This I have got to follow.
Bath & North East Somerset Council wants to transform the way it works to improve outcomes for residents, strengthen communities, and – at the same time – ensure services are sustainable for the future.
A report going before Cabinet on September 10 sets out proposals that would see the council focussing more on preventing problems before they begin, making services simpler and easier to access, using technology more effectively and working more closely with communities and partners.
This builds on work already underway, including improvements to customer services, investment in new technology, and the development of services that help people get the right support earlier.
Councillor Mark Elliott, Deputy Leader and cabinet member for Resources, said: “We are proud of the services we provide and the difference they make every day. But local government is changing, and we cannot stand still.
“The report sets out a long-term direction which would see us focus more on early help, stronger neighbourhoods, better use of buildings and assets, making every pound go further and reducing unnecessary bureaucracy so staff can spend more time helping residents.
“Although the council needs to save £28 million over the next three years, the proposals are not simply about spending less. While we’ve avoided significant cuts to frontline services through our financial management, we must now find new ways to remain sustainable while continuing to provide the services that residents need.
“It’s about finding better ways of doing things, helping people before problems become crises, and making sure every pound we spend provides the greatest possible benefit to our residents and communities.”
The need for savings is driven by rising costs, inflation, increasing demand for services and a reduction in government funding through the Fair Funding Review.
Following Cabinet, the council plans to develop more detailed proposals over the coming months, with opportunities for residents, partners and stakeholders to help shape how the council works in the future.
Also going before Cabinet on September 10 are reports on the draft Local Plan and a new Clean Air Strategy. Read the papers on the council website and watch live on our YouTube channel
How about removing some weeds before they become 6ft high plants that damage pavements, road surfaces, drains etc.? There’s a large buddleia in Widcombe that could be first on the list. Stop wasting money on consultations and just actually do something occasionally.