We've been listening (From Warrington Guardian)

We've been listening

THE St Helens Star can exclusively reveal that Council Leader Marie Rimmer is drawing up a package of proposals to make life better for every man, woman and child in St Helens.

Councillor Rimmer says the proposals will tackle key areas of public concern such as crime, environmental grot spots, providing better youth services and raising exam results. The money would come from the Council's new service modernisation fund.

"Over the past few months we have spoken extensively to local people. We have listened to their views. This new package reflects their concerns and addresses the issues they want us to tackle", says Coun Rimmer.

The proposals townsfolk have helped to shape include:

£500,000 on community safety to tackle crime hotspots and the fear of crime. Projects will include better street lighting, cctv and designing out 'crime corners' in communities. More information on this groundbreaking initiative will be announced shortly.

£500,000 on youth projects to get youngsters off the streets and involving them in providing the kind of services they want.

£500,000 to tackle grot spots working with the voluntary and community sector and with City Growth to dramatically improve the look and feel of the Borough.

£100,000 on a new library pilot scheme to boost community use including better internet access and facilities.

£70,000 on a campaign to boost GCSE results.

Added Councillor Rimmer: "This is just the tip of the iceberg as the council drives forward with its new modernisation agenda taking in the view of the public and our partners working together to provide quality services".

The proposals will go before the Council's Executive on February 18 and to full Council on February 25.