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West Lothian Council

Specified Performance Indicators 2010/11

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1992 PUBLICATION OF STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE FOR 2010/11

In accordance with the 2008 Direction issued by the Accounts Commission, West Lothian Council publishes below the Specified Performance Indicators of the Council for the 12 months ending 31st March 2011.

A comprehensive list of the Specified Performance Indicators across Scotland will be available from Audit Scotland in 2012. Information on the performance of West Lothian Council in the current year (2011/12) will be published in the autumn of 2012.

Data Label: Public 01 The average number of working days per employee lost through sickness absence

Average number of working days per teacher, lost due to sickness or absence. sspi01a This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities to measure levels of sickness absence and was first introduced in 2008/09. The target is set below the previous year's performance and the aim is to undercut the target and minimise the number of working days lost to sickness or absence. This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

Trend Chart Commentary:

A reduction in the average days per employee lost through sickness absence during 2010/11has been achieved. The SPI history shows an increase of 0.5 days in the number of days lost to sickness absence for teaching staff from 2008/09 (6.4 days lost per employee) to 2009/10 (6.9 days lost per employee). An analysis of absence over this two year period shows an increase in the number of days lost to pregnancy related absences which are particularly challenging to manage due to discrimination legislation. It also shows a significant increase in the number of days of absence attributed to colds and flu. While swine flu is not coded separately within the absence statistics, the increase in this area is likely to be partially attributable to this.

Average number of working days lost per employee (excluding teachers) due to sickness or sspi01b absence. This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities to measure time lost to sickness absence and was first introduced in 2008/09. The target is set below the previous year's performance and the aim is to undercut the target and minimise the number of working days lost to sickness and absence. This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

Trend Chart Commentary:

A reduction in the average days per employee lost through sickness absence has been achieved.

The SPI history shows an increase of 0.1 days in the number of days lost to sickness absence for non-teaching staff from 2008/09 (13.2 days lost per employee) to 2009/10 (13.3 days lost per employee).

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02 The number and percentage of the highest paid 2% and 5% of earners among council employees, that are women

Percentage of council employees in top 2% of earners that are women. sspi02a This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities and measures the number of female employees in the top 2% of earners. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the percentage of female employees in the top 2% of earners up to a maximum of 50% This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

Trend Chart Commentary: The overall percentage of female employees in senior positions continues to increase steadily year on year. The council is committed to monitoring gender information and determining any appropriate positive action. In 2009/10 we were ranked 6 of 32 Scottish Local Authorities. The Scottish average was 38.4%.

Percentage of council employees in top 5% of earners that are women. sspi02b This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities and measures the number of female employees in the top 5% of earners. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the percentage of female employees in the top 5% of earners and to make representation comparable with the council's gender profile. This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

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Number of council employees in top 2% of earners that are women. sspi02c This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities and measures the number of female employees in the top 2% of earners. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the percentage of female employees in the top 2% of earners up to a maximum of 50% This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator.

Although there is a reduction in the number of female employees in senior positions for 2010/11, the gender profile percentage still continues to rise.

Number of council employees in top 5% of earners that are women. sspi02d This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities and measures the number of female employees in the top 5% of earners. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the percentage of female employees in the top 2% of earners up to a maximum of 50% This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator.

Although there is a reduction in the number of female employees in senior positions for 2010/11, the gender profile percentage still continues to rise.

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03 The number of council buildings from which the council delivers services to the public and the percentage of these in which all public areas are suitable for and accessible to disabled people. Asset Management - Percentage of buildings from which the council delivers services that are sspi03 accessible for disabled persons. This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities and reported on the Audit Scotland. The target is set by reference to the previous year's performance and programmed DDA works to buildings. The aim is to do better than the target and maximise the number of council buildings that are accessible to disabled people. Total number of buildings that deliver council services to public is 139 (20010/11) of these 92 are accessible.

Trend Chart Commentary:

This annual trend shows we are achieving our aim of increased accessibility for operational properties which are accessible to the member of the public with disabilities. Performance levels reflect that Asset Management have increased the percentage of buildings that are accessible year on year since through focused investment in alterations and accessibility improvements.

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04 The gross administration cost per benefit case.

Gross administration cost per Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit case. sspi04 This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities.

The numerator for this indicator is all costs associated with Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit administration including counter-fraud work.

The indicator shows the average administration cost of dealing with Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit applications. The indicator allows costs to be more directly comparable by weighting the caseload mix by using the Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit subsidy distribution formula.

This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

Trend Chart Commentary: The per case expenditure has reduced against a background of an increased caseload. Processing performance has been broadly maintained. However, we anticipate an increase in costs relating to a rise in queries and appeals. Queries will also increase as a result of the benefit changes.

In 2009/10 we were ranked 8 out of 32 Scottish Authorities.

The Scottish average for 2009/10 was £45.00

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05 The cost of collecting Council Tax per dwelling Cost of collecting Council Tax per dwelling. sspi05 This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities.

The cost includes billing, collection and debt recovery administration for both Council Tax and Water Charges less intervention income and recoveries received from the public water authorities.

This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

Trend Chart Commentary: Broadly the costs have been maintained with only a slight increase in the number of properties. This has resulted in a small decrease in terms of the cost per dwelling. However, it is anticipated that increasing costs of recovery will push up the costs of Council Tax Administration.

In 2009/10 we were ranked 3 of 32 Scottish Local Authorities. The Scottish average was £14.03

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06 The current income from Council Tax

The income due from Council Tax for the year, excluding reliefs and rebates. sspi06a Income due is the amount of Council Tax payable for the year and, excludes all water charges, and any outstanding Council Tax from previous years. The income due is used to calculate the percentage of income collected in that year.

This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator sspi06b - The percentage of income due from Council Tax for the year.

Percentage of income due from Council Tax for the year that was received by the end of the year. sspi06b This indicator shows the amount of payments received against Council Tax for the year due, excluding water charges (outstanding previous year charges are also excluded).

It is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities, and the aim is to achieve or exceed the target and maximise the percentage of income received during the year.

This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

Trend Chart Commentary: In the face of a recession and an increased benefit caseload, the level of in-year collection of Council Tax has been maintained. Even after the year has ended collection of outstanding Council Tax continues until all collectable debt is paid.

In 2009/10 we were ranked 21 out of 32 Scottish authorities. The Scottish average was 94.4%.

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07 The number of invoices paid within 30 calendar days of receipt as a percentage of all invoices paid. The number of invoices paid within 30 calendar days of receipt as a percentage of all invoices sspi07 paid. This indicator shows the percentage of invoices from suppliers paid within 30 calendar days of receipt. Thirty calendar days reflects the normal credit term period in accordance with the Late Payments of Commercial Debts (Interests) Act 1998. West Lothian Council recognises the importance in paying invoices in a timely manner. The target used is set internally by the Head of Finance and Estates and ensures challenging targets year on year which are always higher than the Scottish average.

The council paid in excess of 91% of invoices within 30 days, which is one of the highest percentages achieved by a local authority in Scotland. There has been a modest 1% reduction in performance partly as a result of staffing and systems changes during 2010/11. Although the service is now being provided by fewer staff and at lower cost, the objective is to increase the percentage of invoices paid within 30 days in 2011/12 by streamlining invoice inputting processes and improving electronic ordering systems. In 2009/10 the Council was ranked 5 out of 32 Scottish Local Authorities with a Scottish average of 88.5% of invoices paid within 30 days. FMU will continue to work with internal council services to ensure the correct payment procedure is followed, thus aiming to improve performance in this area.

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8. The condition and suitability of operational accommodation. Asset management - proportion of gross internal area that is in satisfactory condition. sspi08a This is a Statutory Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities.

Percentage of properties total gross internal floor area used by the Council to deliver services e.g. schools, community centres, offices and depots etc that is in satisfactory or better condition.

It excludes council housing and commercial property leased to generate an income e.g. industrial units & shops.

Trend Chart Commentary: This trend chart shows that property condition has continued to improve as a result of an effective investment and planned maintenance programme, replacement, closure or demolition of a number of poor condition properties. Condition has continuously improved since 2006/07.

Asset management - percentage of operational buildings that are suitable for their current use. sspi08b This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. It measures the percentage of total properties used by the Council to deliver services e.g. schools, community centres, offices and depots etc that are suitable for current use.

It excludes council housing and commercial property leased to generate an income e.g. industrial units & shops.

Trend Chart Commentary: This yearly trend shows continued improvement in the number of operational properties considered suitable for their existing use. Performance levels reflect that Asset Management have increased the percentage of operational buildings suitable for use year on year.

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09 The number of people aged 65+ receiving homecare

Number of people aged 65+ receiving homecare. sspi09a This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. Each annual target is set to equal the previous year's performance and the aim is to monitor the overall number of people, aged 65+, receiving care services in their homes. This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator

Total number of homecare hours provided as a rate per 1000 of population aged 65+ sspi09b This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. Each annual target is set to equal the previous year's performance and the aim is to monitor the rate of people, receiving care services in their homes as a rate per 1K of population aged 65+ This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

Trend Chart Commentary:

The upward trend in the number of home-care hours provided reflects the strategy of supporting people to live independently in their own homes, by offering more choice in relation to community based services. The slight dip in the number of hours provided as a ratio of the population in 2009/10 comes from a change in the method of calculation rather than a reduction in the service provided. Technical note - the 2009/10 figures have been calculated using the 2009 mid year population figures). In 2009/10 we were ranked 21 of 32 Scottish Local Authorities. The Scottish average for the number of Home Care Hours per 1,000 population was 491.2.

