New Deal looks to the future

Honeywell Trust is next step
RESIDENTS in Hathershaw and Fitton Hill can learn about a new project to begin once funding for the New Deal for Communities (NDC) programme ends.

Funding for NDC will stop in March, 2011, but plans are in place to sustain the good work already started.

Launched in 2001, the 10-year scheme is aimed at tackling a range of issues which contribute to deprivation in Hathershaw and Fitton Hill.

The Government made £53.3m available to help transform the area but also expected the Oldham Council and other groups to invest resources and deliver services when required.
When NDC funding runs out, a new organisation called The Honeywell Trust will be created.

It will be an independent company run by local residents and committed professionals who will plough profits back into the community.

The trust will have charitable status, allowing it to bid for a range of funding opportunities, including Lottery funding.

Developed over the last two years through discussions with the present NDC board, the council and other groups, the trust will primarily benefit the current NDC area but it is hoped that many of its activities will expand to involve Bardsley, Coppice, Primrose Bank and other parts of Oldham.

And to continue the work of empowering and engaging residents, a community forum will be created to help bring voluntary sector funding into the area, develop new community activities and represent residents’ views on decision-making bodies.

Householders can learn about the plans and have their say at consultation sessions at the Village Shop today (5.30–7pm) and tomorrow at Langham House (12.30–5pm).

Those who cannot make the sessions, should call 0161-785 9716, e-mail ndc.pressoffice@oldham.gov.uk  or visit www.oldhamndc.org.uk  and complete the feedback form to get more information.