Hertfordshire County Council critised by Liberal Democrats for 'spinning' survey results (From Watford Observer)

Hertfordshire County Council critised by Liberal Democrats for 'spinning' survey results

2:53pm Thursday 18th March 2010 in

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Hertfordshire County Council has been criticised by an opposition party, after a survey revealed one in four residents are not happy with the council's level of service.

Although the number of satisfied residents has increased from 68 per cent in 2007, to its present level of 73 per cent, the Liberal Democrats argue this is still not good enough.

Liberal Democrat leader Chris White said: “One in four people, by the council's own admission, are not satisfied with the way the council performs.

“Improvements in satisfaction have been made mainly in relatively minor services. Politicians who actually meet the public know how furious they are with the county council over roads, school places and social care.”

The survey revealed a increase in satisfaction in areas such as household waste recycling centres, bus services, public transport information and the registration service.

Council leader Robert Gordon said: "These are very encouraging results, which demonstrate that the majority of residents feel their money is being spent wisely.”

The survey, which took place before the decision to freeze council tax for the coming year was made, also revealed that 52 per cent of residents feel the council provides value for money.

Councillor White added: “As ever the council's spin machine - funded at taxpayers' expense - is there to flatter the image of the ruling group rather than provide genuine information.”

“At least they have the honesty to tell us that half the population don't think the council provides value for money - and even then they appear to think it's good news.”