The future’s bright for Blantyre residents

Blantyre Miners’ Welfare was packed out as members of the community, businesses and organisations celebrated the official launch of the Blantyre Community Action Plan.

Hosted by Coalfields Regeneration Trust and volunteer action group Blantyre Futures they welcomed the fire service, Police Scotland, councillors and residents of all ages.

Visitors heard a speech from volunteer Elizabeth Freer (pictured right) on behalf of Blantyre Futures, showcasing the launch of five major community themes, each uniquely chosen by the public.

The audience also heard about the success of Blantyre Future events so far and recognised the community groups currently active in Blantyre.

And the closing speech told of the success of the Blantyre consultation, with over 1500 residents’ opinions collected, around 8.5 per cent of Blantyre’s population.

The event ended with the distribution of the action plan and comments about how this was very much the start of an exciting future and of the potential ahead, especially for unlocking funding.

A spokesperson for the group told the Advertiser: “Working with so many local organisations, our group is the epitome of collective collaboration in the community, leading to excellent engagement and decisive action.

“There’s a lot of work ahead over the next five years and we look forward to working with all these stakeholders in order to make Blantyre a brighter, safer more beautiful and successful place to live.”

Blantyre Futures’ Facebook page is now up and running at www.facebook.com/blantyrefutures.

The community action plan will be available to download from their page and website.