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Proportion of homecare clients aged 65+ receiving personal care. sspi09ci This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. Each annual target is set to equal the previous year's performance and the aim is to monitor the % number of people, aged 65+, receiving personal care services in their homes. This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

Trend Chart Commentary: In 2009/10 we were ranked 5 of 32 Scottish Local Authorities. The Scottish average for the percentage of Home Care clients receiving personal care was 86.9%.

Proportion of homecare clients aged 65+ receiving a service during evening/overnight. sspi09cii This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. Each annual target is set to equal the previous year's performance and the aim is to monitor the % number of people, aged 65+, receiving care services in their homes, during the evening/overnight. This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

Trend Chart Commentary: In 2009/10 we were ranked 3 of 31 Scottish Local Authorities. The Scottish average for the percentage Home Care clients receiving evening / overnight care was 39.5%.

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Proportion of homecare clients aged 65+ receiving a service at weekends. sspi09ciii This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. Each annual target is set to equal the previous year's performance and the aim is to monitor the % number of people, aged 65+, receiving care services in their homes at weekends. This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

Trend Chart Commentary: In 2009/10 we were ranked 2 of 32 Scottish Local Authorities. The Scottish average for the percentage Home Care clients receiving a service at weekends was 70.7%.

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10 The number of attendances per 1,000 population for pools and leisure centres

Number of attendances per 1,000 population at all swimming pools. sspi10a This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. West Lothian has a high proportion of swimming pools per head of population while higher performing authorities only have only one or two pools for their entire population. The target is set as the previous year's performance level and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the number of attendances at swimming pools. This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

Trend Chart Commentary: The 2009/10 performance is a result of the continued popularity and increasing attendances at the refurbished Livingston Leisure Centre following a period of closure due to essential refurbishment. Notable attendance increases are also evident at Linlithgow Leisure Centre and Armadale Pool. The success of membership promotion schemes during this period, also contributes to the increase in numbers. In 2009/10 we were ranked 11 out the 32 Scottish Local Authorities for the number of attendances per 1,000 population. The Scottish average was 3446

Number of attendances per 1,000 population for indoor sports and leisure facilities sspi10b This is a Specified Performance Indicator, which excludes swimming pools and is used by all Scottish authorities. The target is set as the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the number of attendances at indoor sports and leisure facilities. This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

Trend Chart Commentary: The 2009/10 performance follows the successful West Lothian Leisure membership promotion schemes implemented during the period and the ongoing increase in admissions (through 2009/10) at the refurbished Livingston Leisure Centre, reopened in the latter part of 2008/09 following essential refurbishment. In 2009/10 we were ranked 15 out the 32 Scottish Local Authorities for the number of attendances per 1,000 population. The Scottish average was 4,890.

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11 Visits to and use of museums Number of visits to / usage of council funded or part funded museums per 1,000 population. sspi11a This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. For this indicator, visits to/usage of a museum means visits by members of the public, including group visits and school visits, enquiries, through whatever medium, that mean the public gain knowledge about the museum collections and outreach visits by museum staff to specific audiences. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the number of visits to museums. This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

Trend Chart Commentary: The number of visits to museums is higher due to the removal of charges for schools, higher visitor numbers at Almond Valley Heritage Centre since opening of new Shale Oil soft play facilities and increased visitor numbers at all part funded museums

In 2009/10 we were ranked 20 of 30 Scottish authorities. The Scottish average was 2150.

The significant increase in 2010 to 2011is due to "virtual" visitors being included. Of the independent museums only Almond Valley Heritage Trust currently has the facility to count virtual visitors. The Trust estimates 20,000 visitors to its Shale Villages website. All independent museums are working towards making this facility available.

Number of visits in person to council funded or part funded museums per 1,000 population. sspi11b This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the number of visits to museums This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

Trend Chart Commentary: The number of visits to museums is higher in 2010-11 due to the removal of charges for schools, higher visitor numbers at Almond Valley Heritage Centre since opening of new Shale Oil soft play facilities and increased visitor numbers at all part funded museums. In 2009/10 we were ranked 14 of 30 Scottish authorities. The Scottish average was 1341.

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12 Library usage

Number of visits to libraries per 1000 population. sspi12a This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the number of visits to libraries by West Lothian's population. This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

Trend Chart Commentary: Physical visits to library premises increased by 930 in 2009-10, bringing the total to 696,683 for the year. However due to the growth of the West Lothian population the number of visits per 1000 population has reduced slightly. Several library premises have undergone refurbishment, and with two new partnership centres opening during 2010, we expect an increase the number of visits In 2009/10 we were ranked 29 of 32 Scottish authorities. The Scottish average was 5983.

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13 The percentage of planning applications dealt with within two months

Number of householder planning applications. sspi13a This indicator records the number of householder planning applications received by the council each year. Householder applications are applications for works to an existing house including, for example, extensions, conservatories, fences, gates, and walls. There is a specified performance indicator (SPI) which measures how many of these applications are determined within a two month period and the number of applications submitted together with the time taken to determine each application is used to calculate the SPI.

Trend Chart Commentary: The number of householder planning applications has remained the same as last year, at 372. Since 2006/07, the number of householder applications has steadily decreased year on year. The number of householder applications received this year and last is about half that received during a peak in 2006/07. Given this overall decreasing trend, the apparent levelling-off of householder planning applications between last year and this year may indicate that the decline in the number of householder applications has stabilised.

When looking at how West Lothian Council has performed compared with other local authorities, the latest information available is from the Audit Scotland's Compendium for the financial year 2009/10, which can be viewed at http://www.audit- scotland.gov.uk/performance/service/. When Audit Scotland releases the Compendium for 2010/11, these figures will be updated.

In the financial year 2009/10, the number of household planning applications submitted and validated in Scotland has decreased by an average of 12.1% from 2008/09. This is a smaller decrease than occurred from 2007/08 to 2008/09, which was 15.7%. In the 2008/09 financial year, West Lothian Council experienced a decrease of 18.1%.

Other local authorities that received a similar number of householder planning applications in 2009/10 were Falkirk Council, North Ayrshire Council, Stirling Council and Renfrewshire Council. These authorities experienced respective decreases of 21.5%, 11.0%, 6.7%, and 19.5%.

West Lothian Council's statistics were produced using the acolaid planning database, and then analysed using Microsoft Excel. Due to confidential information being stored within the database and associated documents, access can be obtained via Craig McCorriston - [email protected] or Sheila Gallagher - [email protected]

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Number of non-householder planning applications. sspi13b This performance indicator records the number of non householder planning applications received by the council each year. Non householder planning applications are all those applications submitted to the council which are not for works to an existing house. There is a specified performance indicator (SPI) which measures how many of these applications are determined within a two month period and the number of applications submitted together with the time taken to determine each application is used to calculate the SPI.

Trend Chart Commentary: The number of non-householder planning applications in West Lothian has decreased by only 3% from 506 last year to 489 this year. Since 2006/07, as a result of a difficult economic environment, the number of non-householder applications has been decreasing year on year. This year's decrease of 3% is much smaller than last year's decrease of 10.3%, which may indicate that the number of non-householder planning applications has stabilised.

When looking at how West Lothian Council has performed compared with other local authorities, the latest information available is from the Audit Scotland's Compendium for the financial year 2009/10, which can be viewed at http://www.audit- scotland.gov.uk/performance/service/ When Audit Scotland releases the Compendium for 2010/11, these figures will be updated.

In the financial year 2009/10, the number of non-householder planning applications submitted and validated in Scotland has decreased by an average of 12% from 2008/09. In 2009/10, West Lothian Council experienced a decrease of 10.3%.

Other local authorities that received a similar number of non-householder planning applications in 2009/10 were East Ayrshire Council, East Lothian Council, North Lanarkshire Council, and Angus Council. East Lothian Council, North Lanarkshire Council and Angus Council experienced decreases of 14%, 14.5%, and 16.4%, respectively, whereas East Ayrshire Council experienced an increase of 3.9%.

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Total number of planning applications. sspi13c This indicator records the number of planning applications received by the council each year. There is a specified performance indicator (SPI) which measures how many of these applications are determined within a two month period and the number of applications submitted together with the time taken to determine each application is used to calculate the SPI.

Trend Chart Commentary: The total number of all planning applications (householder and non-householder) has decreased by only 1.9% from 878 last year to 861 this year. This is the lowest percentage decrease since 2006/07, which previously ranged from 8.7% to 13.8%. The decrease in the number of all planning applications submitted is a reflection of the difficult economic environment. However, the figures from this year may indicate that the number of planning applications is stabilising.

When looking at how West Lothian Council has performed compared with other local authorities, the latest information available is from the Audit Scotland's Compendium for the financial year 2009/10, which can be viewed at http://www.audit- scotland.gov.uk/performance/service/ When Audit Scotland releases the Compendium for 2010/11, these figures will be updated.

