A COUNCIL’S approach to involving residents in decision making and scrutiny has been recognised with a national award.

The 2016 MJ Achievement Award for Excellence in Governance and Scrutiny was presented to Durham County Council for innovatively engaging with the public.

The award, sponsored by the Centre for Public Scrutiny, recognised the council’s Area Action Partnerships (AAP), the scrutiny review of 20mph zones and subsequent Slow to 20 road safety campaign, and consultation over devolution proposals.

Leader of Durham County Council, Cllr Simon Henig, said: “The council is committed to making sure residents are at the heart of everything we do so we’re extremely proud that this has been recognised with such a prestigious award.

“The last few years have seen major change across the county and the wider region which shows no sign of slowing down with the devolution agreement now firmly on the horizon.

“So now, more than ever, it’s vital that we not only make sure residents are kept fully informed but continue to make sure they have a major say on the future direction of their county.”

Cllr Brian Stephens, cabinet member for neighbourhoods and local partnerships, added: “It’s essential that we make sure that local people play a key role in our decision making.”