Hazel Blears has called on councils to work closely with their communities to generate new ideas to improve their local area and make places in which people want to live, work and raise a family.

As part of the Sustainable Communities Act, local authorities are invited to send in proposals on what central government can do to help improve the economic, social or environmental well-being of their local areas. The remit is extremely broad.

Communities could make proposals to:

• tackle climate change at a local level;
• strengthen the local economy;
• increase social inclusion;
• move a public service from one body to another.

Councils have until 31 July 2009 to submit any proposals, based on consultation with local people.

The Institute of Community Cohesion (iCoCo) has launched a new dedicated website, giving expert help and guidance on creating strong, cohesive communities.

Click the link to find out more:

http://www.cohesioninstitute.org.uk/Pages/default.aspx