Leader of the Council's Monthly Update - February 2025

I’ve mentioned in a previous column the amazing response we had to our resident's survey. Firstly, I want to thank everyone who took part, over 5,000 of you shared your views, and your feedback is vital in shaping the council’s future plans and decisions. The fact that so many of you took part shows me how much our residents care.

The survey showed us so much to be proud of - nine out of ten rated Rawtenstall as vibrant and attractive, and satisfaction in our other town centres has improved compared to last year’s survey too.

We want to build on this success by continuing to invest in our town centres. We are currently involved with delivering millions of pounds of town centre improvements, but we know there’s still work to do. Town centres are the heart of our communities, and in Rossendale, we’re lucky to have such a strong foundation to build on. We have masterplans in place for four of our towns and these will guide development and growth for years to come, ensuring that our borough evolves and thrives.

Another highlight from the survey was how much you value our outdoor spaces. Our walks, cycle routes, parks, and gardens received the highest ratings - and with two Green Flags flying high in Rossendale, it’s no surprise. I’d like to thank our band of volunteers who work tremendously hard to make our town centres and parks look magnificent, we couldn't do it without you. Sports and leisure facilities saw the most improvement. I’m proud of the progress we’ve made over the past year, and we will shortly be launching our Physical Activity Strategy.

But you also told us that activities for young people need more attention. This is something we are fully aware of and are actively addressing. After 15 years of Conservative government cuts, which severely impacted youth services, it’s crucial we work hard as a district council to provide much needed facilities for our young people. Over the last year, we’ve made improvements to several parks, particularly in wheeled sports provision at Victoria and Edgeside, where young people have been at the heart of the planning process.

In addition, we’ve invested £106,000 in tennis courts at Whitaker and Stubbylee Parks and working with local sports clubs, we installed a new running track in place of the old cinder track at Marl Pits. On the football front, we’ve applied for funding from the Football Foundation for a new artificial grass pitch at the Adrenaline Centre and are helping grassroots clubs improve their grass pitches. These projects are just the start, and we’ll continue to work with residents, young people, and sports clubs to deliver what’s needed.

Another important update is about the waste transfer site improvements in Bacup. I understand this has caused some concern for residents, particularly those near Henrietta Street. However, I want to reassure you that this project is necessary following Lancashire County Council’s decision to stop using the Whinney Hill site. The new facility will be state-of-the-art, with modern odour control technology, an advanced carbon filter system, and fire suppression systems. By handling waste inside a purpose-built building, we will significantly reduce noise, odour, and the impact on nearby properties. I want to reassure people that the overall amount of waste we collect in Rossendale won't be increasing – some waste that previously went

straight to Whinney Hill will be brought to Henrietta Street before being transferred. This is about doing things better and responsibly for everyone’s benefit. These plans haven’t been finalised yet and are still subject to the planning process.

Lastly, I want to touch on Lancashire devolution and the proposed local government reorganisation. While nothing is set in stone yet, this is a long-overdue move that could provide Rossendale with the opportunity to take back more control and have a greater say over how your money is spent. However, this will only work if smaller districts like ours are truly listened to. I’ve written to Jim McMahon, the Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution, to share my concerns and ensure Rossendale’s voice is heard. I’ll keep you updated as developments unfold over the coming months.

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.