Blackburn Labour Party

Ivy Street Centre celebrated its 20th anniversary recently with an open afternoon and a Social evening at night.  I was happy to attend both events and to admire the efforts of many of the volunteers that give their time on behalf of the community.

The Mayor attended and I know was equally impressed but the presence of officers, the leadership and Executive Members of the Council were notable by their absence despite being invited.

The programme of events continues to grow at this centre and with new people moving into the area we all hope, certainly the Labour Cllrs in the ward that this centre and its association continues to thrive and despite the efforts of the ruling coalition stop support we will continue to give our both the centre and association our full support and commitment

The news of the closure of a local manufacturing plant, as reported in the Lancashire Telegraph this week, has been a significant blow to the local economy. Jack Straw, the MP for Blackburn, has released the following statement:

"I am extremely concerned to hear of the closure of the EDC (Entertainment Distribution Company) CD manufacturing plant on Philips Road in Blackburn.

I have made contact with the company with a view to speaking to the management and staff and I will provide any assistance I can.

I am always available to assist local companies that are experiencing difficulty and whilst it may not always be possible to save a firm I can often help if I am contacted early enough.

I would urge any staff members needing help or advice to come and see me at one of my regular surgeries."

To find out how to get in touch with Jack Straw's office, see our contact page. If you are experiencing difficulties due to the global economic crisis, real help is available. Have a look at our Real Help Now page on this website.

Following a campaign by local Labour Ewood Cllrs about the axing of the No 19 bus service, which served the Livesey Branch Road Area and in particular the Sheltered Housing Complex at Brackendale, we are pleased to report that Transdev have now agreed too bring back the service during the day on a half hourly basis.

Local Labour Cllr Maureen Bateson said "Everybody is delighted to have a service back, the warden at Brackendale told me that some residents were having to spend up to £9 pounds a week, just to get out to do essential everyday things, and they are now delighted they will be able to get out and about again.

Shadsworth Labour Councillor, Tony Humphrys has expressed outrage at the Council's refusal to give a commitment to the future of Shadsworth Leisure Centre.  His comments came following the annual Budget meeting at Blackburn Town Hall, at which the Tory/Lib Dem/For Darwen Coalition announced its spending plans for the forthcoming year.

Cllr Humphrys publicly asked Tory Executive member for Culture, Councillor Michael Law-Riding if, in light of the large sums of money being spent on Darwen's new leisure centre, he would commit to continuing Council support for the facilities at Shadsworth. His question received no answer from Cllr Law-Riding.