Working together to shape the Shropshire of tomorrow

This week, Shropshire Council, working with ip&e’s Business Design Team and business and public sector leaders, is starting to shape what its future could look like.

The outcome of this will determine the future strategies and priorities for the medium to long term and will fundamentally question how the role of the public sector in Shropshire supports both its residents and businesses.

The aim is to address the significant financial challenges that face the public sector whilst also acknowledging that Shropshire needs to continue to be a great place to live and work.

Keith Barrow, Leader of Shropshire Council, said:

“We recognise that we need to develop a long term plan for the future sustainability of Shropshire and the services Shropshire Council provide.

It is crucial that we incorporate the input of external organisations such as emergency services, business representatives and the voluntary sector to create our ambition for Shropshire’s future and this is a fundamental reason for these sessions taking place.

ip&e’s Design Team have been commissioned to help design every aspect of council work and so it is only natural that they help us design our future strategy and plans.”

Clive Wright, Chief Executive of Shropshire Council, said:

“It is crucial to design the structure of the Council to meet the future needs of communities in a modern and efficient way. The world of work is changing quickly and advances in technology and how people communicate create some massive opportunities for us.

It’s important that we work with our partners and communities to make the most of all the resources available and achieve the best possible outcomes for everyone in our County. I’m really looking forward to sharing ideas and together finding the right solution to what the Council should look like.”

Mandy Thorn, Business Board Representative, said:

“It’s great that Shropshire Council are looking to involve local businesses and partners in its development of long term plans.

To be invited to help create the council’s vision and targets is a fantastic opportunity and I’m excited to get started.”

The decisions that come from this work will have far reaching effects over the coming years for the services that the public sector provide and how these are funded. Keith Barrow said “it’s vital that we keep everyone in Shropshire informed as we go through this period of change but I am confident that the decisions we make over the coming weeks will build strong foundations for Shropshire’s long term future.”