The new Test Valley Corporate Plan for 2015-19 setting out the key aims and ambitions for Test Valley was approved by Councillors at a meeting on Wednesday.

Our new Corporate Plan is entitled 'Investing in Test Valley'. At a time when Council budgets continue to be squeezed you might find this surprising but it is our ambition to continue to invest in our communities by devoting our energy, skills and resources to achieve the best results for residents.

The Corporate Plan was formulated following a major consultation with local people when Councillors went out last summer and spoke to residents about their priorities for the future.

The Corporate Plan includes four key strands that were identified as priorities by local people. That Test Valley is a great place to:

1) work and do business;

2) live, with the supply of homes reflecting local needs;

3) enjoy the natural and built environment;

4) contribute and be part of a strong community.

Our plan for the next 4 years includes some really exciting projects such as the redevelopment of the Andover Leisure Centre and further investment in new outdoor sports facilities following the success of the new skatepark on the Smannell Road openspace. We will continue to deliver homes for all, providing 800 new affordable homes over the course of the plan – having over achieved on our target in the current plan. Continue to invest in our business parks to meet commercial demand, providing better quality jobs and continue with our laser like focus to rejuvenate our town centres, building on the Andover Summit, the Andover Vision and the legacy of the Encounters project. We will also ensure that Communities and Businesses will have financial support to get their projects off the ground through the continuance of the Community Asset Fund, the Councillor Community Grant schemes and the various existing business grant schemes.  Read the full Corporate Plan here.