THE leading role played by Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council in modernising local government gained national recognition when council leader Bill Taylor was invited to meet Local Government Minister Nick Raynsford.
The council was one of the first six authorities to secure a Public Service Agreement -- which sets higher targets for services in return for extra cash -- with the Government.
The 13 targets in the PSA include a reduction in children's road traffic accidents, more elderly people supported at home and a reduction in unwanted teenage pregnancies.
If the council meets these targets the borough stands to gain £4million over the next two years.
While the discussions with the Minister were to give him an insight into the lessons learned by the council in implementing its PSA before the government rolls out a second wave to all authorities.
Lancashire County Council is considering applying for a PSA.
Coun Taylor said: "I was pleased to be able to make a number of suggestions to the Minister about how the PSA process could be improved."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article