Foreword

Somerset is very special. Local people have told us how much they value its history, landscape, market towns and villages. This Strategy describes our vision for 2026 and the County our children will inherit. It sets out our aims for Somerset over the next 17 years and what we will do to achieve them. The fact that we start our journey in an economic downturn and face the uncertainties of climate change, will not affect our long term ambitions.

All members of the Somerset Strategic Partnership (SSP) have been involved in developing this Strategy and are committed to it delivery. You can find out more about the SSP at Who will make it happen.

Our most important aspiration is to give everyone, of whatever age or background, the best opportunity possible to raise the quality of their life both economically and socially. We want to "narrow the gap" between different communities in Somerset in areas such as health, skills, education and general well being but, at the same time, seeking to keep those features such as our heritage and countryside that make Somerset such a unique place.

This Strategy has been shaped by the views of local people, local organisations and representatives from many public agencies. We will work with them all to deliver its vision and to keep it up to date.

Lord Cameron of Dillington

Chairman

Somerset Strategic Partnership

January 2009

Lord Cameron of Dillington

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