I’d like to start off by wishing everyone a happy and healthy new year.
In this column, I’m going to take a look back at some highlights from 2015 and offer a glimpse of what 2016 will have in store.
Last year we saw a growth in organised crime in a minority of our licensed retail outlets, but countered this with successful joint actions with Trading Standards, police and HMRC to remove those trading on the proceeds of crime from our streets.
Other highlights include the ongoing improvement of food hygiene ratings in businesses/restaurants, the introduction of safeguarding training for our licensed taxi and private hire vehicle drivers, our ‘Stamp it Out’ campaign to crackdown on illegal alcohol sales and the introduction of the voluntary smoke free code for nurseries, schools and play areas.
This month we’ll be placing signs designed by the youngsters themselves in a number of locations so watch out for them appearing.
We are also currently considering the government’s Devolution Programme, which centres on central government passing down powers on to local councils.
It’s a huge opportunity for us to deal with important issues and make decisions which best serve the community and stimulate growth.
Funding for these devolved powers will drive growth across the district, especially around infrastructure, skills, health care and housing.
Meanwhile, our Digital Transformation programme to improve digital services is progressing at fast pace.
We’re going to deliver a new website which will be easy to navigate, tells you exactly what you need to know and gives you the option to ‘book and pay’ for services online.
Self-service machines will be installed in the reception area at our Priory Road offices, so that waiting in line for a few minutes becomes a thing of the past.
Councils will face many challenges in 2016 but we will continue to deliver better services and save money.
by Coun Malcolm Chandler
Deputy leader, South Holland District Council
[email protected]
Twitter: @shollanddc
