Audit Commission

South Kesteven District Council's work on regeneration is 'fair' with 'uncertain prospects for improvement' according to a report released today by the independent Audit Commission.

On a scale from zero to three stars the Audit Commission inspection team gave the Council a 'fair' one-star rating for its performance on regenerating the district. Some well established services, such as supporting local businesses, work very well and have led to more jobs, to better paid jobs, and to thriving businesses. But much more needs to be done to ensure the right balance is struck between between jobs, housing, and access to services.

Nigel Toms, Audit Commission senior manager, said:
'Businesses and agencies are very positive about the district as a place for doing business, and about the Council's role. The Council has supported the creation of new jobs, and attracted and retained key employers within the area. But major improvements planned for Bourne and Grantham town centres over the past ten years have not materialised. There are early signs of progress, but the Council's track record is not good in areas where it now needs to perform well, leading us to class its prospects for improvement as 'uncertain'.

Strengths include:

• The Council engages well with the local business community, and businesses get support that helps them succeed;
• Councillors have a strong and consistent vision for a growing Grantham and have got key partners on board; and
• Leadership amongst Council officers is strong and effective, helping the organisation to focus on the tasks that matter most.

Weaknesses include:

• Public consultation over regeneration is not always timely or effective; and
• Over the long term, Council plans have ensured a good supply of housing but not enough land for employment, enough jobs and local services in the right localities.

Recommendations include:

• Developing detailed plans and getting firm commitments in place to support the development of Bourne and Grantham; and
• Ensuring the public are involved at all stages of planning for the long term regeneration of the area.

Notes to editors

1. The Council and its partners were awarded £5m to support its Grantham for Growth ambitions in 2007 under the Government’s Growth Points initiative.
2. The Audit Commission is an independent watchdog, driving economy, efficiency and effectiveness in local public services to deliver better outcomes for everyone.
3. Our work across local government, health, housing, community safety and fire and rescue services means that we have a unique perspective. We promote value for money for taxpayers, auditing the £200 billion spent by 11,000 local public bodies.
4. As a force for improvement, we work in partnership to assess local public services and make practical recommendations for promoting a better quality of life for local people.
5. Further details about the role of the Audit Commission can be obtained from - http://www.audit-commission.gov.uk