‘Dysfunctional’ Isle Of Wight Council Told To Act Fast After Damning Penn Report

The Isle of Wight Council has been told it must make urgent and fundamental changes after a damning independent report described it as “dysfunctional” and warned that government intervention could follow if things do not improve quickly.

The 31-page report by governance expert Richard Penn lays bare a series of problems at County Hall — from “inappropriate behaviour” by councillors to poor communication between officers and elected members, delays in decision-making, and the damaging impact of remote working.

Warning from Whitehall

The findings were made public this week (Tuesday November 11), alongside a letter from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government sent to the council last month, confirming the government is now “closely monitoring” behaviour at the authority.

The department warned that further action could be taken if “additional assurance” isn’t provided soon.

Mr Penn said the council “urgently needs to show it understands its failings” and that change must happen “fundamentally and quickly.”

‘Inappropriate Behaviour Must End’

Among his key recommendations is the creation of a dedicated standards committee to deal with ethical governance and conduct complaints — something he described as “no longer tenable” to do without.

“Inappropriate member behaviour either towards other councillors or towards council officers must be widely seen as unacceptable,” the report says.

“Respect between members and officers must be reinstated.”

He called for a complete review of the council’s standards process, backed by best practice from other authorities, proper documentation, and training for both councillors and officers.

Further suggestions include the council chair opening each meeting by reminding councillors to abide by the Code of Conduct, and a requirement for anyone present — whether officer or councillor — to “call out” inappropriate behaviour when it occurs.

Regular pre-meeting discussions between political group leaders and the chair were also proposed, to clarify procedural and practical issues in advance.

Officers ‘Need to Work With Members’

The report criticises what Mr Penn described as a breakdown in communication between councillors and officers.

While relationships were said to be “generally positive,” several councillors told him they often received no replies to ward issues, even after chasing.

Others said policies were developed by officers without meaningful member input, leaving them feeling their experience was being ignored.

The report also highlighted frustrations that some council decisions aren’t implemented promptly — or at all.

In one example, a pensions committee decision to consult more than 30 Island organisations reportedly went untouched four months later.

Mr Penn said it was unclear whether these delays were due to limited capacity or, as some councillors believe, officers deliberately stalling decisions that don’t align with their advice.

He added that officers need to “accept and facilitate the legitimate wish of councillors” to play a greater role in policy development.

Culture Problems Run Deep

The inquiry was prompted by serious concerns from the council’s own statutory officers — including the head of paid service, deputy monitoring officer and s151 officer — who raised alarms about behaviour and culture within the organisation.

Their concerns included reports of bullying and harassment, councillors publicly criticising staff in the local press and on social media, and calls for “formal investigations” into individual officers.

Mr Penn said such actions were damaging staff morale, creating stress, and exposing the authority to potential legal risks such as employment tribunals or personal injury claims.

He also criticised a “lack of respect, understanding and adherence” to the council’s own constitution and decision-making protocols.

‘Like the Marie Celeste’

In addition, councillors raised concerns about the impact of the council’s Working From Home policy, with one describing County Hall on Fridays as being “like the Marie Celeste” — empty and lifeless.

Mr Penn said this does not help build positive relationships between members and officers, and contributes to the authority’s “organisational dysfunctionality.”

‘Moment for Reflection and Renewal’

In response, Wendy Perera, Chief Executive of the Isle of Wight Council, said the report marks a crucial turning point:

“This report is a moment for reflection and renewal — and, importantly, about creating the conditions for change.

"We are grateful to everyone who contributed to the review, and both officers and councillors are committed to working constructively to implement the recommendations once approved by full council.”

Council leader Phil Jordan and the leaders of the Conservative and Liberal Democrat groups have all said they accept the findings and will support the proposed reforms.

The Penn Report will be presented to full council next Wednesday (November 19).