I have previously stated when updating the House, this Government are committed to resetting the relationship with local and regional government, and we will take the action necessary to fix the foundations of local government and to support the sector to build its strength. Today, I am updating the House on the steps that we are taking in partnership to support three councils to recover and reform: Warrington borough council, the London borough of Tower Hamlets and Slough borough council.
Warrington borough council
On 8 May, I informed the House that I was satisfied, having considered the best value inspection report, that Warrington borough council is not complying with its best value duty. I proposed an intervention package to secure the council’s compliance with that duty and asked the council and others to provide representations by 22 May.
I received 18 representations, which I considered carefully. I remain satisfied that the council is not complying with its best value duty in relation to continuous improvement, leadership, governance, culture and use of resources. I have concluded that it is both necessary and expedient for me to exercise powers in the Local Government Act 1999 as I proposed, with minor amendments.
I have today issued directions under sections 15(5) and 15(6) of the 1999 Act to implement the proposed intervention package. This package, to be in place until 31 July 2030, comprises specific actions that the council is required to take, alongside the appointment of four ministerial envoys, some of whom will have powers to exercise functions, which are treated by the envoys as held in reserve. I am confident that this package will address the issues identified and is necessary for the council to secure compliance with its best value duty.
The success of Warrington is important for both its own benefit and that of the region, with its critical role in devolution, which offers significant opportunities to drive up growth, improve transport connectivity and build new homes, as well as raising living standards for its population.
I have appointed Sir Stephen Houghton as ministerial envoy and Harry Catherall, Carolyn Williamson and Phil Brookes as ministerial envoys with powers to exercise functions. I am confident that their extensive knowledge and experience will help deliver the necessary improvements for Warrington.
I have issued directions that, in summary, require the council to:
Prepare and agree an improvement and recovery plan within six months, with progress reports to the ministerial envoys after the first three months and ongoing reporting thereafter;
Undertake recruitment for a permanent appointment to lead the improvement work in the authority and progress against the directions;