Durham County Council has been praised during a national competition.
The council, which was only established three years ago, was shortlisted in seven categories of the Local Government Chronicle Awards 2012 – more than any other council.
The authority was also named as joint winner in the Management Team of the Year category, for its Neighbourhood Services, and was highly commended in the Council of the Year category and the Low Carbon Council category for its work on carbon management and energy efficiency.
Judges said Durham County Council had made “an impressive start as a unitary” and added: “Their focus on growth, engagement and on safeguarding services while making savings is really paying off.”
Cllr Simon Henig, leader of Durham County Council, said: “It is a major achievement to be named runner-up in the Council of the Year category, particularly as this is only our third year as a unitary council.
“The LGC awards are the most important awards in local government and I am delighted that our achievements have received such a high profile recognition.
“It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff and members who work hard to provide outstanding services to the people of County Durham.”
Judges said they were particularly impressed by the strong foundations the council had laid down, and its clear plans for the future; the council’s strong engagement with communities; and the way the council is delivering on its vision for a new economic future.