A new vision for Bracknell that will set the tone for its communities will thrive for the next 25 years is moving forward.
The Bracknell Forest Vision 2050 is being driven by the Labour administration at the council to make positive progress towards a series of goals.
It has seven core themes: community well-being and social infrastructure, affordable living, sustainability, transport and connectivity, education and skills, local economy, arts and culture, and inclusive communities.
The vision document states: “Compared to much of the country, we are performing well across key indicators of community well-being, and our overall trajectory is positive.
“Yet success today does not guarantee prosperity tomorrow. Our Vision 2050 is not about addressing decline, it’s about building deliberately on our foundations and heritage, including the New Town legacy to ensure Bracknell Forest continues to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
“This vision represents our collective ambition, drawing on voices of residents, young people, businesses, and partners, to create a place that honours its past while embracing innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity as cornerstones of continued success.”
The Vision 2050 process was begun through engagement events and research by council officers.
The draft vision for adoption was discussed by the council’s Labour cabinet meeting.
Mary Temperton, the council leader, said: “I think it’s absolutely essential that we reflect the need to build even stronger communities, so that every resident can feel welcome, valued, safe and included.
“Most of our residents love living here, and we need to ask why, we need to know what should possibly change, so this vision reflects their hopes and aspirations.
“It must be resident-led. I’ve been part of the consultation for this, and on this vision and I’m delighted with the positivity of the responses.
“Residents want to talk about why it’s good to live in Bracknell Forest, they’re quite hesitant of trying to find what isn’t so good.
“But there are reasons and we need to build on that.”
Councillor Temperton (Labour, Great Hollands) added the vision is a living document that will evolve with needs of the people of Bracknell Forest.
Cllr Helen Purnell (Labour, Easthampstead & Wildridings), deputy leader and vice-chair of the cabinet, said: “This is a really exciting project to be involved to be able to make a mark.
“I’d encourage everyone to have a say in the future of this borough.
“This is a place where residents are proud to live, and I look forward to being part of the next stage of this vision.”
The vision was adopted by the council’s cabinet at the meeting on Tuesday, July 15.
In the near future, the council will invite key partners and resident organisations to participate in a signing ceremony to celebrate the vision.
