This week, we held our Members and Supporters Meeting in Burnley, and I would like to extend a warm thank you to everyone who attended.

All of our councillors introduced themselves and spoke about their work, achievements and plans for the months ahead. This was followed by a lively question and answer session with members and supporters.

I have to say, the debate was strong and constructive, covering a wide range of local and national issues and concerns. It is clear that people care deeply about the future of our town and want politicians who will listen and, more importantly, act.

Full Council

On Thursday, we attended Full Council, where we raised a number of important concerns about the future of local government, the proposed changes ahead and recycling and waste collections issues being experienced by residents.

Over the coming months, Reform Burnley will be bringing forward a number of motions on issues that residents have told us matter to them.

At the last Full Council meeting, we called for Article 4 protection to be introduced across the remaining six areas of Burnley currently without it.

The growth of HMOs is changing parts of our town at an alarming rate. Residents are telling us that community identity, neighbourhood stability and local pride are being eroded.

We cannot simply sit back and watch communities change for the worse. Residents deserve a say in what happens to their neighbourhoods.

We await Burnley Council’s executive decision on full Article 4 implementation and we will, of course, keep you all updated.

The Future of Local Government

The future of Burnley’s political representation could also change dramatically.

Under the proposed Local Government Reorganisation, Burnley’s current 51 councillors could ultimately be reduced to just 18, with elections expected next May if the proposals proceed.

That makes choosing the right people to represent Lancashire more important than ever.

We have already seen what Reform councillors can achieve at Lancashire County Council. In just 15 months, we have been working to improve core services, strengthen financial control and put residents back at the centre of decision-making.

The political landscape is changing, and Burnley needs strong representation that will stand up for our communities rather than simply follow the crowd.

Working for Our Communities

Our Reform councillors continue to work hard across their communities. We are determined to set new standards of representation and accountability.

Residents should never be taken for granted. Your councillors should be visible, accessible and prepared to get their hands dirty solving problems, not just councillors in name only.

If you have an issue or concern in your community, please get in touch.

Contact details for all our Reform county and borough councillors are available through the relevant council websites.

Enjoy Your Summer

We are now in the middle of the summer holiday period, a time for families to enjoy a well earned break together.

If you are heading away, have a fantastic time. If you are staying in Burnley, remember that our town and surrounding communities have plenty to offer.

Finally, if you want to know more about Reform Burnley, becoming a member or standing as a future councillor, please get in touch.

We are building. We are listening. And we are delivering.

Cllr Mark Poulton Burnley Reform Group Leader, Burnley Borough Council