Environment services provided by Forest Heath District Council, including waste and recycling, street scene and open spaces, have been given a ‘Good’ two-star rating by independent watchdog, the Audit Commission.

Listing the Council’s strengths, the Commission’s report highlights the Council’s very high standard of recycling and composting, street cleansing, litter clearance and management of open spaces and country parks. The Council’s Strategic Director (Services) Nigel McCurdy said: “I am delighted that the commitment and energy of all our staff in delivering quality services and improving the public’s environment on a daily basis have been recognised in this very positive way.”

Cllr Tony Simmons, Member Champion for the Environment, said: “We’re very pleased with this ‘good’ rating. Our environment and countryside teams work hard and consistently provide good services. Our initiatives keep Forest Heath as one of the top waste collection and recycling councils in the country and we have a high quality natural environment that we protect and enhance for our communities. The report identifies need for further improvement on climate change and sustainability and we will be working positively on those in the coming months.”