ENVIRONMENTAL services in the borough have been given a one-star rating in a report by a local government watchdog. Welwyn Hatfield Council received a 'fair' mark by the Audit Commission, which added the service had uncertain prospects for improvement .

ENVIRONMENTAL services in the borough have been given a one-star rating in a report by a local government watchdog.

Welwyn Hatfield Council received a 'fair' mark by the Audit Commission, which added the service had "uncertain prospects for improvement".

The report examined the appearance of the borough, and assessed how the council was managing and improving the environment.

The Commission found that consultation with the local community, particularly disadvantaged groups, was "not effective".

Paul Zukowskyj, Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate hit out at the council following the report's publication.

He told the WHT: "Communication and management is clearly not the council's strong point, even with other councils, let alone its residents.

"This is really unacceptable and needs to improve significantly and very soon."

But councillor Clare Berry, executive member for environment and community services, said the service was improving all the time.

"We disagree with the assessment of our prospects for improvement as being 'uncertain' as we have consistently demonstrated our capacity to improve year on year, and we will continue to do so.

The report did acknowledge the council was "responsive to issues raised by the local community", and the appearance of the area and general awareness of environmental issues was improving through council initiatives.

Cllr Berry added: "We are pleased the Audit Commission has recognised the good work we are doing over a range of environmental issues.

"We are committed to maintaining and improving the area and will undertake the Audit Commission's recommendations for improvement.