Council leader to hit the road again

WARRINGTON Borough Council leader Russ Bowden is hitting the road again with a string of new leader’s forum meetings.
The forums are a chance for residents to ask the leader, outside of formal council meetings, about local community issues and priorities.
Cllr Bowden said: “The level and nature of discussion at the leader’s forums I’ve already hosted across the borough has been generally constructive and positive. I’ve found getting out and about to various wards invaluable – it’s given me a real sense into community priorities and I’ve enjoyed speaking to residents about the things that matter most to them.
“With a lot on the agenda for Warrington including the Local Plan, the Time Square regeneration scheme and our ongoing budget challenge, it’s important I don’t lose sight of local issues which will often have the greatest community impact.
“At my forum meetings so far I’ve been challenged and scrutinised and I welcome that – the forums are a chance for me to be able to respond to questions and discuss key issues in an informal, open setting.
“My intention for the forums is to create an environment where anybody can come along and feel comfortable raising questions or concerns and know that they’ll be listened to.
“I’m looking forward to bringing ‘the council’ back out to the communities it serves once again.”
The next forum meetings will be:
* Tuesday June 11, 6.30pm-7.45pm – the Oaks Centre, Stocks Lane, Penketh, WA5 2QS
* Monday June, 24 6.30pm-7.45pm – Fearnhead cross community and youth centre, Padgate, WA2 0HB
Further leader’s forum meetings in July are also set to be announced. Registration to attend the forum or ask a question is not required.