Our Aims & Objectives and Solutions

Shropshire First : OUR AIMS & OBJECTIVES and SOLUTIONS

 

Introduction

Shropshire First is committed to creating a fair, sustainable, and vibrant future for our county. We believe in putting Shropshire residents at the heart of decision-making, ensuring that local voices shape local policies. Our document addresses the core issues that matter most to our communities, focusing on essential services, infrastructure, and the responsible use of council resources. These policies draw from successful examples across the UK and reflect Shropshire's unique socio-economic and environmental needs, backed by evidence and practical examples.

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Bins

Weekly Waste Collection: Reinstate weekly household waste collections to address community frustrations, reducing fly-tipping and improving hygiene.  Basildon will impliment this model from 2025, ensuring consistent waste management for residents. Shropshire currently provides fortnightly collections; this improvement could align waste services more closely with residents’ needs.

Recycling Improvements: Establish rural recycling drop-off points, inspired by Brighton and Hove Council, which increased recycling rates by 15%. Shropshire Council offers recycling centres, but expanding rural access would provide convenience for more residents.

Green Waste Alternatives: Replace the unpopular subscription-based green waste system with a council-funded composting programme and free seasonal collections. East Riding of Yorkshire successfully implemented free green waste schemes, increasing participation and public satisfaction.

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Street Lights

Energy-Efficient Lighting: Replace all streetlights with LED systems to reduce energy costs by 60%. South Gloucestershire Council achieved this with a £3m investment paid back within five years. Shropshire has begun similar upgrades but must accelerate countywide implementation.

Safer Streets: Prioritise lighting in rural areas, mirroring Kent County Council’s approach, which reduced night-time accidents by 20%. Improved rural lighting enhances safety and supports the rural economy.

Maintenance Response: Introduce a 72-hour repair policy with a user-friendly reporting system. Shropshire’s current reporting system could be enhanced to ensure quicker repairs and increased public trust.

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Potholes

Fix First Time: Use durable materials to minimise repeat repairs, reducing costs by 40%, as demonstrated by Cumbria County Council. Shropshire could benefit from adopting this cost-effective strategy.

Increase Investment: Redirect £2m annually to preventative road maintenance, following Hampshire County Council’s model. Proactive repairs reduce long-term costs and improve road quality.

Community Reporting: Introduce a pothole-reporting app, as implemented by Surrey County Council, to empower residents and expedite repairs. Shropshire Council could improve its current reporting system with real-time updates.

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GP Access & Social Care

Rural Healthcare Enhancement: Deploy mobile clinics and telehealth services, inspired by Scotland’s Remote Healthcare Initiative. This would bring critical services to isolated communities across Shropshire.

Increased Funding: Advocate for an additional £3m NHS funding, similar to Devon County Council’s successful lobbying for rural health services.

Improved Systems: Introduce digital triage systems, as used in Cornwall, to streamline GP appointments and improve efficiency in healthcare delivery.

Social Care: Why is the percentage of care taking 80% of the total County income? Investigations needs to be started.

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Responding to Electorate Communication

Transparent Communication: Commit to responding to constituent queries within five working days, inspired by Wigan Council’s "The Deal." Shropshire Council can enhance its standards to foster public trust.

Open Forums: Hold quarterly town hall meetings, encouraging residents to voice their concerns. Sheffield City Council’s approach to community engagement has boosted resident satisfaction.

Digital Platforms: Enhance Shropshire Council’s digital services for easier access to information, following Northumberland’s successful citizen portal upgrade.

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Accountability and Efficient Administration

Fiscal Responsibility: Adopt zero-based budgeting, ensuring every pound spent is necessary and impactful.

Pension Transparency: Review officer pensions for sustainability, as implemented by Nottingham City Council.

Performance Dashboards: Introduce real-time public dashboards to monitor council performance, inspired by Leeds City Council.

CIL (Community Infrastructure Levy): Immediately release the existing £37,000,000 (Yes 37 MILLION POUNDS) held on deposit and proven impossible to access and use to support much-needed LOCAL projects.

