Commissioners' concern over council's IT systems

BUT SOME REFORMS 'ARE BEARING FRUIT' SAYS LATEST REPORT

- By JOE LOCKER Local democracy reporter

GOVERNMENT officials appointed to oversee improvements at Nottingham City Council are "greatly concerned" about its IT systems - despite positive progress toward financial sustainability.

The team of three commissioners, led by Tony McArdle, has been providing progress reports since February 2024, just months after the authority declared effective bankruptcy in November 2023.

In their second report, published yesterday, they were "pleased" with the council's continued "constructive and cooperative working interaction". They said they have not formally used any of their powers, with the authority having adopted "clear direction in instituting a wide range of reforms, some of which are bearing fruit".

However, the report highlights a raft of problems, including dated IT systems, ignored audits, and a continued reliance on emergency measures to set a balanced budget.