9 June 2026

Middlesbrough Council’s financial position continues to improve, with new figures showing usable reserves have increased to nearly £26 million.

The figures mark another step forward, following the lifting of the council’s Best Value Notice in 2024. The Best Value Notice was issued under the previous Independent Mayor in 2023, following concerns about governance and financial management.

Since being elected in 2023, Labour Mayor Chris Cooke has overseen a programme of improvement, and in September 2024 the independent improvement board and the Government confirmed they were satisfied with the council’s progress, citing improvements in leadership, governance, culture and financial sustainability.

Now, new figures from the council show overspends had been reduced and the council’s reserves would rise for a second year running.

Cllr Nicky Walker, Middlesbrough‘s Executive Member for Finance, said:

“This report makes for encouraging reading after the severe budgetary challenges we have faced in recent years.

“A considerable amount of work has gone into strengthening our financial position, while enabling us to invest more than £6 million in front-line services.

“I am delighted that we are on a firmer financial footing and can face the future with increased confidence.”

Luke Myer MP said:

“When Labour took over Middlesbrough Council, it inherited serious challenges around governance, culture and finances.

“Since then, there has been a determined effort to get the council back onto a stable footing. The fact that the Best Value Notice was lifted and now reserves have risen for a second year running shows clear progress.

“There is still more to do, but these figures suggest Middlesbrough is moving in the right direction.”