ECONOMIC prosperity, sustainable growth, young people and managing waste are likely to be top of the agenda for Malvern Hills District Council over the next three years.

The council is setting out its priorities for the coming years and these will be discussed at its full council meeting on Tuesday, January 29.

Leader of the council Serena Croad says the authority also needs to provide better value for money to the taxpayer, engage with and provide leadership to communities, listen to residents and their needs as well as making good use of partnership arrangements with other organisations.

A report, called Building a Better Future for the District, states that the council wants the Malvern area to be recognised as a place where knowledge-based hi-tech businesses, tourism and creative businesses prosper; where the workforce is skilled, flexible and ambitious and where towns are vibrant, sustainable and diverse. Also key to the district's future is improving access for young people to activities that help them to develop and contribute to the community; ensuring a new hospital is built in Malvern and encouraging people to be more physically active; reducing the amount of waste generated, increasing recycling and re-using as much waste as possible; and working with Wychavon and Worcester to support sustainable growth.

"The programme of priorities have been widely discussed and take account of a wide range of information, feedback from the community and input from key partners," says Coun Croad.

"The programme recognises that the council cannot do everything it may wish, but must focus on doing fewer things better and reshaping services where necessary to achieve greater efficiencies. In so doing, the council will serve the community to greatest effect."