Written question asked by James McMurdock (Independent (affiliation)) on Thursday, 16 July 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 2 September 2026. It was answered by Jim McMahon (Labour) on Wednesday, 2 September 2026 on behalf of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Basildon Council: Best Value

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, with reference to the Best Value Notice issued to Basildon Borough Council on 15 July 2026, on what date his Department first received information that contributed to the decision to issue the Notice.

Answer: The former Secretary of State and Minister of State for Local Government and Homelessness decided to issue a Best Value Notice to Basildon Borough Council after considering a range of evidence, in line with the Best Value Statutory Guidance. The Department engaged regularly with the Council and other relevant stakeholders before issuing the Notice and received correspondence from the Council during that period. The Department does not hold a single formal timeline of events leading to the decision. As Best Value Notices are non-statutory, there is no requirement for a representation period, and none took place.

Secondary information