Successful year for the council

The report was presented to council last week by Chief Executive Liam Hannaway who said he is “extremely proud” of the achievements across the district in the last 12 months.

Mr Hannaway said, “Last year was one of the most challenging times ever experienced by our staff. They had to meet targets within tighter budgets as well as take on additional work in preparation for local government re-organisation.

“Despite all this, we managed to achieve significant results while delivering an ambitious and demanding programme of work at minimal cost to local ratepayers.

“In my report I have outlined the Council’s many achievements over the past twelve months and how these are helping the district go from strength to strength.

“We’ve played a major role in managing pioneering projects, leading progressive partnerships, developing innovative initiatives and delivering cost-effective services and improved facilities. I am extremely proud of the progress we’ve made and how this has helped accelerate the district’s development.

“Our partnership working ethos, which extends across our organisation both internally and externally, has helped us achieve these results. “In the coming year, we will continue to work towards maximising the district’s potential and making this council area one of the province’s most desirable places in which to live and work.”

Key achievements highlighted in the report include the opening of Banbridge Community Recycling Centre’s ‘Restore’ facility aimed at diverting restored, second-hand household furniture and electrical goods from landfill, and awards won for facilities such as the F.E. McWilliam Gallery and Studio and Banbridge Community Recycling Centre.

As well as this services such as sustainable development, recycling and waste management, street cleaning and grounds maintenance were recognised, and it was noted that Banbridge is one of only two councils in Northern Ireland to successfully apply international standard to all buildings and departments.

In addition to outlining the planned work and initiatives for the forthcoming year, the report also alludes to the extensive work going on behind the scenes in a bid to ensure a seamless transition to the new larger organisation when the three councils of Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon merge in May 2011.

A full copy of the Chief Executive’s annual report is available to view or download at www.banbridge.gov.uk