What are the main challenges facing the intervention team from Essex CC as it deals with the fallout from Thurrock BC’s disastrous investment programme? Heather Jameson reports

Most councils may be battling with their finances right now. With rising demand and tight settlements this year’s local government finance settlement – due to be announced just days before Christmas – is unlikely to bring much festive cheer.

But for Thurrock, it is a different story. In intervention following its disastrous investment programme, it has now uncovered what is believed to be the largest in-year hole in its budget of any local authority.