THE first of a series of opening meetings that give Basildon residents the chance to meet and question borough council leader Cllr Andrew Baggott takes place next week.

The two-hour sessions are an opportunity for residents to meet Cllr Baggott and ask any questions they may have, as well as an opportunity for residents to find out about the work that has been done in recent months. The sessions will feature an introduction from the leader before an open Q&A with the audience. 

The first of these 'meet the leader' sessions will take place between 6.30pm and 8.30pm on Monday, 11 July at the Luncies Road Meeting Hall. No booking is needed as all the sessions are walk in. 

 Cllr Baggott said: "With the introduction of a new cabinet for the council and work continuing on a clear slate of priorities for the borough, I felt this would be a good time and opportunity for residents to meet me and hear about all the good work going on in their communities. 

"I wanted to continue these popular events in recognition of how important it is to engage with residents on a personal level. I am committed that we will deliver on our key themes by listening to you. 

"I encourage any resident to come along - it's an opportunity to ask questions on any subject, in a hopefully informal and convivial manner." 

 The first events in the series are as follows: 

Luncies Hall - Meeting Room, Basildon, SS14 1SB

Monday 25 July 2022 - 6.30pm to 8.30pm

Frypa Hall, The Fryth, Basildon, SS14 3PW

Monday 8 August 2022 - 12pm to 2pm

Laindon West Community Hall, Laindon, SS15 6LF

Thursday 25 August 2022 - 6.30pm to 8.30pm

Kingswood Play Centre, Basildon, SS16 5AD

Thursday 1 September 2022 - 6.30pm to 8.30pm

Laindon Community Centre, Laindon, SS15 6NX

Further events are also planned for other parts of the borough and will be announced in due course. Check out this link: www.basildon.gov.uk/meettheleader