COUNCIL `IS IN BETTER SHAPE' `Great progress' on Vale's position.

IMPROVEMENTS in the Vale of Glamorgan Council's finances have been highlighted by authority leader, Councillor Jeff James.

Four years ago, the District Auditor called on the council to take urgent action to avoid a financial crisis.

Coun James, who was elected as council leader four years ago, said ``great progress'' had been made ever since.

The council, which employs more than 4,500 personnel, is responsible for 22,000 pupils at 66 schools and 4,400 local authority homes.

Coun James said: ``When I took on my current role, departments were overspending and they and the services being provided were facing yearonyear cuts.

``Since 2000/2001 we have achieved balanced budgets, and directorates have been able to at least develop their services in line with inflation and, in some cases, attain real growth on a yeartoyear basis.''

A series of ``tough decisions'' had heralded a ``significant turnaround'' in the authority's financial position.

Coun James added: ``Quite naturally, thishas led to much greater stability for the council and, in many instances, improved services. I am particularly proud that the most recent letter from the District Auditor was particularly complimentary of the aut ho r i t y. '' He said the council still faced some problem areas, including larger than expected commitments on community care packages, which was resulting in significant overspending.

The authority also faced the costs of introducing a major new licensing regime for pubs, clubs, restaurants next year.

CAPTION(S):

# PROGRESS Council leader Jeff James says his authority's finances are improving, although it must pay for a new licensing scheme.