New parish council ‘will give local people a say’ (From Wharfedale Observer)

New parish council ‘will give local people a say’

6:00pm Thursday 20th September 2012 in News By Annette McIntyre

Rawdon has its own parish council after the formation of the new body was officially agreed by Leeds City Council.
Local people are now being urged to put their names forward for the elections, which are due to take place in November.
The setting up of the new council was passed at a full meeting of the city council last week, and the decision to go ahead was welcomed by Guiseley and Rawdon ward councillors.
Coun Graham Latty said: “I am delighted that, at last, headway is being made in getting Aireborough parished.
“I see this as a first step and hope that, perhaps, Guiseley and Yeadon people will see that it is possible to set up a local council and promise whatever help I and my colleagues in the ward can give.
Coun Pat Latty added: “This parish council has been born from the desire to protect Rawdon from the depredations of developers, but I am sure that once it is fully operative people will find numerous other ways in which it can enhance local life.”
Coun Paul Wadsworth said: “It’s terrific news that Rawdon council is well on the way to being up and running. The council is sure to provide local people with a chance to engage fully with issues that are relevant to the area, like local development.
“The next step, of course, is to actually elect some councillors, so I’d encourage people in the area to consider whether they would like to get involved and stand.”
The decision was also welcomed by Horsforth councillor Dawn Collins, who said: “I’m confident that the new Rawdon Parish Council will be an effective way of ensuring local people get a say on the things that matter to them locally.
“If people have an interest in local issues and would like the chance to make a difference to the future of Rawdon, then they should put themselves forward in the upcoming elections.”