In the financial year 2009/10, the number of planning applications submitted and validated in Scotland has decreased an average of 12% from 2008/09. This is slightly higher than the previous year, which was 11.9%. In 2009/10, West Lothian Council experienced a decrease of 13.8%.

Other local authorities that received a similar number of planning applications in 2009/10 were Renfrewshire Council, North Ayrshire Council, East Dunbartonshire Council, and East Lothian Council. Renfrewshire Council, North Ayrshire Council, East Dunbartonshire Council, and East Lothian Council experienced decreases of 16.1%, 7.7%, 13.7%, and 12.6% respectively.

West Lothian Council's statistics were produced using the acolaid planning database, and then analysed using Microsoft Excel. Due to the confidential information being stored within the database and associated documents, access can be obtained via Craig McCorriston - [email protected] or Sheila Gallagher - [email protected]

Data Label: Public

The percentage of household planning applications dealt with within two months. sspi13d This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The council's target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target, and maximise the overall percentage of planning applications dealt with within two months i.e. as opposed to the statutory target of 80%.

Trend Chart Commentary: Figures continue to show a high percentage of householder applications determined within the statutory 2 month period. The number of householder planning applications decided within 2 months has increased from 85.8% last year to 88.4% this year. The statutory target is 80%.

When looking at how West Lothian Council has performed compared to other local authorities, the latest information available is from the Audit Scotland's Compendium for the financial year 2009/10, which can be viewed at http://audit- scotland.gov.uk/performance/serviceWhen Audit Scotland releases the Compendium for 2010/11, these figures will be updated.

In the financial year 2009/10, the Scottish average for the percentage of householder planning applications determined within the two month target period was 79.9%. In that financial year, West Lothian Council ranked 11th, with a performance of 85.8%.

Other local authorities that received a similar number of householder planning applications in 2009/10 were Falkirk Council, North Ayrshire Council, Stirling Council, and Renfrewshire Council. Falkirk Council ranked 13th with a performance of 83.9%. North Ayrshire Council ranked 2nd with a performance of 94.5%. Stirling Council ranked 8th with a performance of 87.7%. Renfrewshire Council ranked 19th with a performance of 78.7%.

In 2009/10, West Lothian Council's performance ranking decreased from 8th to 11th. However, performance remained well above the statutory target of 80%. In this year, there was significant change in planning legislation that required changes to procedures, forms and guidance. In addition, streamlined procedures enabled more authorities to extend their schemes of delegation.

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The percentage of non-household planning applications dealt with within two months. sspi13e This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The council's target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the overall percentage of planning applications dealt with within two months i.e. as opposed to the statutory target of 80%.

Trend Chart Commentary: The percentage of all other applications decided within two months has increased from 57.3% last year to 65.4% this year. This is the highest level of performance achieved by the council since 2005/06.

It is important to note that this category does not distinguish between 'major' applications that have a statutory target period of 4 months, and 'local' applications whose period is 2 months. 38 (7.8%) of the applications were 'major' applications.

In general, non-householder applications tend to take longer to process than householder applications due to the varied nature of the cases. Additional information may be required from the applicant and responses from consultees are required before decisions can be issued. In addition, legal agreements covering a range of issues including developer contributions to schools and affordable housing are now more likely to be required. Furthermore, there is generally a greater referral to committee for non- householder applications than there is for householder applications. In addition, there is now a requirement that council-interest applications are determined by committee.

When looking at how West Lothian Council has performed compared with other local authorities, the latest information available is from the Audit Scotland's Compendium for the financial year 2009/10, which can be viewed at http://audit- scotland/performance/service/ When Audit Scotland releases the Compendium for 2010/11, the figures below will be updated.

In the financial year 2009/10, the average percentage of non-householder planning applications determined in 2 months in Scotland was 48.8%. In that financial year, West Lothian Council ranked 8th, with a performance of 57.3%.

Other local authorities that received a similar number of non-householder planning applications in 2009/10 were East Ayrshire Council, East Lothian Council, North Lanarkshire Council and Angus Council. East Ayrshire Council ranked 25th, with a performance of 40.3%. East Lothian Council ranked 15th, with a performance of 52.4%. North Lanarkshire Council ranked 9th, with a performance of 57.2%. Angus Council ranked 5th, with a performance of 61.3%.

In 2009/10, West Lothian Council's performance ranking decreased from 5th to 8th. However, the performance remained above the Scottish average. In this year, streamlined procedures enabled more authorities to extend their schemes of delegation. In addition, there was a significant change in planning legislation that required changes to procedures, forms and guidance. Furthermore, it became a requirement that council-interest applications be referred to committee, which can result in a long processing time.

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The percentage of all planning applications dealt with within two months. sspi13f This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities and covers both householder and non-householder applications. The council's target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the overall percentage of planning applications dealt with within two months i.e. as opposed to the statutory target of 80%.

Trend Chart Commentary: The overall performance of the development management service remains consistently high with 75.4% of all applications determined within the statutory two month period. This is an increase in performance from the previous two years, despite the number of applications being delayed due to legal agreements, the high number of major applications and the number of council interest applications which can take longer to process as they are required to be determined by Development Management Committee which meets every four weeks.

As the council extends its requirements for developer contributions the increasing number of applications that are subject to legal agreements can result in the statutory period being exceeded, although financial benefits accrue to the council. Furthermore, as this figure includes 38 major applications, it is important to note that major applications now have a target period of 4 months, rather than two months so true statutory performance is not fully measured.

When looking at how West Lothian Council has performed compared with other local authorities, the latest information available is from the Audit Scotland's Compendium for the financial year 2009/10, which can be viewed at http://www.audit- scotland/performance/service/. When Audit Scotland releases the Compendium for 2010/11, the figures below will be updated.

In the financial year 2009/10, the average percentage of all planning applications determined in 2 months in Scotland was 62.6%. In that financial year, West Lothian Council ranked 11th, with a performance of 69.4%. However, West Lothian Council had the 7th greatest number of 'major' applications in Scotland, the determination period of which is 4 months.

Other local authorities that received a similar number of planning applications in 2009/10 were Renfrewshire Council, North Ayrshire Council, East Dunbartonshire Council, and East Lothian Council. Renfrewshire Council ranked 15th, with a performance of 65%. North Ayrshire Council ranked 3rd, with a performance of 82.1%. East Dunbartonshire Council ranked 5th, with a performance of 75.1%. East Lothian Council ranked 7th, with a performance of 72.3%. It should be noted that West Lothian Council, East Dunbartonshire Council and East Lothian Council have performed within a small statistical range.

In 2009/10, West Lothian Council's performance ranking decreased from 3rd to 11th. However, the performance remained above the Scottish average. In this year, streamlined procedures enabled more authorities to extend their schemes of delegation. In addition, there was a significant change in planning legislation that required changes to procedures, forms and guidance. Furthermore, it became a requirement that council-interest applications be referred to committee, which can result in a long processing time.

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14 Repairs to council dwellings

The overall number of housing repairs completed during the year. sspi14a This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to monitor the number of housing repairs.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator. It aims to provide some contextual information on the number of repairs completed each year. Our performance on repairs can be viewed on the main performance indicator which has reference SSPI14b.

The overall percentage of housing repairs completed within target time. sspi14b This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the overall percentage of housing repairs completed within target time.

Trend Chart Commentary: Repairs performance has again improved from the previous year, this year with a 2.5% increase. This increase can be attributed to the further rollout of our automated scheduling and mobile working systems as well as improved workforce planning. The development of our systems has resulted in the provision of materials in our repair vehicles, the ability to gather customer satisfaction feedback at the point of delivery and the streamlining of the repairs categories with inbuilt flexibility where the customer requires it. Ongoing review and documentation of the associated processes ensures that service performance continues to improve and this is monitored through the discipline of a regular and robust performance management system.

In 2009/10 we were ranked 14 of 26 Scottish Local Authorities who have a council house service. The Scottish average for the overall percentage of housing repairs completed within target time was 93.1% We will find out how our 2010/11 performance compares to other authorities when Audit Scotland publish their performance report later in the year.

Data Label: Public

15 The number and proportion of the council’s housing stock meeting the Scottish Housing Quality Standard by criteria Scottish Housing Quality Standard - tolerable standard - number of houses meeting standard. sspi15a This indicator shows the number of council houses each year meeting the Scottish Housing Quality Standard under criteria 'tolerable standard' This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the number of houses of tolerable standard

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator. It aims to provide some contextual information on the number houses meeting the tolerable standard element of the Scottish Housing Quality Standard. Our performance on this element of the standard can be viewed on the main performance indicator which has reference SSPI15i.

Scottish Housing Quality Standard - free from serious disrepair - number of houses meeting sspi15b standard. This indicator shows the number of council houses each year meeting the Scottish Housing Quality Standard under criteria 'free from serious repair' This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the number of houses free from serious disrepair

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator. It aims to provide some contextual information on the number houses meeting the free from serious disrepair element of the Scottish Housing Quality Standard. Our performance on this element of the standard can be viewed on the main performance indicator which has reference SSPI15j.

Data Label: Public

Scottish Housing Quality Standard - energy efficient - number of houses meeting standard. sspi15c This indicator shows the number of council houses each year meeting the Scottish Housing Quality Standard under criteria 'energy efficient' This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the number of houses that are energy efficient.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator. It aims to provide some contextual information on the number houses meeting the energy efficiency element of the Scottish Housing Quality Standard. Our performance on this element of the standard can be viewed on the main performance indicator which has reference SSPI15k.

