THE way Middlesbrough Council interacts with the community has resulted in it becoming a Civic Pioneer.

The scheme is a key part of the Government's drive for civic renewal by involving the community in the way that council services are delivered and developed.

Deputy Mayor Councillor Bob Brady, said: "It is good to know the work that the council and the Middlesbrough Partnership have done is being recognised in this way.

"We were one of the first councils in the country to ensure that community engagement is an integral part of its core business and informs all its activities."

Both organisations have been working closely with the Government Office for the North East to ensure that communities have every opportunity to influence the direction of the renewal initiative.

Improvements include plans to update the working agreement between the council and the voluntary and community sector.

Coun Brady said: "We know we have a lot more work to do to give people a bigger say in the way the town governs itself and how we try to improve everyone's quality of life."

The Middlesbrough Community Network was set up to co-ordinate the contribution of the voluntary and community sector to Middlesbrough Partnership and the council.

Chairman Emma Howitt said: "Engaging the people who use voluntary and community services in the planning, and then deciding what works locally, is a key part of our work.

"We are pleased to support this new local initiative and look forward to playing a central role in its development."