Tendring District Council (TDC) is “rising to the challenge” of delivering services in difficult times, the authority’s leader has said.

In the annual State of the Tendring District speech at full council last night (Tuesday, 19 March), TDC Leader Mark Stephenson reminded councillors of their collective duty to be custodians of the district and support and deliver for residents.

“I believe we lead the way in Tendring, with innovative solutions, single-minded positivity, matched with a 'can-do' attitude, as we aim to work with our many partners, nationally, regionally and locally,” Councillor Stephenson said.

“Amidst our achievements, it's crucial to briefly acknowledge looming challenges. Our budget confronts mounting pressure, necessitating £3 million in savings over the next three years and tough decisions are undoubtedly ahead.

“Both nationally and locally we are tackling the cost-of-living crisis, housing shortages, climate change… Whilst internationally, conflicts persist in various countries around the world. Yet, rather than dwell on these challenges, I would rather look at what has already been achieved.”

In his speech, Councillor Stephenson highlighted achievements of the council over the past year, including the opening of the Sunspot commercial workspace and retail units in Jaywick Sands; completion of Orwell Place car park and event space on the former Starlings site in Dovercourt; progress in Freeport East; the new Clacton skate park; and work starting on the Honeycroft sheltered housing scheme in Lawford.

Councillor Stephenson also outlined “exciting” plans for the year ahead, such as the ongoing multi-million pound Levelling Up projects happening around the district, progress of the Tendring Colchester Borders Garden Community, a review of the Local Plan, and development and adoption of the Leisure and Wellbeing Strategy following consultation.

Achievements recorded in the past year include Blue and Green Flags, Park Mark Awards, a ‘Good’ Ofsted rating for Career Track, and Gold Accreditation in recognition of its work supporting the Armed Forces as part of the Ministry of Defence Employers Recognition Scheme.

As well as outlining major ongoing projects and key partnership work in the fields of education, health and community safety, Councillor Stephenson also drew attention to “plenty of smaller yet equally significant endeavours deserving recognition”, and extended his gratitude to TDC staff for their work to accomplish the achievements outlined and the delivery of day-to-day services for residents.

In his concluding remarks Councillor Stephenson added: “The Council continues to face many challenges in Tendring, and I urge members to carry on contributing positively to address issues and problems as they arise. There will be difficult decisions to make; it is likely that we will have to look at different ways of delivering services that will not be easy.

“Tendring District Council has shown that we can rise to challenges, through sound financial management, embracing new ways of working, the ability to adapt and change our plans in often rapid circumstances and our work with partners.”