LibDems support new Association

12.28.53pm GMT Fri 14th Jan 2005

PPC Laura Murphy, "Community action is at the heart of LibDem philosophy"

Liberal Democrat Prospective Parliamentary Candidate Laura Murphy this week saw the launch of a new Association in Showfields & Ramslye. Talking to residents and businesses Laura saw the need for them to get together to tackle the problems of anti-social behaviour and drug use.

Seizing the initiative Laura organised a public meeting before Christmas where, after hearing about the improvements that residents wanted, she suggested the best way forward was to form a Community Association.

Laura contacted those who could help and the first meeting was held this week at Turners Factory. Residents and local agencies came together to lay the foundations for a new, vibrant association. She asked Elaine Lawrence who was the driving force behind BLISS, in Southborough, to tell them what an Association could do.

Cllr Peter Crawford (right) "Local communities know what is best for their area."

"The atmosphere was electric," said Laura Murphy, "the residents had clear ideas about what they wanted to do, what support they wanted from local agencies and Elaine was inspirational."

Representatives from police, health, housing association and Councils pledged their support. Everyone at the meeting was speechless though when Mark Roberts, Managing Director at Turners promised £1,000 to the Association. "It was a wonderfully generous donation", said Laura, "and means that the residents can really get things going."

Cllr Peter Crawford added, "this Association is resident led and we will be working closely with them to improve the quality of life for everyone in Showfields & Ramslye."