By John Lamont MP
In my book, the Borders is already the best place in the country to live and work.
But our communities would still benefit from improvements to our public services and our economy.
That’s why I recently launched my Boost the Borders plan to focus attention on the things that really matter to local people.
My plan is a blueprint to improve key services. It outlines my top priorities for the future of the Borders. It aims to improve digital, physical and social connections.
It is focused on bringing people together around our shared priorities, such as improving local job opportunities, boosting digital services, boosting transport links, and boosting access to local health services.
My plan includes 18 key priorities, proposals and goals to enhance public services and aims to upgrade local infrastructure.
The most pressing issue, I believe, is cutting down NHS waiting times and recruiting more GPs and dentists. Despite the best efforts of dedicated NHS staff, the SNP's handling of our NHS has been poor and left too many people struggling to get quick face-to-face appointments and the treatment they need.
My plan also includes ways to improve connectivity by identifying mobile phone signal black spots, increasing broadband network speeds, and establishing a quick and easy central reporting service for people in rural areas to highlight any problems they have.
I also outline proposals to improve transport links. We must fix local roads, such as the A68 and A7. The A1 needs to be dualled. And the SNP must increase funding for pothole repair. We also need to expand bus services and extend the Borders Railway to Hawick, Newcastleton and Carlisle.
These ideas have been developed from listening to the pressing concerns of constituents. I welcome all feedback from local residents on ways we can make the Borders an even better place to live and work. Please get in touch with my office with your views or speak to me directly at one of my regular advice surgeries.
I look forward to progressing these positive proposals with the Scottish Borders Council, the Scottish Government and the UK Government.
As your Member of Parliament, I will always remain laser-focused on your top priorities. I hope my Boost the Borders plan can help improve the place we call home.
