A panel to carry out an independent assurance review into the
Tees Valley Combined Authority’s oversight of the South Tees
Development Corporation and Teesworks Joint Venture has been
appointed by Levelling Up Secretary .
Angie Ridgwell, Chief Executive of Lancashire County Council, and
previously a Director General at the Department for Business,
Energy and Industrial Strategy, has been appointed as lead
reviewer, bringing 30 years of experience across local
government, central government and the private sector.
She will be supported by Quentin Baker, who is a qualified
solicitor and the director of law and governance at Hertfordshire
County Council and by Richard Paver, who brings significant
financial experience and knowledge of Combined Authorities from a
previous role as first Treasurer of the Greater Manchester
Combined Authority.
The independent panel will review the Tees Valley Combined
Authority’s oversight of the South Tees Development Corporation
(STDC) and Teesworks Joint Venture. This will include
consideration of specific allegations made in relation to the
Joint Venture.
As set out in the published terms of reference, as well as
considering the specific allegations of corruption, illegality
and wrongdoing that have been raised, the panel will also look at
governance and financial management, reflecting the Government’s
existing approach to external assurance reviews of local
authorities.
Local Government Minister said:
“I want to stress we have not seen evidence of corruption,
wrongdoing, or illegality in relation to Teesworks, but it is
apparent the allegations present a risk to the delivery of jobs
and economic growth in the region.
“Given the importance to Tees Valley of addressing this matter,
and the request made by the Mayor, the government has appointed
an independent panel to review the arrangements.”
The review will now commence and the panel will provide a report
of their findings, along with any recommendations, expected in
the summer.
Any interested party, including Members of Parliament, will be
invited to make representations to the panel as part of their
evidence gathering.
