Christmas is the one time of the year where we get an opportunity to take stock, look back on the year, and reflect on how it went.

It’s been quite a year, which I began with very few expectations of what was to come. I was very committed to delivering for residents in my role on Crawley Borough Council, working closely with the voluntary and community sector through the award of grants, as well as working to keep Crawley safe through the Crawley Community Safety Partnership.

Becoming Leader at Crawley Borough Council following Peter Lamb’s announcement he was standing down was a big moment.  It was not something to take lightly, there are challenges in this economic climate and it is a role where one has to be prepared to stand one’s ground under sometimes strong criticism.  The first full council afterwards was certainly evidence of that.

But leaving it at that would not sufficiently recognise how fulfilling the role can be.

Helping lead the Crawley Labour Party back to an overall majority on the Borough Council for the first time in over two years in June with the election of Bob Noyce in a by-election in Southgate was a particular highlight which also attracted national attention.

Highlights have also included the chance to bring forward more council housing, to help locally with the cost of living crisis, to consult on improvements at Goffs Park, and to support events bringing residents and visitors into Crawley to use and enjoy what our Borough can offer.  To celebrate and speak up for Crawley.  What could be more satisfying?  And there’s more to come in the new year.

Despite what the national shambles that calls itself the Tory Government this week has been actively doing to hinder it, I believe the future is bright for Crawley.

A new Town Hall offering modern local public services is opening imminently, and we have the continued successful recovery of the local economy after the devastation Covid wreaked on the aviation sector.  The work of the Manor Royal and Town Centre Business Improvement Districts both deserve especial praise.  It feels like we’ve been through a lot locally, but that we’re coming through it with a resilience that is both remarkable and impressive.

By the time you read my column this week, I will already be visiting my family and enjoying a break away from council duties.  I feel incredibly lucky, I have a large and loving family and I recognise that not everyone is in such a position.

But whatever you are doing during this festive period, may I wish you a happy and contented time and that you enjoy a peaceful and prosperous New Year.

Cllr Michael Jones

Leader, Crawley Borough Council