Conservative leader's column: Recent events show the "strength of our communities"

Steve Anstee is the leader of the local Conservative party in Rochdale and a councillor for Bamford. This month he dedicates his column to the importance of unity around Remembrance Sunday, North West in Bloom, and upcoming Christmas events including the Christmas Toy Appeal...

Dear residents,

As we approach the end of the year, this will be my last column, and I look forward to continuing our conversations in the New Year.

Following a recent motion passed in Oldham, requiring the council to write to the Secretary of State to withdraw from Places for Everyone, my group will be bringing a similar motion to our December Council meeting.

It’s important to reiterate that we recognise the benefits of having a plan. Consequently, our motion will call for a comprehensive review of our land use priorities rather than a wholesale removal.

We need to prioritise brownfield sites for development and only consider Green Belt land as an absolute last resort. We’re also exploring ways to reinstate or protect Green Belt land that was reallocated when PfE was adopted.

In other news, we had a moving Remembrance Day ceremony, where our communities came together to honour those who have served and sacrificed for our country. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of unity and remembrance.

 

 

I was thrilled to see that groups around the borough won several gold medals at the recent North West in Bloom awards.

This achievement reflects the hard work and dedication of our community in making our borough a beautiful and welcoming place.

Congratulations to everyone involved! With the festive season upon us, our towns will soon be decorated, and there are a series of events planned to bring the magic of Christmas to life.

In my ward of Bamford, we are working hard with the dedicated volunteers at the Friends of Bamford to bring back the Carols on the Green this year.

Families can get together to enjoy mince pies and mulled wine while listening to a brass band play all the Christmas favourites!

Once again, the Council’s annual toy appeal is back to ensure every child in our community has a gift to open this Christmas.

The appeal, organised by council staff for the past eleven years, is accepting donations until 13 December. 
 

Read more: Rochdale’s Christmas Toy Appeal returns to bring festive cheer to struggling familiesPublished: 13 November 2024

These last three items demonstrate the strength of our communities.

I want to use this update to recognise the efforts of volunteers across our borough. So many people are grateful for the time you give up, whether it be organising, doing, or both – you are the backbone of our communities. Thank you for your continued support and involvement in our community.

May I take this opportunity to wish you and your families a peaceful and prosperous festive season.

Steve