A recently released report from the Audit Commission show a marked deterioration in the Council’s performance.

The report says 47% of the Council’s Performance Indicators improved. The national average is over 60% and under last year’s Liberal Democrat administration 68% improved.

Last year the Audit Commission said those most at risk were receiving better benefits and homelessness services. Now concern over the time taken to process Housing Benefit claims has dropped the Council’s score from 3 out of 4 last year to 2 out of 4 now.

In Housing, where Luton has traditionally performed well, the Audit Commission’s score has dropped from 4 out of 4 in 2006 to 3 out of 4 now.

The report makes it clear current performance is well below the average for similar councils.

There are areas where the Audit Commission praises Luton’s performance. They quote the new Business Centre and the prize winning St.George’s Square. All key achievements of the previous Liberal Democrat administration.

The Commission mentioned recycling where the Liberal Democrat administration recycled 31% of the waste collected – up from 14% four years earlier.

“Their report makes it clear current performance is well below the average for similar councils.” says Liberal Democrat Leader of the Opposition, Councillor David Franks.

“Labour councillors really must stop concentrating on their pet schemes and start running the Council in the best interests of all Luton residents.”