Creating a unified waste and recycling service and pilot projects on new ways to deliver services are two of the highlights of Westmorland and Furness Council’s Annual Plan.
Published today (Wednesday 7 May) following the council’s Annual General Meeting, the Annual Plan sets out key priorities for 2025-26, aiming to deliver real benefits for residents, businesses and visitors across Westmorland and Furness.
With a strong focus on equity, economy and the environment, it outlines a number of priority areas that will receive additional resources and support to ensure they are achieved.
These priorities are closely aligned with the council’s ten “delivery missions”, established in 2023 to support its Council Plan priorities and long-term vision. The missions are: Communities, Environment, Growth, Connections, Homes, Learning, Care, Health and Wellbeing, Culture and Effective Services.
The council has also published its Annual Report for 2024-25, reflecting on the work delivered over the past year to achieve positive outcomes for people and places across Westmorland and Furness.
Cllr Jonathan Brook, Leader of Westmorland and Furness Council, said:
“The council is just two years old. We are proud of all that has been achieved in this short time, in addition to the delivery of hundreds of essential services to our communities. As we look ahead, we have big ambitions to do even more, our Annual Plan sets out the key priorities that will guide our work in 2025-26. We recognise that our ambitions must be matched by both capacity and resources. This will mean focusing on the things that matter most – those that will make the biggest difference and help us achieve our goals.”
“This year, our plans for turbo-charging affordable housing will take shape. We will ensure our adult social care services are high-quality, by promoting independence and supporting people to live their best lives. We will also be ensuring our looked after children are given love and care, in homes that meet their needs. We will work with our communities to understand and help deliver their ambitions for our places. Meanwhile, work with Team Barrow will move up several gears and our work with Government on their devolution plans, will be an additional challenge for us.”
“These are all things that will really help us deliver for local people and move us closer towards our vision for Westmorland and Furness to be a great place to live, work and thrive.”
The Annual Plan for 2025-26 and Annual Report for 2024-25 can be found on the council’s website.