The local government watchdog named Stockton as one of a small but select group of councils to achieve the top marks both for its overall performance - the maximum of 4-stars - and also for its ability to develop services further, being rated "improving strongly".
Stockton becomes the first 'unitary' council outside the London or big-city metropolitan areas to complete such a 'double' in the Comprehensive Performance Assessment (CPA), which allows the performance of 150 single-tier and county councils across the country to be compared. In total, just ten single-tier or county authorities in England have achieved such success.=20
Council Leader Councillor Bob Gibson said the news was good for residents and good for the North-East region, whose councils have once again come out as the best performing nationwide. He said: "I am absolutely thrilled that Stockton Council is rated as one of the country's top performing local authorities.
"I'm particularly pleased these ratings reflect survey findings showing growing satisfaction of local people both with their services and the area generally.
"These ratings are based on a wide range of very detailed measures, including inspections of services, and they clearly recognise the hard work of Stockton Council's employees. They thoroughly deserve this credit.
"We might have received the highest possible ratings but we certainly don't intend to stand still. Now our job is to rise to the challenge and maintain our ratings throughout 2007 and beyond - and that's what we are determined to achieve."
The Audit Commission's report highlighted good value for money and financial management, along with "strong progress" in priority areas.
These include education, where GCSE results were amongst the most improved nationally, and "excellent" benefits services. There have been improvements too in adult social care, and strong partnership working is helping improve health, with smoking and drug use reduced and more people using sports facilities.
The Commission says the Council "makes a strong contribution to community outcomes" and is helping increase employment and improve housing. Falling crime levels mean more people feel safe and a number of environmental awards demonstrate how the area's appearance has improved.
Councillor Bob Gibson added: "We continually focus on improving year on year and the things we have prioritised - such as our Children and Young People's Service and the Resource Service - are now judged as excellent.
The young people of the Borough are our residents now and in the future and their education is always a priority.
"Our improvement in Resources shows we deliver good quality services, invest effectively and consistently remain within budget - all important to us and to local people.
"While we are thrilled with the Audit Commission's news, we are not complacent and will keep up the good work to improve life for the Borough's residents."
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