THOUSANDS of residents in Nelson have demanded better housing, education and healthcare as well as the creation of more jobs.

Now Pendle Council has launched its first neighbourhood action plan for the town in a bid to try and answer the residents' calls.

Locals put their views across at a series of public meetings earlier this year and their thoughts and ideas have now been turned into the action plan.

A leading councillor in the town today said the scheme spearheaded by the newly formed Nelson Neighbourhood Management Team would help transform the area into somewhere people were proud to live.

Coun David Foster, chairman of the Nelson Committee said: "The Neighbourhood Management Team will work in the heart of the community to make a real difference."

The Neighbourhood Management Team made up of bodies including the police and fire service will work with residents to bring about change in the Walverden, Cloverhill and Southfield areas of the town.

Grot spot areas will be identified and cleared, hanging baskets planted, while healthy living classes and walks are being held.

A series of days for people to talk about living in Nelson are also being held which will culminate in a festival in September.

It is also hoped to stage some associated training courses.

Rebecca Cronshaw, deputy neighbourhood manager, said: "It is initiatives like this that can really help to make a difference in local areas.

"The plan was put together by local people for local people and we hope that in implementing some of the actions, that we can collectively build on what we have and improve the area further."