District Councillor for Beccles, Worlingham, Barnby and North Cove.
I realise that nothing will happen unless we all step up to do our bit. I am pleased to be taking my community involvement to the next level with my Councillor role and am enjoying the way that it is broadening my vision of the many projects happening both within our Ward and across East Suffolk.”
Sarah is Chair of Planning North Committee which also involves her in several other planning-related roles, including Chair of Strategic Planning Committee, sitting on Local Plan Working Group, part of the CIL Spending Working Group. She is also sitting on both the Scrutiny and Licencing Committees until some of the new Councillors feel ready to take on further Committee roles.
“When I first became a Councillor in May 2021, I had absolutely no intention of sitting on the Planning Committee but life sometimes comes at us in ways we least expect. Having been a Planning Committee member for the past year, I have realised how interesting (and frustrating!) the Planning system can be. There are certainly times when my heart wishes that I could make a different decision, but the Planning Rules are clear about the way forward. National Government has set the targets for house building which must be met as otherwise we could lose any local control at all. Helping to steer Councillors and residents through this system can be a tricky task but I am determined to do my best for all of East Suffolk.”
Sarah was elected to East Suffolk District Council in May 2021, replacing Graham Elliott when he stepped down after 14 years of inspiring service.
Sarah has lived in Worlingham for 35 years, raising two children here and working as a Supply Teacher in a variety of local primary schools. She has always undertaken voluntary roles within the community, from Girl-Guiding leadership and school PTAs to Suffolk Wildlife Trust and church bell-ringing
Library supporter
Sarah is using funds from her Enabling Communities Budget to work with Beccles Library as they set up initiatives for teens, families who need literacy support and drop-in sessions for specific groups. ‘I have always loved visiting libraries and nowadays they are certainly not just for books! There is so much on offer for free or a very modest cost. I am very pleased to help enable the increase in activities on offer.’
Sarah recognises the importance of local government in people’s everyday lives. It is a vast and complex system, providing so many services that we all too often take for granted. She sees her role as a Councillor to be helping local residents to get the best service possible from that system.
sarah.plummer@eastsuffolk.gov.uk
07741 750480