Reflecting new trends in Local Government Services and Structures, CSS, formerly the County Surveyors Society, has changed its name to: Association of Directors of Environment, Economy, Planning and Transport: or ADEPT.

One hundred and twenty five years after the County Surveyors Society (CSS) was founded, and several months after it conducted a broad consultation on its name, members of CSS have approved the launch of ADEPT, a new association committed to building on the strengths of CSS and increasing its influence and relevance.

The consultation process included several other organisations and relevant directors both within the current membership and in the wider local government community. The vote for the new name came out overwhelmingly in favour at the General Meeting..  The consultation for the accompanying logo will follow this decision and will be launched in June 2010.

ADEPT will operate as the organisation representing first tier officers in Environment and Economy Services, positioning itself alongside the Association of Directors for Children’s Services and The Association of Directions for Adult Social Services.

The ADEPT president, Alison Quant, Director of Economic Services at Hampshire County Council said:

“It is an exciting and challenging time for local government with tightening resources and higher public expectation.  There is a greater need for the former CSS to continue providing guidance and support within the profession, a strong voice for the services it represents, and policy advice to central Government and other agencies – and we mean to go on delivering all of this.  But under our new identity we hope to grow in membership and influence and to develop smarter ways of working.”

The official launch of ADEPT will be in June 2010.

For more information please contact:

Sarah Wheeler-Osman – Events and Promotions Officer, Hampshire County Council
t: 01962 845893
e: sarah.wheeler-osman@hants.gov.uk