THE coverage of the arrival of the new Super councils (April 1) rather predictably focuses on the orange/green divide and the new responsibility for land use and spatial planning. It is unfortunate that we are not hearing about the really important new power in our revamped local government - the community plan.
The community planning process will give expression to the collective duties, some old, some new, for the 11 councils. Community planning will give direction to land use planning, economic development and the development of public services in council areas. Councils will have a vital coordinating and leadership role in bringing about a community plan, weaving in existing service, economic and spatial processes and creating a new focus for communities across the region. But no-one is talking about it yet. It is the next big thing and a real opportunity to revitalise communities.
AVERY BOWSER
Co Derry
