County Durham leaders have vowed to focus on essential council services amid challenging financial circumstances, writes Local Democracy Reporter, Bill Edgar.
Andrew Husband, leader of Reform-run Durham County Council, made the comments at a cabinet meeting where members backed the party’s plan after taking control of the authority.
Reform made history in May’s local elections and now holds 64 of the 98 available council seats.
Tackling anti-social behaviour, improving shared housing planning controls, and upgrading public transport infrastructure are among several priorities being pursued by leaders.
Cllr Husband said: “The council is responsible for a wide range of public services, but with an ongoing and challenging financial position, it is vital that we focus on the essentials – the things we can deliver and influence as a local authority, and ensure we deliver the best possible value for money in frontline services for the people of County Durham.”
There is also a greater focus on improving efficiency and accountability, developing youth services and supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities.
Earlier this year, Reform said it hoped to make the authority more efficient, supercharge the economy, build better communities, care for residents, and take a practical approach to environmental targets. Around 3,600 people responded to Reform’s five priorities for County Durham during the Council Plan consultation process over the summer.
Cllr Husband added: “This plan reflects our political priorities for the county and ensures the organisation has a clear focus on the things that matter to residents and businesses; tangible things they can actually see and feel.
“It is encouraging to hear how many members of the public took the time to read the proposed plan and respond to the consultation. It is also an indicator that people are watching us to ensure we make a difference to their lives.”
Since taking control, Reform has also rescinded the council’s net zero commitments and cut capital spending projects. Councillors say they have prioritised “wheelchairs over windmills” by declaring a care emergency.
Darren Grimes, deputy council leader, told the cabinet meeting: “Although we have an ambitious new approach, the essential frontline services that the authority delivers each and every day remain unchanged.
“You might ask: what’s so different about you lot? To that, I say this: it’s not what you do, it’s the way you do it. In line with our overwhelming political mandate, this administration is determined to deliver what it has to do in the most effective, efficient and economic manner possible.”
Bill Edgar
Reporter for the Local Democracy Reporter Service.
South West Durham News covering news across County Durham.
