Liverpool City Council’s Commissioners leading the Best Value Inspection have produced a fourth report which notes their enthusiasm for the continued progress of the council and its handback of some powers ahead of schedule, but they state that some key issues still remain. The team, which is headed by Mike Cunningham, has suggested to the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing, and Communities that powers with respect to Transport & Highways and Finance should be returned from Commissioners to the council as they have made good progress towards stability and continuous improvement. However, the report also emphasises that much still needs to be done to make the necessary improvements, with Property Services being an area of concern for the Commissioners.
The report recognises the significant changes in political and officer leadership since the last report was released. Cllr Liam Robinson has been elected as the council’s Leader, with Andrew Lewis assuming the role of Chief Executive since the last report was submitted. In addition to this, a new cabinet has been elected and various new leaders have joined the corporate leadership team. The new leadership has received good praise from the Commissioners, with the team being confident that it understands what needs to be accomplished.
While the report recognises there has been an encouraging pace of improvement at the council over the last six months, there are still several challenges that require addressing. The Commissioners note that there is still much to do to bring the improvements the people of Liverpool deserve and want. The Commissioners will work with the Council leader and Chief Executive to address these challenges while also discussing options for ongoing support beyond June 2024.
In a separate letter addressed to the Council Leader and Chief Executive, the Commissioners have brought to light their concerns regarding Property Services, with expectations outlined in greater detail. The letter would be published alongside the report so that more clarity could be provided on the matter. The Commissioners’ fifth report, which is due in March, will outline their recommendation regarding post-June intervention arrangements. Commissioners have welcomed Liverpool City Council’s commitment to improvement and the shared recognition of what remains to be done
Read the full article on Liverpool Express here: Read More