The challenge
Towns and local authorities needed to build robust, evidence-based cases to secure their Town Deal offers and prepare for delivery of nearly 800 projects, often developing investment propositions of this scale for the first time. They needed to reflect the impact of COVID-19 on their plans, use data effectively to make the case for investment, and identify ways to attract private sector funding, including through mechanisms such as revolving funds. Local authorities also needed clarity on the delivery models and procurement approaches that would secure value for money as projects moved from business case into implementation.
How we helped
Grant Thornton played a lead role within the TFDP consortium across three key areas: funding and investment; monitoring and evaluation; and data and insight. We delivered a series of workshops and provided guidance on topics including theory of change, logic models, reflecting the impact of COVID-19, using data to make the case for investment, attracting private sector investment and developing revolving funds. We also advised on the potential delivery models for implementation, and on procurement approaches to ensure the purchase of goods and services considered the key features needed to drive a value for money solution.
The results
For towns, we acted as a critical friend, helping them secure their Town Deal offers and prepare for the next stages towards delivery. We provided access to an open, place-based learning resource relevant to all UK towns and places, and helped towns share their pride in telling their own stories. For local authorities, we helped build collective knowledge and capability through peer-to-peer, place-based learning, and supported the development of new personal skills and training accreditation. We also brought towns together to tackle common challenges, share ideas and best practice, and build new connections and mentoring relationships between towns.
About our team
Our advisory team brings a mix of infrastructure industry experience and accountancy and financial services rigour to the benefit of our clients. Like this one, all of our assignments are led by a highly visible Partner or Director who will continually liaise with the client to ensure their needs are met whilst leading teams of talented consultants, accountants and advisors who care about what infrastructure provides for us all.
