COUNCILLOR Tony Jefferson has had a busy start to life as leader of Stratford District Council.
The Conservative councillor has reflected on his first 100 days at the helm of the authority after taking over from fellow Tory Chris Saint.
Coun Jefferson said: “It’s definitely been a case of hitting the ground running since May 16, whilst being genuinely committed to listening to local people about issues that matter most to them.
“A solid start has been made towards the target of achieving a series of big tasks and that’s down to having a focused and joined-up team approach between the new cabinet and officers, who are all working hard to make a difference and make Stratford district a better place to live, work and visit.”
Coun Jefferson pointed to progress made in key areas like homelessness, including investing £1.4million to buy temporary accommodation for people to eliminate reliance on costly B&Bs, and earmarking £50,000 boost to support residents at risk of homelessness.
He also noted efforts to tackle traffic congestion in the area, including advancing the South Western Relief Road funding bid to final stage, and looking to ease jams on the Birmingham Road.
Coun Jefferson also highlighted work on boosting the district’s economy, including the start of compulsory purchase order proceedings on Wellesbourne Airfield to safeguard the heritage of the airfield and over 200 jobs, the acquiring Studley medical centre, and improving rural broadband.
He has also been busy forging new partnerships, which will include the first ever joint cabinet meeting with neighbouring
Warwick District Council in October.
Coun Jefferson added: “Under my leadership I can promise everyone that Stratford District Council will continue to work just as hard in the next 100 days and beyond, and that we will find creative and innovative ways to react to the challenges which undoubtedly lay ahead of us in the future.
“Council is not a ‘one man band’; all members of cabinet are committed to delivering results and the development of the cabinet as a team is impressive. There is definitely a more collegiate approach. Working in this way we can deliver more for local residents and unlock the potential of the whole district.
