic downturn.

“Clearly, the next year will be challenging for the agency and its staff but I am heartened that the achievement in supporting the region through such difficult times has been recognised today.”