Tackling anti-social behaviour, improving shared housing planning controls, and upgrading public transport infrastructure are among several priorities being pursued by Reform UK leaders in County Durham, writes Local Democracy Reporter, Bill Edgar.
The party’s targets will be included in a new Council Plan being written by Durham County Council following the election of the new administration in May.
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.
There is also a greater focus on improving efficiency and accountability, developing youth services and supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities.
Council Leader Andrew Husband said: “We want to make sure taxpayers’ money is being spent wisely and well whilst meeting the immediate, tangible needs of residents, and the comprehensive feedback and support received in the consultation will be used to underpin our ambitious transformation and efficiency plans.”
Around 3,600 people responded to Reform’s five priorities for County Durham during the Council plan consultation process over the summer.
Reform made history in the county in May’s local elections to gain control of the local authority and now holds 64 of the 98 available seats.
Cllr Husband added: “We are already moving at pace to ensure the best value for residents in County Durham.
“In our first five months alone, we have reviewed the council’s capital programme and reserves position, taken steps to reduce the number of HMOs, replaced the climate emergency with a care emergency to target support towards those most in need, and set a new, ambitious plan for the council.
“We now look forward to working with our residents and partners alike to shape the future of the county over the next five years as we work towards meeting the ambitions, objectives and priorities set out in the plan.”
Cabinet members are set to agree on the proposed Council Plan on Wednesday, October 15, before a final vote at a full council meeting later this year.
Bill Edgar
Reporter for the Local Democracy Reporter Service.
South West Durham News covering news across County Durham.