Scottish Housing Quality Standard - modern facilities and services - number of houses meeting sspi15d standard. This indicator shows the number of council houses each year meeting the Scottish Housing Quality Standard under criteria 'modern facilities and services' This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the number of houses with modern facilities and services.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator. It aims to provide some contextual information on the number houses meeting the modern facilities and services element of the Scottish Housing Quality Standard. Our performance on this element of the standard can be viewed on the main performance indicator which has reference SSPI15l.

Data Label: Public

Scottish Housing Quality Standard - healthy, safe and secure - number of houses meeting sspi15e standard. This indicator shows the number of council houses each year meeting the Scottish Housing Quality Standard under criteria 'healthy, safe and secure' This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the number of healthy, safe and secure houses.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator. It aims to provide some contextual information on the number houses meeting the healthy, safe and secure element of the Scottish Housing Quality Standard. Our performance on this element of the standard can be viewed on the main performance indicator which has reference SSPI15m.

Scottish Housing Quality Standard - total dwelling meeting standard (cumulative). sspi15f This indicator shows the number of council houses each year meeting the Scottish Housing Quality Standard. This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the number of houses meeting the criteria

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator. It aims to provide some contextual information on the number houses meeting the overall Scottish Housing Quality Standard. Our performance on this standard can be viewed on the main performance indicator which has reference SSPI15g.

Data Label: Public

Scottish Housing Quality Standard - total number of dwellings owned by the council. sspi15g This indicator shows the number of dwellings owned by the council at the end of each year. The target set is the previous year's value and the aim is to increase the number of council houses owned by the council.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicators. It aims to provide some contextual information on the number of council house dwellings we own, in order to calculate the percentage meeting the various elements of the Scottish Housing Quality Standard. Our performance on this standard can be viewed on the main performance indicators which have references SSPI15h, SSPI15i, SSPI15j, SSPI15k, SSPI15l and SSPI15m.

The percentage of council houses meeting the Scottish Housing Quality Standard (SHQS). sspi15h This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish local authorities who have a housing service. In 2004 the Scottish Government announced that all social rented housing should meet a minimum standard, called the Scottish Housing Quality Standard. All council houses must conform to the Scottish Housing Quality Standard (SHQS) by 2015. This indicator measures our progress towards this target The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the overall percentage of council houses that conform to the Scottish Housing Quality Standard (SHQS).

Trend Chart Commentary: West Lothian Council’s housing stock was surveyed and deemed to be of above average quality. Major elements were mostly of an acceptable condition but some areas, such as external lights to doors and insulation, required work. The surveys also highlighted that, over time, the need for investment in roofs and roughcast would increase. To support the work required to conform to the standard we have a 10 year approved Housing Capital Programme which covers all the required elements. We are investing heavily in the repair and replacement of roofs and roughcast and continue to fit large numbers of external lights and handrails. Over the last six years we have insulated all the houses that do not have the required level of insulation and we are carrying out insulation replacement works where insulation has degraded, been damaged or has settled.

In 2009/10 we were ranked 8 of 26 Scottish Local Authorities who have a council house service. The Scottish average for the percentage of stock meeting the SHQS standard was 42.4%. We will find out how our 2010/11 performance compares to other authorities once Audit Scotland publish their performance report later in the year.

Data Label: Public

Scottish Housing Quality Standard - tolerable standard - percentage of stock. sspi15i This indicator shows the percentage of council houses each year meeting the Scottish Housing Quality Standard under criteria 'tolerable standard' This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the percentage of houses meeting the tolerable standard.

Trend Chart Commentary: West Lothian Council’s housing stock was surveyed and deemed to be of above average quality, major elements were mostly of an acceptable condition but some areas, notably external lights to doors and insulation, required work. The surveys also highlighted that over time the need for investment in roofs and roughcast would increase. To support the work required to conform to the standard we have a 10 year approved Housing Capital Programme which covers all the required elements. We are investing heavily in the repair and replacement of roofs and roughcast and continue to fit large numbers of external lights and handrails. Over the last six years we have insulated all the houses that do not have the required level of insulation and we are carrying out insulation replacement works where insulation has degraded, been damaged or has settled.

In 2009/10 we were ranked 22 of 26 Scottish Local Authorities who have a council house service. The Scottish average for the percentage of stock meeting the tolerable standard was 99.5%. We will find out how our 2010/11 performance compares to other authorities once Audit Scotland publish their performance report later in the year.

Data Label: Public

Scottish Housing Quality Standard - free from serious disrepair - percentage of stock. sspi15j This indicator shows the percentage of council houses each year meeting the Scottish Housing Quality Standard under criteria 'free from serious repair' This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the percentage of houses free from serious disrepair.

Trend Chart Commentary: In 2010/11 we saw a reduction to the number of properties that were free from serious disrepair. This can be attributed to the damage done to houses during the severe winter we experienced which has had a detrimental impact on this indicator, particularly with respect to guttering. Despite this set back we are still on target to meet the Scottish Housing Quality Standard by 2015.

In 2009/10 we were ranked 12 of 26 Scottish Local Authorities who have a council house service and the Scottish average for the percentage of stock free from serious disrepair was 85.3%. We will find out how our 2010/11 performance compares to other authorities once Audit Scotland publish their performance report later in the year.

Scottish Housing Quality Standard - energy efficient - percentage of stock. sspi15k This indicator shows the percentage of council houses each year meeting the Scottish Housing Quality Standard under criteria 'energy efficient' This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the percentage of houses that are energy efficient

Trend Chart Commentary: West Lothian Council’s housing stock was surveyed and deemed to be of above average quality, major elements were mostly of an acceptable condition but some areas including insulation required work. Over the last six years we have insulated all the houses that do not have the required level of insulation and we are carrying out insulation replacement works where insulation has degraded, been damaged or has settled.

In 2009/10 we were ranked 13 of 26 Scottish Local Authorities who have a council house service. The Scottish average for the percentage of stock meeting the energy efficiency standard was 67.2%. We will find out how our 2010/11 performance compares to other authorities once Audit Scotland publish their performance report later in the year.

Data Label: Public Scottish Housing Quality Standard - modern facilities and services - percentage of stock. sspi15l This indicator shows the percentage of council houses each year meeting the Scottish Housing Quality Standard under criteria 'modern facilities and services' This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the percentage of houses with modern facilities and services.

Trend Chart Commentary: The council's extensive kitchen and bathroom programme over the last decade has provided the modern facilities and services our tenants want. This programme has been instrumental in us working towards the standard required for 2015.

In 2009/10 we were ranked 3 of 26 Scottish Local Authorities who have a council house service. The Scottish average for the percentage of stock meeting the modern facilities and services standard was 73.3%. We will find out how our 2010/11 performance compares to other authorities once Audit Scotland publish their performance report later in the year.

Scottish Housing Quality Standard - healthy, safe and secure - percentage of stock. sspi15m This indicator shows the percentage of council houses each year meeting the Scottish Housing Quality Standard under criteria 'healthy, safe and secure' This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the percentage of houses that are healthy, safe and secure.

Trend Chart Commentary: West Lothian Council’s housing stock was surveyed and deemed to be of above average quality, major elements were mostly of an acceptable condition but some areas including external lights required work. To support the work required to conform to the standard we have a 10 year approved Housing Capital Programme which covers all the required elements. Annually we have programmes that include work such as external and communal lighting, smoke detectors and bin stores. We also have a planned programme of gas and electrical safety checks.

In 2009/10 we were ranked 9 of 26 Scottish Local Authorities who have a council house service. The Scottish average for the percentage of stock meeting the healthy, safe and secure standard was 75.4%. We will find out how our 2010/11 performance compares to other authorities once Audit Scotland publish their performance report later in the year.

Data Label: Public 16 The total amount of rent loss due to voids, expressed as a percentage of the total amount of rent due in the year.

The percentage of the total rent lost in the year due to unrented property (voids). sspi16 This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to undercut the target and minimise the percentage of total rent lost in the year to unrented property (voids).

Trend Chart Commentary: The good performance recorded for void loss in recent years has been due to the robust void management procedures and performance management systems embedded in the organisation. The figure recorded, 0.6%, is on target and is typical of our annual performance in this area. Whilst in 2008/09 we recorded a marginally improved position of 0.5% it should be noted, that in the last two financial years, the small drop in performance can be attributed to the higher number of re-lets resulting from the new houses being built by the council and Registered Social Landlord's.

In 2009/10 we were ranked 3 of the 26 Scottish Local Authorities who have a council house service. The Scottish average for the percentage of total rent lost in the year due to unrented property (voids) was 1.4%. We will find out how our 2010/11 performance compares to other authorities once Audit Scotland publish their performance report later in the year.

Data Label: Public

17 Re-letting of housing stock

The average re-let times (days) for not-low-demand council housing stock. sspi17a This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities that have a housing service. It measures the average number of days it takes to re-let an empty property and only covers those properties classified as 'not low demand'. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and minimise the average re-let time.

