Issue - meetings

Ian Tait addressed the committee during public participation as summarised briefly below.

Ian Tait raised concerns regarding the high build costs associated with the council's New Homes Programme, specifically referencing the Woodman Close and Southbrook Cottages schemes and in the case of the latter, emphasised that the final scheme had exceeded the original budget by 27%. He highlighted that he had raised these concerns at previous Cabinet meetings where these reports had been discussed. He questioned why internal auditors were not challenging the expenditure.

Councillor Morris thanked Mr Tait for his comments which would be considered as part of the discussion of the report.

Antony Harvey (SIAP) introduced the report, drew members’ attention to a number of matters and responded to detailed questions.

Councillor Cutler responded to questions and also emphasised that the internal audit function involved examining the process for decision making, including ensuring the correct information was provided, rather than the policies involved.

RESOLVED:

That the Internal Audit Progress Report 2025-26 (October 2025) be noted.