Leader of the Council, Alyson Barnes, monthly update for December 2024
It’s been a busy and eventful time for Rossendale, with several key developments taking shape that I’m pleased to share with you and it’s important to acknowledge both our successes and the challenges we face.
I’m pleased to announce the completion of the long-awaited improvements to Haslingden Market. This project took longer than anticipated due to factors beyond our control, but I firmly believe the results have been worth the wait. The rejuvenated market is not just a place to shop but a space designed to bring the community together. It has been modernized to better serve residents and visitors alike and will also serve as a focal point for community events. I encourage everyone to come and see the transformation for themselves and to support our local traders who are the heart of this space.
Work continues to the gyratory system in Rawtenstall, a significant infrastructure project aimed at improving traffic flow and the pedestrian experience too. As of the end of November, just over 21% of the work has been completed, and works at Tup Bridge are on track to be completed before Christmas. This is welcome progress, but I must acknowledge the difficulties and disruption these works have caused. I’m grateful for the patience of residents and businesses as we navigate these essential improvements. Looking ahead, work on the junction at Asda is scheduled to begin in the first week of January. Lancashire County Council, who are responsible for carrying out the work, do try to keep disruption to a minimum but there will inevitably be some challenges whilst the work is being done. Check our social media posts for updates and information.
Sustainability remains at the core of our vision for Rossendale. I’m pleased to tell you that 30 new electric vehicle (EV) charging points have been installed across the borough. This is a tangible step toward creating a cleaner, greener Rossendale, and part of our wider commitment to combating climate change. By making EV infrastructure more accessible, we aim to encourage greener transport options, reduce emissions, and ensure our borough is equipped for a sustainable future.
On the topic of sustainability, many of you will be aware that a planning application has been submitted for the proposed Scout Moor wind farm, located on the moors above Bacup and Whitworth. This is still at an early stage, with much consideration and consultation ahead before any decisions are made. I understand there are varied opinions on such developments, but if we are serious about transitioning to renewable energy sources, projects such as this one will play an essential role in that change. The council remains committed to a balanced approach, ensuring that the needs of our environment, our communities, and our future energy security are all carefully considered.
Changes may also be on the horizon for the structure of local government in Lancashire. Discussions around a Lancashire Devolution Deal and potential reorganisation have started. While no decisions have yet been made about the future of our council structures, we are actively engaging in conversations to ensure that any changes bring real benefits to Rossendale’s residents, delivering better services and more local decision-making power.
Lastly, I want to touch on an issue that is being widely discussed nationally: the Assisted Dying Bill, which recently passed its second reading in the House of Commons. This is an incredibly emotive and complex topic, and I know it sparks strong feelings on all sides. While this is not a decision for local councils, the fact that this issue is now being seriously debated and scrutinised at the highest level of government is significant. Whatever the outcome, it is good to see our decision makers grappling with the issues like this and it is vital that the voices of all those affected are heard, and the complexities are thoroughly examined.
Your input and involvement are crucial to our success, so please do not hesitate to share your thoughts on these or any other issues. As ever if you need to speak to me you can get in touch by email alysonbarnes@rossendalebc.gov.uk or ring me on 07817 414248.