The first of a series of Area Forums focusing on the Guild took place last night at Ashton Primary School.
The Western Area Forum was hosted by Councillor William Shannon, who described the current structure of Area Forum as “the last of their kind”.
Because of budgeting issues Area Forums will now be restricted to specialist single issue group meetings such as the Guild. Shannon emphasised that contact was still vital, adding that “PACT meetings will now be used as the main communication for my ward”.
Ashton residents were invited to meet the Guild team, speaking to people involved in marketing, co-ordinating volunteers and organising events for the Guild 2012 festival. Phil Walsh, head of the Community Programme for the ‘People’s Guild’ gave residents a quick update on progress with the event, adding that the full programme for the Guild festival will be revealed in September of this year.
Points raised by the attendees included how to best involve children in the Guild celebrations, as well as how to integrate existing community organisations like church and friends groups into the event. Merchandise ideas were also suggested, with the Guild team revealing that there was a plan to release a special Preston-themed edition of Monopoly.
If you want to make your views heard on what the Guild can bring to Preston, get along to the next Area Forum in your area. They’re held weekly, and you can visit the full list of dates and venues below.
Thursday 10th March – Northern Area Forum – St. Pius Preparatory School
Thursday 17th March – Eastern Area Forum – Preston YMCA
Thursday 24th March – Central Area Forum – Moor Park Business and Enterprise School
Thursday 31st March – Rural Area Forum – Goosnargh and Whittingham Sports and Social Club