Time for a much-needed apology from the corridors of power

THE findings of the Government’s Best Value Inspection into the financial affairs of Warrington Borough Council came as no surprise for many, with debts of around £1.8 billion.

While it is pleasing to see the council’s leadership team have accepted the “serious findings” of the Best Value Inspection and promise “decisive action” one word has been missing from the council’s response – and that word is “sorry.”

So far no apology has been issued to those who challenged and questioned the level of council debt and some of the high-risk investments.
In fact some of those who raised concerns, were often left to be made to feel like fools, so it is not surprising they are now asking for heads to roll.
One of those who often challenged the council’s financial position and investments was former Warrington South MP Andy Carter, who is indeed one of those making such calls.
While Labour leader Cllr. Hans Mundry is saying decisive action is required and has already been working to reduce debt, he was also part of the Cabinet involved in making and approving these financial decisions.
His predecessor and deputy have long left the building and one has to wonder if they knew what was coming?
Accepting the recommendations of the Government inspectors, Cllr Mundry says it contains important challenges and since taking over leadership of the council, “clear and deliberate steps have been taken to change its direction.”
The Best Value Inspection findings include concerns relating to governance, leadership, organisational culture, financial management, and commercial investment activity.
Government envoys will now oversee the ongoing work to try and balance the books but what we don’t want is a knee jerk reaction with some of the investments which give a good return on investment – most notably Birchwood Park.
A marketing exercise is currently underway to evaluate the possible future sale of the business park – in my opinion while it would obviously generate some much-needed revenue, the ongoing revenues it generates would be much better in the long-term, as the value and returns are only going to go in one direction.
Meanwhile, it would be refreshing if someone from the corridors of power could issue a much-needed apology to the people of Warrington for this financial mess, while also looking how to improve revenues from existing assets without making drastic cuts.
Add to this another damning report into adult social care, with the council receiving the lowest possible safeguarding score from the Care Quality Commission, these are indeed testing times at the town hall.
Finally on a more positive note congratulations to everyone involved at St Rocco’s Hospice on their 40th anniversary milestone.
I remember reporting on the hospice being built as a young reporter and have seen how it has developed and evolved over the years. It has not always been an easy journey with plenty of ups and downs over the years.
But the hospice has stood the test of time and is a vitally important part of our local community and deserves all the support it can get during this milestone year.