Issued: 29 December 2009
2010 New Year Message
Angus Council Leader Bob Myles
I would like to wish all residents and friends of Angus a very happy and prosperous New Year.
The wish for prosperity in these difficult financial times is a more difficult one to fulfil than in previous years but it is still one worth striving for. Although Angus is not immune from the impact of the global downturn we are thankfully faring better than many other parts of the country. That is due in no small part to the committed and creative people we have delivering business in Angus.
As the county's largest employer Angus Council understands all too well the pressures businesses are under. Next year will be a difficult one and the forecast for council budgets does not make happy reading. So just like all employers we are working to find the most effective and efficient ways of running our business, to deliver the vital services that sustain and develop our communities.
A good example of that is the council's plan for the future care of the county's older residents. By 2028 almost a third of us in Angus will be over retirement age. To meet anticipated needs the council has adopted a new and radical approach to the community care of older people, which is setting the standard for Scotland. This starts in 2010 with the construction of 28 supported housing units and a new high dependency residential care centre for older people in Carnoustie, to replace Camus House, the council's residential care home in the burgh.
Not only will this work improve the services for citizens it will also be a welcome boost for the construction trade, who have suffered significantly during the downturn. The financial flexibility given to all local authorities in 2009 was welcome as it allowed us to bring forward some programmes of work. In Angus we decided to focus on smaller, already planned projects as we know they can be delivered this financial year and that they are within the reach of local contractors.
Even in difficult financial times it is vital that we keep our infrastructure up to scratch to keep the area attractive for investors and tourists.
Angus is fortunate to have year round visitor appeal with walkers, anglers and golfers keen to visit whatever the season. Last year's glens walking festival attracted more people than ever before, which augers well for 2010. We are also looking forward to hosting the British Seniors Open golf championship in July for the first time. The selection of Carnoustie for the event is further proof that our wonderful links course is firmly re-established as an international championship venue.
In one way or another 2010 looks set to be a challenging one all round but I, and my fellow councillors, look forward to working with you to make the county the best it can be for residents, businesses and visitors.