Taking the lead The future is bright

BY RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL LEADER IAIN NICOLSON

It’s now one year since our new SNP administration was formed and I took up my role as council leader.

Having now been a councillor in Renfrewshire for 28 years, I have witnessed tremendous change in the area, particularly around types of employment, shopping habits and the advance of technology.

I believe the council is now better placed than ever before to face these changes and reflect the views of the communities we serve.

We have secured major inward investment in Renfrewshire by: ● Working and talking with others, such as the Scottish Government ● Collaborating with partner councils by re-joining organisations such as COSLA (Convention of Scottish Local Authorities) and ● Adopting a more positive outlook on what Renfrewshire can contribute to the national economy.

Our teachers are raising attainment in our schools, employability programmes are the best performing in Scotland, we had record numbers of visitors and Renfrewshire residents have more say than ever before on the things that matter most in their communities.

There is no doubt that all councils face a tough time balancing budgets while having to meet an increased demand for our services, changing expectations and changing needs.

It is a priority for me that we deliver and maintain excellent public services that people rely upon.

We can only do that by listening to our communities and staff.

The past year is a positive start, but it is just the beginning.

By working together, we will create a thriving Renfrewshire.