Following the Easter break, political developments continue to shape both national and local landscapes. The ongoing conflict in Iran has global repercussions, impacting cost-of-living pressures. The Prime Minister has emphasized that the UK is not involved in the war, advocating for strong leadership to bolster energy independence and reduce reliance on foreign oil and gas.
Local Initiatives and Funding Successes
In Rossendale, efforts are underway to enhance services and stimulate local economies. The £20 million Pride in Place fund has received government approval, with plans developed by the local community board now moving forward. This initiative aims to benefit areas such as Rawtenstall, Waterfoot, and Crawshawbooth, supporting various community-driven projects.
Collaborative Support from Police and Crime Commissioner
Collaboration with Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw has resulted in a local MP's grant scheme, allocating £50,000 over the past year to projects across Rossendale. Key beneficiaries include the Solutions Youth Project in Bacup, which has expanded its operations, and initiatives creating safe spaces for women affected by domestic abuse, alongside several Safer Rossendale projects supporting both women and boys. Further projects are anticipated in the coming year.
Revitalization Efforts in Bacup
Bacup is witnessing significant redevelopment, with demolition commencing on the old cinema site. A new building offering commercial space and job opportunities is planned, alongside an upcoming new market project. These developments aim to address long-standing issues that have hindered the town's progress.
Additionally, a campaign to establish a Best Start Family Hub in Bacup has succeeded. Located in the Maden Centre, this hub will provide integrated support for families from pregnancy to age 19 (or 25 for those with special educational needs and disabilities), offering free services such as midwifery appointments, health visiting, parenting advice, and stay-and-play sessions, building on the legacy of Sure Start.
Criticism of County Council Support
Despite these positive strides, concerns persist regarding support from Lancashire County Council. A notable issue involves Millie Mulcahy, a wheelchair user in Bacup, whose essential lift has been consistently malfunctioning since its installation five years ago. Recent breakdowns, including a two-month outage last Christmas, have prompted calls for replacement, but direct requests have gone unanswered for 60 days.
Reform County Councillor Daniel Matchett, who represents Bacup, has ceased responding to emails on this matter, possibly due to his candidacy for a council position in Blackburn. The MP urges him to focus on his constituents in Bacup and take action.
Road Maintenance Concerns
Another area of contention is road maintenance. The government has provided Lancashire County Council with £47 million in extra funding specifically for pothole repairs, yet Rossendale's resurfacing list includes only sections of Market Street and Bacup Road. The MP vows to continue lobbying the Reform leadership at the County Council to secure a fair share of resources for local infrastructure improvements.
