WE commend to readers the announcement from Craven District Council on page 14 and 15 (it is a statutory obligation for local authorities to publish such a statement in their local newspaper).

It makes interesting reading, a summary of where Craven District spends the money it takes from you.

It is also set out clearly the performance targets and how successful Craven has been in meeting them.

There are some clear success stories - the provision of a special park for people using roller blades was, as the council rightly proclaims, a model example of the co-operation between council and community. This facility is much used and much loved by the younger generation.

The council's record for collecting refuse has been lauded and this year has seen the introduction of a "wheelie bin" service. This has not been without its teething problems but the council is working hard to smooth over matters. Depending on the layout around your home, you either love or hate the new bins but what is important is that they are far safer for workers, who have had to put up with broken glass, sharp sticks, even syringes, piercing plastic sacks.

While we are all quick to criticise Craven District for its performance (and it has had some much-publicised problems in recent years), the statement does indicate the broad breadth of its services and its genuine attempts to constantly improve its service to the public.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.