Norden welcomes devolution

Posted By: Ann Metcalfe
Date Posted: 31/08/2007

One of the most enjoyable aspects of being a councillor is helping to effect change by empowering people. Through devolution of decision making we  should now begin to witness far greater empowerment and ownership locally.

An example of this from Norden Ward was my instigation of the Friends of Moss Row and the allottment group. Through hard work, enthusiasm and committment this group are revitalising the allottment site and surrounding area. 

A further example (with  help from members of the Urban Gallery) of encouraging empowerment and ownership was the formation of NOVeL.

NOVeL are committed not only to saving the old library building but to ensure that it can be run as a sustainable and viable proposition which will address the needs and aspirations of the local community and beyond.

From the meetings already held it is obvious there is a need for this building to be retained and used for social enterprise and community use.

Several suggestions have already been put forward and discussed from a wide age range of residents, prospective users and providers for activities which will enable the venture to be run on a viable and sustainable basis.

NOVeL will be involved in the forthcoming local exhibition orgainised by the Rotary Club next weekend in Rochdale Town Centre.

It's great when people are willing to 'get involved'. They deserve all the support and encouragement possible. They have certainly got mine!!

It just proves when motivated the apathy we frequently hear so much about simply disappears.