Government intervention at Thurrock Council
On 2 September 2022, the Government appointed Essex County Council as 'Best Value Commissioner' for Thurrock Council. This intervention was in response to concerns about levels of financial risk and debt, and clear 'Best Value' failure in relation to our financial functions.
The Commissioner has full control of the financial functions of Thurrock Council and powers to assess what action may be needed to limit any risks to our services.
On 16 March 2023, the Government issued a written ministerial statement confirming further Directions for Thurrock Council – go to UK Parliament: Statement by Lee Rowley, Minister for Local Government and Building Safety, 16 March 2023.
The expanded Directions confirm the appointment of a Commissioner act as Managing Director of Thurrock Council. They also set out the Commissioners' increased powers in making decisions about:
- employment matters related to senior managers
- the council's staff structure and operating model
- functions relating to scrutiny and transparency of strategic decision-making
Intervention details are published by the Government and Essex County Council at:
- GOV.UK: Intervention at Thurrock Council
- Essex County Council: Thurrock Council Commission and Best Value Inspection
Best Value Inspection report
Essex County Council was also appointed as 'Best Value Inspector' to carry out a Best Value inspection to assess if Thurrock Council is failing in its Best Value Duty in other areas. The Best Value Inspection team submitted its final report to Government on 17 February 2023. We are now waiting for Government to publish the Best Value Inspection report.
The ministerial statement published on 16 March 2023 stated the Best Value Inspection report will be published in due course following a further representations process, whereby any particular individuals criticised are given an opportunity to read and respond to those relevant parts of the report before it is published.
More information
We will make sure our residents, businesses and community partners are kept fully informed of progress and any changes that may affect services. For more information, go to: