Highland Council has been shortlisted for three prestigious national awards in recognition of its dedication to delivering outstanding public services to communities across the region.
The shortlist comes from the 2025 APSE Service Awards, which celebrate excellence in frontline services delivered by councils across the UK, shining a light on the work that quietly but powerfully supports daily life in every part of the country.
Among the honours, Highland Council’s Parks, Grounds and Horticultural team and the Technical Services team have both been nominated for Best Service Team in their respective categories, while the much-loved Burnside Play Area Project has been recognised as a finalist in the Best Community and Neighbourhood Initiative category.
These nominations are a tribute to the council teams whose commitment often goes unseen but never unappreciated, with their work felt in every safe footpath, every flourishing green space and every carefully designed community improvement.
Debbie Sutton, Chief Officer of Operations and Maintenance at Highland Council, expressed her pride in the teams involved, calling the recognition “a wonderful achievement” that highlights the care, effort and high standards behind each project.
She added that she wishes the team well at the ceremony later this year, recognising the personal commitment that has gone into creating services that local people can depend on and feel proud of.
Winners of the 2025 awards will be announced at the APSE Annual Charity Awards Dinner in Glasgow on Thursday 11 September, where a panel of independent judges will review the shortlisted entries.
Mo Baines, Chief Executive of APSE, praised the finalists as examples of the resilience, creativity and determination needed to deliver services that matter to everyday lives.
In a period of change and challenge for local government, she said the awards are a vital moment to stop and recognise the teams who go the extra mile to support and uplift their communities.
The Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE) works with more than 300 councils across the UK to promote best practice and innovation in local service delivery.
As the Highlands prepares to be represented on the national stage, these nominations are a timely reminder of the pride and professionalism that exists at the heart of local public service and a reason for the region to celebrate its own.
