A COUNCIL has pledged to improve its service after damning criticism from the Audit Commission.

The performance of Chester-le-Street District Council between 2000 and 2003 was described as 'poor' in the Comprehensive Performance Assessment, released last week.

Council leaders said that the problems arose because of how the authority had been managed in the past.

They said that the council elected last year was making changes, pledging to turn around the fortunes of its troubled housing department and give tenants more of a say, as well as tackling problems with staffing at the council.

Council leader Linda Ebbatson said: "The council sees the performance assessment judgement as fair and accurate.

"We can admit that mistakes were made, but there is no reason to repeat them and every reason to correct them."

Coun Ebbatson said the council had attracted £200,000 in additional funding towards improving its service to the community.

She said it had produced strategy documents identified by the commission as necessary to tackle problems in the housing department.

The council is seeking to work with the office of the Deputy Prime Minister and the Audit Commission to enhance further improvements.

Coun Ebbatson said: "I am determined to take this process forward with the executive and full council.

"I have been encouraged by the support we've had in making the changes since May 2003.

"At times it has been a frustrating process but our approach is tempered by realism."

Durham North MP Kevan Jones said he had faith in the new leadership at the council.