Trend Chart Commentary: Our re-let times have increased in the last two years as a result of the higher volume of properties becoming available for letting. This increased volume can be attributed to the council's and Registered Social Landlord's new build programme. While our re-let times have increased in the last two years it is worth noting that in Audit Scotland's last published performance report relating to 2009/10 we were ranked 1 out of the 26 Scottish authorities with a housing service. The Scottish average number of days to re-let not-low-demand houses is 43 for 2009/10. We will find out how our 2010/11 performance compares when Audit Scotland publish their performance report later in the year.

The number of not-low-demand council housing stock re-let in less than 2 weeks. sspi17a1 This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator used by all Scottish authorities that have a housing service. It measures the number of empty houses that we re-let in less than two weeks and only covers those properties classified as 'not low demand'. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the number of not-low- demand houses let in less than 2 weeks.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator. It aims to provide some contextual information on the number of 'not low demand' houses we re-let in less than two weeks. Our performance on our re-let times can be viewed on the main Specified Indicator which has reference SSPI17a.

Data Label: Public

The number of not-low-demand council housing stock re-let in 2 to 4 weeks. sspi17a2 This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator used by all Scottish authorities that have a housing service. It measures the number of empty houses that we re-let in two to four weeks and only covers those properties classified as 'not low demand'. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and reduce the time taken to re-let not-low-demand house.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator. It aims to provide some contextual information on the number of 'not low demand' houses we re-let in two to four weeks. Our performance on our re-let times can be viewed on the main Specified Indicator which has reference SSPI17a.

The number of not-low-demand council housing stock re-let in 5 to 8 weeks. sspi17a3 This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator used by all Scottish authorities that have a housing service. It measures the number of empty houses that we re-let in five to eight weeks and only covers those properties classified as 'not low demand'. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and reduce the time taken to re-let not-low-demand house.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator. It aims to provide some contextual information on the number of 'not low demand' houses we re-let in five to eight weeks. Our performance on our re-let times can be viewed on the main Specified Indicator which has reference SSPI17a.

Data Label: Public

The number of not-low-demand council housing stock re-let in 9 to 16 weeks. sspi17a4 This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator used by all Scottish authorities that have a housing service. It measures the number of empty houses that we re-let in nine to 16 weeks and only covers those properties classified as 'not low demand'. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and reduce the time taken to re-let not-low-demand house.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator. It aims to provide some contextual information on the number of 'not low demand' houses we re-let in nine to 16 weeks. Our performance on our re-let times can be viewed on the main Specified Indicator which has reference SSPI17a.

The number of not-low-demand council housing stock re-let in more than 16 weeks. sspi17a5 This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator used by all Scottish authorities that have a housing service. It measures the number of empty houses that we re-let in more than 16 weeks and only covers those properties classified as 'not low demand'. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and reduce the time taken to re-let not-low-demand house.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator. It aims to provide some contextual information on the number of 'not low demand' houses we re-let in more than 16 weeks. Our performance on our re-let times can be viewed on the main Specified Indicator which has reference SSPI17a.

Data Label: Public

The total number of not-low-demand council housing stock re-let per year. sspi17a6 This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator used by all Scottish authorities that have a housing service. It measures the number of empty houses that we re-let in year and only covers those properties classified as 'not low demand'. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to monitor the annual turnover of not low demand houses.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator. It aims to provide some contextual information on the number of 'not low demand' houses we re-let in year. Our performance on our re-let times can be viewed on the main Specified Indicator which has reference SSPI17a.

The average re-let times (days) for low-demand council housing stock. sspi17b This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities that have a housing service. It measures the average number of days it takes to re-let an empty property and only covers those properties classified as 'low demand'. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and minimise the average re-let time.

Trend Chart Commentary: Of the 839 housing lets in 2010/11 43 were considered to be low demand dwellings. While the average number of days taken to re-let low demand dwelling has increased from 37 days to 38 days this is still excellent performance when compared nationally. In 2009/10 West Lothian was ranked 3 out of the 26 Scottish authorities that have a housing service. The Scottish average number of days to re-let low demand houses was 75. We will find out how our 2010/11 performance compares to other authorities when Audit Scotland publish their performance report later in the year.

Data Label: Public

The number of low-demand council housing stock re-let in less than 2 weeks. sspi17b1 This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator used by all Scottish authorities that have a housing service. It measures the number of empty houses that we re-let in less than two weeks and only covers those properties classified as 'low demand'. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the number of low demand houses let in less than 2 weeks.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator. It aims to provide some contextual information on the number of 'low demand' houses we re-let in less than two weeks. Our performance on our re-let times can be viewed on the main Specified Indicator which has reference SSPI17b.

The number of low-demand council housing stock re-let in 2 to 4 weeks. sspi17b2 This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator used by all Scottish authorities that have a housing service. It measures the number of empty houses that we re-let in two to four weeks and only covers those properties classified as 'low demand'. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and reduce the time taken to re-let low demand houses.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator. It aims to provide some contextual information on the number of 'low demand' houses we re-let in two to four weeks. Our performance on our re-let times can be viewed on the main Specified Indicator which has reference SSPI17b.

Data Label: Public

The number of low-demand council housing stock re-let in 5 to 8 weeks. sspi17b3 This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator used by all Scottish authorities that have a housing service. It measures the number of empty houses that we re-let in five to eight weeks and only covers those properties classified as 'low demand'. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and reduce the time taken to re-let low demand houses.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator. It aims to provide some contextual information on the number of 'low demand' houses we re-let in five to eight weeks. Our performance on our re-let times can be viewed on the main Specified Indicator which has reference SSPI17b.

The number of low-demand council housing stock re-let in 9 to 16 weeks. sspi17b4 This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator used by all Scottish authorities that have a housing service. It measures the number of empty houses that we re-let in nine to 16 weeks and only covers those properties classified as 'low demand'. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and reduce the time taken to re-let low demand houses.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator. It aims to provide some contextual information on the number of 'low demand' houses we re-let in nine to 16 weeks. Our performance on our re-let times can be viewed on the main Specified Indicator which has reference SSPI17b.

Data Label: Public

The number of low-demand council housing stock re-let in 17 to 32 weeks. sspi17b5 This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator used by all Scottish authorities that have a housing service. It measures the number of empty houses that we re-let in 17 to 32 weeks and only covers those properties classified as 'low demand'. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and reduce the time taken to re-let low demand houses.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator. It aims to provide some contextual information on the number of 'low demand' houses we re-let in 17 to 32 weeks. Our performance on our re-let times can be viewed on the main Specified Indicator which has reference SSPI17b.

The total number of low-demand council housing stock re-let per year. sspi17b6 This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator used by all Scottish authorities that have a housing service. It measures the number of empty houses that we re-let in year and only covers those properties classified as 'low demand'. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to monitor the annual turnover of low demand houses.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator. It aims to provide some contextual information on the number of 'low demand' houses we re-let in year. Our performance on our re-let times can be viewed on the main Specified Indicator which has reference SSPI17b.

Data Label: Public

The number of low-demand council houses remaining un-let at year end. sspi17ci This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and minimise the number of low- demand housing remaining un-let at the end of the year.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator. It aims to provide some contextual information on the number of 'low demand' houses remaining un-let at the year end. Our performance on our re-let times can be viewed on the main Specified Indicator which has reference SSPI17b.

The average time (days) that low-demand council houses remaining un-let at year end. sspi17cii This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and minimise the average time that low demand houses remain un-let at year end.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator. It aims to provide some contextual information on the average time that 'low demand' houses remain un-let at the year end. Our performance on our re-let times can be viewed on the main Specified Indicator which has reference SSPI17b.

Data Label: Public

The number of dwellings considered to be low-demand at year end. sspi17d This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and minimise the number of dwellings considered to be low demand at the year end.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator. It aims to provide some contextual information on the number of dwellings considered to be 'low demand' at the year end. Our performance on our re-let times can be viewed on the main Specified Indicator which has reference SSPI17b.

The number of dwellings considered to be low-demand at year end and at start of year. sspi17e This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and minimise the number of houses in this category.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator. It aims to provide some contextual information on the number of dwellings considered to be 'low demand' at the year end and at the start of the year. Our performance on our re-let times can be viewed on the main Specified Indicator which has reference SSPI17b.

Data Label: Public

The number of dwellings considered to be low-demand at year end that were subject to a disposal sspi17f strategy. This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and minimise the number of houses in this category

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator. It aims to provide some contextual information on the number of dwellings considered to be 'low demand' at the year end that were subject to a disposal strategy. Our performance on our re-let times can be viewed on the main Specified Indicator which has reference SSPI17b.

Data Label: Public

18 Tenant arrears

Current tenants' arrears as a percentage of net rent due in the year. sspi18a This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is generally the previous year's performance or an improvement on this and the aim is to undercut the target and minimise the percentage of tenants' arrears.

Trend Chart Commentary: This is an annual indicator and the final figure for 2010/11 was 3.8% which is marginally over target and slightly above our 2009/10 performance. It is reflective of the current economic downturn and the hardship our tenants are experiencing due to reduced income levels. A new approach to arrears management is being taken forward in our service from 2011/12 and we anticipate this will have a positive effect on this indicator. While there has been an increase in our rent arrears levels in recent years it is worth noting that we still compare favourably with other local authorities. Audit Scotland's 2009/10 performance report indicated we were ranked 6 of 26 Scottish Local Authorities who have a council house service. The Scottish average was 5.9%. We will find out how our 2010/11 performance compares to other local authorities when Audit Scotland publish their performance report later in the year.

