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2021 has been another difficult year for many people in many different ways ? but there have also been some great moments.
The year began with the Government announcing another national lockdown, which saw the great support effort swing into action again to ensure everyone in the city, especially the most vulnerable, got the help they needed.
Covid has of course been the main issue that has shaped everyone?s lives for another year. Many people have suffered, died or lost loved ones while sacrificing some of their freedoms for the sake of others. The vaccination programme has been a great national and local effort and has proved to be the key to protecting ourselves against the virus. As the New Year looms, getting ourselves vaccinated remains really important, if 2022 isn?t also to be dominated by Covid.
What the pandemic has also continued to do, though, is show what great community spirit exists in Nottingham and I?m proud of all the key workers, community groups and volunteers, who once again stepped up and did their bit to help. The council helped to support local businesses, rough sleepers, and other vulnerable groups, as well as implementing active travel schemes to improve alternative, Covid safe travel options. One nice moment this year was a mural being unveiled as a thank you to key workers, as well as brightening an underpass.
Another great crowd pleaser has been the T Rex exhibition at Wollaton, which will continue next year ? although of course sadly we had to cancel many of our main city events this year due to Covid safety concerns.
It?s been an undeniably tough year for the City Council as we not only set another difficult budget for the forthcoming year, but also carried out huge changes within the organisation to respond to the recommendations from the Government review and forge a new way of working to provide services for local people in the best way possible. We remain steadfast, determined and focused on this and will emerge a stronger, more efficient council which still stands up for and delivers for Nottingham people.
The New Year will no doubt present more challenges and opportunities. I remain hopeful we will rise to the challenges and embrace the opportunities as Nottingham always has.
And I?d like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a healthy and peaceful New Year.
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 For all the latest news from Nottingham City Council visit our website: www.mynottinghamnews.co.uk
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