The council has won two major national awards at the iESE Public Sector Transformation Awards 2026, recognising the council’s work to deliver transformation, sustainability and innovation...
The council won the Efficiency and Effectiveness and Green Public Service categories, alongside receiving a Certificate of Excellence for AI at the prestigious ceremony celebrating best practice across the UK public sector.
This achievement follows a year of significant accolades for the town, with Watford being ranked amongst the UK’s best towns in the Vitality Index 2026, winning Council of the Year at the iESE Public Sector Transformation Awards in 2025 and being shortlisted for Local Authority of the Year at the MJ Awards.
Despite significant financial pressures facing councils across the country, Watford has continued to lead the way in regeneration, sustainability and community wellbeing.
The Efficiency and Effectiveness Award recognises the scale of transformation taking place across the town. This includes major place-shaping regeneration projects such as the revitalisation of the town centre and the transformation of Watford Colosseum, alongside progress in digital innovation and artificial intelligence.
Judges also recognised the council’s approach to partnership working, including its leadership within the Community Safety Partnership, investment in housing and sustainable growth, and the continued delivery of the Riverwell development.
The Green Public Service Award reflects the impact of Watford’s long-term environmental programme, including restoring the River Colne, boosting biodiversity through projects such as the Cassiobury Wetlands, improving sustainable travel and reducing carbon emissions across the borough.
Judges also highlighted the introduction of the Green Loop, which is creating new walking and cycling connections while enhancing green space across the town.
The council also received a Certificate for Excellence for AI, recognising its coordinated digital innovation programme. This includes the introduction of AI-powered telephony, chatbot technology, Live Chat support and co-browsing tools to improve customer experience and transform access to council services.
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: “These awards are a huge endorsement of Watford. They recognise the hard work of our members, staff, partners, and community in delivering real change for the town. From regeneration and sustainability to innovation in how we deliver services, Watford has built a reputation as a town with big ideas that also gets things done.”
Cllr Ian Stotesbury, Portfolio Holder for Transport and Sustainability, said: “These awards recognise the scale of the work taking place across Watford to make our town greener, healthier and more sustainable. From restoring our rivers and wetlands, to creating better walking and cycling routes through projects like the Green Loop, we are taking practical action to protect our environment while improving quality of life for residents.”
For the full details of the iESE awards, visit the website at https://iese.org.uk/public-sector-transformation-awards-2026
