Bedford Borough Council has received the Best Value Inspection report published today by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG).
The Secretary of State has indicated that the Government is minded to appoint commissioners to support the Council in securing compliance with the Best Value Duty in relation to leadership, governance, culture, use of resources and continuous improvement.
Under the proposed Directions, commissioners will provide additional oversight, support and challenge in the areas set out in the final Directions. The proposed statutory intervention package could remain in place for the next three years.
The report described some positive elements in the authority relating to local partnerships, community relationships, a constructive role in attracting and supporting Universal and the pride and commitment shown by officers, members and partners in serving the residents of the borough.
However the report suggests that while the authority is taking steps to respond to external challenge these are not yet sufficient to drive the urgent improvement required and the council is not meeting its Best Value obligations.
The Council will now carefully consider the report’s recommendations and recognises the need to accelerate its transformation and improvement journey. It will work constructively with government and the commissioners appointed through the formal process.
The Council has been invited to make representations to the Secretary of State and will do so in the next 10 working days.
Chief Executive, Laura Church said;
“We acknowledge the significance of the report and the need to increase the pace and scale of change. Our staff have continued to deliver vital services during a demanding period, and their expertise and commitment will be central to the improvements ahead. We will support colleagues through the changes required and keep staff, members, residents and partners informed as the work progresses.
“The Council has engaged fully and constructively throughout the inspection process. We will continue that approach as we respond to the proposed Directions, work with commissioners when appointed and maintain a clear focus on delivering better outcomes for Bedford Borough’s residents.”
The full report is expected to be published by the Government shortly.