New funding will help drive the Long Term Plan for Nelson

Nelson is one of 75 towns awarded additional funding worth £20m over the next 10 years to drive ambitious regeneration plans in the town.

A new community-led Board has been created to help take forward and support a long term plan for Nelson.

But this must be led by local needs, with ideas and priorities rooted in Nelson’s communities.

Claire Bennett, CEO of Positive Action in the Community, has been appointed Chair of Nelson Long Term Plan Board with Saj Butt, owner of 3B Systems, as Vice Chair.

Claire said: “We want local people and visitors to Nelson to feel heard and part of this plan, which is why we are asking as many as people as possible to get involved.”

There are a number of ways you can have your say:

• online – www.bigconversation.co.uk/nelson
• request a paper copy by emailing hello@reimagine.place
• come and meet us at Nelson Library on Wednesday 15 May between 2-3pm and 4.30-6pm

The consultation closes on Monday 27 May.

All responses will be analysed and included in an Investment Plan which will be submitted to the Government by August 1 2024.

Nelson Long Term Plan Board takes a new approach, bringing together representatives from the voluntary and faith sectors, police, health and businesses as well as community leaders, Nelson Town Council, Lancashire County Council, Pendle Borough Council and Andrew Stephenson MP.

Claire added: “I’m really excited to help lead this 10-year Plan which complements the work already happening through Nelson Town Deal to revitalise the town.

“Nelson’s Long Term Plan provides us with a significant opportunity for the community of Nelson to be the real driving force in tackling issues such as reviving the high streets, anti-social behaviour and improving transport and connectivity.

“The Board gives Nelson’s communities a recognised and crucial voice to ensure local people can engage and have a role in shaping ideas for the Plan.”

Councillor Asjad Mahmood, Leader of Pendle Borough Council, added: “This funding gives us long term certainty to deliver projects over the next 10 years based on the town’s needs and priorities.

“We can build on the good work which is already underway to transform Nelson through the Town Deal.”

Rose Rouse, Chief Executive of Pendle Borough Council, said: “We can look at other ways to regenerate Nelson by reducing the number of empty shops, having more cultural events and ensuring people feel safe in the town.

“It’s so important that everyone enjoys living, working, studying and visiting the town.”