Commissioners recognise Spelthorne's progress.

The full report and response from the Minister of State for Local Government, which recognises the significant progress made over recent months while making clear that substantial work remains to ensure the Council is in the strongest possible position ahead of local government reorganisation.

The report acknowledges the positive steps made in delivering the Council's Improvement and Recovery Plan, including strengthened governance arrangements and continued progress across the Council's commercial programme, housing priorities and financial reporting. Within their report, the Commissioners further recognise the positive impact of the Council's new senior officer team and the collaborative approach being taken to deliver the agreed improvement priorities.

At the same time, the report also highlights the significant challenges that remain, particularly financial sustainability, continued reliance on reserves, risks within the commercial portfolio, and capacity pressures. Delivering further savings and maintaining the pace of improvement will remain priorities during the Council's remaining months before Vesting Day on 1 April 2027.

The Council is also committed to working closely with the Shadow Authority to support a smooth transition to the new West Surrey Council, helping ensure residents continue to receive sustainable, high-quality local services as responsibilities transfer to the new authority.

Councillor Greg Neall, Leader of Spelthorne Borough Council, said, "This report recognises that we have made meaningful progress in a relatively short period of time, and I welcome the Commissioners' acknowledgement of the hard work and commitment shown by our officers, members and our new senior officer team.

"We are under no illusion about the scale of the challenge ahead. There is still a great deal to do, and we remain fully committed to delivering the improvements the Commissioners have identified, strengthening the Council's financial position and ensuring we leave a strong legacy for the new West Surrey Council.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has also confirmed that an integrated approach will be adopted across Spelthorne Borough Council and Woking Borough Council, with a single team of Commissioners established to support both authorities. The Council will continue to report openly on progress against its Improvement and Recovery Plan as it works towards Vesting Day in April 2027.

For further information please visit Statutory intervention: Spelthorne Borough Council - GOV.UK