Calls for visit from Prime Minister

Dorset Council is urging Prime Minister Andy Burnham to visit the county to witness both its achievements and ongoing challenges.

Dorset Council is urging Prime Minister Andy Burnham to visit the county to witness both its achievements and ongoing challenges.

Finance portfolio holder Simon Clifford said government funding for Dorset and other rural areas is unfair, and the council intends to push for a better deal under the new Prime Minister.

Clifford highlighted that with a fraction of the money spent on Manchester’s transport system, Dorset could achieve significant progress.

Council leader Nick Ireland said the authority has made strong progress despite financial pressures and continues to make a positive difference.

Weymouth councillor Matt Bell noted improved relationships between the council and local communities, while Steve Robinson, responsible for health and social care, described the annual report as something to celebrate and welcomed potential changes to social care.

Richard Biggs, Dorchester councillor for regeneration, spoke about early successes at Winfrith Innovation Park and ongoing work in Weymouth.

Housing portfolio holder Gill Taylor said Dorset is above the national average in preventing homelessness but aims to reduce reliance on temporary accommodation.

Ben Wilson, leading transformation, reported progress with new IT systems, though Carole Jones raised concerns about customer call wait times.