Local residents have their say about area boards

Reporter: Ask Bury
Date online: 16 April 2006

In a recent survey over five hundred local residents said they were interested in finding out more about area boards so that they could actively participate and give their views on the things that affect their everyday lives.

Since last year area board meetings have run almost every month in Ramsbottom, Tottington and North Manor, Whitefield and Unsworth, Bury West, Prestwich, Bury East and Radcliffe.

Headed up by an area co-ordinator the area boards tackle issues which according the latest survey, really matter to residents such as litter, street cleaning, neighbourhood policing, youth problems and general crime. The area boards each have a Chairperson and are regularly attended by the local police and other partners such as the PCT.

The survey also showed that the timing for the area boards is spot on with residents saying that the most convenient time to attend a meeting was in the evening during the week.

Deputy Chief Executive Mike Kelly said: quot;We are very pleased to know that Area Boards are valued in this way. It is important to acknowledge that Residents have agreed that we are covering the issues. The development of local Area Tasking Teams in each of our Townships will underpin the actions to be taken locally. By ensuring we publicise the meeting dates on the council's website and in the local press I am sure we will attract many more residents who feel very strongly about the neighbourhood where they live."

Further information: Kathy Hoyle, Research and Development Co-ordinator - Telephone: 0161 253 7931