GOVERNMENT inspectors have praised a North-East council for its green approach to waste management.

The Audit Commission has awarded Durham County Council two stars out of three for its waste service, which the inspection team described as "good with promising prospects for improvement".

Sarah Diggle, Audit Commission senior manager, said: "The council has identified waste as one of its main priorities and is investing and working with others to provide a good waste service to local people.

"Although costs have increased as the council moves away from landfilling waste, improving recycling facilities and working with other councils to provide kerb-side recycling collections, services for local people are improving in line with council priorities."

Areas singled out for praise include good public access to waste services, and the authority's work to combat fly- tipping and abandoned cars.

Recommendations for improvement include better campaigns to encourage people to reduce the amount of waste they produce, and more recycling within some council offices.

The team also found that the council needs to establish a clear focus for keeping its own land clean.

Councillor Brian Myers, the authority's cabinet member for waste management, said he was very pleased, but not surprised, at the Audit Commission's findings.

The report can be seen on the website at www.audit-commission.gov.uk