An ambitious plan that highlights the Bristol City Council's commitment to delivering a programme of transformation and lasting improvements is expected to win the backing of Cabinet councillors next week.

The Corporate Plan sets out the City Council's pledge to work in partnership with other agencies and organisations to deliver effective action on crime, jobs, traffic congestion, housing, the environment and better services for older people and children and young people.

The plan is based on the priorities that Bristol residents have told the council are the most important to them, including through a large-scale consultation on budget proposals in December 2007. Council Leader Helen Holland fully expects the people of Bristol to judge the council and its partners on the progress they make on these commitments.


She said: "The actions set out in this ambitious plan are all informed by the views of residents. When delivered they will enable everyone, whatever their background or origin, to have a shared sense of belonging, ownership and pride in our city. We want all communities to proudly and confidently describe Bristol as 'Our City'. This means tackling the big challenges that have faced Bristol for too long. The new plan clearly states what action the City Council will be taking."

If agreed, the plan would specifically pledge the council to: deliver at least 440 new affordable homes every year - and bring around 270 empty private homes back into use each year; modernise and improve services for older people so more people can live at home with dignity and independence and complete a programme to deliver 600 new Very Sheltered Housing units and improve public transport and tackle congestion with new park and ride services.

(CD/JM)