Published: Friday, 20th February 2026
The Borough Council of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk is up for two national awards recognising excellence in local government.
The council is a finalist for Most Improved Council in the Local Government Chronicle Awards 2026, reflecting major cross-cutting work to further strengthen the organisation over the last 18 months and invest in the future for communities.
West Norfolk has also been shortlisted in the Housing category for intervening proactively in the housing market, both as a developer of nearly 1,000 homes and as a strategic enabler removing major barriers to significant future private development.
From more than 1,000 entries nationally, West Norfolk is one of only eight finalists in the Most Improved Council Category and 12 shortlisted in the Housing category.
The council’s major successes recognised in the nominations include:
Driving investment – Driving forward a significant regeneration programme with partners, backed by the Government’s Town Deal and Pride in Place Programmes, to unlock the full potential of King’s Lynn. Town Deal projects include the new larger library, renovation of St George’s Guildhall and the Custom House, and new dryside facilities.
More local housing – Delivering nearly 1,000 homes with our own investment on challenging sites through a partnership with Lovell, unlocking a 4,000-home development at West Winch, and delivering new affordable and private rented properties through two housing companies, to directly address local housing need.
Tackling health inequalities – Becoming Norfolk’s first “Marmot Place” and the UK’s first district council to lead a Marmot Place programme, working with partners to achieve better health across West Norfolk’s communities.
Financial stewardship – Developing a realistic and deliverable savings and efficiency plan that closed the budget gap in 2025/26 and supported capital projects, while protecting services and avoiding a section 114 notice.
Empowered workforce – Securing White Ribbon Accreditation, committing to UNISON’s Anti-Racism Charter, shaping new organisational values as a workforce, and working towards the Armed Forces Covenant Gold Award.
Transformation and LGR Readiness – Ensuring our systems and workforce are in the strongest position going into Local Government Reorganisation, as well as playing a significant role in shaping a robust LGR proposal that places local communities at its heart.
Cllr Alistair Beales, the Council Leader, said: “This is important national recognition of the huge amount that has been achieved in a relatively short space of time and I would like to thank everyone involved – Kate and our teams of committed officers across service areas and our councillors across the political spectrum.
“Around £349m investment is going into West Norfolk from a range of sources, including the council’s own capital programme, and you can see that happening on the ground with the new homes and regeneration work benefiting residents. Other work, equally important, has happened internally and continues to ensure we as an organisation are future-proof and leave a positive, proud legacy for communities.”
Kate Blakemore, the Chief Executive, added: “Local government is a big team effort and the fact we are up for two national awards recognising excellence in local government is a huge confidence boost for all colleagues and councillors as we continue together to drive forward significant internal transformation and a major place-based agenda.
“We are rightly ambitious for West Norfolk, the place we love, and we’re punching above our weight on a national stage as we deliver for our local communities. When the borough council is no more, we know we will leave a significant legacy, accelerated in the last year, whilst also grabbing every opportunity a unitary organisation will present to our workforce, but more importantly for our residents.”
Matthew Goakes, Regional Managing Director of Lovell, said: “What makes this recognition so meaningful is that it reflects the heart of what our partnership with the Borough Council of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk is all about – strengthening communities. The council’s commitment to creating opportunities for local people is inspiring and we’re proud to stand alongside them in shaping neighbourhoods that residents are truly proud to call home.”
Martin George, acting editor of LGC, said: “We received more than 1,000 entries to the LGC Awards 2026, making it another record-breaking year. It’s a huge achievement to make the shortlist.
“All too often, councils are the unsung heroes of their local areas, with brilliant staff working tirelessly to serve their communities. These awards are a chance to celebrate their innovation, dedication, and compassion.
“It’s brilliant to see such a widespread and diverse range of councils and combined authorities represented on this year’s shortlist. Best of luck to all those shortlisted.”
The winners will be announced on 10 June.