We also know that we cannot achieve these aims alone. Working with our communities, and where possible, supporting them to achieve their own local ambitions will also be an important consideration.
You can read all about our priorities in The Council Plan:
Our Priorities
Climate and Biodiversity
There is a Climate Emergency, and we have a duty to contribute to the huge challenge of Global Climate Change and loss of biodiversity by taking real action now. We will lead by example and encourage everyone in our communities to play their part.
The Council is already starting to do a great deal with the funding it has received, and we will build on this by working with our partners to need to lobby central government for further help.
Housing
There are already 3,895 second homes in the District and only 3,450 units of social housing so providing good quality, genuinely affordable housing is a top priority for the Council. We will work with our Registered Provider partners and communities to build housing while supporting our most vulnerable residents find homes they can call their own, and wherever possible prevent homelessness.
There are plenty of houses being built across the District, but not enough that locals can afford. We’re looking to make the best use of existing housing, upgrade the energy efficiency in homes for people on low incomes, and help long-term landlords improve insulation and draught proofing.
Economy and Jobs
Our ambition is to transform the South Hams economy into one which leads the way in business decarbonisation, future green energy solutions, and meet future food resilience. Growth in key sectors including marine, hospitality, eco-tourism and agriculture will have a positive impact on local ecosystems, biodiversity and climate change.
We will continue to work with the existing Plymouth and South Devon Freeport to deliver inward investment, business growth and high-quality job opportunities. We aim, with businesses and partner organisations, to support a thriving, resilient economy that will lead on innovative solutions to national issues, attract more funding for projects that support the economy and provide opportunities for residents to achieve their aspirations.
Community Services
We will make sure we have the right staff, with the right skills to deliver frontline services that our residents will value. We will directly support our communities through a range of activity including carrying out playground checks, discouraging littering, managing car parks, looking after our parks and open spaces, and protecting trees. We’ll also offer our services to our town and parish councils and work closely with them.
By delivering effective frontline services, we will take steps to address our climate impact while also enhancing the wellbeing of communities across the District.
Good Quality Core Services
As well as delivering our ambitions around climate, housing, economy, and frontline community services, we need to ensure that all our services are delivered efficiently and to a good standard.
We will continue to deliver an efficient waste and recycling service, but we will also encourage residents to do their bit to reduce waste and support recycling and biodiversity. We will drive forward our ambition to speed up and improve the planning process and will continue to improve customer access across our services.
