Reform UK Maps Out Local Strategy After Taking Durham Council

Reform UK has unveiled a four-year plan for Durham County Council after they won in the local elections earlier this year.

Transcript

00:00Reform UK has outlined its vision for the future of County Durham following its landmark

00:06local election win earlier this year. The party now holds 63 out of 78 seats on Durham

00:12County Council, making it the first time Reform UK has taken control of a major local authority

00:18in the UK.

00:20Council leaders have now released an initial framework detailing their priorities for the

00:24next four years, focusing on Council efficiency, local economic growth, community development,

00:32public care services and environmental management.

00:38The proposals will go before Cabinet members later this month and a public consultation

00:43is expected to follow later in the year.

00:47Council leader Andrew Husband said the administration will aim to make day-to-day services more efficient

00:53and responsive to local needs.

00:56He said our aim is to prioritise the immediate tangible needs of County Durham's residents

01:01and deliver efficient, effective services that residents can see value and afford.

01:07A review of Council spending is also underway, with a focus on identifying savings while maintaining

01:13service quality.

01:15The Council anticipates needing to make £31 million in savings next year, primarily due

01:21to rise in demand in adult and children's social care.

01:26The administration's plan outlines five main themes to guide decision making.

01:31Top of their list is improving Council efficiency.

01:34This includes streamlining internal processes, reviewing spending, protecting key services and

01:40ensuring Council operations are effective and responsive.

01:46The plan on their list is to focus on supporting economic growth.

01:50The Council plans to work with local businesses, encourage investment and expand opportunities for

01:55skills training and employment across the county.

01:59The third point they mention is their goal to strengthening local communities.

02:04The strategy includes plans to improve public spaces, encourage community involvement, ensure access

02:10to affordable housing and keep towns and villages clean, connected and safe.

02:16The fourth factor they mentioned is enhancing care and support services.

02:21The administration aims to maintain and improve care for vulnerable children and adults, promote

02:26healthy living and support families in need with a focus on preventative services and early intervention.

02:34And the final point they mention is managing environmental responsibilities.

02:38The Council plans to take a practical approach to environmental issues, focusing on waste management,

02:44air quality and the upkeep of green spaces and heritage areas, while keeping costs and feasibility

02:50in mind.

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03:11outlook of the October 2000.

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