Following the recent local elections this year, the new Council has launched a new Short Term Action Plan as part of its commitment to deliver better outcomes, increased transparency and clearer accountability to our communities.
The new Short Term Action Plan, which is due to be considered at the Council’s Executive meeting on 18 July 2023, sets out the Council’s immediate priorities and practical deliverables through to the end of the year and reflects the following commitments:
- Secure the Council’s finances
- Campaign for residents
- Protect our environment
- Make Council property work
- Engage and empower our communities.
Cllr Shaun Macdonald, Leader, Surrey Heath Borough Council said:
“The new Council wants to deliver meaningful improvements for local residents as quickly as possible, and our new Short Term Action Plan will help ensure that we do this, in line with our vision for Surrey Heath. We believe that creating positive momentum is going to be vital in meeting resident expectations in both the short and longer term. While we are delivering these early wins, we will be working with our partners, stakeholders, and local communities to make sure that we continue to develop our change plans for future years.
Our plan includes actions that will ensure that the Council’s finances and activities are more accessible and transparent. A full audit of the Council’s property portfolio will be undertaken to assess whether we are maximising the use of our buildings and space. The Council will shortly complete a comprehensive peer review with external experts to assess any areas to close the gap with local government best practice nationally.
Tackling climate change and ensuring our air is clean will continue to be a priority and we want to drive forward plans to make sure the Council is net zero by 2030. We also want to put in place the necessary infrastructure for more electric vehicle charging locations, for residents to have the option to install lower cost solar panels, and increase safe, lockable bike parking areas. The last useful for those keen to increase active zero carbon travel by cycling, like myself.
Other areas of focus include increasing inclusion across the Borough through activities with specific communities and continuing the revitalisation of Camberley town centre as a great destination for shopping, business and leisure.
As well as unlocking several big projects we also want to make sure the smaller, but important projects are progressed – one example is deciding how to improve the car park at Frimley Lodge Park.
Most importantly we want to actively campaign for improvements on the issues that matter to you. For example, we want to ensure that Esso take appropriate action for their work in the borough, and confirm they put in place schemes to repair any damages to the green spaces and biodiversity in the path of pipeline works. Our great natural environment in Surrey Heath must be protected for all to enjoy.
This Short Term Action Plan is a great first step by the new Council, building on existing plans and driving change in new directions, in line with what residents said they need, and I look forward to updating everyone on progress later in the year.”