Liverpool City Council has received a positive report from Government-appointed Commissioners who have suggested that the Secretary of State hands some decision-making powers back to the council earlier than planned. This is the fourth progress report since intervention began, and it has been made clear that there is an expectation to end significant parts of the intervention in June 2024. Lead Commissioner Mike Cunningham and his team are optimistic about the pace of improvement made so far.
The council is set to take back responsibility for senior appointments imminently. Furthermore, from March 2024, the council will have full democratic and decision-making powers restored regarding the departments of Finance, Transport, and Highways since Commissioner oversight will be reduced. Cunningham’s team believes they have confidence the council has the right leadership to continue improving at a rapid pace.
The report noted that Liverpool City Council is the most stable it has been since the intervention began, praising the political and managerial leadership of the council. It was also noted that the council has demonstrated a professional and considered approach to decision making. Although the overall tone of the report is positive, the Commissioners have reported that significant challenges still exist, and some limited oversight may need to continue even beyond June 2024.
Council Leader, Cllr Liam Robinson, has welcomed this as a watershed moment and a beginning of the end of the intervention in Liverpool. He has expressed delight that the Commissioners recognised the pace at which the new Cabinet operates and paid tribute to the officers and councillors who have worked hard for better services for residents. Robinson highlighted that much more needs to be done, particularly in property management, but combined with the Futures’ Panel work around regenerating Liverpool, he has every reason to be optimistic. The next report is due in March 2024, at which point the Commissioners will outline what will be the next steps as the intervention ends
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