Independent panel praises NLWA for “excellent progress”

North London Waste Authority (NLWA) has been praised by an independent panel of experts for its dedication to improving “for the benefit of residents.”

The Local Government Association (LGA) carried out a progress review in January 2024.  This was to follow up the comprehensive  2023 Corporate Peer Challenge, which found staff and members were passionate about reducing waste and influencing reuse and recycling behaviour. The 2023 peer review recognised the high performance of the Authority and made ten recommendations to further enhance the Authority’s performance and delivery, including greater collaboration with the seven constituent boroughs, increased engagement with communities and wider oversight and scrutiny.

Following “open and honest” conversations on their return visit, the peer review team praised NLWA for “embracing” the process.  They noted “excellent progress” in NLWA’s action plan to implement the corporate peer challenge recommendations and serve the north London community.

They described NLWA as a “reflective organisation” and noted that it adapts well to challenges by managing and mitigating risks. The Authority was found to have made improvements across all recommendations, including by expanding the North London Community Fund, involving residents in developing the next Joint Waste Strategy and working to introduce independent members to the audit committee.

NLWA Chair, Cllr Clyde Loakes, said: “The Corporate Peer Challenge was an important opportunity to benchmark our performance, appreciate our strengths, and identify opportunities to improve. I am delighted that the returning review team recognised the many steps which have been taken to build on their recommendations and to maintain a positive sense of direction.  This includes NLWA continuing to bolster relationships with our constituent boroughs, community groups and residents.”