Swindon Borough Council was rated as 'poor' in the report

The independent study, by the Audit Commission, rates 150 local authorities in England on the quality of their services and their ability to improve.

It is the second year running that Swindon has been ranked as "poor", the lowest possible rating of five.

The report said social services had got worse and there was little evidence that the council had the ability to improve overall.

Mike Bawden, leader of Swindon Borough Council said: "I accept the report, and I've told the officers they have got to accept it too. There's no point in challenging it.

"The future is more important - I've made it quite clear to the chief executive that 2004 is the year of delivery.

'Fundamental questions'

"As a new administration we have set that target, and we will be driving change through in 2004

"If we don't deliver then there needs to be some fundamental questions asked."

Simon Birch, chief executive, added: "After last year, we drew up an improvement plan and set down priorities in education, and to put in place a strong and effective management team.

"Our CPA report shows that has worked. What we need to do know is tackle other priority areas - social services is top of the list."

The Audit Commission looked at education, social care, the environment, housing, benefits, libraries and leisure and use of resources.

County improvements

Wiltshire County Council was rated as "fair" in the report and the commission said it was "well placed" to improve further.

The report noted that fewer schools were now subject to special measures and educational achievement for some pupils had improved.

Adult social services were rated as "fair", with more drug users receiving treatment.

Improvements in the condition of county's major roads and a reduction in road casualties were also singled out for praise.