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Removal of external Contractors and Consultants

 Why is there a need for external Contractors?

Surely you need to ‘be in control of your operation’ and not subject to demands on other companies to complete necessary work. Commercial businesses work by managing themselves, so why is it different for Shropshire.  Show support for communities and start employing local people with local responsibilities and focussed on local needs, even down to having dedicted local offices / sections / depots.

 Why is there a need for external Consultants?

 Department heads are extremely well paid (often well in excess of the private sector) and surely, during their appointment process should have displayed management capabilities and an ability to ‘sort problems’ without having to rely on massively expensive external agencies / personnel to problem solve.  If the department heads lack that ability then they are clearly the wrong person for the job.  Get the right people into place and everyone benefits.

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Planning

Green Belt Protection: Protect greenbelt areas with stricter planning policies, inspired by Brighton and Hove City Council. Enforcing these policies will preserve Shropshire’s natural beauty.

Sustainable Development: Align housing developments with local infrastructure through strategic Place Plans.

Affordable Housing: Create affordable homes through partnerships with housing associations, using Manchester’s housing programme as a model.

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Farming and Support for Farmers

Post-Brexit Subsidies: Introduce the Shropshire Agricultural Resilience Fund to provide financial support and promote sustainable farming methods.

Local Produce: Launch "Tastes of Shropshire" to market regional goods and boost local agriculture.

Environmental Practices: Partner with farmers to implement eco-friendly practices, similar to Peak District National Park’s support initiatives.

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Small Businesses

Grants and Loans: Allocate £2m for grants to small enterprises, based on Leicester City Council’s successful programme.

Rate Relief: Provide tax breaks to local businesses to stimulate growth.

Networking Opportunities: Create local forums to foster business collaboration.

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Public Transport

Affordable Services: Cap fares to improve accessibility, mirroring West Midlands’ approach.

Expanded Coverage: Enhance rural bus services, inspired by Suffolk County Council.

Sustainability: Invest in electric buses to reduce emissions, following Nottingham’s model.

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Local Town First

Free Parking: Offer free weekend parking in market towns.

Supermarket Oversight: Limit large supermarket developments to protect small businesses.

Town Revitalisation: Invest in infrastructure and tourism projects to strengthen local economies.

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Digital Infrastructure and Education

Broadband Expansion: Shropshire First will prioritise bringing high-speed broadband to rural and underserved areas. Drawing on the success of Cornwall’s Superfast Broadband Initiative, this programme could enhance digital connectivity, providing businesses and households with vital access to online services. An estimated investment of £15m over five years would be needed, with costs offset by government infrastructure grants and private partnerships.

Digital Skills Training: Collaborating with schools, colleges, and local businesses, Shropshire First will launch digital literacy initiatives, similar to Manchester’s Digital Inclusion Strategy. These programmes would help residents develop essential online skills, boosting employability and community resilience.

Smart Technology for Public Services: Implementing smart solutions, such as automated waste management systems and real-time public transport tracking, would improve service efficiency and reduce costs. Nottingham’s smart city technologies offer a proven example of how this can be achieved effectively.

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FUNDING OUR AMBITIONS

To ensure the financial viability of these initiatives, Shropshire First proposes the following funding strategies:

1. Optimising Existing Budgets

• Zero-Based Budgeting: This approach involves starting each budget cycle from scratch, ensuring every pound spent is fully justified. Inspired by Warwickshire County Council, this method has been shown to reduce unnecessary spending by up to 10%, potentially saving Shropshire £3 million annually. This would free up funds for critical services like road repairs and public transport.

Zero-Based Budgeting (ZBB) is a method of budgeting where each new budget cycle starts from scratch, rather than using the previous year’s budget as a baseline. Every expense must be explained and justified, ensuring money is only spent on what is truly necessary.

Why it works:

• It forces departments to carefully evaluate their spending, cutting wasteful or unnecessary costs.
• It prioritises essential services like road repairs and public transport.
• It has proven effective in places like Warwickshire County Council, where it reduced spending by up to 10%, freeing up millions for other priorities.

