Moray Council welcomes positive external audit report

The audited annual accounts were presented to full council on Wednesday 24 September and following the meeting are available to view on the Council website. 

The independent audit, carried out by Grant Thornton, looked at the Council’s annual accounts, financial management, and how well it is delivering services and value for money. The report gave the Council an unqualified audit opinion, meaning the accounts were found to be accurate and in good order. 

The audit also recognised progress in governance and leadership, with improvements being tracked through the Council’s Best Value Action Plan. The Council’s performance management framework was described as appropriate, and the report made helpful recommendations to further improve how performance is reported. 

While the report acknowledged ongoing challenges in achieving long-term financial sustainability, as is the case across all Scottish Local Authorities, it also noted that the Council is taking steps to address these issues. Recommendations were made to strengthen asset revaluation and capital planning. 

Moray Council Leader, Cllr Kathleen Robertson, said: “I welcome the findings of the external audit and am pleased to see recognition of the improvements the Council has made. It’s source of pride for me that governance, vision and improving management relationships has progressed and I’m keen to see that continue. 

“We remain committed to delivering best value for our communities and will continue to act on the recommendations to strengthen our financial and operational performance by maintaining momentum and ensuring transformation and pace is embedded in council services.” 

Moray Council Chief Executive, Karen Greaves BEM, added: “I’m pleased the improvements that have been made to date have been recognised in our external audit and my focus now is to ensure improvement is sustained and embedded in the day-to-day business of the council.”