Much of last night’s meeting of Walsall’s full council was taken up on discussion on the publication of the “Children and Young People’s Plan 2009-2012″.

The 112 page document concentrated on the good work which had been done cross party in improving education and services to young people since the bad old days prior to 2000.

The Tory administration did come under fire from opposition councillors on plans to improve things. Although there was clear evidence within the report about increasing deprivation and inequalities, very little of substance was said in the report about how this would be tackled.

The east/west differences which highlight the high levels of deprivation, including unemployment and poor health to the west of the borough, whereas parts of the east are more affluent are touched upon as is the increasing under 10 population and the poor provision for activities for teenagers. What is lacking in the plan is substance as to how this is to be addressed.

The ongoing situation around the future of Sneyd School and the implied threat to end Walsall’s 40 year link to the outdoor activity centre at Bryntisilio near Llangollan appear to fly in the face of the plan.

Walsall’s  Tories would do well to remember that you are judged by your actions not your words!!