ATHERTON and Hindsford councillors have welcomed new "township" arrangements which they say will support their work in the community.

A new strategy, to bring more community involvement and more say to local people, has been welcomed by Labour Councillors Mark Aldred, Susan Loudon, and Reg Holmes who believe this plan recognises the importance of local identification.

Atherton is one of nine townships set-up in Wigan following the Government's policy of bringing decision making closer to the people.

The township scheme begins on February 11 with Leigh one of the four locations in the staggered launch. Atherton hits the limelight the following week and Tyldesley the week after that.

Atherton is viewed as a leading light in consultation and community involvement. Recently a community group on Hag Fold estate, of which Cllrs Aldred, Loudon and Holmes are part, won a coveted award from the British Urban Regeneration Association in recognition of a ground breaking initiative started in the area.

Exciting

Cllr Aldred said: "This is exciting for the two wards of Atherton and Hindsford and we are looking forward to sharing with residents their thoughts and ideas for the township of Atherton."

Cllr Susan Loudon commented: "This is a long awaited opportunity to allow people to talk about the future of their area. Atherton and Hindsford have always been intrinsically linked.

"We welcome these ideas, and look forward to planning the future of our area with our neighbours, friends, and constituents.

"Atherton is a town full of character and we want to ensure it is a place where local people are proud to live and visitors admire. We want to work, as we always have, with the people to make this area even better."