Published 28 October 2022

West Dunbartonshire Council has set out its ambitious vision for the next five years to build on the strength and resilience of neighbourhoods and support every resident to fulfil their potential.

The Strategic Plan for 2022-2027 was developed using feedback from communities and outlines the future direction for the Council with an emphasis on improving the lives of residents and reducing inequality.

This will be achieved by focusing on key objectives, including empowering communities; promoting health and wellbeing; enhancing the economy, increasing the supply of good quality social housing; and protecting the environment.

The plan will help guide Council officers and elected members when making decisions so that a strong and flourishing economy is created in West Dunbartonshire, along with resilient and thriving communities.

In addition, the plan focuses on ensuring the area continues to implement sustainable technology and infrastructure, as well as providing Council services which are inclusive and adaptable.

Detailed performance targets are included so that residents can easily track progress made towards the 2025 changes.

The details of the strategic plan were shared at a meeting of West Dunbartonshire Council this week, with members approved it.

Council Leader, Councillor Martin Rooney, said: “Since the previous Strategic Plan was implemented back in 2017, there has been a substantial shift in the social and economic landscape in West Dunbartonshire. In the last two years alone, our communities have been impacted by Brexit, a global pandemic and unprecedented financial instability. This period has shown us the best of West Dunbartonshire and how our communities can rise to challenges, and it has also exacerbated inequality.

“This inequality, combined with increased demand and reduced resource, means it is now more important than ever to set out a clear and comprehensive plan for the next five years and this plan will support us to deliver improved outcomes for all residents through the provision of quality public services.

“This document will be the road map for our Council for the next five years, setting out a vision for the area led by priorities identified in partnership with the people who live, work and trade here.”

Deputy Council Leader, Councillor Michelle McGinty, added: “Each and every action taken by this Council will align with at least one of the priorities identified in this Strategic Plan, whether it is helping to create resilient and thriving communities by providing increased educational opportunities and involving residents in local decision making; working towards a greener West Dunbartonshire and creating a sense of pride and ownership in neighbourhoods;  or ensuring our local economy is strong and flourishing by attracting long-term investment and supporting households with the guidance, skills and opportunities which enable them to be economically self-sufficient.”