• Administrative Efficiency: Reviewing council contracts and cutting inefficiencies, as Nottingham City Council achieved, could save an additional £2 million annually. For example, renegotiating service contracts and reducing duplication in administrative tasks can significantly cut costs.

2. External Grants and Subsidies

• Levelling Up Fund (LUF): Shropshire has already secured £18.7 million for Shrewsbury town centre regeneration. Future applications could target other areas in need of infrastructure and community improvements, ensuring that more towns benefit from transformative funding.

The Levelling Up Fund (LUF) has already allocated £18.7 million to Shropshire for the Shrewsbury town centre regeneration project. This funding is being used to transform the Smithfield Riverside area, supporting the Shrewsbury Big Town Plan. The project aims to improve public spaces, enhance the riverside environment, and create new opportunities for businesses and cultural activities, revitalising the town centre as a destination for residents and visitors.

Future Areas in Shropshire That Could Benefit:

1. Market Town Regeneration:

• Towns like Oswestry, Ludlow, and Bridgnorth could benefit from similar funding to enhance local economies, improve infrastructure, and attract tourism.
• Projects could include pedestrianisation, improved parking, and enhanced public spaces.

2. Transport and Connectivity:

• Improving rural bus networks, such as better routes to connect smaller villages to larger hubs.
• Enhancing cycling and walking infrastructure to reduce congestion and promote sustainable travel.

3. Community Hubs and Services:

• Funding for new community centres or upgrading existing ones in rural areas to provide multi-purpose spaces for healthcare, education, and social activities.

4. Cultural and Heritage Projects:

• Investing in the preservation of historic landmarks in towns like Much Wenlock or Ironbridge, boosting tourism and protecting Shropshire’s heritage.

5. Digital Infrastructure:

• Expanding high-speed broadband to rural and underserved areas, enabling better access to online services and opportunities.

By strategically targeting these areas, Shropshire can ensure the transformative impact of future Levelling Up Fund applications reaches across the entire county.

• Towns Fund: While Shropshire has not yet accessed this £25 million fund, it could be a game-changer for revitalising market towns by improving local economies and public spaces.

Reason for Lack of Access:
The Towns Fund is a government initiative that selected 101 towns across England to each receive up to £25 million for regeneration projects. Towns were chosen based on economic need, productivity challenges, and potential for growth. No towns in Shropshire were initially included in this list, likely because the selection criteria focused on areas with more acute socio-economic challenges than those perceived in Shropshire.

Potential for Shropshire to Claim Funds

Although the initial selection excluded Shropshire towns, future funding rounds or similar initiatives could provide opportunities. If eligible, Shropshire towns like Oswestry, Ludlow, or Bridgnorth could each claim up to £25 million to:

• Enhance public spaces and town centres.
• Support local businesses with grants or infrastructure improvements.
• Boost cultural and heritage tourism to stimulate the local economy.

Shropshire Council could actively lobby for inclusion in any future rounds by:

1. Highlighting areas of socio-economic need in its towns.
2. Demonstrating how funding could drive significant improvements in local economies and community wellbeing.
3. Providing well-prepared project proposals aligned with government priorities for regeneration.

• Infrastructure Grants: Shropshire has utilised £15 million from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund for broadband and local business support. Expanding this focus to renewable energy projects could unlock further investment.

Shropshire Council can potentially access more funding through infrastructure grants, including opportunities within the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and other related schemes. Here's how:

Current Use of UKSPF

• Amount Secured: £15 million.
• Purpose: This funding has been directed towards enhancing broadband infrastructure and supporting local businesses.
• Impact: Improved connectivity for rural areas and targeted financial support for small businesses have strengthened Shropshire's local economy.

Opportunities to Access More Funding

1. Expanding Focus to Renewable Energy Projects:

• Why it Works: Renewable energy projects align with UK government priorities for sustainability and net-zero carbon targets.
• Potential Funding: The UKSPF, as well as other government schemes like the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme and Green Heat Network Fund, could be tapped for grants to:
  • Install solar panels on council buildings.
  • Support community energy projects, such as wind or hydroelectric power.
  • Transition to electric vehicle infrastructure (e.g., charging stations).

