A HAMPSHIRE council has been praised for its performance in services.

Following an independent review, Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) has been applauded for its performance of its approach to providing services and working with partners.

A corporate peer challenge team, made up of representatives from other local authorities and the Local Government Association, visited TVBC at the end of October.

Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, Councillor Phil North, said: “I’m delighted by the feedback from the corporate peer challenge and would like to thank my colleagues and my hardworking council officers who go above and beyond to deliver services for local residents.

“Of course, there will always be areas where we can improve and we have received some helpful guidance from the peer team regarding where we can best focus our efforts over the coming months and years.

“I feel very proud to be the leader of a council where members and staff alike are absolutely committed to supporting local communities and helping them to thrive.”

The results of the review, led by Malvern Hills and Wychavon District Council chief executive Jack Hegarty, and leader of Sevenoaks District Council Peter Fleming, are set to be discussed at a TVBC cabinet meeting on January 16.

The peer challenge report praised the council as being a “well-led” and “effectively managed” authority, with a strong track record of good investments and service delivery.

It highlighted TVBC’s financial position as well as its focus on longer term financial planning to ensure its sustainability.