Concerns over "significant" Clacks Council accounts delays

Leaders at Clackmannanshire Council are making major decisions, without fully understanding the council's financial position.

That's according to a report by the Accounts Commission.

It says there have been "significant" delays in signing off Clackmannanshire Council's annual accounts.

Some are taking nearly two years to be signed off.

Council Leader Ellen Forson said: “We recognise the significant challenges facing local authorities, particularly those that have experienced sustained staffing and capacity pressures. Against this backdrop, Clackmannanshire Council has continued to operate in a complex recovery environment, maintaining essential services for our communities while also delivering robust financial management.

“We acknowledge the Accounts Commission’s findings and the need to restore our financial reporting to the statutory timetable.

 “Although the Council’s accounts have been reported late, they have consistently received unmodified audit opinions, confirming their accuracy. Our priority is to maintain these standards while delivering reports on time, working constructively in partnership with our external auditors while also ensuring that we hold them appropriately to account.

 “Elected members play a key role in strengthening scrutiny and oversight. We are committed to examining the recovery plan, holding progress to account, learning from this process, and ensuring robust governance that supports effective decision-making for our communities.”

Jo Armstrong, Chair of the Accounts Commission said:

‘An absence of up-to-date audited financial information is a significant risk and concern as the council makes decisions about how local money is spent.

‘Now the focus must be on the future - strong partnership working with auditors along with collective leadership from officers and councillors are critical to prioritise meeting statutory timescales. Strengthened political oversight of the audit process going forward is vital.’