A COUNCIL has become one of only five local authority teams in the country to be shortlisted for a national award.

Rossendale Council’s planning team has been shortlisted for the Local Authority Team of the Year at theThe Royal Town Planning Institute’s (RTPI) Awards for Planning Excellence in London.

The council’s planning team has been recognised for its track record in taking development from concept stage to completion in schemes across the borough, working with developers and delivering high quality outcomes that benefit both residents and visitors.

The team has worked on solutions to enable the progression of key local regeneration schemes such as the new bus station, town hall and Spinning Point.

Cllr Christine Lamb, portfolio holder for regulatory services, said: "This is a great achievement and shows Rossendale is making strides on the national stage.

"We are a ‘can-do’, customer focused organisation which has resulted in this high performing team which has already been recognised regionally. I am very happy for them and proud of their achievement."

The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on May 24 at Milton Court Concert Hall in London.