Praise for improving economy

Investment and continuing development of Malvern's science park was just one of the reasons given for the Audit Commission's two-star Good Service rating.

Following an independent report into the council's best value initiative, the commission praised its "clear and challenging" drive for prosperity in the area, delivery of effective services to business and projects for the wider community.

And its successful lobbying for Rural Regeneration funding and Worcestershire/Birmingham's Technology Corridor status was also given a resounding thumbs-up.

Chief executive Chris Bocock said it was a great result and a credit to the hard work put in by council staff.

"It recognises the commitment of those who are actively working to improve the economic prosperity of our district," he said.

"There is a programme of improvements now in place for the next few years, which will continue to improve this prosperity."

Other successes include Malvern's Planning for Real Work in Langland, Ripple and Suckley, and its Community Safety project, which involves young people in decision-making and wiping out crime on business estates.

Future plans include recruiting a community development worker to build up relationships within the district, identify small-scale projects and respond to issues raised by the Community Strategy.

A Town Centres Regeneration officer is also set to be appointed next year to encourage and enhance the vitality and viability of Malvern, Upton-upon-Severn and Tenbury Wells.

In terms of the district's rural economy, the council will continue to develop its Centre of Excellence for the Rural Economy and Services (CERES) project, in conjunction with the Three Counties Agricultural Society.

This aims to provide management development training and support to hard-hit agricultural, tourism and service businesses.

Consultants have already been appointed to undertake the first phase with a final report expected next month.