A new council vision that is set to "underpin the services it delivers for the next four years" has been adopted.

East Suffolk Council's new Strategic Plan - entitled 'Our Direction 2028' - showcases the council’s key ambitions and priorities with an overarching aim to promote a bright, green, open, free and fair future for all in East Suffolk.

Lowestoft Journal: Our Direction 2028. Picture: East Suffolk CouncilOur Direction 2028. Picture: East Suffolk Council (Image: East Suffolk Council)

It comes after people in East Suffolk were urged to have their say as a survey on "an ambitious approach" for the future was launched earlier this year.

With four main priorities - Environmental Impact, Sustainable Housing, Tackling Inequalities and Thriving Economy - reflecting the political ambitions of the new Green, Liberal Democrat and Independent administration, it sets the path the council will embark on, collaboratively, for the four years until 2028.

Lowestoft Journal: East Suffolk Council leader, Cllr Caroline Topping. Picture: East Suffolk CouncilEast Suffolk Council leader, Cllr Caroline Topping. Picture: East Suffolk Council (Image: East Suffolk Council)

East Suffolk Council leader, Cllr Caroline Topping, said: "After many years of Conservative administration our residents voted for change.

"Our communities put their trust in us, and we will deliver important services on the basis of clear priorities which reflect our shared values.

"Our Direction 2028 has been developed by working with all councillors, our brilliant staff, and other important stakeholders, including the public who were invited to take part in a survey about our ambitions.

Lowestoft Journal: East Suffolk Council headquarters in Lowestoft. Picture: NewsquestEast Suffolk Council headquarters in Lowestoft. Picture: Newsquest (Image: Newsquest)

"Our plan clearly reflects the feedback we received and we will work closely with, and empower, communities and individuals to improve services where we need to - ensuring the district is in the best place possible in 2028."

Lowestoft Journal: Chief executive of East Suffolk Council, Chris Bally. Picture: Mick HowesChief executive of East Suffolk Council, Chris Bally. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

Chris Bally, chief executive of East Suffolk Council, said: "2023 has been a year of significant change, with a new chief executive and administration.

"However, the energy, resilience and positivity shown in taking this change in its stride and continuing to deliver excellent public services is a testament to all who work for the council.

"I am incredibly proud to be the chief executive of East Suffolk and proud of the commitment, energy and ingenuity that our officers and teams put into delivering outstanding services around the clock."