A message from Cllr Kevin Guy, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset CouncilHaving had a couple of weeks away on holiday it is great to be back – thank you to deputy leader Councillor Sarah Warren who stepped in during what was a very busy couple of weeks for the council. The first event I attended on my return on Monday morning was the annual flag raising in Parade Gardens in recognition of Armed Forces Day. Armed Forces Day, which is on Saturday, gives us the opportunity to show support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community. It was an absolute honour to join current servicemen and women as well as veterans at the event, which was led by B&NES council chair, Councillor Liz Hardman. Over the past week residents and community groups have been taking part in our Area Forums where the importance of the Local Plan has been discussed. The Local Plan, when it is agreed, will establish the planning framework for Bath and North East Somerset up to 2042. It will guide and manage how the district grows and changes over the next 15 to 20 years, and how planning applications for new development are decided. We will be launching a formal Local Plan Options consultation in the autumn giving everyone the chance to have their say on proposals. Thank you to all those who came along to the Area Forums and joined in the conversation – if you want to attend future Area Forums you can find out more about them on our website. With Glastonbury in full swing, I wanted to take a moment to highlight an amazing sculpture on show at the festival which has been created by young people in Bath and North East Somerset who may be vulnerable to child exploitation. Through some really great partnership work ten vulnerable young people learned how to weld to create the impressive Butterfly artwork which is currently at Glastonbury before it then goes on show at Keynsham Music Festival on July 5. While it is incredible to have a piece of artwork on show at Glastonbury it is even better knowing the project has helped a group of vulnerable young people - giving them purpose, new skills and self-esteem. If you are at Keynsham Music Festival go and take a look. Have a great weekend. | 
