Annual Council debate to put future technology in Buckinghamshire under the spotlight
Although we’ve not yet seen ‘Back to the Future’ style hoverboards or ‘Star Trek’ teleportation pods becoming part of everyday life, the technology revolution still provides a vast array of opportunities totransform local public services across Buckinghamshire.
Given its importance, the whole subject takes centre stage at this year’s County Council annual debate starting at 9.30am on Thursday May 17. Local leaders and key industry experts will come together to discuss ways in which the very latest technology can improve services, make life easier for customers and save money.
The debate will hear the very latest from four pioneers of technology: Devika Wood, Founder and Chief Care Officer of social care start-up ‘Vida’; Mark Kemp, Director of Growth, Strategy and Highways at Buckinghamshire County Council; Kieran Arnold, Director at 5G Step-Out Centre, Westcott and Wg Cdr Keith Dear, Associate Fellow, Royal United Services Institute (RUSI)
Whether it’s simple, new applications that can help with everyday tasks or more complextechnology to help transform areas like social care, transport and business growth,the debate will focus onhow best to prepare for the future while also solving the problems of today.
And, through technology, you have the chance to be involved in the debate itself by submitting your views via social media either beforehand or ‘live’ direct into the debate as it happens.
Leader of the Council, Martin Tett says he really wants local people to get involved and share their views and questions.
“This debate is taking place at a pivotal time for Buckinghamshire. Technology impacts on everything we do from social care, roads and recycling to libraries, the environment and of course into the classrooms. It’s vital that we seize the right opportunities at the right time, but equally understand the risks and concerns people might have.
“Technology is constantly improving all aspects of our lives and increasing our expectations. Just think back a few years when it was normal to wait 28 days for deliveries – now things can be ordered in the morning and delivered to your door in the afternoon. Now’s the time to stretch our imagination and really see what the future can bring.
“In previous years, our annual debate has always attracted a wide range of questions and comments, particularly as people can input directly into the meeting live as it happens. I believe it’s vital for democracy that local people can engage with their County Council and what better than to get a question debated on such an important topic in this exciting and interactive way.”
Questions and views can be submitted in advance or during the meeting itself via the Council’s Twitter site – @buckscc and use #bucksdebate or via Facebook. (www.facebook.com/BuckinghamshireCountyCouncil)
Alternatively, questions can be emailed to ashutter@buckscc.gov.uk. The whole debate can be viewed live on webcast via the Council’s website as well as running commentary on Twitter and Facebook. The public are also welcome to attend the debate which is being held at The Oculus in Aylesbury starting at 9.30am.