An independent peer review has found Cardiff Council is a well-run organisation with strong leadership, clear values, effective teamwork, and robust financial and governance systems.
The review that took place between 8-11 July 2025 also highlighted the council’s inclusive and positive political and workplace culture and concluded that the organisation is respected by partners, residents, business and stakeholders.
These findings were based on a thorough assessment, including more than 300 interviews with councillors, staff, trade unions, businesses, and residents alongside departmental visits and a review of the council’s documents and policies.
Under legislation, all councils must carry out this assessment – known as a Panel Performance Assessment – every five years.
The assessment looks at the performance of the council, how it uses funding and resources, as well as the systems that are in place to ensure that necessary checks and balances are in place to ensure the council delivers for the residents of Cardiff. In addition, the council asked the panel to consider how well the council is working with partners to deliver economic growth and how well it is positioned to meet the medium term demand and financial challenges it faces.
Although the assessment isn’t an official audit, the council said was an important way to gauge its performance against key criteria to support further improvement for the residents of Cardiff.
Leader of the Council Cllr Huw Thomas said:
“The results of the peer review reflect all the excellent work that is being delivered across all council departments. The review team, made up of senior figures from across local government, found that Cardiff Council is delivering for the residents of Cardiff. Summing up the council in a single phrase the review chair told us ‘this is a good and ambitious council’, and I agree.
“The panel also concluded that Cardiff’s development agenda stands out across Wales for its scope and ambition and that the case for unleashing Cardiff’s economic growth potential as a major driver in tackling inequalities is stronger than ever. We will work with our partners across the city, with Welsh and UK government to make sure that that this happens.
“The panel have made three recommendations, which we are accepting in full and will be acted upon as we are committed to improving services and ensuring that the council continues to deliver for our residents over the years ahead.
“I am very pleased with the findings and I would like to thank staff, partners, and councillors for their hard work highlighted in the peer review findings”
Prior to the Cabinet meeting, the Council’s response to the findings of the peer review will be reviewed by the Policy Review and Performance Scrutiny Committee.
