Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council has set out its priorities for the next four years in a new plan focused on safer streets, cleaner neighbourhoods, thriving town centres and better value for taxpayers.
The Council Plan 2026–2030, titled Building a Better Borough: People, Places, Prosperity and Performance, was published on 20 October 2026. It outlines the council's action plan with partners and how results will be measured, with residents invited to get involved by reporting problems, supporting local businesses and volunteering.
Crime, Safety and Housing
The council will target crime and anti-social behaviour, tackle poorly managed housing and support vulnerable residents to live safely and independently. It will also work to prevent homelessness and help community organisations and volunteers strengthen local neighbourhoods.
Streets, Parks and Public Spaces
A commitment has been made to practical, visible improvements to streets, town centres, parks and public spaces. Firm action will be taken against fly-tipping, littering, dog fouling, neglected properties and illegal activity. An initiative called Operation TLC will bring residents, councillors, council services, businesses and partners together to improve areas across the borough.
Business and Regeneration
The council will back local businesses, attract investment and support the creation of skilled, well-paid jobs. Major regeneration projects at Rye Park, Karparc and Astley Place will be completed. The council will also work to maximise the legacy of Town Deal investment in Newcastle and Kidsgrove.
A new Creative Hub will provide space for creative, digital and cultural businesses, entrepreneurs and start-ups. Key strategic employment sites at Keele, Audley and Chatterley Valley will be promoted, and markets, festivals and other events will be supported to increase footfall and strengthen local town centres.
Financial Management and Performance
Council performance will be measured on efficient services, strong financial management and ensuring every penny of taxpayers' money is well spent. The council will challenge unnecessary expenditure, make better use of its land and property, simplify services and use digital technology and artificial intelligence where they can improve services or reduce costs.
Partnership Approach
The council's leader has pledged to involve businesses, voluntary and community organisations, sports clubs, parish and town councils and public sector partners as the plan is put into action.
Jonathan Gullis, Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council Leader, said: "Our ambition is simple: to make Newcastle-under-Lyme a borough people are proud to call home, where families feel safe, businesses can thrive and residents can see their council delivering for them. For too long, local government has been too focused on strategies, targets and bureaucracy rather than the everyday things that matter to people. Our Council Plan is about changing that."
Gullis added that building a better borough cannot be achieved by the council alone and requires all residents to play their part by taking pride in their streets, businesses investing in their communities, volunteers giving their time and neighbours looking out for one another.