An ambitious vision to improve communities and the lives of people living in Darlington has been unveiled. 

Darlington Borough Council has set out its draft Council Plan 2024-27, with the aim for the town to be one of the best places in the UK to live, work, learn and invest - with a strong economy, healthy thriving communities and opportunities for all.

The plan is underpinned by six priorities:

· Economy: A strong, sustainable economy and highly skilled workforce

· Homes: Affordable and secure homes that meet current and future needs

· Living well: A healthier and better quality of life for longer, supporting those who need it

· Children and young people: the best start in life, realising potential and raising aspirations

· Communities: Healthier, safer and more engaged

· Environment: A well-connected, clean and sustainable borough.

It was first unveiled at a council cabinet meeting earlier this week - and residents have now been invited to have their say. 

Councillor Steve Harker, Leader of the council, said: “Three core values feed into the plan – addressing inequalities, tackling the climate crisis and making efficient use of resources. We also recognise the challenges we face, which is why we’re determined that this council will deliver the services people need.

“Darlington is a wonderful place, but every day we’re seeing an increased need for care and support, with a cost-of-living crisis causing hardship for residents and businesses.

“So it’s more important than ever that the council – in partnership with residents, communities and local organisations – work together to deliver action. This plan sets out how we’ll go about it.”

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Cllr Jonathan Dulston, leader of the Conservatives, tasked the council to provide more clarity. He told the meeting: “While I accept it is a very high-level strategic document, it is very wooly. When you break it down there is very little substance to the council’s achievements. It just seems to be business as usual and things we already do. 

“If we are going to have a meaningful conversation with the public I would advise that we actually do capture their feedback because people will be telling us that it’s the basic things they want us to concentrate on: safer streets and better roads.”

Click here to respond to the Plan