Thistleberry is new focus for Civic Pride
Residents in Thistleberry can get involved in a range of community activities designed to make their neighbourhood feel cleaner, greener and even friendlier.
Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council is hosting the latest instalment of its successful Civic Pride initiative on Thursday, 21 August – in collaboration with Staffordshire Police, Aspire Housing and residents – and the programme features litter picks, a community walkabout and a drop-in information session.
The long-term scheme, delivered under a #PrideInNUL banner, brings together partners, community groups and others to make a positive difference across Newcastle-under-Lyme by celebrating local identity, fostering a deeper sense of belonging, and encouraging local people to take active roles in improving the quality and spirit of where they live.
Members of the council’s Green Team are supporting general maintenance works at a community garden – a once tired and overgrown area which has been transformed into a functional space for vulnerable people who benefit from one-to-one/group counselling sessions, nature therapy and outdoor exercise.
Berwick Walks, Lanark Walks and Rothesay Avenue are the focus for a team walkabout/litter pick from 10am to 2pm – anyone is welcome to join in and equipment will be provided. A drop-in session takes place by the Paris Avenue shops, also from 10am to 2pm, where visitors can get information and advice about a wide range of subjects.
Council Leader Simon Tagg said:
We’re proud to bring our twelfth Civic Pride scheme to Thistleberry. This is about more than tidying up; it’s about strengthening our sense of place and empowering residents to take great pride in where they live. We know Thistleberry has a fantastic community spirit, and this event will help that to flourish even more.”
The council is consulting with residents, partners and other stakeholders on its first Civic Pride Strategy. The draft three-year plan provides a framework guiding how it works with communities and translates high level objectives into practical actions. Examples include delivering regular Civic Pride events and working with Staffordshire Police to deliver a community safety plan. More information is available on the council’s website.
Meanwhile, applications are now being accepted for the second round of the council’s new Civic Pride Investment Fund which enables local groups to access small grants for community activities. Applications can be submitted online where supporting information is available. The deadline for submissions is Friday, 12 September.
The next Civic Pride event takes place in Keele on Wednesday, 24 September.