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Tees Valley Combined Authority faces fresh government inspection over financial sustainability
Overview
Local government minister Jim McMahon has ordered a new government inspection into the Tees Valley Combined Authority (TVCA) due to material concerns regarding its long-term financial sustainability, high debt levels, increasing borrowing, and declining revenue reserves. Laura Shoaf, the former head of West Midlands Combined Authority, has been appointed to lead the inspection, with findings expected in March.
Key points
- Tees Valley Combined Authority (TVCA) is facing a new government inspection into its finances led by Laura Shoaf.
- Local government minister Jim McMahon cited material concerns over the authority's long-term financial sustainability, high debt, rising borrowing costs, and falling revenue reserves.
- The body, led by Conservative mayor Ben Houchen, has been subject to a Best Value Notice for the past 18 months.
- North East Labour MPs described the inspection as an escalation of the Best Value Notice, with findings due in March.
- TVCA welcomed the scrutiny, stating it will work constructively with inspectors to demonstrate progress and strengthen the organisation.
