There were resounding cheers for Luton Borough Council’s success in the recent Municipal Journal Local Government Achievement Awards.

In competition with local authorities from across the country Luton was nominated in two awards categories, winning one and highly commended in another.

The New Homes for Luton initiative won the Community Investor of the Year category.

A joint venture between the Council’s Housing services, the Luton Learning and Community Partnership, the Catalyst Housing Group and Wates Living Space, the scheme has already delivered more than 150 affordable homes for people on the council’s housing list.

A further 200 homes are expected this year.

Cllr Tom Shaw said: “This award is a tribute to the hard work and determination of the Council and our partners on this project.

”As well as addressing Luton’s housing shortage the scheme has been a boost to the local economy, generating jobs and creating training and apprenticeship opportunities. To have been singled out as the best in the country is a tremendous accolade.”

Nominated in the Public Protection category, the Council’s Bury Park Project was Highly Commended by the judges.

The Bury Park Project introduced a new way of engaging with businesses, encouraging them to see the Council as a source of help and guidance. As a result there has been a notable increase in compliance with environmental health regulations and a boost for local businesses.

Cllr Mohammed Ashraf said: “This project involved our Environmental Health, Trading Standards, Licensing and Economic Development and Environmental Enforcement services and I want to thank everyone involved for all of their hard work. To be shortlisted and then Highly Commended is an achievement to be proud of.”

Chief Executive Trevor Holden added:  “It is good to see Luton Borough Council excelling on the national stage, bringing huge benefits to local people and providing inspiration for other authorities.  Congratulations to everyone involved.”