Improving services, making best use of resources and driving forward growth are among the key priorities set out in Westmorland and Furness Council's Annual Plan.
Published today (Thursday 7 May) following the council's Annual General Meeting, the Annual Plan sets out the council's priorities for 2026–27, focusing on where it will target its efforts to make the biggest difference for residents, businesses and communities across Westmorland and Furness in the coming year.
The plan comes as the council enters its fourth year as a unitary authority and builds on progress made over the past year, with a continued focus on strengthening services, improving efficiency and responding to increasing demand and financial pressures.
A central theme of the plan is the council's Transformation Programme, with a focus on changing how services are designed and delivered so they are as efficient as possible, sustainable and meet local needs. This includes making better use of resources, improving systems and processes, strengthening prevention and early intervention, and making greater use of digital, data and technology to improve services.
The plan also highlights the importance of working closely with partners, including through the new Cumbria Combined Authority, to deliver shared priorities and maximise opportunities for the area.
Key programmes will continue to be delivered over the year ahead, including the phased implementation of a new waste and recycling collection service, with the introduction of a green bin subscription service and harmonised recycling offer.
Alongside this, the council will continue to support growth across Westmorland and Furness, helping to attract investment and create more jobs and opportunities for local people.
Tackling climate change and protecting the environment also remain key priorities, with continued action to support sustainability and planning for a greener future.
These priorities are aligned with the council's ten "delivery missions": Effective Services, Communities, Environment, Growth, Connections, Homes, Learning, Care, Health and Wellbeing, and Culture.
Miranda Cannon, Chief Executive of Westmorland and Furness Council, said:
"As we begin our fourth year as Westmorland and Furness Council, we do so in a challenging financial climate, with reduced funding and increasing demand for services. We are focused on streamlining how we work and making the best use of our resources to continue delivering efficient, high-quality services that provide real value for residents.
"At the same time, we are seizing new opportunities and strengthening our work with partners to deliver for our communities. We are determined to meet these challenges head on – working smarter and focusing on what makes the greatest difference – as we continue moving forward with our vision of making Westmorland and Furness a great place to live, work and thrive."
The Annual Plan for 2026 – 2027 and Annual Report for 2025 – 2026 can be found on the council's website.
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