Led by priorities identified by local people, the Strategic Plan outlines the future direction for the council detailing the priorities and aspirations for 2017-2022.

The Plan will focus on key priorities including: improving job opportunities and developing the local economy; supporting individuals, families and carers and engaging and empowering communities.

It also includes detailed performance targets so that residents can easily track progress made towards the 2022 changes.

Council leader Jonathan McColl said: “The Strategic Plan sets out what we plan to deliver over the next five years, and gives officers the clear direction about how they should prioritise their service delivery. Our ambition is clear that we want to improve the lives of all of our residents, from our very youngest to our oldest citizens. We are also clear that in order to realise our ambitions for our community, we need to work together, and I am focused on ensuring that all of our residents are fully involved in shaping the services we deliver and the communities they live in.”

Depute leader, Councillor Caroline McAllister, added: “We are committed to improving our area for the benefit of all of our residents and are determined to tackle inequality. The Plan outlines how we will achieve that, including by eliminating the poverty-related attainment gap, encouraging investment in our area, supporting residents who need additional help, improving our communities and delivering the best possible services to all of our residents.”

The Strategic Plan can be reviewed on the council website.