SADDLEWORTH’S BUSIEST village is igniting its community voice with the formation of a brand new association for residents and businesses.
Around 100 locals gathered at the Civic Hall to start creating an Uppermill Community Association for the village – the last in Saddleworth without one.
The meeting was led by councillors Pam Byrne and Graham Sheldon, along with Nick Watts who runs an ‘Uppermill Community’ Facebook group for just over 1,300 members.
Cllr Sheldon, who is the village postmaster, said: “Uppermill is the busiest of all the villages in Saddleworth and with that comes one or two problems.
“A lot of community groups are doing great work in their areas and we can do the same.
“Businesses and residents don’t always agree on things or look at things in the same way so it will be good to have both in the group so we can talk about things.”
Attendees were invited to register their interest in being on the management committee, involved with action groups such as street scene, or simply a member.
Forms will be available around the village, including at the Post Office, Alimentari Di Alberti fruit and vegetable shop, and the Museum Shop, for others to sign up too.
Next, a meeting will be held on Monday, September 21 when the management committee, including a chair and treasurer, will officially be elected.
A constitution will also be agreed along with membership fees, meeting times and fundraising ideas.
Then the group will set about addressing issues in the community, with suggestions at the meeting including parking, speed of traffic, noise, pavements, toilets and planning applications.
Cllr Byrne said: “As councillors we see a lot of the official things but residents and businesses know what’s going on around them.
“If you just want to be a member, that’s great because all involvement is vital.”
Nick Watts, who runs an IT company and also lives in Uppermill, added: “This association is long overdue and it’s time to get things in place and start doing things.”
The move has already gained backing from other community associations, with many sending representatives to offer support at the meeting.
Greenfield and Grasscroft Residents Association chairman Andrew Taylor advised the new group have an interim committee, write a constitution and set up a bank account.
He added: ”We would be pleased to assist in any way and look forward to active and productive co-operation.”
Pam Rose, chair of Dobcross Village Community, added: “We are pleased to hear of Uppermill’s plans. Community groups really can make a difference.”
For more information about the Uppermill Community Association please contact Graham Sheldon at Uppermill Post Office or Nick Watts: 07712 881831 or email nickwatts1@hotmail.com
You must be logged in to post a comment.