Council shortlisted from more than 1,000 entries
East Hampshire District Council has been shortlisted in the ‘Most Improved Council’ category at the 2025 LGC Awards.
There were nearly 1,000 entries to the awards which celebrate excellence in local government and are run by the Local Government Chronicle.
EHDC was shortlisted after making huge changes and completely transforming the way it operates. Key highlights include making savings of £1.51million, moving to greener and more efficient headquarters; reshaping our community work from dependency on grant funding to building capacity in the voluntary sector; and launching a new district team which tackles potential issues before they become problems in our communities.
Following yet another record year for entries, entrants demonstrated outstanding practice as well as cutting-edge innovations and the judges were very impressed with the extremely high standard.
The awards are the biggest celebration of excellence in local government, and are run by the Local Government Chronicle, which since 1855 has been the independent voice at the heart of local government. The shortlisted organisations will now complete presentations and interviews to a specific judging panel made up of senior and influential figures within local government.
LGC editor Sarah Calkin said: “We received almost 1,000 entries to the LGC Awards 2025, making it another record-breaking year and meaning all those on the shortlist should be extremely proud to have made the cut. A huge thank you to our judging panels of senior council officers who have tirelessly sifted through all the entries on top of extremely demanding day jobs.
“At a time when many councils are embarking on huge change, it is more important than ever to take a moment to recognise the massive difference local government makes to the communities it serves and celebrate the teams and individuals going the extra mile to do so.
“It’s brilliant to see the whole local government family represented on this year’s shortlist – from town councils to combined authorities – as well as all four nations of the UK. Best of luck to all of those shortlisted.”
Cllr Richard Millard, Leader of East Hampshire District Council, said: “We are so excited to be shortlisted for this award because we have worked doggedly to transform the organisation and so receiving this recognition is a fantastic boost.
“This has been a whole-council effort and has been driven by our dedicated and talented officers who have delivered beyond our expectations.
“Ultimately our transformation enables us to deliver more for our residents and that’s what we’re all about.
“Being shortlisted out of nearly 1,000 entrants is absolutely brilliant and we are excited about the next stage of the challenge.”
The winners of the LGC Awards will be announced on 11 June 2025 at Grosvenor House, London