The behaviour of Liverpool city councillors is, at times, ‘poor', and the council's financial position is inadequate, according to an Audit Commission report. Published this week, the report stated that the authority was making some good achievements and ‘performing adequately'. It highlighted the council's strengths, such as its neighbourhood approach and ‘strong record' of partnership, but warned further improvement was at risk. ‘While the quality of life for the people of Liverpool is "visibly" improving, continued improvement is at risk due to the behaviour of councillors, financial capacity, too many priorities and the need to establish a clear, long-term ambition,' said Audit Commission senior manager, Tim Watkinson. An investigation by the Standards Board is also currently under way into allegations made by a council member against the leader of Liverpool, Cllr Warren Bradley, and executive member for regeneration, Cllr Mike Storey. The board confirmed to The MJ new allegations already covered by the ongoing investigation had recently been made by a member of the public against both councillors. But, it added, some of the complainants' allegations against Cllr Bradley were referred for investigation. Cllrs Bradley and Storey were unavailable for comment. Plus: A new Audit Commission report into North Lincolnshire Council has found improved services were being provided, but council staff, members and key stakeholders were ‘unclear' of the priorities and long-term ambitions for the area. An Audit Commission spokesman said this was preventing the council and its partners from making ‘consistent' progress in achieving ambitions for the area as a whole. The inspectors commended successful partnership working, promotion of community cohesion and the council's strong financial position. Council leader, Cllr Mark Kirk, said: ‘No matter how good we are, there is always room for improvement.' Download the Audit Commission's Corporate Assessment of Liverpool City Council here.
