Agenda item

Report of the Strategy and Policy Manager

The Leader of Darlington Borough Council and the Strategy and Policy Manager were in attendance and presented the Council Plan 2024-2027 and its intent to provide strategic direction to the Council - and council services - defining core values, priorities and shaping delivery in the coming years with public consultation on the draft plan being open until 25 April 2024.   Members were informed that the core values outlined in the document, if met in decision making, will ensure positive progress towards overall goals and from which strategies will be produced such as the New Homes Strategy and Health and Wellbeing Plan.

Questions raised included as to whether the individual residents would be able to find how they would be affected personally when responding, with clarification provided that the tone and purpose of the plan is focussed on collective improvements for Darlington rather than information for specific individuals.

A member expressed their hope for positive progress and assistance for those suffering most in society.  Further discussions included that the plan is understandable and easy to digest considering the wide scope of topics included.

Members were encouraged to share the plan with their networks and to provide responses before the close of the consultation period (24 April 2024).

RESOLVED – That members note the contents of the Council Plan and its consultation period.  The Chair praised the efforts of the Strategy and Policy Manager in production of the Council Plan.

REASON – Members were given adequate information and responses to queries presented and agreed to share with their networks to facilitate responses during the consultation period.