INSPECTORS have judged Exeter City Council to be a local authority which is performing well and addressing people s priorities. The Audit Commission, a body which studies the performance of authorities across the country, scored the city council three out

INSPECTORS have judged Exeter City Council to be a local authority which is performing well and addressing people's priorities.

The Audit Commission, a body which studies the performance of authorities across the country, scored the city council three out of four in its latest comprehensive area assessment.

The mark is an above average score, with four being the highest and, in contrast, one representing those who are underperforming.

Previously known as the comprehensive performance assessment, the CAA is the new framework for independent assessments of local public services in England.

The Audit Commission said: "Overall, Exeter City Council performs well. It is doing well at the thing people in Exeter think are priorities.

"The council is making progress with its plans despite having to deal with more demand for services and less income.

"It is improving the right things for people in the city including working with the police to reduce crime, recycling levels and developing Exeter so it becomes a better place to live and work."

As well as praising the council, the Audit Commission also identified areas where improvement could be made.

It said more needed to be done to improve prospects of those living in the poorest areas of the city and recognised the authority's funding issues.