'Nothing swept under carpet' in regeneration probe

Roadworks around Conway Street and Europa Boulevard are ongoing

"Nothing will be hidden" from investigators probing a council's troubled regeneration programmes, its leader has said.

Paula Basnett, who became leader of Wirral Council in May, announced an internal investigation of the Birkenhead town centre project early into her leadership.

The regeneration works in the town are behind schedule and over budget, with the council expected to borrow £8m to cover a rise in costs to £24m.

Ms Basnett, who is a councillor for Rock Ferry, said the council needed to get a grip on the situation.

Paula Basnett said residents had a right to know what was happening

"I do think that we have to understand why it's been delayed and why there was an overspend. Our residents are entitled and should be made aware," Basnett said.

"I walk up Grange Road and I see the work taking place. I see the impact it's having on our businesses. I see the impact it's having on our residents.

"They want to be able to enjoy shopping and browsing around the shops."

Works in Birkenhead are delayed and over budget

The Local Democracy Reporting Service said the works, taking place across the entire town centre, were £2.8m over budget the day a contract was signed.

Councillors were so concerned that on 21 July they decided not to approve any further funding until investigations had finished.

Basnett said on her election as leader that improving neighbourhoods, sorting out the council's finances, and getting regeneration back on track were her three main priorities.

"I won't be brushing anything under the carpet," she said.

"[The investigation] will be open and transparent. We will be holding officers to account.

"Our residents are entitled to hear what has been going on and I fully appreciate that once we do have those findings, it will be out in the public domain."

The findings are expected later this year. Basnett said she hoped the outcome of a wider review would set out realistic timelines and costs, allowing councillors to prioritise projects.