Gloucester City Council is taking decisive action to safeguard its financial future by expanding and restructuring its finance team. The council recently approved a plan to increase the team to 17 members, establishing a new management framework designed to enhance effectiveness and accountability.
Last year, the council faced severe financial difficulties, uncovering millions of pounds in overspending that placed it on the brink of bankruptcy. In February, the Government intervened with a £15.5 million emergency loan to stabilize the authority.
To support recovery efforts, the council has allocated £250,000 in its budget to expand the finance and asset management departments. These measures aim to strengthen internal controls and restore fiscal discipline.
READ MORE: Gloucester Woman Charged Following Death of Great-Grandmother After Train Station Assault
READ MORE: Winning EuroMillions Numbers: Full National Lottery Results with Thunderball – Friday, April 3, 2026
During a recent overview and scrutiny committee meeting, Chairman Andrew Gravells described the previous finance team as “dysfunctional” and “abrasive,” highlighting issues with communication and teamwork. Council leader Jeremy Hilton explained that concerns about the finance team’s capacity and effectiveness led to an independent review, particularly after initial financial problems surfaced in September.
The council welcomed Alison Turner as the new Head of Finance and Resources, a move praised as “a breath of fresh air.” Turner emphasized the collective effort involved in improving the team over the past six months, acknowledging ongoing challenges but affirming a clear plan for continued progress. She stressed that success depends on the strength of her entire team.
Labour Councillor Terry Pullen noted the report’s observation that the finance team had been “a collection of unsettled individuals rather than a team,” raising questions about the effectiveness of current hybrid work arrangements. Turner responded that the issues extended beyond office attendance to include unclear role definitions and reporting lines. The upcoming structural changes are designed to address these problems comprehensively.
Liberal Democrat Councillor Anne Radley described past conditions as “fairly chaotic” but acknowledged the team’s efforts given limited resources. Turner admitted that while the team is not yet fully resourced for all necessary tasks, she is confident that filling the new structure will bring the capacity and capability needed to fulfill the council’s financial responsibilities effectively.
With these strategic enhancements, Gloucester City Council aims to build a more resilient and cohesive finance operation, ensuring the authority can manage its finances prudently and avoid similar crises in the future.