In  March 2005 the West London Alliance (WLA), on behalf of the West London Partnership (WLP), has been working to develop a Local Intelligence System (LIS) for the sub-region.

Good quality and up to date information is vital to the delivery of excellent services. It enables managers to gain a better understanding of the need and preferences of local people and communities. As well as raising service standards, improving public access to local information can enhance local democracy by empowering communities and encouraging participation. It can also play a major role in local economic development by providing business with the evidence they require when seeking to set up, expland or invest in an area.

Drivers to improve access to local information include:

• Improving service delivery
• Partnership work
• Area based initiatives
• Area based performance management
• Sub-regional planning and policy making
• Local democracy and community empowerment

In reponse to growing demand for information about West London, its boroughs and local communities, the WLA, on behalf of the WLP, commisioned a study to explore the business case for a West London LIS.

The proposed West London LIS would be a joint resource, serving the information needs of all partners:

• West London boroughs
• West London PCTs
• North West London Strategic Health Authority
• London West Learning and Skills Council
• West London Business
• West London Network

The developement of the business case was underpinned by extensive consultation with representatives from all partner organisations. The study concluded that there was a strong business case to support the development of a West London Local Intelligence System because:

• The system would respond to a recognised need for improved access to local information
• The system would provide substantial benefits in terms of efficiency and cost savings

The WLA in January 2006 commisioned the development of a full technical specification for the LIS and since then working with partners to plan the delivery of the West London LIS.

A leaflet summarising the proposal for the West London LIS can be viewed here.

For further information contact, Emma Strong, WLA Policy and Projects Officer - emma.strong@lbhf.gov.uk.