Community in Control

by Angela Clark & Photo by Harvey Smart

It is time for change and that's what's happening in Alexandria as residents and traders set up their first Community Council in 25 years to make sure their voices are heard when it comes to making choices about their town.

Kevin Mason, project development manager for the Leamy Foundation, has helped facilitate the movement and hopes as many local people as possible will get involved as they play a crucial part in decisions and changes that are made.

He said: “We are trying to ensure people in Rosshead or anywhere else are aware that they matter and they have a voice.

“And if they are not happy with a lack of services in any area, not only can they voice their displeasure and suggest improvements, that can bring investment through funding from the community fund and others to put these services in place.”

Local residents and traders are determined to improve services and have shown their interest by attending and getting involved in the meetings that have been held so far.

Contact has also been made with local schools and teachers to encourage young people to get involved ensuring everyone has their say.

Resident Angela Caldwell who is also the Chairperson of Centre of Alexandria Tenants and Residents Association (CATRA), said: “I think this has been a long time coming.

“I think about the things that have been happening in the last couple of years.

The community isn’t getting to find out about things until it’s too late. That needs to change.

“I think the only way we can change is if we set up a Community Council that will be listened to, that does have a voice, a proper voice that can stop these wrong things happening.”

If you want to get involved and help create positive change in the area contact Alexandria Community Council alexandriacommunitycouncil@gmail.com or call 07950 615740.