A COUNCIL has been praised by the Audit Commission for its environmental services.

The report said Chester-le-Street District Council's services were good, with promising prospects for improvement.

An independent inspection team gave the service two stars, on a scale of zero to three, because the authority was improving open spaces for public enjoyment, through biodiversity and conservation work with communities.

It was also praised for keeping the district clean and reducing the amount of waste to landfill, while meeting recycling and composting targets.

Sarah Diggle, commission senior manager, said: "Chester-le-Street District Council has identified the environment and waste as one of its main priorities.

"It is investing and working with others to improve the environment, and provide good environmental services.

"The council is working well to develop closer links with communities through two neighbourhood management pilots which include other public sector organisations."