WE are always being told that our communities are breaking down that we are becoming more isolated, more resentful; more selfish. Well, I don't believe this. Every day, I see acts of heroism, I see people helping each other, guiding each other and individuals making a difference to other people's lives. I think that in this increasingly confusing world, we rely on each other ever more for our stability, reassurance and sense of place. Next year will see many new challenges. This beautiful part of the world is under grave threat from outside pressures. The pressure to build houses will intensify as the government drives forward its plan to make the south east of England the engine room of the European economy. Our great fear is that the demand to build houses will not be accompanied by an investment in new hospitals, schools and public transport systems; that we will get all of the downside of development without any of the benefits. We, as a council, will fight to make sure that this fear does not become a reality. All of the towns and villages in East Hampshire are undergoing some sort of noticeable change at the moment. Changes in demographics, changes in size, changes in the way we see ourselves. There is a feeling around that suggests that while things are pretty good, we should be doing more as communities to make things better. There seems to be a desire for improvement in infrastructure, a desire for improvements in behaviour and an increasing belief, that change for the better is possible. I would like to tap into this optimistic mood and will be launching in January a new set of priorities for the next four years which will be based around building successful communities, looking to protect and enhance our wonderful countryside and as a council providing the best services we possibly can. I look forward to sharing those with you in the new year. I would like to take this opportunity to wish all the residents of East Hampshire a happy and prosperous new year. Andrew Pattie
