Summary: We cannot investigate this complaint about the Council’s expenditure on a large infrastructure project. This is because it is a matter that affects all or most of the people in the Council’s area, and the law does not allow us to investigate.

The complaint

1. Mr X says it is unwise for the Council to be spending a large amount of its revenue (£16 million) on a large infrastructure project in its area. He is concerned this decision will mean the Council may stop providing other statutory functions and is also worried any debt would be passed onto council taxpayers.

Back to top

The Ombudsman’s role and powers

2. We cannot investigate something that affects all or most of the people in a council’s area. (Local Government Act 1974, section 26(7), as amended)

Back to top

How I considered this complaint

3. I considered information provided by the complainant.
4. I considered the Ombudsman’s Assessment Code.

Back to top

Final decision

5. We cannot investigate Mr X’s complaint because it is a matter that affects all or most of the taxpayers in the Council’s area, and the law does not allow us to investigate.

Back to top

Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman