Those are two of the results from recent performance figures, which show the City of Edinburgh Council as being the same as or better than similar authorities in 80% of success measures. Also, performance has improved by at least 5% since 2008/09 in 18 of the indicators where comparisons with other councils are possible.
Council Leader Cllr Jenny Dawe said: "These performance improvements are very encouraging. Edinburgh is a great place to live, a fine city in which to work and a fantastic locality to visit. These results, and the numerous Best City awards that Edinburgh regularly wins, reflect our determination to continue to deliver better front-line services."
She added: "These achievements are all the more remarkable given the financial challenges faced by local government. There is no room for complacency, however, and we will continue to focus on providing good quality services for all."
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Other positive points of the Council's performance include:
*Edinburgh has improved its ranking for road conditions among urban local authorities from 6th to 3rd
* Highest number of clients receiving 'self-directed support', which allows them to exercise greater choice and control over their personal care.
* The percentage of domestic and commercial planning applications processed under two months have improved.
* Major reduction in the average number of sick days taken by staff.
The full details are contained in a report that will be heard by councillors at the Policy and Strategy committee on Tuesday 6 December.
The same meeting will also see the Council's annual performance report which highlights:
* The Council saved £26m last year while increasing its reserves to £13m, a year ahead of schedule.
* The proportion of older people cared for at home has increased from 24.4% in 07/08 to 29% in 10/11.
* The provision of respite care increased by 494 weeks in 08/09, 1005 weeks in 09/10 and 1840 weeks in 10/11.
* The proportion of children achieving 5+ standard grades improved from 89% to 91% from 2009 - 2011, and 5+ highers improved from 22% to 26% over the same period.
* The number of children referred to Children's Reporter was down from 732 in 07/08 to 355 in 10/11.
* Edinburgh holds the majority of Scotland 's Green Flags and the number of parks achieving quality standards increased from 55% in 2008 to 68% in 2010.
(GK)
