Law will let us tell it how it really is

A NEW way for Oldhamers to have a say on how services should be run will be discussed at tonight’s council meeting.

Lib-Dem councillors Ann Wingate and Richard Knowles are urging the council to adopt new powers to help address concerns such as affordable housing, post office closures and a shortage of doctors or dentists.

Under the Sustainable Communities Act, Oldham Council has the opportunity to opt in to the new system.

Once accepted, residents would be able to make suggestions to a citizen’s panel.

The proposals would be passed to the Local Government Association (LGA), to draw up a shortlist.

Following discussions with the Government, the final ideas would be decided and an action plan put before Parliament.

Councillor Wingate said: “This new Act creates a bottom-up way of doing government, as local people know best what is required in their communities.

“The Act has the support of all the major parties in Parliament.

“I do hope it will also have the support of all political groups on Oldham Council.”