The past month has been busy both locally and in my role as Cabinet Member for Planning.
Work has continued on developing Shropshire’s new Local Plan, which will help guide future housing, employment and infrastructure investment across the county. There were 940 responses to the scoping consultation. Which are now being analyses. I have also been working with officers on improving Planning Services, strengthening capacity in planning and highways, and supporting the road adoptions programme. The service remains under considerable pressure.
Transport and highways issues remain a significant concern for residents. I have continued to raise issues relating to the X5 bus service disruption due to roadworks, particularly around Queen’s Head, where residents have highlighted reliability concerns and the need for clearer communication when services are disrupted. I have also been involved in discussions on highways maintenance, and wider infrastructure improvements.
Improving digital connectivity remains an important issue for our rural communities. During the month I have participated in discussions around mobile phone coverage and broadband provision, recognising the importance of reliable connectivity for residents, businesses and community organisations. Service levels from operators is simply dreadful falling far below what is needed.
I attended the Montgomery Canal Board meeting where partners reviewed progress on restoration projects, future funding opportunities and the role that planning and infrastructure funding could play in supporting future phases of the canal project.
Local housing and neighbourhood issues continue to generate regular casework. This has included raising concerns about grounds maintenance standards on STAR Housing sites and helping ensure residents’ concerns are properly addressed.
A significant area of council work has been the development of a new Digital Strategy. This aims to support wider transformation across the authority by improving customer service, simplifying access to services, reducing unnecessary bureaucracy and making better use of technology. The objective is to improve the experience for residents while delivering efficiencies and helping the Council manage financial pressures.
This month we managed to take some holiday, althougn it wasn’t a complete break, it wax still a proper break.. I am now playing catchup up
As always, a considerable amount of time has also been spent supporting residents, parish councils and community groups on planning matters, highways issues and other local concerns.
Overall, the month has focused on improving local services, investing in infrastructure, supporting community projects and ensuring local concerns continue to be represented both within the Council and across the wider county.
