Wiltshire Council has been named as a finalist in major national awards for the best transport and leadership.

The prestigious Municipal Journal Awards recognise organisations, projects and people that make the biggest impact on local government and life across the UK.

This year, Wiltshire Council has been named among some of the very best councils in the UK, and is a finalist in three categories.

The categories it has been shortlisted for include Best Transport Decarbonisation Project, Community Engagement and Senior Leadership Team.

“Wiltshire Council leads the way in providing modern and evidence-led preventative services and being shortlisted for these awards, which acknowledge the tremendous effort of local authorities to support communities and overcome challenges, is recognition of the substantial progress we’ve made so far," said Councillor Richard Clewer, Leader of Wiltshire Council.

"There's never been a more challenging time in local government, but these awards provide a platform to showcase the important work being undertaken across the services we deliver.

“It demonstrates the breadth of talent and dedication across the council to deliver our Business Plan which sets out a clear long-term vision for Wiltshire and has enabled us to maintain a strong financial position and high quality of service, especially at a time when many local authorities are facing challenges to do this.”

The council's flagship Wiltshire Connect service, which acts as a pre-bookable, uber-like bus service, is the main reason Wiltshire Council is a finalist in the Best Transport Decarbonisation Project category.

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald: Wiltshire Connect buses can now regularly be seen running up and down the county.Wiltshire Connect buses can now regularly be seen running up and down the county. (Image: Wiltshire Council)

The service has not only helped to improve transport to more rural communities where there isn't a regular bus but has also encouraged more bus use and greener travel.

The Prevention and Wellbeing team has been shortlisted in the Community Engagement category for its work keeping people active in their own homes, particularly those with complex care needs.

The team works with anyone with no time limit, and the approach is driven by the individual accessing the service so that the support works for them.

On top of all this, the council's leadership team which is the foundation that Wiltshire Council is built upon has been shortlisted for its high performance and strong leadership model.

This comes after the council recently received praise for the role senior leadership played in the council 's 'Outstanding' Ofsted rating for Children’s Services.

The award winners will be announced on June 21, and Wiltshire Council leaders say they are honoured to be attending and representing the county.