Lib Dems call for cross-party cooperation following Best Value Inspection

LOCAL Liberal Democrats are urging cross-party cooperation following the Government’s damning Best Value Inspection of Warrington Borough Council ahead of tonight’s Full Council meeting.

The Liberal Democrat Group on Warrington Borough Council acknowledges the Government’s Best Value Inspection Report, published on 8 May 2025, which highlights significant concerns regarding the council’s governance, transparency, and financial management. The report, prompted by the council’s £1.9 billion debt and a £50 million budget shortfall, recommends the appointment of Government Envoys to oversee necessary improvements.
In response, the Labour-led council has expressed its commitment to cooperate fully with the inspection process, stating:
“The inspection will undoubtedly have our full cooperation, and we will work positively, openly and at pace with the inspector.”
The Liberal Democrats have consistently advocated for a cross-party approach to address these challenges and improve transparency and accountability within the council. They have proposed transitioning to a modern committee system to enhance governance.

Cllr Mark Browne, Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group, stated:“The Best Value report confirms longstanding concerns about the council’s governance model. While we await the Government’s final decision post-consultation, it’s imperative that all parties collaborate to restore public confidence and ensure effective oversight.”
Cllr Graham Gowland, Liberal Democrat councillor for Lymm South, added: “This report lays bare the serious democratic deficits in how our council operates. Residents deserve more than reassurances — they deserve structural reform. Real change is needed to open up decision-making, improve transparency, and ensure councillors can hold the executive to account. Without that, public trust will not be rebuilt.”
The Liberal Democrat Group also notes that a Full Council meeting is scheduled for tonight, Monday 19th May, where a statement from the Council Leader is expected. At that meeting, Liberal Democrat councillors will be pressing for clear, detailed commitments on how the administration plans to respond to the report and improve governance structures.
The Liberal Democrats call for a comprehensive public update following the conclusion of the Government’s consultation on 22 May 2025, including:

• The Government’s final decision and the remit of the appointed Envoys;
• The expected timeline for oversight and improvement measures;
• Implications for Warrington’s role in future devolution arrangements;
• Strategies for inclusive cross-party collaboration in the recovery process.