South Ayrshire Council's "comprehensive approach to improvement" is recognised today (Friday) as the Accounts Commission publishes its findings on the Council's update report from Audit Scotland, which came out earlier this month.
The Audit of Best Value and Community Planning Progress Report and the Accounts Commission both highlight the good progress made by the Council since April 2009 and recommend the continuation of the extensive improvement work underway.
The Chair of the Accounts Commission particularly welcomed improvements in relation to the Council's financial position, strategic leadership, putting in place the best value building blocks and establishing a culture of continuous improvement.
"The Commission's findings reflect our own perception of our current position and make positive comment on what we have achieved over the last 12 months", said Councillor Bill McIntosh, Leader of South Ayrshire Council.
"Our improvement journey is well underway and we will continue to concentrate on how we can build on this to make even more of a difference for the people of South Ayrshire.
"We still have a lot of work to do – we fully recognise that – and we will need to do that in an increasingly challenging and changing environment. However, we know we are on the right path and will address these issues with determination and commitment.
"Everything we do is underpinned by prudent financial management and strategic and proactive planning that is designed to help us become the most dynamic, inclusive and sustainable community in Scotland.
"We are committed to achieving this and the Accounts Commission's findings confirm we are heading in the right direction as a continuously improving Council."
Chief Executive of South Ayrshire Council, David Anderson, added: "The progress recognised today by the Accounts Commission is the result of the hard work, commitment and dedication of our employees, senior managers and elected members.
"My sincere thanks and appreciation go to everyone for their efforts and I look forward to continuing to work together to make sure South Ayrshire becomes the most improved Council in Scotland."
The 2010 Best Value Progress Report and the Accounts Commission findings are available at www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/documents/SouthAyrshireProgress.pdf.