Dudley Council has had its Best Value Notice lifted by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), the council announced on 15 July. The lifting recognises significant progress made by the authority in financial management, governance, organisational stability and service delivery.
The Government's letter to the council highlights improvements across multiple areas and acknowledges the council's constructive engagement with MHCLG and its independent Improvement and Assurance Board.
Council Leader on Progress
Councillor Patrick Harley, Leader of Dudley Council, said the lifting of the Best Value Notice is "a significant milestone and recognition of the progress Dudley Council has made over the last two and a half years."
He added: "Through strong leadership, hard work and a willingness to listen, learn and change, we have strengthened our finances, improved governance and created a more accountable and delivery-focused organisation."
Harley credited staff, residents, partners and councillors for driving improvement, and thanked MHCLG and the Improvement and Assurance Board for their support and challenge.
Government Assessment
The Government's letter describes the council's progress as "significant, sustained and credible" and confirms ministers are reassured about the authority's capacity to meet its Best Value Duty. The letter encourages the council to maintain momentum and continue strengthening financial resilience and organisational culture.
Ongoing Commitment
Dudley Council says it remains committed to continuous improvement, transparency and accountability. The authority will continue to encourage independent challenge and work closely with residents, staff and partners to build a stronger, more resilient council.
A copy of the Government's letter is available on the UK Government website.
