Queries raised over Eden Council’s pension funds as auditors fail to complete investigation

Queries have been raised about Eden District Council’s pension funds after auditors were unable to complete their investigation.

As part of the Cumbria local government reorganisation in April 2023, the Eden District Council was disbanded, marking a significant change in the local governance structure. The areas once covered by Eden District Council now fall under Westmorland and Furness Council.

But, the dissolution of the council has led to questions about the pension funds with the accounts remaining unsigned since 2020. This failure to complete the necessary audits has raised concerns about the council’s financial transparency and accountability, further compounded by auditors’ inability to finalise audits for subsequent years.

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Additionally, queries have been raised regarding the management of the council’s pension funds. The failed to finalise the audit now hinders the new Westmorland and Furness Council’s ability to effectively plan and allocate resources for vital community projects and services.

The audit process has also uncovered queries regarding the council’s pension funds, A spokesperson for political party Putting Cumbria First has said: “The nature of these queries requires a comprehensive investigation to ensure the protection of the pension funds and the interests of stakeholders.”

Westmorland and Furness Council are also working on the completion of the final years audits of South Lakeland Council, Barrow Council, and Cumbria County Council as well as the legacy audits for Eden Council spanning back to 2020.

The spokesperson for Putting Cumbria First said “Addressing the unresolved audit issues and restoring public confidence in the council’s financial management practices should be a priority for the new unitary council. Transparent communication, cooperation with auditors, and the implementation of robust financial controls will be essential in rebuilding trust among the local community.

“It is imperative that the Westmorland and Furness Council, address the outstanding audit issues promptly and transparently. Only through effective resolution and enhanced financial oversight can the new unitary council establish a foundation of trust, accountability, and responsible financial management for the benefit of the community they now serve.”

It’s expected the final audits of Eden District Council will not be completed until late 2023 early 2024.

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