Audit Commission inspectors have concluded that Nottingham City Council is performing adequately and has made significant achievements which have benefited residents. The Corporate Assessment report published today stated that the Council: ".. demonstrates significant community leadership, and has a strong neighbourhood focus". Overall the Council was given a score of two out of four, considered "adequate", in terms of how well it is leading the community and delivering local priorities.

The report notes that satisfaction with the Council amongst local people is above average. It highlights that the Council has a close understanding of the everyday concerns of residents and has used this to make significant improvements. These include tackling anti-social behaviour and cleanliness, reducing homelessness, providing excellent leisure and transport facilities and getting better at working in partnership with others. The Council’s work on raising awareness about climate change was also praised.

But the report also points out that the authority needs to do much more to improve its performance across the board and to plan longer-term. Chief Executive Michael Frater, who has been with the Council for only eight months, says:

"We’re pleased with those areas where the Audit Commission has recognised our progress, achievement and improvements – there are clearly areas where we have real strengths - but we accept there is more that needs to be done. There is no lack of ambition here – we want the very best for Nottingham and its residents - but we need to demonstrate that we can provide the leadership to achieve excellence in the Council and with our partners. The most pressing priority is to improve the member / officer relationships and get the balance of roles right. Work has started with partners and community groups on developing the vision and we are giving priority to improving performance management and changing the culture."

Part of the report covers the findings of the Joint Area Review - a broad review of partner agencies and services for children and young people across Nottingham. It found that the partners have an understanding of the challenges faced in the city, and that there is good capacity to improve further.

Both inspections are elements of the wider Comprehensive Performance Assessment (CPA) and contribute to the overall star rating of the Council. The results announced today  (3 July 2007) will result in Nottingham remaining a two-star Council overall.

To view the findings of the Audit Commision on Nottingham City Council, please download the report below:

Coporate Assessment for Nottingham City Council - July 2007 (142KB)

Joint Services Review (JAR) - Nottingham Children’s Services Authority Area (220KB)

Nottingham Children and Young People’s Report (60KB)