We will deliver effective local government, based on excellent customer care, which is open and responsive to residents’ wishes. Our three top priorities are: 1. Protecting frontline council services; 2. Building quality and affordable homes for Ipswich people; 3. Bringing new jobs and investment to Ipswich Our 6 Priorities for delivery are: A Strong Ipswich Economy Ipswich’s economy is growing and the Council is playing a key role in this as an enabler, partner and investor. A Sustainable Environment We recognise that a high quality environment is key to the success of the town’s economy and the health and wellbeing of our residents. The Council provides a range of services to support this, including one of the highest concentrations of green open space of any urban area in England. An Enjoyable Place to Live, Work and Study we want Ipswich to be an attractive place to live, work and study. Key to this is a high quality arts, leisure and culture offer delivered by the council and its partners. A Healthy Community Our provision of green space, parks, sports facilities and good living environments contributes greatly to the quality of life for Ipswich residents. Our services influence the health of local people and respond to health issues in our communities, such as our provision of the HEARS (Home Emergency Alarm Response Service) service and sheltered housing. Quality Homes for all The Council provides around 7,500 council houses for rent across Ipswich and has embarked on a programme to build 1,000 homes in a decade. As well as being a direct provider, the Council has a key role in enabling good quality housing to meet need in the town. Safe Communities The Council works with its partners to tackle community safety issues in the town. An Efficient and Effective Council In order to deliver high quality services to our communities, the Council needs to operate efficiently and effectively, ensuring as much resource as possible is targeted at the things that matter most to our communities.