A former Ofsted inspector, Andrew Middleton, has been appointed to strengthen governance at Nottingham City Council following its declaration of effective bankruptcy in November 2023. Middleton’s role involves closely examining decisions made by councillors and officers to ensure better financial management and accountability.
The council has faced criticism for its weakened audit and risk analysis systems in the past. In early 2024, a team of commissioners appointed by the Government began overseeing improvements, noting that while some progress has been made, inconsistencies still persist. Ineffective audit practices were previously highlighted as contributing factors to the financial mismanagement that led to the collapse of council-run Robin Hood Energy.
Andrew Middleton attended his first audit committee meeting on February 20, 2024, where he expressed positive initial impressions of the council’s current leadership. He emphasized his commitment to listening, analyzing, and questioning decisions to enhance the council’s governance systems.
“This is the twelfth audit committee on which I’ve served over 30 years, six of which I’ve chaired,” Middleton stated. His extensive experience includes positions with the Notts Police and Crime Commissioner, Lincolnshire County Council, and Barnsley Healthcare Federation. He highlighted the core purpose of the audit committee as strengthening governance frameworks to ensure that policy-making and strategic decisions are made with appropriate controls in place.
Middleton will receive an annual allowance of £4,000 for his role, which the council deems a valuable investment. Additionally, Lynne Dowdican has been appointed as the chief internal auditor. She aims to provide independent and objective assurance regarding the council’s financial health. Dowdican’s immediate priorities include reviewing the internal audit plan and evaluating the effectiveness of governance risk and control arrangements.
During the meeting, she commented, “What I want is for the internal audit service to be independent, robust, practical, forward-looking, and collaborative.”
The appointments of Middleton and Dowdican signal a concerted effort by Nottingham City Council to rebuild trust and improve operational transparency. As they embark on this task, both officials are expected to bring their extensive experience to bear in reinforcing the council’s governance and financial management practices. These changes come at a critical time as the council seeks to address past shortcomings and lay the groundwork for a more sustainable future.
