Leader’s Viewpoint: Councillor Munsif Dad January 2025
As I write my first Council Leader’s Viewpoint of 2025, I want to reflect back on some recent highlights from last year.
I am filled with joy at the fantastic Christmas light switch-on events held across our borough. We pride ourselves on spreading the festive joy across the borough, with no fewer than 11 switch-on events taking place this year.
A special mention goes to Fern Gore in my own ward for hosting its very first switch-on event, which was a resounding success. The Christmas festivities in Great Harwood were also memorable, culminating in a spectacular performance by East 17, which drew in thousands of attendees. The overwhelming positive feedback from residents and businesses to these events has convinced us to make sure funding is available for a winter event in Great Harwood next year!
Looking ahead, we are thrilled to announce the launch of a tender process for organisations to deliver a series of high-profile events across the borough in 2025. I think I can honestly say that 2024 has been our most successful year of events to date with the Spring Parade, Connecting Cultures, Food Festival, Soapbox Challenge, Tree Festival, Oak Fest and the Great Harwood Christmas events attracting people in their thousands. We also encouraged local organisations to organise their own events, and we’ve had some amazing ones, notably Jess Glynne at the IMEP Arena in Accrington and so many more.
I hope 2025 can be even better, and bidding for this council funding is a fantastic opportunity for event organisers to bring their creativity and expertise to Hyndburn. More information about this initiative can be found on the Council’s website.
In other important news, the Council has now received the English Devolution White Paper from the Government. This document may impact how local government is run in Lancashire. We will take the necessary time to review this document thoroughly and understand its implications for Hyndburn. We will be discussing these matters with our colleagues in neighbouring boroughs and will keep the public informed throughout this process.
I am pleased to report the successful launch of community skip days in Huncoat. This initiative was promised by us before we took control of the Council and has been very well-received. We plan to continue offering these skip days in the new year to help residents dispose of unwanted items responsibly. In the meantime, please make use of the Council’s fantastic free bulky waste collection service which you can register for on our website.
Last month, we launched the Accrington Town Centre Masterplan consultation. As work progresses on the major projects at Accrington Market Hall, Burtons Chambers and Market Chambers, we want to give residents the opportunity to share your views on long term plans for the town centre. Initial ideas are on display in Accrington Library until 12th January (residents wishing to view these should check library opening hours) and we are also holding drop-in sessions in the new year. Information is also available online here https://accringtontownsquare.com/town-centre-masterplan/
Finally, I am proud to announce the latest round of Community Action Fund small grants. A total of £3,000 has been awarded to Oswaldwistle St Mary’s FC, Huncoat Community Forum, Great Harwood Community Action Group, and Ghausia Rizvia Jamia Masjid. These grants will support various community projects and initiatives that that benefit the residents of our borough.
I hope everyone had a fantastic festive season and I look forward to another great year in 2025.