William Eichler 12 June 2024

Councils ‘too slow’ at resolving £40m dispute

Councils ‘too slow’ at resolving £40m dispute image
Image: CHOKCHAI POOMICHAIYA / Shutterstock.com.

Two Northamptonshire councils have been 'too slow' to resolve a dispute over £40m of debt, an auditor has warned.

The disagreement began when the former Northamptonshire County Council divided into two unitary authorities, West Northamptonshire Council and North Northamptonshire Council.

According to the BBC, Mark Stocks, from auditor Grant Thornton, told West Northamptonshire Council: ‘To be candid, I just think you're being too slow on disaggregation.

‘We're into year four now of the organisation's life and we've not agreed a position.

‘It's quite a sizable chunk of cash, around £40m, that you haven't yet agreed with the North.’

Mr Stocks said that there would be financial uncertainty at West Northamptonshire Council and North Northamptonshire Council if a solution is not reached.

He also warned that unless the councils settle the dispute the auditors would have to step in with ‘statutory powers’ to find a resolution.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Transport and Major Work Manager

Slough Borough Council
£54,556 to £60,085 per year Inclusive of Local Weighting Allowance of £1096
Drive the future of transport and infrastructure in Slough Slough, Berkshire
Recuriter: Slough Borough Council

Director of Family Based Care - North East Regional Care Co-operative

Durham County Council
£119,532 per annum
This position is hosted by Durham County Council. We are seeking an exceptional senior leader to take on the pivotal role of Director of Family Based Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Delivery Director - North East Regional Care Co-operative

Durham County Council
£119,532 per annum
This position is hosted by Durham County Council. We are seeking an exceptional leader to take on the pivotal role of Delivery Director for the North Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Chief Executive - North East Regional Care Co-operative

Durham County Council
£158,084 per annum
This position is hosted by Durham County Council. We are seeking an exceptional Chief Executive with the vision and leadership to transform regional Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Underground Utility Surveyor

Amey
£Competitive
We have an exciting opportunity for a Fixed Term Underground Utility Surveyor to join our TSIC account. Cumbernauld, Glasgow
Recuriter: Amey
Linkedin Banner