Northstowe Town Council, established in 2021, commissioned a DMA review to assess the organisational structure to prepare for rapid growth and the new community centre.
Introduction
Northstowe Town Council, established in 2021, commissioned a DMA review to assess the organisational structure to prepare for rapid growth and the new community centre. The review provided a clear comparison of the current and proposed structures, identified strengths and weaknesses, and delivered 14 actionable recommendations. This strategic roadmap has enabled the council to adopt changes, recruit staff aligned to future needs and strengthen governance. The DMA approach ensured clarity, flexibility, and value for money, positioning Northstowe to meet its long-term objectives effectively.
The challenge
Northstowe Town Council needed to ensure its staffing structure and governance arrangements were fit for purpose, aligned to new responsibilities pertaining to the operation of the community centre, and capable of supporting the town’s plans for rapid growth.
The solution
The DMA team conducted a comprehensive organisational review, comparing current and proposed structures, engaging councillors and staff through interviews, and producing a detailed report with 14 recommendations. The process was collaborative, flexible, and delivered ahead of schedule.
“DMA is a really handy tool to get to the bottom of any sort of staffing capacity issues and looking at the longer-term picture for the council.”
Jack Turner, Locum Town Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer, Northstowe Town Council.
The impact
The council adopted all 14 recommendations, tasked its Personnel Committee with implementation, and began recruiting staff aligned to the new structure. Councillors gained strategic clarity, and the review provided a strong basis for managing future assets. Feedback highlighted excellent communication and value for money throughout the DMA review.
How is the approach being sustained?
The recommendations are embedded in the council’s governance framework and inform ongoing recruitment and planning. The new approach ensures adaptability as Northstowe continues to grow and acquire new community facilities.
Lessons learned
Early engagement and clear timelines were key to success. Councils planning similar reviews should priorities stakeholders’ involvement, maintain transparent communication, and provide actionable recommendations for real value. Future-proofing organisational structures is essential to accommodate growth and new responsibilities, and a structured approach like DMA can effectively address capacity challenges while creating a clear roadmap for change.
“DMA’s structured approach proved highly effective and is recommended for other councils of a similar size facing capacity challenges.”
Jack Turner, Locum Town Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer, Northstowe Town Council.