Issue - meetings

To consider the joint report to Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWAC) and Cheshire East Council.  The report examines the actions of both councils in relation to the sale of County Hall.  The CWAC Audit and Governance Committee considered this matter at its meeting held on 1 March 2011.

The Committee is invited to comment on the report.

The Committee considered a report from the Audit Commission, as external auditors of both Cheshire West and Chester Council and Cheshire East Council in respect of the sale of County Hall, Chester.

The report outlined the legal issues relating to the sale, the views of the Audit Commission relating to compliance and recommendations for the future.

The report contained six recommendations, three of which related to Cheshire East Council –

Recommendation 2: consider sharing specialist advice where appropriate in future.

Recommendation 3:  review the approach to the sale of County Hall to identify any lessons that can be learned for future decision-making and the ongoing rationalisation of their property.

Recommendation 6:  the Consultation Strategy should include proper consideration of circumstances where the Council will consult and involve local people in meaningful ways.

Comments/observations were made by Members and these were responded to by Officers as appropriate.

The Committee was assured that Officers would be working with Cheshire West and Chester Council to develop a protocol which could be applied to other assets which the Council may wish to dispose of. 

RESOLVED:  That the report be received.