Decision details

The purpose of this report is to seek Cabinet approval to redesign the Registration service including a proposed consolidation of activity into a single site.

Consultation will be undertaken following a decision by Cabinet and will include the General Registration Office and Service users.

RESOLVED –

1)    That authority be given for the Registration service to consult with and obtain the required approval from the General Registration Office (GRO) on the proposed new local scheme.

2)    That it be noted that any consolidation to one central site would only be agreed following due process with the GRO.

3)    That authority be given to re-design the Registration Service including options to (i) consolidate into a central main site in Huddersfield for delivering all Registration services with wedding ceremonies still taking place at Dewsbury Town Hall and at wedding venues across North Kirklees, (ii) for Needs led support – ensuring that the impact of consolidation be reviewed, and adjustments considered in light of the experience, including holistic support to individuals and the feasibility of offering place-based service delivery where the need was identified.

4)    That a full review of the Registration Service fees and charges set by the council be made annually based on benchmarking with other local Registration districts and implemented in year from 2025/26 and reviewed annually thereafter.

5)    That it be noted the final decision would only be made following the consultation with, and approval from, the GRO and that authority be delegated the to the Strategic Director for Adults and Health in consultation with the cabinet portfolio holder for a decision on site arrangements.