Return of council powers is confirmed

Executive functions were given to Government-appointed commissioners after the authority was found unfit for purpose.

A year on, it has been decided that elected members can regain control of areas including public health, education, housing and highways.

Mr Clark said: “The failings at Rotherham Council were a shocking dereliction of care that should never be repeated.

“Improvements made mean it is now appropriate for councillors to take back control over some functions.

“But let me be clear, there are still significant challenges that must be overcome before local people can have confidence in their council once again.”

The council’s lead commissioner, Sir Derek Myers, said: “A large number of improvements have been made to services over the past year, supported by the advisory Cabinet, and the new management team in Rotherham is taking shape with a new chief executive now in place.

“The significance of these changes is not to be underestimated.”