A LEADERSHIP development programme had been launched by Harlow Council to equip its senior and top managers with new skills.

The year-long training programme, which will be attended by all 59 of the council's managers, the chief executive and executive directors, has been set up in line with Best Value recommendations that the skill base of managers be improved.

Council leader Alan Jones said: "There is a recognised need for Harlow Council to spend more on training its staff. This development programme is a significant investment by Harlow Council in its senior managers.

"The investment is needed to ensure that the council is ready and equiped to achieve its vision for the future and best serve the people of Harlow.

"Harlow is changing. Local government is changing. that's why we must update the skills of our managers to bring them in line with the modern demands of local government.

"Fully trained and skilled managers are critical to the delivery of a first class Harlow. This is one more step in the process of enhancing service delivery for the people of Harlow."