Supporting older people should be included as part of the council's strategic plan.

The suggestion was made last night by members of Colchester Council's overview and scrutiny panel.

The board met to discuss the draft strategic plan and make suggestions to be passed on to the cabinet.

As part of the consultation process in the drawing up of the document, a National Opinion Poll (NOP) survey was conducted with a broad spectrum of people across Colchester.

Although the needs of older people was not one of the points brought up by residents, councillors were concerned it should form part of the council's plans for the future.

Tim Young (Lab, St Andrew's) said: "Just because it isn't in the NOP results doesn't mean it is not a fact. Older people have got real issues in Colchester that they want addressed, their issues and services should be included."

He added: "The evidence is there, if not through NOP, it is there."

Gerard Oxford, (High Woods Ind, High Woods), believed the provision of affordable housing should be highlighted.

Published Wednesday January 14, 2004

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