Real Local Democracy

Real local democracy means that local residents and groups have a meaningful say in what happens in their area and make the important choices about their community. There must be a new commitment to citizen participation at local level. In the digital age, good communication and easy access to information is a right.

I Will Work For:

• Regular, accessible information about the work of the Council for all local residents
• Smart and active use of social media for information, participation and debate on local issues
• Consultation and engagement with children and young people, families, older people, marginalised groups, the business community
• A concise annual report on what has been achieved by the Council and how the local budget was used
• A clear complaints procedures
• Easier access to Council staff, from holding town meetings to answering questions online
• Real public consultation on big planning decisions for the area