Waverley Council Faces Scrutiny Over Delayed Freedom of Information Response

Waverley Borough Council is under fire for failing to respond to a Freedom of Information (FoI) request submitted by resident Maria Dobson on July 11, 2023. The request, which sought detailed information about costs incurred by the council in relation to the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), has not been addressed despite multiple follow-ups and intervention from local councillor Jane Austin, leader of the Conservative Group at Waverley.

Under statutory obligations, councils are required to respond to FoI requests within 20 working days. Dobson’s request aimed to uncover the expenses associated with managing objections and challenges from CIL campaigners. Despite a holding message dated August 20 indicating delays due to summer holidays, the council has not provided any further information, nor has it responded to Dobson’s direct inquiries.

Concerns Over Transparency

The lack of response has raised serious concerns regarding the council’s commitment to transparency and accountability, particularly when significant taxpayer funds are at stake. Dobson highlighted that Waverley is currently holding a substantial amount of CIL money, generating considerable interest income. This situation prompts questions about whether the council’s decisions are influenced by financial considerations rather than fairness.

Other councils, such as West Berkshire, have addressed similar issues and have even offered assistance to Waverley in rectifying perceived injustices related to CIL. However, it appears that Waverley has declined this support, further fueling suspicions about its handling of the funds.

Dobson, who has campaigned against the perceived unfairness of CIL for nearly a decade, shared her own experience of navigating bureaucratic errors at West Berkshire Council. After persistent efforts, she successfully received a refund, illustrating that transparency and accountability can lead to resolutions. Her experience underscores the necessity for authorities to provide clear information and act responsibly.

Public Trust at Stake

The council’s failure to respond to a straightforward FoI request threatens to undermine public trust and raises concerns about potential information being concealed from scrutiny. Dobson emphasized that the public has a right to know how taxpayer money is being spent, particularly regarding legal defenses related to CIL decisions. Transparency in this area is not merely a legal requirement; it is a moral obligation.

“Ignoring legitimate requests while simultaneously citing legal constraints to avoid refunding residents suggests a troubling double standard,” Dobson stated.

As the situation develops, it remains crucial for Waverley Borough Council to address these concerns and fulfill its obligations to residents. The public expects accountability, particularly when it involves the management of substantial public funds.

The Guildford Dragon has reached out to Waverley Borough Council for comment regarding this matter.