A COUNCILLOR has praised residents for getting involved in ways to improve their community.

Over the last year, One Voice for Blacon and the Blacon Area Committee has enabled residents, community groups, schools and agencies to raise awareness of local issues and change preconceptions about the area.

Cllr Reggie Jones (Labour, Blacon Lodge) said: “During the last few years, residents have played a valuable role in influencing what matters to them.

“We have provided a platform whereby residents have been able to voice their opinions across a wide range of public services, bringing the Town Hall closer to Blacon.

“As a result, residents were able to break down barriers and provide positive images of our community to change other people’s perceptions of Blacon.”

Among the improvements and initiatives made possible by resident involvement over the last year were:

Tree planting and improvements to the Old Station site and Greenway.

Refurbishment of play areas at Saxon Way and Meynall Place.

Closer working relationships with community safety wardens and police community support officers to deal with issues such as abandoned vehicles, fly tipping, graffiti, dog fouling and underage drinking.

A travel plan at Highfield Primary School to reduce traffic problems.

The Treborth Road Art Project involving youth workers, Dee Point School and Blacon Community Groups.

Cllr Jones added: “As co-chairs of One Voice for Blacon, myself and Denise Hitchin would like to thank everyone involved and we recognise the valuable contribution made by all the volunteers, residents’ associations and community groups.

“We would like to thank everyone who has attended a meeting, or runs a group within Blacon. This shows that you are proud of living in Blacon.”

Plans are under way to develop a Christmas festival to build on the success of the Christmas lights campaign. This year there will be a lantern parade and a range of planned events including a Christmas market, nativity plays and church services.