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Local Government Best Value

03 April 2025

Proposing MP
Jim McMahon Lab Co-op
Oldham West, Chadderton and Royton
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government

At a Glance

Issue Summary

The statement addresses concerns regarding the Tees Valley Combined Authority's governance and financial management.

Action Requested

The government has issued a best value notice to the authority, requesting engagement with the department for assurance of improvement. Non-statutory guidance is also published to address key recommendations from an independent review, focusing on governance and oversight of Mayoral Development Corporations.

Key Facts

  • Independent review commissioned in May 2023.
  • Review findings published in January 2024.
  • Mayor Lord Houchen responded in February 2024.
  • Department received update from the Authority in September 2024.
  • Auditors identified significant weaknesses in value for money arrangements in financial year 2023/24.
  • Best value notice issued to Tees Valley Combined Authority in October 2024.
  • Up to £21.7 billion of funding confirmed over 25 years for Net Zero Clusters in Teesside and Merseyside.
  • Non-statutory guidance published addressing governance and oversight of Mayoral Development Corporations.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy