A TROUBLED council has appointed a permanent chief executive.

Roy Templeman will take over at Chester-le-Street District Council from interim boss Bernadette Marjoram, who has held the post since September.

Previous chief executive Mike Waterson was on sick leave and left in November.

The chief executive, director of development, personnel manager and housing manager have all left in the past 12 months.

The council was criticised earlier this year in a report by the Audit Commission, which described its performance between 2000 and last year as poor.

Councillor Linda Ebbatson said: "We needed to recruit an outstanding individual, someone of a high calibre and considerable management experience, someone with the capability to meet the challenges currently facing the council and more.

"I consider this appointment to be a major step, if not the major step, on the council's journey to all-round success."

Mr Templeman has worked in York for the past six years as director of environment and development services.

He oversaw improvements to the transport system, including a successful park-and-ride scheme.

The council became a centre of excellence and was transport authority of the year last year.

Mr Templeman said: "There are many challenges to be tackled, but I see them as opportunities to improve service delivery to benefit the residents and tenants in Chester-le-Street.

"This is an exciting time for the council and I relish the prospect of playing a leading role in shaping the futures of those who live in, work in and visit Chester-le-Street.

"The council is already making significant improvements and has a vision and commitment to work with others to respond to the needs and aspirations of our community and improve the quality of public services."