Dudley councillors have voiced strong dissatisfaction over a two-year delay in the publication of a report detailing the failed sale of a former leisure centre on Wellington Road. During the Audit Committee meeting on April 20, members were informed that the findings from an external audit investigation remain unavailable.
The council withdrew from the planned sale after it was publicized in March 2024, triggering demands from committee members for a thorough investigation. However, despite repeated assurances, the awaited report has yet to be released.
Cllr Shaukat Ali expressed his frustration, stating, “We were promised the report at the last meeting, yet now the timeline has been pushed back again. Either the council has not provided the necessary information to the auditors, or the auditors themselves are dragging their feet.”
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In response, committee chairperson Cllr Bex Collins confirmed ongoing progress. She explained that the council’s monitoring officer has recently sent final queries to the external auditors, and a final review is now underway in preparation for an upcoming standalone committee meeting.
Despite this, Cllr Ali remained critical of the continuous delays: “No clear date has been given, which is unacceptable after so much time has passed. Between the council and auditors, something is missing, and I hope election-related distractions are not further causing postponements.”
Adding to the chorus of concern, Cllr Karl Denning highlighted that the report request first arose on April 16, two years ago. “We all want transparency, and two years is far too long to wait,” he said.
Ultimately, the Wellington Road site was sold in 2025 for £1.7 million, yet councillors emphasize the need for accountability surrounding the initial failed deal.