Town Council Achieves Quality Status

Shrewsbury Town Council is well known to the majority of Shewsbury residents and businesses - but what people may not realise, is that the Town Council has recently been awarded Quality Status through a scheme which is administered by the National Association of Local Councils (NALC).

The Quality Parishes Scheme was introduced in 2003 as part of a drive by the Government and parish council bodies, to modernise local government and ensure that parish and town councils are in touch with the communities that they serve on a daily basis.

It recognises those councils that have demonstrated the ability to work effectively within set standards to provide a representative and active body capable of playing a stronger role in the community.

To earn the status, Shrewsbury Town Council demonstrated to an independent panel that it has a qualified clerk, holds regular public meetings, communicates with the community consistently and effectively - and maintains accurate and transparent financial records.

Speaking of the achievement, Town Clerk Helen Ball said: “The awarding of Quality Status sends out a clear message that Shrewsbury Town Council is well positioned to act for and on behalf of the people of Shrewsbury. It shows that we are able to deliver excellent services and value for money to the town’s residents."

Chairman of NALC, Councillor Michael Chater OBE said: “I am delighted that Shrewsbury Town Council has demonstrated its clear commitment to good governance and standards of practice through achieving the Quality Status.”

For more information on Quality Status and what is involved in achieving the mark, visit www.nalc.gov.uk