The report of a panel commissioned by Secretary of State for Levelling Up Michael Gove to investigate the Teesworks project to decontaminate and regenerate a former steel production area on Teeside has delivered its report.

The panel says “based on the information shared with the panel we have found no evidence to support allegations of corruption or illegality…However there has also been growing concern about operations and delivery of the Teesworks project with allegations of corruption, wrongdoing and illegality which is impacting on confidence in the project and putting future private sector investment at risk.”

The report makes 28 recommendations to improve transparency, accountability and reassure the public that they are getting value for money. You can find the report here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/independent-review-report-south-tees-development-corporation-and-teesworks-joint-venture/independent-review-report-south-tees-development-corporation-and-teesworks-joint-venture-executive-summary-and-recommendations

This is relevant to the Goole Town Deal projects because there are similarities in terms of a loss of confidence among the public because of the way the scheme is being run. The public are told what to think, little more than lip service is paid to the consultation process and anyone who fails to give unquestioning support is frozen out or given labels such and “difficult”, “troublemaker” etc.

The current intensive efforts to tell the public that having a Mayor for Hull and East Riding is a good thing should be of concern given the high handed way East Riding Council operates, with a lack of meaningful engagement, and sidelining anyone who questions or challenges.

Thank you to everyone who has signed the petition so far. Keep talking, keep sharing, keep challenging!