Managing director appointed at bankrupt council

The council issued a section 114 notice in June, effectively declaring itself bankrupt

A new managing director has been appointed to an effectively bankrupt council in Surrey to deal with what the government says is a “grave” position.

A government report says Woking Borough Council is in an “extremely vulnerable position” due to its £2.6bn debt.

Chief executive Julie Fisher has previously announced she will also be stepping down in the spring.

As a result, Richard Carr has been appointed managing director commissioner and Tony Redmond as lead commissioner.

Mr Carr, who will take up his post in April, will fulfil the role of chief executive and head of paid service until a permanent appointment can be made, the council said.

'Limited progress'

Lead commissioner Jim Taylor also announced that he would step down in the new year, when he will be replaced by Mr Redmond.

Carol Culley and Mervyn Greer remain as commissioners.

Council leader Ann-Marie Barker said: “I’m pleased that the commissioners have recognised the council’s hard work and the progress we have made in their second report, while setting out clearly the very significant challenges the council continues to face.

“The intervention model in Woking is working well and we are fortunate that we will have the experience of Sir Tony Redmond and Richard Carr to help us.

“I’m delighted that Julie Fisher has kindly agreed to stay on as chief executive until April to ensure that the council has the senior leadership it needs over that period and to enable an effective handover to Richard.”