CLLR ROB POLHILL HALTON BOROUGH COUNCIL LEADER

AS we bring in a new year, I am proud of what we in Halton have achieved so far and look forward to some exciting plans for the future.

There is much to be positive about as investment in the borough is increasing with more businesses locating here.

Much of this due to the success of the Mersey Gateway, which has seen over 23m journeys so far, exceeding our expectations, and is bringing transport and economic benefits to the local community in Halton and the North West.

Earlier this year we were thrilled to welcome Her Majesty The Queen and Her Royal Highness The Duchess Of Sussex to officially open the new bridge, which was a very proud moment and a day of celebration for the borough.

The opening of the landmark new bridge has provided the opportunity to refurbish the Silver Jubilee Bridge, and its temporary closure is enabling us to plan and carry out a transformation of the area around Runcorn Station, itself an important gateway into the borough.

There’s no getting away from the fact that the coming year will again be a difficult one as we are looking at a £13m budget shortfall due to yet more unfair Government cuts.

This will mean we have to make more tough decisions, which may result in the council reducing or stopping some of the services we provide.

However, I must stress that this situation has been imposed on us but our priority is always to protect the most vulnerable people in our community and despite the challenges we will continue to do all we can to deliver vital services.

I remain positive that, due to our ability to achieve a lot with very little, Halton will continue to thrive.

I would like to pass on my sincere best wishes to all readers and their families for a happy and healthy 2019.