A message from Councillor Dave Wood, deputy leader Bath & North East Somerset CouncilA great deal of work has been undertaken during the summer in preparation for a very busy autumn which will see decisions being taken to deliver the council’s purpose – ‘Improving People’s Lives’. Work is continuing with the West of England Combined Authority to set out the region’s overall growth plan to the new UK Government. In particular, we want to focus on the continuing need to invest in more effective transport infrastructure. Cabinet is meeting on September 12 and will discuss key issues around housing need and the council’s response to the National Planning Policy Framework. In July the Government announced that all councils in England were to be given new, mandatory housing targets and it is currently consulting on a revised framework and other changes to the planning system. Also on the cabinet agenda is the council’s annual Climate and Nature Progress report – we will update you on both of these issues ahead of the meeting which will be available to watch on the council’s YouTube. Congratulations go to our One West service which has been recognised for its innovative work as an Association for Public Service Excellence Awards finalist for Best Commercialisation and Entrepreneurship Initiative. The council is also a finalist in the Overall Council of the Year award – the winners will be announced on September 12. And good luck to all our pupils, schools and staff who are busy preparing for the start of the autumn term next week, Have a good weekend. | 
