We have just launched our new Council Plan for Kingston with communities and councillors that sets out how we will deliver a greener, fairer, safer borough over the next few years.

A greener council means tackling air pollution, protecting our environment, enhancing biodiversity, and decarbonising our services and estate, supporting residents to live greener lives to help reach our target of becoming a 'carbon neutral' borough by 2038.

Kingston's first ever Efficient Homes Show took place at Hollyfield School in Surbiton on May 20, offering the opportunity to learn about ways to make homes more energy-efficient while saving money and reducing impact on the planet.

It was an inspiring day, with 30 local businesses, educators and organisations exhibiting a wide range of products and services. Residents had the chance to talk to experts about what ideas and improvements that could work best for their home and their budget.

There were talks on insulating and improving your home, information for those curious about green skills and job opportunities with the prospect of 600,000 'green' jobs being created in London by 2030. There are huge opportunities for training and upskilling. The event had 430 people attending.

I’m proud that many of those who came to the Efficient Homes Show left armed with the information and inspiration to play their part in reducing our impact on the planet.

The new Council Plan alongside our greener commitment sets out our promise to create a fairer borough — making sure our children and young people have the best possible start in life, supporting vulnerable residents and reducing inequality. We want this to be true for all who live and arrive in Kingston.

We passed a motion in December pledging to become part of the ‘City of Sanctuary' network, signalling our commitment to welcoming those fleeing persecution and ensuring they can play a full part in our community. This highlights our focus on making our borough fairer for all.

We are already one of the safest London boroughs and the Council Plan also sets out our commitment to continuing to make Kingston even safer for all, having recently hosted the South West London 'Safer Streets' conference and launching our Women’s Night Safety Charter.

We are stronger when we work together. The new plan commits to working with our strong communities, our partners, our rich volunteering and community sector — nurturing and deepening these connections to achieve our shared ambitions, and making sure we build a council that is fit for the future and continues to deliver for residents.