Independent Audit Commission gives Council three stars

Date published: 22/02/2007

The independent Audit Commission, which measures councils' performance, has given the Council three stars out of a possible four in its Comprehensive Performance Assessment (CPA) and said that the Council is improving well.

The CPA report on Rochdale's progress since last year highlights improved performance across most priority areas, including the Council's strong commitment to improving the quality of life of its residents, partnership working and giving more independence to townships.

Children's services also did well, with key stage two results being the most improved nationally between 2003 and 2006.  Other improvements include the quality of housing, recycling rates and evidence that regeneration is addressing local inequalities.

The report also mentions areas for improvement but recognises that there are good action plans in place to ensure that this happens.

Chief Executive Roger Ellis said: "I am pleased that we have been rated as a three star Council but the most important part of this is that the inspectors think that we are improving well.

"The Council and its partners have achieved a lot in recent years but we are not complacent.  We know there's more to do to make sure the borough is an attractive, safe and prosperous place to live, work and do business.

"We take our duty to improve very seriously and will be working hard over the next twelve months to ensure that we build on this success."

Council Leader Alan Taylor said: "I am delighted that the hard work of staff over recent months has paid off.

"People in the borough deserve the highest quality services and this is clear evidence that the changes we are making are paying off."

The assessment by independent inspectors of the Council earning three stars is important because it helps to bring in funding from the government, encourages companies to invest in the borough and helps the Council to attract and retain high calibre staff.