20/11/2008 - Town centre officer to speak at Penrith Neighbourhood Forum

Penrith’s new town centre officer, Paul Watson, will be speaking at next week’s neighbourhood forum to explain the work that is being done by the Vitality of Penrith group and how priorities for the town are decided.

As well as the Vitality of Penrith the other main item for discussion will be the Fire and Rescue Services’ consultation on their future in Cumbria. 

The discussion will be lead by Mike Smith, Group Manager for the services Integrated Risk Management Plan. 

The plan contains proposals for changes in services up to 2010 including water rescue and other emergency provisions. Details of the plan can be found on the Cumbria Fire Service website http://www.cumbriafire.gov.uk/ or by contacting the authority. Public consultation on the plan finishes on 25 November.

The neighbourhood forum, run by Cumbria County Council, will be at Penrith Methodist Church hall on Wordsworth Street on Wednesday 26 November starting at 7.30pm. 

Philip Chappelhow, County Councillor for Penrith North, will chair the meeting. He said: “This neighbourhood forum is an opportunity for residents to get involved in issues affecting Penrith, and to get information about local services. People can come and talk to decision makers and local residents, and raise their own ideas for community improvement.

“If you've got something to say, neighbourhood forums are a way to get your voice heard and to make a difference to your local area.”

Neighbourhood Forums are held in all areas of Cumbria and give residents a chance to talk about local issues with their local councillors and others. Public meetings are held at least four times a year in each area and chaired by the local county councillor. District councillors and other agencies are invited to come and anyone can request an item on the agenda or ask a question about a local concern.

ENDS

Media enquiries to Media Officer Chris Little on 01228 226334.