Lancashire County Council: Excellent

Feb 7 2008 by David Bartlett, Liverpool Daily Post

LANCASHIRE County Council has received a maximum four stars for its services for the fourth year running.

The Audit Commission praised the council for promoting healthy lifestyles, working well to cut crime and boosting the economy.

Inspectors said managers were focused on saving money through improved efficiency, confirming last week’s announcement that it has also achieved top marks for its use of resources.

Initiatives to connect with communities and provide better access to services were also singled out as ways the council is continuing to improve.

Council leader Hazel Harding said: “This is good news for everyone as it means they are receiving some of the best local government services in the country.

“We have achieved this by focusing clearly on the things that are most important to people.”