County Hall, Newport.
For the second year running, the independent Audit Commission says the Isle of Wight Council is 'improving well'. However, it has found improvement in education is mixed and achievements remain below standard.
The commission also highlighted the condition of the Island's roads and has urged the authority to adopt a contingency plan, in case its current financial plans fall through. The IW Council’s “use of resources” score remains adequate. Assessing the authority, inspectors said it was offering improved services to the public while making good progress with its priorities. It noted that progress had been made in community safety, providing public conveniences, encouraging Islanders to take up leisure pursuits and in collecting council tax. Council Leader David Pugh said, "There is no hiding the fact that this has been a difficult year in some areas…We as an organisation have become stronger over the past year and lessons have been learned. We will continue to remain focused on improving services further and working towards becoming an excellent authority."