The good thing, though, is that "Excellent" Councils receive favourable treatment from government in grant distribution, because they have proved that they are trustworthy in not wasting public money.
Hyndburn went to great lengths (and expense - rooms at the Dunkenhalgh don't come cheap) to satisfy the Audit Commission as to their capabilities, and the Audit Commission responded to the Councils amorous advances by awarding an "Excellent" tag.
So money well spent and pay back time from HM Government? Well not exactly. The Council has received exactly the same grant as if they had been called "weak" or "poor" by the Audit Commission. The worst possible settlement of any council in England.
....errrr and its the same Audit Commission that has now been abolished, leaving its members only warm memories of their luxury nights at the Dunk.
Back to the drawing board, I think.