The percentage of current tenants owing more than 13 weeks rent excluding those owing less than sspi18b £250. This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to undercut the target and minimise the percentage of tenants owing more than 13 weeks rent and £250.

Trend Chart Commentary: The percentage of tenants in serious arrears has increased from 2.3% to 3.1% which is reflective of the current economic downturn and the hardship our tenants are experiencing due to reduced income levels. Our focus is to sustain people in their homes by ensuring support and assistance is provided and where possible income is maximised through welfare benefits. Despite this focus, it was unfortunate that the number of evictions rose in 2010/11 from 44 to 55. There are a number of tenants who do not take up offers of assistance and eviction is taken as a last resort in these instances.

The service has a robust arrears process and this is why, despite our increase in arrears levels, we still compare favourably nationally. In 2009/10 we were ranked 4 of 26 Scottish Local Authorities who have a council house service. The Scottish average for the percentage of current tenants owing more than 13 weeks rent was 4.2%. We will find out how our 2010/11 performance compares when Audit Scotland publish their performance report later in the year. 42

Data Label: Public

The proportion of tenants, giving up their tenancy during the year, that were in rent arrears. sspi18c This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to undercut the target and minimise the percentage of tenants giving up their tenancy during the year while in rent arrears.

Trend Chart Commentary: There has been a marginal improvement from last year with 47.1% of our tenants ending their tenancy while being in arrears. A new approach to arrears management is being taken forward in our service from 2011/12 and we anticipate this will have a positive effect on this indicator. In 2009/10 we were ranked 21 of 26 Scottish Local Authorities who have a council house service. The Scottish average for the percentage of tenant's arrears was 38.9%. We will find out how our 2010/11 performance compares with other authorities once Audit Scotland publish their performance report later in the year.

The average number of weeks rent owed by tenants leaving in arrears. sspi18d This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to undercut the target and minimise the percentage of tenants owing more than 13 weeks rent.

Trend Chart Commentary: In recent years we have seen an increase in the average number of weeks rent owed by tenants leaving their tenancies. A new approach to arrears management is being taken forward in our service from 2011/12 and we anticipate this will have a positive effect on this indicator. The service has a robust arrears process and this is why, despite our increase in recent years, we still compare favourably nationally. In 2009/10 we were ranked 4 of 26 Scottish Local Authorities who have a council house service. The Scottish average for the number of weeks rent owed by tenants leaving in arrears was 9.2 weeks. We will find out how our 2010/11 performance compares to other authorities once Audit Scotland publish their performance report later in the year.

Data Label: Public

% of former tenant arrears written off or collected during year. sspi18e This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance but the SPI is ambiguous, combining two elements one of which we aim to maximise, the other to minimise. The

Trend Chart Commentary: It is worth noting that the methodology of calculating this indicator was changed in 2010/11 and this now includes all write offs and income not just those relating to the current financial year. This is the reason why a higher percentage has been recorded. We are confident that we are now calculating this in the same way as other authorities where the Scottish average for 2009/10 was 38.2%. We will find out how our 2010/11 performance compares to other authorities once Audit Scotland publish their performance report later in the year.

% of former tenant arrears written off during year. sspi18ei This is a not a Specified Performance Indicator. It is used by West Lothian Council to further explain the ambiguity of Specified indicator spiHS18e - the percentage of former tenant arrears written off or collected during the year.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator.

Data Label: Public

% of former tenant arrears collected during year. sspi18eii This is a not a Specified Performance Indicator. It is used by West Lothian Council to further explain the ambiguity of Specified indicator spiHS18e - the percentage of former tenant arrears written off or collected during the year. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the overall % of tenants arrears collected.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicator.

Data Label: Public

19 Homelessness The percentage of homeless persons who are housed in permanent accommodation. sspi19aiiiP This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to exceed the target and maximise the percentage of homeless cases that are found permanent accommodation.

Trend Chart Commentary: This indicator measures the percentage of homeless cases that were closed during the year where the household took up a Scottish Secure Tenancy with either the Council or a housing association. West Lothian Council continues to allocate a high percentage of council lets to homeless households, and to work in partnership with local housing associations to increase the number of homeless households they house. In 2010/11 there was a significant increase in the number of social tenancies available to let because the Council was letting its new build houses, and higher numbers of new housing association homes were built in West Lothian as part of the Scottish Government’s Development Programme. This increase in the total number of social housing lets has also contributed to the increase in the number of homeless households who were allocated a Scottish Secure Tenancy. In 2009/10 we were ranked 9 of 32 Scottish Local Authorities. The Scottish average for the percentage of cases housed in permanent accommodation was 48.6%. We will find out how our 2010/11 performance compares to other authorities once Audit Scotland publish their performance report later in the year.

The percentage of homeless decision notifications issued within 28 days of initial presentation for sspi19aiiP permanent accommodation. This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to exceed the target and maximise the percentage of decision notifications issued within 28 days.

Trend Chart Commentary: The number of decision notifications issued within 28 days of the date of the initial presentation improved significantly in 2010/11. In 2009/10 we were ranked 21 of 32 Scottish Local Authorities. The Scottish average for the percentage notifications within 28 days was 83.0%. We will find out how our 2010/11 performance compares to other authorities once Audit Scotland publish their performance report later in the year.

Data Label: Public

The number of homeless households assessed during the year for permanent accommodation. sspi19aiP This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to monitor the number of households for whom we have a duty to provide permanent accommodation.

Trend Chart Commentary: We have a duty to provide permanent accommodation to homeless households who are assessed as Priority Unintentionally Homeless. The number of households presenting as homeless has increased as a result of the economic climate. In addition, a larger proportion of these were assessed as Priority Unintentionally Homeless because the definition of ‘priority need’ is being expanded in preparation for it being abolished all together at the end of 2012, in accordance with the Government’s 2012 target that all unintentionally homeless households will be entitled to settled accommodation. The number of homeless applicants assessed as being in priority need increased in 2010/11 to 1196, compared to 1041 in 2009/10. A Prevention team is being set up in 2011/12, with the aim of helping more people avoid the crisis of becoming homeless. The long term goal is to reduce the number of homeless households through the development of a Housing Options approach to preventing homelessness.

The number of homeless households assessed during the year for temporary accommodation. sspi19aiT This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to monitor the number of households for who we have a duty to provide temporary accommodation but not permanent accommodation.

Trend Chart Commentary: Homeless households to whom we have a duty to provide temporary accommodation for a reasonable period of time, but no duty to provide permanent accommodation include households who are intentionally homeless and/or who are not in priority need. A smaller proportion of homeless households were assessed as having no priority need because the definition of ‘priority need’ is being expanded in preparation for it being abolished all together at the end of 2012, in accordance with the Government’s 2012 target that all unintentionally homeless households will be entitled to settled accommodation. A Prevention team is being set up in 2011/12, with the aim of helping more people avoid the crisis of becoming homeless. The long term goal is to reduce the number of homeless households through the development of a Housing Options approach to preventing homelessness.

Data Label: Public

The percentage of permanent accommodation cases reassessed as homeless within 12 months. sspi19aivP This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to undercut the target and minimise the percentage of homeless cases that represent themselves within 12 months of being found permanent accommodation.

Trend Chart Commentary: We provide housing support to help homeless households who have been found permanent accommodation to sustain that tenancy, so that they do not become homeless again. The greater emphasis on providing housing support has resulted in a decrease in the percentage of cases reassessed since 2008/09. There was a small increase of 0.5% in the percentage of cases reassessed in 2010/11 compared to the previous year. The Allocation Policy is being reviewed in 2011/12 to ensure it takes into account individual choice and meets the needs of homeless applicants who wish to be housed close to family and/or existing social networks that can help support them to sustain their accommodation. In 2009/10 we were ranked 8 of 32 Scottish Local Authorities. The Scottish average for the percentage of cases reassessed as homeless within 12 months of being found permanent accommodation was 6.1%.We will find out how our 2010/11 performance compares to other authorities once Audit Scotland publish their performance report later in the year.

The percentage of temporary accommodation cases reassessed as homeless within 12 months. sspi19aivT This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to undercut the target and minimise the percentage of homeless cases that represent themselves within 12 months of being found temporary accommodation.

Trend Chart Commentary: We provide housing advice and assistance to homeless households to whom we have a duty to provide temporary but not permanent accommodation, to help them to find suitable accommodation. The increased emphasis on providing housing advice and assistance has resulted in a decrease in the percentage of cases reassessed. In 2009/10 we were ranked 14 of 32 Scottish Local Authorities. The Scottish average for the percentage of cases reassessed as homeless within 12 months of being found temporary accommodation was 5.1%. We will find out how our 2010/11 performance compares to other authorities once Audit Scotland publish their performance report later in the year.

Data Label: Public

The proportion of those provided with permanent accommodation in council stock who maintained sspi19b their tenancy for at least 12 months. This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to exceed the target and maximise the proportion of homeless cases that maintained their tenancy for at least 12 months.

