HOW do you want to be involved in making decisions for your local area? That’s the big question we’re asking all residents of the borough.
And we’re looking for straight answers.
The council is carrying out a major borough-wide review of the way decisions are made about the issues that affect our communities and we want to hear from you.
The process is called a Community Governance Review and it will look at how people can get more involved in the decision-making process.
“At present Wigan Council is the main decision-making body for the borough,” said council Chief Executive Joyce Redfearn.
“However we know that parts of the borough have shown an interest in having their own town councils as well.
“We needed to look at this and have decided to use the opportunity to ask everyone what they would like to see in their areas. As well as residents, we are also asking businesses, community groups, voluntary organisations, schools and other public services for their views.”
Wigan Council provides more than 700 services to residents from education and social care through to highways and waste and recycling services. The council’s role would not change whatever the outcome of the review.
The review will look at how people feel they could best have their say and influence the services provided in their area.
At present the borough has 10 township forums that do this. They are made up of local councillors and people from community groups.
They discuss issues affecting the local area. Some areas have active tenants’ and residents’ associations that work with the council and there are currently two parish councils in Haigh and Shevington.
“It could be that you are happy with the way the system works at present,” said Ms Redfearn.
“Or you may think that your area would benefit from a different forum such as its own town or parish council. Whatever your view is, we would like to hear from you.”
You should have received a leaflet with this edition of Borough Life which explains the process in more detail.
The leaflet also includes a feedback form which you can fill in with your views and return to the council.
“Wigan Council is there for all residents of our borough and we want everyone to know it is your council,” added Ms Redfearn.
We want to make the services we provide the very best they can be and we can only do this by working together.
“It is your council, your choice and your voice.”
If you did not receive a copy of the Community Governance Leaflet with Borough Life please contact the Customer Contact Team at the council on 01942 827779.
