In Sidcup, we have just opened the Storyteller – a new home for the town’s library, complete with a cafe. In the New Year, it will be the home of a new three-screen cinema run by the Really Local Group. There has been a huge amount of buzz.
It now needs to get real. This is clearly the plan in the next few months, starting with the Queen’s Speech tomorrow, leading to the Levelling Up paper.
I believe this is a moment of opportunity, when we should become a nation that champions people who start a business.
The manifesto committed to encouraging local takeovers of civic organisations or community assets under threat – such as local football clubs, pubs or post offices.”
In Suffolk, it is proposed to change the service to meet changing need, with a focus on sharing buildings and working with other organisations to maximise benefits.
Innovation has meant that our service has increased visitor numbers. 94 per cent of those who use it, rate it as good or very good.
A record number of 68,000 potholes were repaired in 2018. The new model will mean even better performance and efficiency in the future.
The co-location of libraries and leisure centres means lower maintenance costs. It also allows opening hours to be extended.
Talk of being “cut to the bone” is nonsense. Here are some challenges councillors should be making about unnecessary spending.
Despite our budget being cut, we have achieved bold reforms with libraries, children’s services, broadband roll out and business rates retention. We are open for business.
Far from being a loss to the community they are more often derelict buildings and surplus land which can be used for housing.
As Labour councils around us abolish libraries, we’re building new ones. We are working flat out to win the local elections. Our message is: “Keep moving forward.”
Vulnerable customers need to be safeguarded. Regular sessions using price comparison sites in local libraries would help.
We are prudently managing the finances while filling potholes and re-opening libraries.
I wouldn’t want my daughter to grow up in the patriarchal society portrayed in Pride & Prejudice – but that doesn’t mean she cannot be inspired by Elizabeth Bennett.