Highland Council 'doing well, but could do better'

HIGHLAND Council has strong leadership and is focused on issues that matter to local people, but needs to better demonstrate value for money.

That was the conclusion of an audit by the Accounts Commission, published today, which found that the authority is generally delivering good-quality services, resulting in high and improving levels of customer satisfaction.

However, it said that some improvement was required in areas such as adult social work and the management of housing rent arrears.

The audit also said the council should urgently make progress on its review of pay and terms and conditions.

In addition, it is being urged to resolve legacy issues from former district and regional councils that have been outstanding for some years and present a "significant financial and staff morale risk". These include bonus schemes, working hours and holiday entitlement from schemes that changed in 1996.