Leadership blog - 05.11.19

Friday 25 October 2019

At the recent meeting of the Cabinet, whilst considering the significant efforts of my fellow Cabinet Members and council officers to develop proposals, once again, to set a balanced budget for next year in continuing, uncertain and challenging circumstances, I am delighted that we are still able to propose a package of investment projects for the city totalling almost £200 million.

Subject to the budget being agreed in early 2020, some extremely exciting projects are set to take place including design work for a new Wear footbridge and further developments along the riverside.

Building on the significant construction work and infrastructure improvements we've seen during the course of this year, further investment is also planned for the city centre and at the seafront.

And it is a key priority for us to invest in new schools at Sunningdale, Thorney Close, and Hetton, along with major updates at Newbottle Primary and Barnes Schools.

All of these investments and projects will help us continue apace with the city's economic regeneration and will enable us to embark on the delivery of the ambitious City Plan 2019-30, due to be presented to full Council next month for approval.

Based on three key themes - Dynamic City, Healthy City and Vibrant City - the aim of the City Plan is to create a connected, international city with opportunities for all by 2030 and I am really proud of the innovation and hard work that my colleagues have put into developing these proposals and projects.

Combined with the continuation of Sunderland's world-class, year-round calendar of inspirational and hugely entertaining events and activities, this latest round of investments will get us off to a flying start!

Cllr Graeme Miller

Leader of the Council