2. Further UKSPF Allocations:

• The UKSPF remains a key funding source, with a focus on improving infrastructure, regenerating high streets, and enhancing cultural assets.
• Shropshire Council could submit bids for additional projects that meet these criteria, such as:
  • Building smart, energy-efficient housing.
  • Upgrading transport infrastructure to include more sustainable options like electric buses or bike-sharing programmes.

3. Broadband and Digital Expansion:

• Expanding high-speed broadband to underserved rural areas is still a priority.
• Additional grants from programmes like Project Gigabit could support further rollout, enhancing access for businesses and residents.

4. Transport and Connectivity:

• Infrastructure grants can be used to fund transport improvements, such as rail upgrades, better bus services, or enhanced rural connectivity.
• Shropshire Council could submit bids for these projects under funds like the National Infrastructure Strategy or the Levelling Up Fund (specific transport-focused streams).

Estimated Potential Funding

If Shropshire Council successfully leverages these opportunities, it could potentially secure an additional £10–£20 million or more over the next few years, depending on the scale and ambition of its proposed projects.

Recommendations by SF

• Develop Targeted Proposals: Identify renewable energy and transport projects that align with grant criteria.
• Leverage Partnerships: Collaborate with private companies and community groups to co-fund initiatives, increasing the likelihood of grant approval.
• Act Proactively: Monitor upcoming funding announcements, particularly for schemes like the UKSPF, Green Heat Network Fund, and Project Gigabit.

By diversifying its focus and preparing well-developed project bids, Shropshire Council can unlock further investment to support the county's sustainability, connectivity, and infrastructure needs.

3. Innovative Revenue Streams

• Asset Utilisation: Leasing underutilised council-owned properties or selling surplus land could generate £5 million over three years – tbf there is a long list of available properties for lease and sale on the Council website – but questions with regards to the effectiveness of the Council Property Department should be asked.  https://www.shropshire.gov.uk/assets-and-estates/property-for-sale-and-rent/
• Community Bonds: Similar to schemes used in other regions, these bonds would allow residents to invest in local projects, such as park improvements or green energy initiatives, while earning a modest return.

What Are Community Bonds?

Community bonds are a type of local investment where residents lend money to the council to fund specific community projects. In return, they receive a modest financial return, often in the form of interest, while knowing their money is being used to benefit their local area. These bonds allow communities to directly contribute to and take ownership of initiatives that improve their environment, services, or infrastructure.

How Do They Work?

1. Project Identification:

The council identifies projects with clear community benefits, such as:

• Improving local parks (e.g., new playgrounds, walking trails, or seating areas).
• Renewable energy installations (e.g., solar panels on schools or community buildings).
• Upgrading community facilities (e.g., libraries or sports centres).

2. Issuing Bonds:

The council offers the community bonds to residents, specifying:

• The total amount of funding required (e.g., £500,000 for a solar farm).
• The interest rate (typically 1–3%) and repayment period (e.g., 5 years).

3. Investment:
   Residents purchase the bonds, contributing amounts that suit their budget, often ranging from £100 to £5,000 or more.
4. Project Delivery:

The council uses the funds to complete the project, which benefits the local area.

5. Repayment:
   The council repays the bondholders, along with interest, using income generated by the project (e.g., energy savings or rental income) or general revenue.

Why Do Community Bonds Work?

• Community Ownership: They give residents a sense of pride and involvement in local improvements.
• Funding Flexibility: They provide upfront funding for projects without relying entirely on grants or council taxes.
• Returns for Investors: Residents benefit financially through modest returns, making bonds an attractive option compared to donating or raising taxes.
• Proven Success Elsewhere: Councils in the UK and globally have successfully used community bonds for projects:
  • Bristol City Council launched a bond to finance renewable energy, raising £1 million for wind turbines.
  • Cambridge City Council raised funds for green transport initiatives.

How Could This Work in Shropshire?

