A CHALLENGE to "put up or shut up" has been issued by Radcliffe Renewal Advisory Committee chairman Councillor Kevin Scarlett.

The backlash comes after what he describes as weeks of constant sniping against the town.

"No one can deny that Radcliffe has its problems, but for those of us who live, shop and socialise in the town, there is much going for it, not least the community pride and spirit which has always been a strength," he said.

He accuses individuals and groups of deliberately creating mischief and discontent with misinformation and "downright lies".

"People constantly moan that Radcliffe is the poor relation when it comes to financial support. What they fail to realise is that it is unique in having the borough's only renewal scheme and having attracted £25 million in funding since 1991."

Bury Council has invested almost £4 million and, because it is a renewal area, Radcliffe has also gained funding from outside bodies such as English Partnership, the National Lottery and housing associations. And European funding helped to pedestrianise the town centre.

Public griping has provoked Coun Scarlett into throwing down the gauntlet by organising a public meeting to be held in Radcliffe Civic Hall on March 5, starting at 7.30pm. "Now is the time for local people to stand up and be counted," he said.

"Along with shopkeepers, traders and workers they will have a chance to comment on what has happened in their area of town and what they want to see for the future."

If Radcliffe is continually "run down" by carpers, Coun Scarlett fears it will become a shadow of its former self with local businesses leaving through lack of support.

"The meeting is also an occasion for those people who normally hide behind the anonymity of newspaper letters columns or spread misinformed gossip to play a real part in local democracy," said Coun Scarlett.

He spoke out as Radcliffe's ambitious multi-million pound renewal initiative enters its final phase.

Coun Scarlett added: "If the people of Radcliffe are not prepared to help themselves then they can hardly blame others for what is happening or will happen here. Those who come along to the meeting will have the chance to speak their mind. Everyone has a view and this is a chance to let others hear it."

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