Council continues Community Conversation through ‘Thematic’ Workshops

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council was delighted to host a series of Community Planning ‘Thematic’ Workshops, with the aim of continuing ‘Community Conversation’ to aid in the development of a comprehensive and inclusive Community Plan for the Council area.

 

 

Nearly 150 key stakeholders attended the ‘Thematic’ workshops to consider issues affecting people’s economic, social, and environmental well-being across the Council area.  These events were designed to provide delegates with the opportunity to engage in conversation, express their views and opinions on how they can effectively contribute to the Community Planning Process. 

 

Stakeholders included members of the Strategic Community Planning Partnership, Statutory Organisations, Government Officials, Local Businesses, and Community Representatives, along with Elected Members and Council Staff.

 

Speaking about the ‘Thematic’ Workshops, the Chairman of the Strategic Community Planning Partnership Alderman William Leathem, said: “Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has a responsibility to facilitate the Community Planning process and our focus is to find ways to work in partnership to make better use of the available resources to improve the lives of our citizens.

 

“The ‘Thematic’ workshops provided the perfect platform for key stakeholders and influential people to have a say on a range of issues, which impact on everyday life.

 

“I extend my sincere thanks to everyone who attended for their support and commitment in helping the Council to develop a Community Plan that will be inclusive of everyone’s needs, hopes and aspirations,” concluded Alderman Leathem.

The first of three workshops commenced with the Chief Executive of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Dr. Theresa Donaldson outlining Community Planning from the Council’s perspective and the importance of economic well-being.  She said: “The Council has made significant progress on Community Planning to date and is committed to producing a comprehensive community plan which reflects and addresses key priorities of the community, including local businesses. 

 

“Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council is a forward thinking and progressive Council which aims to use the community planning process to collaborate with the local business community to meet their needs and deliver on key priorities. Those highlighted at the event included skills development, infrastructure and effective transportation links, hotel development, investment and meeting future business growth requirements.

 

“I believe that with the help of our stakeholders, and through continuous community conversation, we can achieve this and much more.”

 

Director of Environmental Services, Mrs Heather Moore, presented on the issues affecting people’s environmental well-being and the aim to provide a sustainable environment which is accessible to everyone. Some of the key points arising from discussions included further recycling and waste education, improvement of air and water quality and the development of Green Masterplans.

 

The final ‘Thematic’ Workshop, social well-being, was led by the Director of Leisure and Community Services, Mr Jim Rose.  The session focused on the need for a safer, healthier and more inclusive society.  Stakeholders voiced their views on several social aspects including; the need to encourage people to become active members of society, to be more accommodating towards an ageing population and improving mental well-being.

 

Overall, the events were extremely positive and informative, and the feedback gathered at each session will play an integral part in the development of the Council’s Community Plan, which will be produced in partnership with key stakeholders.

 

If you would like to have your say on any aspect of community planning, please email haveyoursay@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk or Tel: 028 9244 7513