Forest of Dean District Council welcomes Corporate Peer Challenge Progress Review findings
Forest of Dean District Council has welcomed the findings from the Local Government Association’s (LGA) Corporate Peer Challenge Progress Review, which recognised the significant progress the council has made in delivering its improvement plan and building on the recommendations made during the original 2024 Peer Challenge.
The review, carried out on 3 September 2025, found that the council had either completed or made progress on all of the actions set out in its action plan.
The LGA praised the council for its commitment to delivery, strong sense of community, and positive organisational culture, describing progress as “brilliant.”
The Progress Review highlighted the council’s openness, collaborative approach, and commitment to learning, noting that councillors and staff “expressed pride in their place” and were working hard to “create thriving communities for now and for future generations.”
The LGA also recognised the council’s continued focus on sector-led improvement, its strong partnerships, and its ability to maintain momentum despite the significant changes brought by Local Government Reorganisation (LGR).
Adrian Birch, Leader of Forest of Dean District Council, said:
“I welcome the recent findings of the Corporate Peer Challenge Progress Review conducted by the LGA.
“I am so pleased that the report recognises all the hard work, dedication, and the strong sense of community pride shown by everyone here at Forest of Dean District Council.
“The overwhelmingly positive feedback clearly reflects the brilliant progress we have made so far and the council’s unwavering commitment to our residents, despite the ongoing challenges posed by Local Government Reorganisation. We will continue to build on this momentum, working together to deliver for our communities and shape a positive future for the Forest of Dean.”
The Corporate Peer Challenge, first undertaken in October 2024, provided the council with an independent assessment of its leadership, governance, financial management, and capacity for improvement. The LGA’s follow-up Progress Review confirmed that Forest of Dean District Council has made substantial progress in these areas and continues to strengthen its organisation and relationships with partners.
The council will continue to act on the LGA’s recommendations, particularly around communications, workforce development, and supporting staff and councillors through the ongoing process of LGR.
The full LGA Corporate Peer Challenge Progress Review report is available on the council’s website: www.fdean.gov.uk/councilperformance