Residents from across Bath and North East Somerset are being asked for their views on the council’s future priorities, spending plans and Corporate Strategy at the Somer Valley Area Forum, which takes place in Midsomer Norton next Wednesday.

Cabinet members and the Council’s Chief Executive will host a public meeting at The Hollies Council Chamber, High Street, Midsomer Norton (BA3 2DP) on Wednesday, 22nd January at 6.30 p.m. It follows two public events in Bath and Keynsham outlining the authority’s plan in December last year.

Residents will be given the opportunity to comment on the detailed Corporate Strategy document at the meeting, as well as hear the Council’s plans to produce a balanced budget and an outline of how it will deliver on key commitments, such as tackling the climate emergency, delivering affordable housing and reducing congestion.

Councillor Dine Romero, Council Leader, said: “When I took over as Council Leader last May, I set out a range of ambitions for the Council, including tackling the climate emergency and giving local people a bigger say. I believe the Council exists for a clear purpose – to improve people’s lives. That purpose provides the foundation on which our proposed commitments, service provision and spending are based.

“Improving People’s Lives is the key aim of the Council, and the ways in which it will achieve this, alongside addressing the climate emergency and giving people a bigger say, are set out in the plan.”

Councillor Richard Samuel, Deputy Council Leader, said: “The Council’s new strategy and spending plans are based on three key principles: delivering for residents, focusing on prevention and preparing for the future. By taking a long-term view, I believe we have developed a clear and sustainable approach which gives us clarity of purpose for the future.

“The Corporate Strategy will shape what we do and how we work to improve the lives of residents. Before it is finalised, we want to hear people’s views

as part of our continuing conversation with residents.”

To view the Council’s plans and to submit feedback, visit: https://beta.bathnes.gov.uk/ corporate-strategy-2020-2024-survey All comments must be received by Friday, 24th January. The draft Corporate Strategy will be discussed by the Council’s Policy Development and Scrutiny Panels and Area Forums before a decision is made in February.

Keynsham’s Area Forum, which covers Compton Dando, Corston, Keynsham, Marks- bury, Saltford and Whitchurch, takes place on 23rd January from 6.30 – 8.30 p.m. at the Community Space, Keynsham (BS31 1HA).

Bathavon North’s Area Forum, which covers Bathford, Northstoke, Charlcombe, Swainswick, Batheaston, Bathampton, St Catherine and Claverton, will be held on 21st January from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. at Bathampton Methodist Church Hall (BA2 6UL).