Knowsley council praised for ‘significant progress’

Feb 19 2008 by David Bartlett, Liverpool Daily Post

KNOWSLEY council is performing well, according to a report released today by the Audit Commission.

The authority was not given a star rating when national results were awarded earlier this month because its child- ren services were still under review. In the report, the council is given three stars, one off the maximum of four.

Inspectors found the council has made significant progress in dealing with quality of life issues affecting residents.

But despite having good initiatives in place, the council still faces major challenges, for example in tackling significant health issues across the borough.

Gill Orme, Audit Commission senior manager, said: “The council and its partners are working well together and have made good progress in key areas. Levels of crime have reduced and housing conditions are much improved.

“The council's political leadership is inclusive, with a shared commitment to regenerate neighbourhoods and tackle social exclusion.

“However, there is still a lot to do to tackle some problem areas and the deeply-rooted health issues.”