William Eichler 18 July 2024

Council leader resigns after bankruptcy warning

Council leader resigns after bankruptcy warning image
Image: Cheshire East Council.

The leader of Cheshire East Council resigned yesterday ahead of a vote of no confidence after a report raised serious concerns over the council’s finances.

A Local Government Association corporate peer challenge report warned that it is ‘very likely' that the council will have to issue a Section 114 notice if it fails to bring about ‘significant change at pace’.

Council leader Sam Corcoran told the council yesterday ‘I have to take responsibility’ and added that an inadequate Ofsted report into the council’s children’s services was ‘a particular blow’.

Cllr Nick Mannion has been elected as the new leader.

In 2023-24, the council has used £11m of its reserves to set a balanced budget and has a savings requirement of £20m for 2024-2025, according to the LGA report. If the savings are delivered, the council will only have £2.1m in reserve by the end of this financial year.

The council has been successful in applying for exceptional financial support for 2024-2025, subject to the development of a transformation plan. However, the peer report notes that ‘there is further work required to understand the implications of this capitalisation.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Democratic Services, Elections & Monitoring Officer

Harborough District Council
Grade 12 £67,236 – £71,223 plus £3000pa Statutory Officer Allowance
We are looking for an accomplished and proactive leader for our vacant post of Head of Democratic Services & Elections Market Harborough, Leicestershire
Recuriter: Harborough District Council

Social Worker - Family Support and Safeguarding - Bicester Banbury

Oxfordshire County Council
£37035 - £47754
You will manage a caseload tailored to your experience, ensuring that children’s and their families’ voices are heard, and their needs are met. You will work with families using the FSP Workbook modules, and a strengths-based approach, ensuring the As Bicester
Recuriter: Oxfordshire County Council

Executive Director of Resources & Governance (S151 Officer)

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council

Executive Director of Homes, Communities & Environment

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council

Executive Director of Strategy, People & Transformation

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council
Linkedin Banner