Trend Chart Commentary: The proportion sustaining their tenancy has not significantly changed since 2008/09. It is worth noting that some tenancies were not ‘sustained’ for positive reasons, including the tenant choosing to do a mutual exchange, transferring to another social tenancy, relocating to take up a job opportunity, or moving in with a new partner. In 2009/10 we were ranked 17 of 26 Scottish Local Authorities with a housing service. The Scottish average was 82.3%. We will find out how our 2010/11 performance compares to other authorities once Audit Scotland publish their performance report later in the year.

Data Label: Public

20 Domestic noise complaints The number of domestic noise complaints received that were settled without need for attendance sspi20ai on site This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicators, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to monitor the number of domestic complaints.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicators. It aims to provide some contextual information on the number of domestic noise complaints received that were settled without the need for attendance on site. Our performance on our average response time to domestic noise complaints can be viewed on the main Specified Indicators which have references SSPI20bi.

The number of domestic noise complaints received requiring attendance on site. sspi20aii This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicators, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to monitor the number of domestic complaints requiring attendance on site.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicators. It aims to provide some contextual information on the number of domestic noise complaints received that required attendance on site. Our performance on our average response time to domestic noise complaints can be viewed on the main Specified Indicators which have references SSPI20bi and SSPI20bii.

Data Label: Public

The number of domestic noise complaints received that were dealt with under Part V of the Anti sspi20aiii Social Behaviour Act 2004. This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to monitor the number of domestic complaints dealt with under the ASB Act.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicators. It aims to provide some contextual information on the number of domestic noise complaints received that were dealt with under Part V of the Anti Social Behaviour Act 2004.Our performance on our average response time to domestic noise complaints can be viewed on the main Specified Indicators which have references SSPI20bi and SSPI20bii.

The total number of domestic noise complaints. sspi20aiv This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to monitor the number of domestic noise complaints

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Specified Performance indicators. It aims to provide some contextual information on the total number of domestic noise complaints received. Our performance on our average response time to domestic noise complaints can be viewed on the main Specified Indicators which have references SSPI20bi and SSPI20bii.

Data Label: Public

The average time (hours) between time of complaint and attendance on site, for those requiring sspi20bi attendance on site. This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to undercut the target and minimise the average time to attendance on site.

Trend Chart Commentary: There has been an increase in the number of complaints of domestic noise settled without the need for attendance on site due to the increased level of service now provided by the Noise Nuisance Team .This team now operates a seven night a week service as opposed to the previous four nights service. As the numbers of complaints requiring site attendance has dropped our response time has improved since 2009/10. In 2009/10 we were ranked 26 of 30 Scottish Local Authorities. The Scottish average was 47.2 hours. We will find out how our 2010/11 performance compares to other authorities once Audit Scotland publish their performance report later in the year.

Data Label: Public

The average time (hours) between time of complaint and attendance on site, for those requiring sspi20bii attendance on site under ASB Act. This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to undercut the target and minimise the average time to attendance on site.

Trend Chart Commentary: There has been a 20% increase in the number of complaints of domestic noise settled without the need for attendance on site received during the year 2010/11. There has also been a 23% increase of the number of noise complaints that were dealt with under Part V of the antisocial behaviour legislation. It is difficult to ascertain the reason for these significant increases other than that which may suggest a wider social trend in playing of amplified music perhaps due to the effects of the recession meaning more people socialising at home. Furthermore as the Night Time team have now moved along with the Safer Neighbourhood Team into the newly created Community Safety Unit there has been greater awareness of the service which may have led to the increase in more people using the service. Due to the broad range of complaint types covered by this indicator, there are variations in the average time between the time of the complaint and staff attendance on site. Not all calls to Environmental Health require an immediate visit. For example, burglar alarms will be visited within a short time of being reported, but for dog barking it may take telephone contact over a number of days to establish the scale and timing of problem before visits are carried out. Visits and telephone contact will then continue until the matter is resolved. The service delivered by the Safer Neighbourhood Team is primarily one that requires a rapid response. This is reflected in the shorter average time between the complaint being received and the first visit.

In 2009/10 we were ranked 14 of 25 Scottish Local Authorities. The Scottish average was 1.5 hours. We will find out how our 2010/11 performance compares to other authorities once Audit Scotland publish their performance report later in the year.

Data Label: Public

21 The number of Trading Standards customer complaints and business advice requests received and the proportion completed within 14 days

The number of consumer complaints received. sspi21ai The indicator set reflects the number of complaints received in the previous year. The aim is to monitor the number of consumer complaints received.

Trend Chart Commentary: The decrease in the number of consumer complaints received since 2007/8 can be attributed, in part, to the implementation in 2008 of new case handling procedures in respect of complaints regarding one of our major home authority businesses, with the resultant "loss" of over 300 consumer complaints (as a Home Authority, the service places special emphasis on the legality of goods and services originating within it's area. It aims to prevent infringements by offering advice and guidance at source in order to maintain high standards of public protection at minimal cost). This decrease has been compounded by the gradual reduction in central Government spending on publicity activities to promote the Consumer Direct service (the government funded consumer advice service), resulting in fewer cases being referred to the Council for intervention. This downward trend in the number of complaints received is expected to continue following the adoption of the revised Consumer Advice, Consumer Education and Business Advice Policy in May 2011 (the policy enables consumers & businesses, through advice and support, to become more informed, confident and demanding consumers, and encourages businesses to operate in a competitive environment, and work towards continuous improvement on their trading practices).

Data Label: Public

The percentage of consumer complaints dealt with within 14 days of receipt. sspi21aii The indicator set aims to monitor the percentage of consumer complaints received dealt within 14 days of receipt. The indicator relates solely to the time taken to complete a complaint or enquiry irrespective of the outcome.

Trend Chart Commentary: The most straightforward consumer complaints are dealt with by the national helpline, Consumer Direct, leaving consumer complaints that are of a complex nature, or which require intervention, to be dealt with by the service. Many complaints require the involvement of third parties to reach a resolution, meaning the service has little control over the eventual time scale for completion. The indicator relates solely to the time taken to complete a complaint or enquiry irrespective of the outcome. Dips and peaks in performance will occur depending on various factors including the number, nature and complexity of complaints, and the number of officers available to handle complaints, in relation to other service priorities. The performance figure for 2010/11 is comparable with the previous year, although there has been a drop in the actual number of complaints received. Across the country, different local authorities provide different levels of service making it difficult to make meaningful comparison e.g. some councils do not divert any calls to Consumer Direct, meaning they handle a proportionately higher number of consumer complaints than councils who do divert. The completion performance of the former will also appear to be better as they will be handling a higher proportion of first tier advice, with little or no need for intervention.

The number of business advice requests received. sspi21bi The indicator set reflects the number of business advice requests received in the previous year. The aim is to monitor the number of business advice requests received.

Trend Chart Commentary: The number of business advice requests received in any given period will vary depending on various factors, most of which are outwith the control of the Council e.g. the number of new businesses starting up and needing assistance, changes to legislation that affect existing business etc. The major decrease in the number received between 2007/8 and 2008/9 may in part be attributed to improvements to the information made available to businesses on the Council's website, and also to the economic downtown.

Data Label: Public

The percentage of business advice requests dealt with within 14 days of receipt. sspi21bii The indicator set aims to monitor the percentage of business advice requests received dealt within 14 days of receipt. The indicator relates solely to the time taken to complete a request or enquiry irrespective of the outcome.

Trend Chart Commentary: Year on year improvements in performance between 2006/7 and 2009/10 can be attributed to improvements in the management of case handling. The slight dip in performance in 2010/11 of 1.6% may in part be a reflection of working days 'lost' during the severe weather in December/January that prevented staff from progressing casework.

Data Label: Public

22 The percentage of the road network that should be considered for maintenance treatment.

Overall percentage of the Road Network which should be considered for maintenance treatment. sspi22 This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to undercut the target and minimise the percentage of the Road network which requires maintenance treatment. This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

The whole of the A Class network, 50% of the B Class and 25% of the C and U Class is checked through a national road condition machine based survey. The output from this survey indicates the percentage of the network which should be considered for detailed investigation and then future maintenance.

West Lothian Council currently maintains over 1000 km of Road Network: A Class: 152 km B Class: 118 km C Class: 116 km U Class: 92.5 km Urban (Housing Estates etc): 526 km

Trend Chart Commentary: The condition of the Overall road network has improved from 32.20% to 31.70% which equates to 0.5% improvement. The extreme winter conditions of 2009/10 in which we experienced freeze/thaw conditions and the subsequent affect of water damage over the period affected the condition of the network in particularly our C class network has remained in poor order and further investment during 11/12 will address this position. The figures from across Scotland indicate that all authorities performance in this area is slipping with all Council's now experiencing the effects of the severe winter weather on their network as well budget pressures.

The Council's overall national ranking has improved from 8th to 6th position for the whole of Scotland. The general trend across Scotland for Road Condition is a deteriorating one with the Scottish Average for all Classes of roads deteriorating.

Data Label: Public

Percentage of the A class roads which should be considered for maintenance treatment. sspi22i This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to undercut the target and minimise the percentage of the Road network which requires maintenance treatment. This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

The whole of the A Class network is checked through a national road condition machine based survey. The output from this survey indicates the percentage of the network which should be considered for detailed investigation and then future maintenance.

