The claims are vehemently denied by Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen who requested the inquiry to “nip allegations of wrongdoing in the bud”. Mr Houchen has now confirmed the report is expected mid-December 2023, but noted it may not be published until January. The government commissioned the review which is also looking into Tees Valley Combined Authority’s (TVCA) oversight of the South Tees Development Corporation and Teesworks Joint Venture. Mr Houchen said the TVCA will be able to check over the document for “factual errors” before it is published. Cllr Chris McEwan, Labour’s candidate to run for Tees Valley Mayor in next year’s election, said: “It’s disappointing to hear that this report is being delayed.

Source: The Times November 22, 2023 21:07 UTC