The Lowry, in Salford Quays, has helped regenerate the city

The Audit Commission said Salford City Council's re-development of particular areas, like Salford Quays, was particularly "impressive".

Thousands of jobs have been created at the Quays, which has benefited from investments of hundreds of millions of pounds.

However, the report also criticises the council over its failure to prioritise environmental issues and says its planning processes are "inaccessible to the public".

'Permanent jobs'

Sue Sunderland, relationship manager at the commission, said: "Salford council has developed a detailed knowledge and understanding of the needs of the area.

"Its top priority is the social, economic and physical regeneration of the city.

"A number of impressive achievements to date include 10,000 permanent jobs created via development at Salford Quays, �300m investment attracted to the area due to the success of The Lowry arts centre.

"[There has also been] over 100 new homes in the Chapel Street area and the refurbishment of Eccles town centre."

'Confusing committees'

The report also detailed, among other strengths, how the council has developed an effective integrated health, social care and community services for residents.

However, it points out the council's "protection of the natural environment has not been a high priority".