New blueprint for Derbyshire

Councillors have now approved a draft version of the Council Plan 2010-2014, which is now available for public comments.

Titled "Derbyshire – Leading The Way" the plan focuses on five key areas showing how council services will contribute to improving the quality of life for residents:

• Leading the way – giving local people and communities better choice and more of a say.
• Good use of public money – providing value for money with effective financial management.
• Raising aspirations – giving children the best start in life and helping everyone achieve their full potential.
• High quality services that meet personalised needs – giving people the choice and flexibility to live safe and independent lives.
• Places where people want to be – creating confident, safe and strong communities.

Since the last plan was published in 2005 the council has asked residents what they think about the authority and the services it provides. This feedback has been used to shape the 2010-2014 draft plan which outlines commitments for the future and areas for improvement.

Council Leader Councillor Andrew Lewer said: "This is an inspirational plan which sets out a positive, prosperous and bright future for Derbyshire and its residents.

"It provides a blueprint for what we will do over the next four years and how we aim to achieve improvements in the areas residents have told us are most important to them and which we feel are priorities.

"We now look forward to hearing comments from residents, businesses, other councils and partner organisations which will help us shape the final version of the plan to make sure we are working to make Derbyshire an even better place to live in, work and visit."

Following consultation with residents, other local councils and partnership organisations it is hoped the new council plan will be approved and published by the end of April. Deadline for comments is Tuesday 6 April 2010.