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In a Best value report published today the Accounts Commission says Edinburgh City Council displays many of the features of a Best Value council, including many examples of good service delivery.
However some services, such as refuse collection and the processing of planning applications, still need to improve.
Accounts Commission Chair Alastair MacNish said: “Edinburgh displays many of the features of a Best Value council. Its clear and ambitious vision is directly linked to service planning and budgeting. It has clear direction and accountability and effective arrangements for scrutiny, risk, asset and performance management, and the council is making progress on equalities and sustainable development. There are many examples of good service delivery and improvements are being made in key services such as housing.
“With these sound corporate arrangements in place the council should be in a position to secure continuous improvement across all services. It needs to work on getting better outcomes for the people of Edinburgh in a number of areas. In particular refuse collection, street cleanliness and repair and the processing of planning applications need to improve.”
The report recognises the context in which the council operates.
It notes the challenges and opportunities brought by its role as Scotland’s capital, which can work to the city’s advantage, yet also places pressure on services.
In addition the council has to manage significant contrasts within the City between affluent and deprived areas.
The Commission also points to the need for the council to review the competitiveness of some of its services, which is another key Best Value requirement.
It says that firm plans should be established to market test the competitiveness of the refuse collection service by tendering.
Mr MacNish concluded: “The Commission looks forward to receiving an Improvement Plan from the council which responds to the audit report and our findings. Progress will be monitored against the plan."
