7/9/2005 - Youngsters given the chance to voice their opinions

Cumbria County Council want to involved more young people in council planning and decision making. Youngsters in Appleby and Kirkby Stephen are being invited to the next Upper Eden neighbourhood forum meeting to give them a chance to comment and make suggestions about what they want to see in their community.

The meeting will be held on Tuesday 13th September at Milburn Hall at 7.30pm

County councillor Mary Warburton will be chairing the forum meeting. She said:

"It can be very difficult to engage young people in the political process when they do not understand how it is relevant to them. The council continues to look at ways to encourage youngsters to become involved. I would like to encourage the young people in this area to come along to the forum meeting. It will allow them to see the real side of local politics and will greatly increase their knowledge of the role they can play. Young people have an important and valuable role to play in our communities and we want to see more young people becoming involved in the democratic process within their own area, after all they will be tomorrow’s community leaders. By going out and listening to what these young people have to say, will give us a better understanding of their needs and their visions for the future."

Other matters on the agenda are:

1. Housing in Eden and Local Housing policy- Anne Rogers, Eden District Council Housing Enabling Officer, will describe her job role and district council housing policies on affordable and local housing.

2. Community Safety- Sarah Hale, Community Safety Officer, will talk about the Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership and ways in which it can help local people.

3. Green Spaces in Eden- Eden District Council would like residents' views on how green spaces, parks, including village play areas, in Eden should be managed.

4. Local Policing- the forum will receive a report from Cumbria Police on local policing issues.

5. Questions form Parish Councils and other local concerns.

Anyone wanting more information about the forum should contact Eden Area Support office in Alston, 01434 382128 or Penrith, 01768 242368.