The Code of Governance was first published in March 1996 in response to the issues raised by an extensive review of the City Council's management, organisational and procedural issues and practices. The review revealed that, at that time, there was no common understanding of the processes and procedures that govern the Council's operations.

The importance of all the Council's working practices being clear was recognised and the then Policy and Resources Committee decided that a "Code of Governance" should be produced. The purpose of the Code of Governance is to ensure that everyone at the City Council - staff and Members -, are clear, even as priorities and policies change, about their respective roles, where authority lies, how options are identified and decisions reached. It is firmly based on the Seven Principles of Public Life promoted by the Nolan Report on Standards of Conduct in Public Life (1997).

The Code of Governance has been regularly updated since its launch in 1996 to ensure it is maintained as a working document for the City Council which reflects the best practice in local government and sets the standards for the conduct of Officers and Members at the City Council.