Agenda item

Report of the Chief Officers Executive

The Chief Officers Executive submitted a report (previously circulated) to introduce the draft Council Plan to the Committee.

The Council Plan outlined the long-term ambitions for Darlington and priorities of the Council to deliver over the next three years.

The submitted draft plan stated strategic direction to the Council, Council services, defining priorities and shaping delivery. The draft plan gave clarity to residents, businesses, and stakeholders on the Councils values and what is important and what they will do.

The public consultation for the draft plan had been opened and will run till the 25 April. The plan stated that the Council was seeking views from residents, businesses, charities, and key stakeholders. The Council Plan once finalised goes to Cabinet and Council in May for approval and adoption.

The draft Council Plan expressed three core values which fed into the plan: which addressed inequalities, tackling climate change and efficient an effective use of resources.

The six priorities of the draft Council Plan show equal importance: Economy, Homes, Living Well, Children and Young People, Communities and Environment.

The report stated the political accountability for the priorities and core values for the draft plan, how it will be collaborative with a Cabinet Member leading each priority, core value and working with relevant portfolio leads to delivered.

Councillors McCollom and Dr Riley explained the priorities within the Stronger Communities and Local Services Portfolio areas, such as the Hopetown attraction.

Members appreciated the approach which will lead to better outcomes but wanted clarification around vogue wording.

Members discussed their concerns around biodiversity and the nature emergency which should be reflected in the Councils plan.

Members wanted to know how many responses had been received from the public, officers explained there has been 199 responses yet and how this is an improvement compared to previous consultations.

RESOLVED – That draft Council Plan be noted, and Members share the plan with networks and encourage people to complete the survey.