Weekly update - 4 January 2011
This week’s update looks back on our achievements from 2010 and to what lies ahead in the new year.
Overall, the past year has seen some big changes take place. The Council, along with all public bodies, are now dealing with a very different national landscape both politically and economically.
The new coalition government are proposing a different role for councils through the new Localism Bill and Big Society agenda.
Achievements for 2010
Some of our achievements in 2010 include:
- opening the Brook Road Open Space playground in Merstham
- opening the newly refurbished Lady Neville Pavilion in Banstead
- improvements to Horley Town Centre
- construction beginning for the new Horley Leisure Centre
- maintaining our level of funding support for the voluntary sector.
We are pleased to say that all of the above was achieved with no increase in council tax for residents.
Changes within the Council
2010 has also brought change within the Council, including to the way we operate.
The arrival of our new Chief Executive, John Jory, in the summer signalled a change in our approach to managing our business. It also came at a time when plans to reduce public sector expenditure were on the horizon.
To date, we have made nearly £400,000 of management savings without impacting on services.
Partnership working
In light of our financial pressure, we had to find alternative ways of continuing to provide high quality services to residents.
During the last year we’ve made progress with other local authorities including Kent County Council, to work in partnership to deliver services that are both value for money and that make efficiency savings.
Good position for 2011 
John Jory said: “The media headlines in 2010 have been dominated by the recession and cuts facing the public sector.
“When I joined the Council six months ago, I wanted to ensure that despite our financial position, we would still maintain the core services we provide for our residents.
“I’m pleased to be able to say that at Reigate & Banstead we have our own success story for the new year; we will continue to provide all our services to the high quality our customers expect.
“I’m optimistic that we can deal with the challenges in the year ahead. We’re a good, well managed council and we’re in a good position for 2011.”
New year wishes 
Council Leader, Joan Spiers said: “Over the last year we’ve seen many changes take place.
“Financially, it’s been a very challenging time for us and we have worked hard to ensure that there is no impact on our residents. We will need to continue finding ways of making efficiency savings.
“In 2011, we will work closely with our residents, businesses and the voluntary sector to support and encourage initiatives where everyone works together to take more responsibility to help improve the borough.
“We are a robust council who are fit for purpose and ready for 2011. I wish everyone in the borough the very best of wishes for the coming year.”
Corporate Plan – give us your feedback
You have until next week to give us your views.
Our draft Corporate Plan sets out our ambitions for 2011 - 2015 to continue delivering high quality services for our residents within the current economic climate.
You can view our draft Corporate Plan for 2011 – 2015 and give your feedback online. The consultation ends on Friday 14 January 2011.
Last updated : 04/01/2011
