Wirral Council has unveiled its new Wirral Plan 2027-31, a four-year vision that includes over 2,000 new homes and a commitment to a balanced budget. The plan outlines key milestones, such as achieving a balanced budget by the end of 2028 and securing UNESCO world heritage status for Birkenhead Park by the end of the four-year period. A total of 2,200 new homes are expected to be built.
Four Key Aims
The plan is built around four central objectives: delivering reliable everyday services for all, fostering better community connections and resilience, increasing proactive early help, and growing the economy to create good jobs for Wirral residents.
Change in Decision-Making
The council's decision-making process is also set to change. Wirral Council currently uses a committee system, where decision-making powers are divided across topic-based committees. The new plan indicates a move to a cabinet system, similar to most English councils, which will take place in 2027. Under this system, the leader appoints councillors to their cabinet to lead on specific areas.
Leader's Statement
Cllr Paula Basnett, leader of Wirral Council, said: "This plan is about focusing on what matters most to our residents. People have told us they want reliable services, support that is easier to access, thriving communities and more opportunities for themselves and their families. This plan sets out how we intend to deliver that." She added: "We know many residents are facing challenges and we are not pretending there are easy answers. But we are committed to doing things differently, listening more, working more closely with communities and partners, and making sure support is available earlier and closer to home."
Next Steps
The plan was approved by the council's Policy and Resource Committee this week and will now go before Full Council, where it is recommended for approval.
