A ‘BEST value’ inspection into Warrington Borough Council is expected to conclude later than planned.

As reported in May, the then-Conservative Government ordered a ‘best value’ inspection into Labour-run Warrington Borough Council amid the council’s debt totalling around £1.85 billion.

A lead inspector was appointed to assess the council’s ‘compliance with its best value duty’.

The lead inspector – who is able to request the appointment of assistant inspectors – had been asked to report findings by August 30, or ‘such later date as may be agreed’.

Labour won a huge majority in the General Election on July 4 and, following that, formed a Government.

Following the election, it was confirmed that the ‘best value’ inspection is continuing.

However, it is now set to conclude later than planned.

The council has issued a short statement.

A spokesman said: “Work on our best value inspection is ongoing.

“We expect that the inspection will now conclude in November 2024.

“The inspection continues to have our full cooperation.”

The Warrington Guardian has been told that the General Election caused delays, in terms of being able to appoint the full inspection team, and that ultimately the pace of the inspection is set by the inspector.