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Local Government Best Value
10 February 2026
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
At a Glance
Issue Summary
The statement addresses steps taken by the government to ensure two councils, Bedford Borough Council and Spelthorne Borough Council, comply with their Best Value Duty.
Action Requested
The Minister has initiated a Best Value Inspection for Bedford Borough Council and published the first report from Commissioners at Spelthorne Borough Council. The inspection will consider decision-making processes and financial sustainability, while Commissioners are tasked with addressing urgent issues related to local government reorganisation in Surrey.
Key Facts
- Paul Najsarek has been appointed as Inspector for Bedford Borough Council.
- Margaret Lee and Parveen Akhtar have been appointed as Assistant Inspectors.
- The inspection will conclude by June, after which the Minister will determine next steps.
- Lesley Seary is reappointed as Lead Commissioner at Spelthorne Borough Council until May 2030.
- Spelthorne Borough Council's Commissioners will include reflections on the local government reorganisation process in Surrey.
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