A NEW report by government auditors into the performance of Blackpool Borough Council shows that most standards of service have not changed since last year.

The report, published in December, is based upon a Comprehensive Performance Assessment inspection carried out by visiting auditors earlier this year.

It shows virtually no change in the unitary authority's service scores from it's result in December 2002.

Overall the council received the same 'Fair' rating as the previous year on the Audit Commission's five point scale starting at 'Excellent' and ending at 'Weak'.

Areas such as Education, Housing, Social Care for adults and children, Libraries and Leisure, Education, Benefits and Council Ability, all saw no change from their previous scores

The only area which is recorded as seeing some improvement is the council's 'Use of Resources' which scored 4 -- a level higher than 2002.

Blackpool's neighbouring unitary authority, Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, received an overall grade of 'Excellent' while Lancashire County Council was rated 'Good.'

But -- despite the lack of change -- commissioners noted that the council was in a position to make future improvements.

The report states: "The council has done a lot of work to improve its own internal systems and planning processes and is developing the way it manages its performance to focus more on the needs of residents and people who use council services.

"Extra staff have been recruited and work has been done to develop the skills of existing staff and councillors.

"Blackpool Council's key task is now to focus on its priorities and the effective delivery of services.

"Based on current plans, the council is well placed to improve the way it works and the services it provides to local people."

Blackpool Borough Council Leader, Cllr Roy Fisher said: "We welcome the endorsement from the Audit Commission that services for Blackpool residents are improving.

"Their review is wide ranging and measures long-term issues and our ability to serve our local people."

Fylde and Wyre Borough Councils are set to receive their Comprehensive Performance Assessment results in the New Year.