Cabinet to discuss report that celebrates Barnsley Council’s high performance

Next week, Cabinet Members will discuss positive feedback received from the Local Government Association's (LGA) Corporate Peer Challenge progress review.   

On Tuesday 8 October, Barnsley Council welcomed back the LGA’s Corporate Peer Challenge team for a one-day review.   

The Corporate Peer Challenge offers councils an independent review of their performance. It’s an opportunity to receive constructive feedback and practical recommendations to support ongoing improvement.  

When the team last visited in December 2024, they recognised Barnsley Council’s strong track record and ambition, setting out nine recommendations for us to build on. We responded with an action plan that was published in May 2025.    

The latest report reinforces Barnsley Council’s position as high-performing and commends the council’s commitment to sector-led improvement. It highlights significant progress made against the recommendations set out in the report based on the original in December 2024. 

Sarah Norman, Chief Executive of Barnsley Council, said: “I’m pleased to receive positive feedback about how we’re working efficiently to best serve our communities. The report celebrates our innovative approaches to the services we deliver and our key initiatives. Whether it's through Love Where You Live, Pathways to Work, our Great Childhoods Ambition or Health on the Hight Street, we’re investing in new ways to support our residents. 

How we work together inside the council is just as important as how we work with partners and our communities. The launch of the Enabling Barnsley strategy supports us to be bold, brave and innovative. The feedback we have received is testament to Team Barnsley and demonstrates our commitment to delivering best value in everything we do.” 

Councillor Sir Steve Houghton, CBE, Leader of Barnsley Council, said: “I’m proud that our council delivers such impactful services while maintaining a stable financial position. The LGA team have recognised our new approaches to listening to the voices of residents, ensuring they play an active role in shaping Barnsley’s future. 

It was great to see recognition for our borough’s strong influence in the region. We’re boldly making our mark with our growth ambitions for Barnsley, making sure we’re a key player in South Yorkshire.” 

You can read the Cabinet report on our website.