Greener, Cleaner, Brighter
Wealden is going to be greener, cleaner and brighter – that is the aim of the leader of Wealden District Council, Councillor Nigel Coltman.
In his annual Way Forward policy statement, published this week, Councillor Nigel Coltman called for a range of initiatives to be developed to achieve these goals:
“We were recently recognised in a MORI survey as the best place to live in the South East,” said Councillor Coltman. “We now have the opportunity to protect and enhance the qualities that have justifiably made this district so attractive. By working hard to be Greener, Cleaner, Brighter, we are establishing Wealden as a good place to live and work. But in doing so, we must ensure that there are homes which residents - young and old - can still afford; and there are sustainable jobs close at hand. This must not become a dormitory district.”
The Greener Cleaner Brighter initiative will include:
-Increased recycling.
-Greener guidelines for house building.
-Further work with parish, town and county councils to reduce litter, fly tipping and abandoned cars.
-Developing tourism that is sensitive to community values and the environment.
-An active role for planners to blend in future development with the district’s environment.
“Much of this can only be achieved by getting closer to the communities within the district, working with our towns and villages to promote Wealden as a good place to live and work, “ explained Councillor Coltman.
“I believe that working together in partnership with other authorities will be the key to providing the best service to residents and achieving the council’s efficiency targets.
“Partnership working will see Community Help Points and internet kiosks making it much more possible for residents to access Wealden’s services in their local towns and villages without having to travel to Crowborough or Hailsham.
“But it is important that Wealden has a clear sense of identity and purpose so that the communities we serve can recognise what we offer, and come to us for what they need.”
“Three years ago we consulted widely with local residents about the shape of our community strategy and I am looking forward to further consultation with residents about what we should target to achieve our goal of Greener, Cleaner, Brighter Wealden.”
“I know many residents continue to be concerned about the levels of council tax, and the need to keep council tax increases low underpins all of our work,” added Councillor Coltman.
“Through our financial strategy, we have already identified cost and efficiency savings over the next three years of £1.5 million. Consultants are now looking at the option of having a single headquarters for the District Council. I am confident the single headquarters policy will lead to environmental benefits and further savings in efficiency and costs.”
Note to Editors:
The 2005 Way Forward policy statement is the third by Councillor Coltman since he become Council Leader in 2003.
Significant improvements already achieved has enabled the Cabinet to reduce the number of council priorities for the next two years from 11 to eight.
These are:
1. Improving planning performance.
2. Affordable housing and sustainable housing development.
3. Healthier and safer communities.
4. Getting our services closer to the community.
5. Continued action on environmental issues/recycling/waste reduction.
6. To keep council tax increases low through efficiency, careful financial
management and improved partnership working.
7. Economic revitalisation through the strategic partnerships.
8. Promoting a Wealden of confident communities.
Click here for the full text of The 2005 Way Forward document (pdf document)
