Somerset County Council has announced ambitious plans to save more than £20million.
The proposals are supported across all three political parties and will focus on a review of council services over the next 18 months.
The ‘Change Programme’ will lead to a different approach in how the Council manages, commissions and delivers existing services – and at the same time give residents and customers more of a say in what the Council provides.
“This is an exciting but also very challenging programme that has the potential to deliver huge savings,” said Conservative Council Leader Ken Maddock. “By 2013, Somerset County Council will be a smaller, agile and more ambitious organisation and delivering differently.”
Cllr Sam Crabb, Leader of the Liberal Democrats, added: “There is no doubt that with finances falling, something needs to change. We support this programme whilst working hard to challenge the Administration to ensure the right decisions are made.”
Labour Leader Andrew Govier also agrees change is inevitable. “We recognise that these changes will impact on staff and services and it is essential that we listen to the good ideas that those staff will have about how best services can be delivered in the future.”
“Local people look to the Council to support them when they need help and we must ensure that their voice is heard during this process. Equally, the quality of services provided to the public must be maintained.”
Further information on Somerset County Council’s future aims and objectives are available online at www.somerset.gov.uk/countyplan
