On a scale from zero to three stars the Audit Commission inspection team gave the service a ‘good’ two-star rating. The report says that the Council has transformed the look and feel of the city centre and worked successfully with partners to improve the city’s ranking as an attractive retail destination. Its cultural quarter, and Curve, the new theatre, are adding to the cultural life of the city. The Council and its partners have also helped significant numbers of people to get jobs, skills or qualifications, although it needs to do more to improve services that impact on the prosperity of residents and alleviate deprivation.