The inspection revealed a significant lack of trust between officers, councillors, and partners, leading to the departure of highly competent staff from the council.
Jim McMahon states that 'serious concerns across areas including leadership and governance' should have been addressed internally without needing external reviews.
Inspectors described the political environment as 'toxic,' exacerbated by a 'disproportionate focus' on historical grievances between the main political groups, Aspire and Labour.
Despite good relationships outside of meetings, the report highlighted that 'backward looking debate' was impeding the council's ability to carry out necessary functions.
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