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Regeneration – fair service says Audit Commission |
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Boston Borough Council provides a fair regeneration service which is helping to attract more people into the town centre through its focus on retail development.
The Audit Commission inspection of regeneration in the borough found that the council provides a fair one star service because it consults well with the public, it has helped to put in place infrastructure which is supporting business growth, it’s helped to improve transport links and the vitality of the town centre is on the right tracks thanks to retail development.
In the report published today, Thursday 11 February, inspectors have looked at how regeneration has been delivered and its prospects for improvement. They found that the service is fair, but that at this moment in time its prospects for improving to a good service are poor.
Cllr Richard Dungworth, Cabinet member for regeneration said: “I’m pleased that the inspectors have noted the success of regeneration in Boston, and that their report helps the council to focus on the key issues going forwards.
“It is rewarding for staff and members to see that this council’s focus on regeneration has been recognised and this inspection report and its recommendations gives the council a blueprint for the future.”
“Naturally it is disappointing that inspectors were not more confident about our future prospects, but given the timing of the inspection and the winding up of Boston Area Regeneration Company that is understandable.”
In the report inspectors highlighted the council’s good work with partners and its neighbourhood working which is dealing with issues of real concern in specific areas. It points to the council’s good understanding of population change, its work with the voluntary sector and its work on engaging with people e.g. Big Boston Clean Up, and 11 Million Day events with school children.
Inspectors noted that the development of the Boston Enterprise Centre has provided a focus for supporting businesses and enterprise in the area and that work with partners such as Boston College and Business Link is growing.
Recommendations in the Audit Commission’s report are:
• Produce action plans that set out specific targets for regeneration
• Develop an up to date economic strategy
• Put in place the arrangements to replace BARC (Boston Area Regeneration Company)
• Ensure systems are in place to build a good understanding of value for money
• Strengthen performance management
Full Audit Commission Regeneration Report |
Council News 