• Examples of Potential Projects:

1. Green Energy Initiatives: Install solar panels on schools and council buildings, reducing energy costs and cutting carbon emissions.
2. Park Improvements: Revamp local parks by adding better playgrounds, fitness trails, and picnic areas.
3. Community Hubs: Renovate unused council-owned properties into multipurpose community spaces.

• Benefits for Residents:
  • Direct involvement in improving their communities.
  • A chance to invest locally and see tangible results.
  • A financial return on their investment, fostering trust and goodwill.
• Expected Outcome: Community bonds could generate £1–£5 million annually for Shropshire Council, depending on project scale and community participation. This would complement other funding sources, creating a more financially sustainable model for local improvements.

Challenges and Considerations

• Risk Management: Projects must be carefully planned to ensure they generate enough income to repay investors.
• Community Awareness: Residents need clear communication about how the bonds work and the benefits of investing.
• Administrative Costs: The council would need to manage bond issuance, tracking, and repayment, requiring resources and expertise.

Community bonds present an innovative way for Shropshire to fund local improvements while empowering residents to take an active role in shaping their communities. This model could enhance trust, create financial sustainability, and deliver impactful projects across the county.

4. Community Contribution Models

• Enhanced Recycling Options: Introduce small, optional fees for non-essential services like enhanced recycling. These could fund improvements such as better rural drop-off points.

What It Means: Residents could pay a small, optional fee to access extra recycling services beyond the basic collection. This could help fund improvements like new drop-off points in rural areas or specialist recycling for items like electronics or garden waste.

How It Works: The council offers optional services that residents can pay for if they choose, such as:

• Extra bins for garden waste collection.
• Specialist drop-off points for items like batteries, paint, or furniture.

Example: In a rural village where it’s hard to reach recycling centres, the council could set up a new drop-off point funded by small fees paid by residents who want this extra convenience. For example, charging £20 a year for garden waste collection could help maintain the service without increasing council tax for everyone.

This gives residents the choice to pay for services they value without forcing everyone to cover the cost. It’s fairer and helps rural areas or those with specific needs.

• Local Business Sponsorships: Partnering with businesses to sponsor events or infrastructure projects can reduce public funding requirements while fostering community pride.

What It Means: Local businesses contribute money to sponsor community events or help fund public infrastructure, like benches, bus shelters, or playgrounds. In return, they get recognition for their support, such as their logo or name displayed on the project.

How It Works:

• A small business could sponsor a local park bench, which would have a plaque saying, “Sponsored by XYZ BAKERY”
• A larger company might sponsor a public event, such as a summer festival, with banners showing their branding.

Example: Imagine a local farm shop sponsors a new bus shelter near their shop. The shelter helps residents, and the shop benefits from increased visibility and goodwill. The council saves money on the cost of installing the shelter because the business covers part or all of the expense.

Businesses get a low-cost way to advertise and support their community, while the council reduces the amount of public money it needs for projects. It also fosters community pride and partnerships.

5. Economic Growth and Efficiency

• Market Town Regeneration: Following examples like Cheshire West, investing in infrastructure and business grants could increase business rates revenue by £1 million annually while boosting local economies.
• Tourism Enhancement: Festivals, exhibitions, and campaigns celebrating Shropshire’s heritage could increase local visitor spending by 15%, generating an estimated £2 million annually. For example, Derbyshire’s tourism strategy has successfully promoted similar rural areas.

6. Lobbying for Fairer Funding

• Rural Advocacy: As demonstrated by Devon County Council, lobbying central government for additional rural healthcare and transport funding could secure £3 million annually, addressing Shropshire’s unique challenges.

7. Accessing New Funding Opportunities

• Recovery Grant: Newly introduced £600 million Recovery Grants could address financial gaps for Shropshire, supporting essential services and community projects.
• EPR Scheme: Starting in 2025, this recycling-focused fund will provide £1.1 billion nationally to councils. Shropshire could use its share to improve waste management systems.
• Warm Homes Plan: This £3.4 billion initiative offers up to £30,000 per household for energy efficiency improvements, allowing Shropshire to reduce fuel poverty and improve housing stock.