West Lothian Council currently maintains 152 km of A Class Road Network (15% of the overall road network)

Trend Chart Commentary: The condition of the A class network has dropped from 18.60% to 19.90% which equates to 1.3% deterioration. The reason for this deterioration can be mostly put down to the extreme winter conditions of 2009/10 in which we experienced freeze/thaw conditions and the subsequent affect of water damage over the period. The figures from across Scotland indicate that all authorities performance in this area is slipping with all Council's now experiencing the effects of the severe winter weather on their network as well budget pressures

The Council's overall ranking position has remained constant at 2nd position for the whole of Scotland.

Data Label: Public

Percentage of the B class roads which should be considered for maintenance treatment. sspi22ii This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to undercut the target and minimise the percentage of the Road network which requires maintenance treatment. This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

50% of the B Class road network is checked through a national road condition machine based survey. The output from this survey indicates the percentage of the network which should be considered for detailed investigation and then future maintenance.

West Lothian Council currently maintains 118 km of B Class Road Network (12%% of the overall road network)

Trend Chart Commentary: The condition of the B class network has improved from 32.20% to 29.30% which equates to 2.9% improvement. The reason for this improvement has been because of a concentration in budget and improvement works on the poor areas of the B class network.

The Council's overall ranking position has improved from 16th to 10th for the whole of Scotland. The general trend across Scotland for Road Condition is a deteriorating one with the Scottish Average for all Classes of roads deteriorating.

Data Label: Public

Percentage of the C class roads which should be considered for maintenance treatment. sspi22iii This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to undercut the target and minimise the percentage of the Road network which requires maintenance treatment. This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

25% of the C Class road network is checked through a national road condition machine based survey. The output from this survey indicates the percentage of the network which should be considered for detailed investigation and then future maintenance.

West Lothian Council currently maintains 116 km of C Class Road Network (11.5% of the overall road network)

Trend Chart Commentary: The condition of the C class network has dropped from 44.90% to 46.10% which equates to 1.2% deterioration. The reason for this deterioration can be mostly put down to the extreme winter conditions of 2009/10 in which we experienced freeze/thaw conditions and the subsequent affect of water damage over the period. However The Council's overall ranking position has improved from 28th to 27th for the whole of Scotland which is still considered to be a poor position. The figures from across Scotland indicate that all authorities performance in this area is slipping with all Council's now experiencing the effects of the severe winter weather on their network as well budget pressures. The general trend across Scotland for Road Condition is a deteriorating one with the Scottish Average for all Classes of roads deteriorating.

To address this and to improve our road condition a significant investment (Approx. £1 million in 2011/2012) of surface dressing will be carried out over our C class network this year with the expectation of significantly improving our ranking and condition.

Data Label: Public

Percentage of the Unclassified roads which should be considered for maintenance treatment. sspi22iv This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to undercut the target and minimise the percentage of the Road network which requires maintenance treatment. This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

25% of the U Class network is checked through a national road condition machine based survey. The output from this survey indicates the percentage of the network which should be considered for detailed investigation and then future maintenance.

West Lothian Council currently maintains 92.5 km of U Class Road Network (9% of the overall road network)

Trend Chart Commentary: The condition of the U class network has improved from 33.5% to 32.6% which equates to 0.9% improvement. The reason for this improvement has been because of a concentration in budget on the poor areas of the U class network.

The Council's overall ranking position has improved form 9th to 2nd for the whole of Scotland which is in line with our A class Roads. The general trend across Scotland for Road Condition is a deteriorating one with the Scottish Average for all Classes of roads deteriorating.

Data Label: Public

23 The net cost of refuse collection and disposal Net cost of refuse collection per premise. sspi23a This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to undercut the target and minimise the overall cost of refuse collection. This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

Trend Chart Commentary: The cost of collection in 2010/ 11 is £77.61. This is an increase of £3.76 per premise (households and commercial) compared to 09/10 figure of £73.85. The 10/11 increase, of approximately 5%, is mainly due to the following:

Service disruptions due to severe weather were greater than last year with collections suspended for more 3 weeks. For both this and the waste dispute, the council was required to deploy additional resources to minimise the impact on customers, including emergency tipping points. Additional staff were employed to recover quickly from the backlog of unemptied bins. Overall customer satisfaction with the service has increased this year compared to last year

Fuel costs have also risen due to an increase in the unit price of fuel.

Comparison ranking between Local Authorities for this indicator for 2010/11 is not yet available. In 2009/10 we were ranked 24 of 32 Scottish Local Authorities. The Scottish average was £66.22 When compared with other councils for last year for the SPI "Percentage of municipal waste recycled", West Lothian were ranked 9th of 32 Scottish Local Authorities. We narrowly missed being in the top quartile by 0.1%. The Scottish average was 36.7%. West Lothian achieved the Scottish Government 2010 target for recycling of 40%, a year early. The 3 bin system is a trade off between efficiency of collection and cost of collection and is one of the best performing of it type.

Data Label: Public

Net cost of refuse disposal per premise. sspi23b This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to undercut the target and minimise the overall cost of refuse disposal. This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

Trend Chart Commentary: There has been an increase from £75.89 in 2009/10 to £80.89 for 2010/11. This increase, of approximately 7%, is mainly due to a rise in disposal costs. There have been significant rises in certain expenditure items, for example rising fuel costs, disposal and most notably the £8/Tonne per year landfill tax escalator. There were also additional costs for processing green waste to address contamination found in brown bins.

Overall customer satisfaction with the service has increased this year compared to last year. Comparison ranking between Local Authorities for this indicator for 2010/11 is not yet available. In 2009/10 we were ranked 10th lowest out of 32 Scottish Local Authorities. For SPI "Percentage of municipal waste recycled", West Lothian were ranked 9th of 32 Scottish Local Authorities. Only 2 of these other local authorities in the top 9 highest recycling rate had a lower cost of disposal than West Lothian Council. The Scottish average rose from £83.97 in 2008/09 to £89.75 in 2009/10, which is an 8.9% rise based on the 2008/09 figures.

Data Label: Public

24 The percentage of municipal waste collected by the authority during the year that was recycled and composted

The percentage of municipal waste collected that was composted or recycled. sspi24 This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The waste management information has been taken from the Scottish Environment Protection Agencies (SEPA) Waste Data Flow information for 2008/09. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the overall percentage of waste that is recycled. This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

Trend Chart Commentary: The recycling rate has increased this year from 42.3% in 2009/10 to 43.4%. Note that this is still going through the end of year reconciliation and may be subject to an audit by Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA).

There were increases in the amount of green waste recycled from our kerbside brown bin collections, commercial cardboard, rubble from our recycling centres and other waste streams recycled from council services.

Comparing 2010/ 11 to last year, there has been a slight decrease in dry recyclates recycled from our kerbside blue bin collections. This is mainly due to the suspension of collections resulting from the severe weather. Other material that decreased were green waste recycled from our recycling centres and from council services.

The overall effect is that our material recycled and composted has increased by approximately 1600 tonnes compared to last year.

West Lothian has achieved the Scottish Government 2010 target for recycling of 40%, a year early. Ranking for 2010/11 is yet to be verified. In 2009/10 we were ranked 9 of 32 Scottish Local Authorities. The Scottish average was 36.7% of waste recycled

Data Label: Public

The total tonnes of municipal waste collected. sspi24i This is background data for the main Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The waste management information has been taken from the Scottish Environment Protection Agencies (SEPA) Waste Data Flow information for each financial year. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to monitor the target and minimise the overall tonnes of waste that is generated in West Lothian. This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

Trend Chart Commentary: This data is provided as further information to help explain the performance in the main Strategic Performance indicator. Note that there may be changes as this may be subject to audit by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA).

Comparing 2010/ 11 to last year, the waste land filled has decreased by approximately 650 tonnes and our material recycled and composted has increased by approximately 1600 tonnes. Our overall Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) has increased by approximately by 850T to 109,783 tonnes. The amount of MSW has remained relatively steady over the last 4 years.

Data Label: Public

25 The cleanliness index achieved following inspection of a sample of streets and other relevant land

The cleanliness index achieved following inspection of a sample of streets and other relevant land. sspi25 This is a Specified Performance Indicator, used by all Scottish authorities. The Cleanliness Index is a measure based on the amount of litter found on streets and land that the council is responsible for, assessed on seven inspections per year. The target set is the previous year's performance and the aim is to do better than the target and maximise the Cleanliness Index number. This information is updated in September each year with the previous year's performance figures.

Trend Chart Commentary: This years breakdown of results are as follows: Internal Inspection (April) 70; Internal Inspection (June) 72; External Inspection (August) 73; Internal Inspection (October) 69; Internal Inspection (December) 71; External Inspection (February) 73 and KSB Validation Inspection 71

Although performance dropped by one point this year we consider this to still be a sound performance by the service throughout the year. This year the service performed with a smaller resource than the previous year yet was still able to achieve a steady level of service. Our consistent performance throughout the year is verified by the limited variance in the external and KSB scoring with our internal scores.

Once again this year the service came under pressure throughout prolonged periods of severe winter weather in November, December and January which played a pivotal role in determining levels of cleanliness and our ability to deliver the service.