Guildford Borough Council recognised at LGC Awards 2026
We've been awarded Bronze at the Local Government Chronicle (LGC) Awards 2026, held on Wednesday 10 June 2026.
The LGC Awards recognise good practice across local government and highlight the work of councils, councillors and officers in delivering services and improving outcomes for their communities.
The award comes after a challenging period for the council, during which a programme of improvement has been underway to strengthen governance, stabilise finances and improve services for residents.
It reflects the ongoing efforts of staff and councillors across the organisation, who continue to work hard to address key issues and lay stronger foundations for the future.
In recent years, we've focused on a range of improvements, with early signs of progress that include:
Better homes for residents
- Repairs response times improved by 38%
- 16,000 responsive repairs completed, with 98.8% of emergency repairs delivered within priority timescales
- Achieving a C1 consumer standard grading from the Regulator of Social Housing
Stronger financial position
- A balanced budget set for the next two years
- Improved non-ringfenced reserves
A more engaged workforce
- 71% of staff report feeling motivated to deliver their best
- Six inclusive employee networks established this year
Improved resident experience
- Call waiting times reduced from two hours to around 90 seconds
- On-time responses to Stage 1 Housing Complaints improved by 78%
Governance and assurance
- Strengthened internal controls and improved Internal Audit opinions
- The Independent Assurance Panel noted a significant reduction in the risk of failing Best Value Duty
Leader of Guildford Borough Council, Councillor Julia McShane said:
"I'm so pleased that Guildford Borough Council has been recognised in this way. This award really belongs to everyone whose hard work, determination and care for our communities have made such a difference over the past few years.
"It hasn't always been easy, but together we've made significant steps forward in improving our services, strengthening our finances and rebuilding trust with our residents. I'm incredibly proud of what we've achieved so far and we'll continue working to deliver the high-quality services our residents deserve."
We remain committed to continuing our improvement journey and delivering lasting, positive change for everyone who calls Guildford borough home.
Published on: 11 June 2026