Ribble Valley Borough Council's Priorities

Town centre regeneration, affordable housing and road safety are among Ribble Valley Borough Council's priorities for 2009/10.

The priorities, unveiled by council leader Michael Ranson, include the development of master plans for the regeneration of Clitheroe and Longridge, the provision of affordable housing and the improvement of road safety on the A59.

Councillor Ranson said: "As a local authority in charge of public money, we have to balance prudent financial management with trying to lead, pump prime and encourage the community to support itself in these difficult times. I believe that local people should be the prime movers in developing the locality and it is the council's job to assist, facilitate, encourage and where appropriate lead the community to achieve its aspirations. These priorities are based on what residents are telling us they want and what the council believes are essential for the continued wellbeing of Ribble Valley."

The priorities for 2009 are:

1. To progress the regeneration of Longridge and Clitheroe, so that they meet the needs and aspirations of residents, including, where appropriate, the acquisition and development of strategic sites.
2. To maintain critical financial management and controls, and ensure the authority provides council taxpayers with value for money.
3. To provide extra dog bins and the means to collect the waste, as well as go out to schools and re-start the authority's litter education programme.
4. To ensure the council has a fit for purpose web site that is relevant and up-to-date.
5. To continue dialogue with the new administration at Lancashire County Council to improve road safety on the A59, particularly at Sawley Brow and the Pendle Road junction.
6. To facilitate the building of additional affordable homes proportionate to demand and location, and work with housing associations to achieve a Ribble Valley solution to the problem.

Councillor Ranson added: "I believe that the achievement of these priorities will be of great benefit to the people of Ribble Valley. It is essential that we look to our residents and ourselves to set ambitious goals that are relevant to the borough. The council has a fantastic working relationship with its partners and residents, and looks forward to serving the community over the coming year."