A public consultation on Dumfries and Galloway Council’s draft plan for the next five years went live this week.
The blueprint – being presented to a meeting of the full council last week – focuses on the delivery of services and activities until 2028.
It was drawn up under an agreed inclusive approach designed to achieve the best outcomes as the council grapples with tough challenges.
Public, stakeholder and staff consultations started on Tuesday and will run until the end of January.
Council convener Stephen Thompson said: “Our council plan is our most important document. It guides us and keeps us on track to ensure that we are delivering what we promised.
“Elected members have worked together to form an inclusive plan with a combined focus which gives clear direction on council services and outcomes for the next five years.”
People will have a chance to have their say on the draft plan through various platforms, including questionnaires, which will be available online and in council buildings.
Citizen representative group events to discuss the document will also be held, details of which will be publicised nearer the time.
The council is focused on four main policy areas – economy; travel, connectivity and infrastructure; education and learning; and health and wellbeing.
Depute council convener Linda Dorward said: “Our key themes have been agreed across all political parties within our council.
“These will guide our decisions and how we deliver services as we operate in line with a core set of principles.
“This is an important demonstration from this council of the shared endeavour and commitment to work together.
“With a new vision, our plan looks forward after the challenges of the pandemic where local communities came together to support each other through the pandemic.
“We will build on this new cohesive strength to ensure council services are designed to meet the needs of all our local communities.”
For details on the consultation, go to https://dumgal.gov.uk/consultations