DENSHAW Is to get a chance to highlight issues in its area as Saddleworth Parish Council holds its forthcoming meeting in its most outlying village.
Taking the authority around the places it represents was a big aim of its chair, Helen Bishop.
Now after meetings in Greenfield and Lydgate in what has been heralded as a historic move towards greater community engagement, Monday, January 26 will see it hold its meeting in Denshaw’s Village Hall.
Helen, who is also a Saddleworth South Councillor on Oldham Council, said: “I was over the moon when Denshaw showed an interest in hosting us.
“It punches well above its weight for a small village when it comes to community spirit but can sometimes be overlooked due to its more isolated location.
“I remember when the village hall was built in Denshaw and it was a real gamechanger for the residents there.
“Now it can play its part again by being the place where local people can learn more about, and take part in, local democracy.”
The RSPB’s Kate Hanley will be guest speaker on the night, delivering a presentation on the ongoing efforts to improve the ecology and water-retaining features of the moorland, and taking questions from those interested in flood prevention, rain filtration and other concerns relating to moorland life.
Members of the community across Saddleworth are invited to attend and as always, there will be an opportunity during the meeting for the public to ask questions.
It is hoped that holding meetings in community buildings and spaces that are predominantly funded and managed by hard-working, local volunteers, it will help promote them and attract more bookings and footfall
And taking sessions around the area is proving a huge boost, according to Helen, who added: “People have in the past felt frustrated and detached from local decision-making.
“But the opportunities are there to participate, we just need to promote them more and encourage the public to engage.
“I really hope people come along to listen to Kate and learn about the small changes we can all make to help prevent flooding.”
Parish Councillor Michael Powell said, “It’s so important for smaller villages like Denshaw to be given the opportunity to host an event like this and to have their say on matters that affect them.
“The turnouts have been growing every time, hopefully this will be the biggest yet.”
Members of the public can submit their questions beforehand by emailing karen@saddleworthparishcouncil.org.uk or ask them on the night.
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