Tory Financial Incompetence leaves over £21 million from developers unspent or unclaimed in Surrey

Figures uncovered by the Liberal Democrats in Surrey show that over £21 million of "Section 106" money for improvements associated with developments has either not been received or has not been spent.

These contributions from developers are used to support the provision of services and infrastructure, such as highways and education.

Figures tabled at the 19 January meeting of the County's Environment and Economy Select Committee showed that of £28,222,135 secured from developers:

• Only £6,673,711 had been received and spent on improvements,
• £11,083,298 had been received but not spent,
• £10,465,126 is outstanding.

Money that is received but not spent could end up having to be paid back to developers, rather than being used on the improvements for which it was meant.

Surrey County Council Liberal Democrat Environment and Economy Spokesperson Will Forster (Woking South) said: "This is nothing short of Tory Financial Incompetence. Money from developers that is meant to be spent by the County Council and Surrey's local Borough and District Councils to pay for important improvements is being wasted. In the present tough financial climate this is scandalous."

Notes:

1. Detailed breakdowns of every project can now be found on Surrey County Council's website under the minutes of the November 2010 Environment and Economy Select Committee here.

2. A brief summary explaining S106 funds can be found on the Local Government Improvement and Development website here.