GROUNDBREAKING plans for a social enterprise to spearhead the regeneration of Blacon have moved another step forward.
Cheshire West and Chester Council’s Executive unanimously agreed a number of decisions regarding the operation and management of the Blacon Asset Management Company.
They included the appointment of councillors Reggie Jones and Eleanor Johnson to the board.
The company – which will be jointly owned by the council and the Chester and District Housing Trust – will manage assets such as land, buildings and housing.
It will also provide neighbourhood services in a way that involves residents in decisions over how these are planned, paid for and delivered.
Cllr Les Ford, executive member for resources, said: “The Blacon Asset Management Company can be regarded as a pilot of national importance – a UK lead project in localism.
“The key role of this company is to reflect what the community wants, and to find local solutions to local issues.”
Cllr Jones said: “The creation of Blacon Asset Management Company is a natural milestone in Blacon’s progression and demonstrates the power of community engagement and that Blacon will deliver.”
Cllr Eleanor Johnson added: “This is one of the first in the country with partners working together to help the community.
“What we all want out of this are excellent facilities for the whole of the community of Blacon.”
The company is expected to come into operation in April 2012, with services likely to be transferred on a phased basis during the first 12 months.
