Congleton Praised in Parliament
Congleton was praised in Parliament last week for their community work within their town at a Towns Alive event in Parliament to which representatives from the Town Council and Partnership were invited to showcase their work. Congleton’s approach to the digital age, success in becoming hosts for both the Olympic and Commonwealth Baton relays and winning North West in Bloom were highlighted. Congleton currently has a shop occupancy rate of 89% - which has actually increased over the past four years – from 2010 when at 80% and a good mix of independent, small regional chains and nationals
The event was held in the Houses of Parliament by Towns Alive to honour their award winners and was hosted by Fiona Bruce MP.
Fiona said “I was very proud that the achievements, awards and community innovation in Congleton were highlighted in Parliament this week to an audience of community leaders and MPs from across the country. This shows that Congleton is punching above its weight and making a mark, not only regionally with its Awards such as North West in Bloom but also nationally and I pay tribute to all involved.”
A number of representatives from the constituency were in attendance, George Hayes (Congleton Town Mayor), Jackie MacArthur (Congleton Town Centre Manager), Sue Trow, Jackie Potts, Andrea Morris-Wild, David Watson (East Cheshire Chamber of Commerce) and Mike Smith (Congleton Partnership).
Jackie MacArthur said “It was an honour to attend the House of Commons and to hear some of the measures that the Government is putting in place to help town centres. It was also great opportunity to catch up with the inspirational winners of the Towns Alive Awards, many of which picked up their awards in Congleton at the Action for Market Towns Annual Conference held in November 2012. “
