[GEaston]

This is a good example of the benefit of this forum, as it provides a voice for the people to discuss the issues of the community from within and outside of power. I welcome Judith's active involvement, because you could not take up such a role unless you really cared about the community you represent.

Less and I and others will disagree about many things (as is evidenced all over the forum), but we can probably agree that we all want to improve the town.

I speak as a town "outsider" looking in. There's many things I'd like to know about the way the town is managed:

1) What is the council is thinking now that the Accrington Town Plan is dead ?
2) Why is the planning department a part time function? (part time phone only service to the public at least.)
3) Why do they charge just to make an appointment to speak with them? I thought the purpose of a council was to serve the people not charge the people.
4) Why do investors in the town get a frosty reception? Bad history?
5) What is it that the town offers that is attractive? (Ie beyond just hope and aspirations of local folk)

If the answer to 5) is nothing then it is the councils task to create something, and quick.

Finally, does anyone from the council care to comment on this forum? Not sure if you do or not but I would encourage it and would do so myself if I were an elected representative. I have no wish to be a councillor, but I would love to debate with them.