Cash trial to boost communities

An innovative approach to giving power to local politicians and communities has seen the first grassroots projects approved in Northamptonshire.

The Ise, Rothwell and Wicksteed wards in Kettering will benefit from projects including support for a community youth group, and new seats in a park.

The Empowering Councillors pilot trial has seen 10 county councillors awarded £10,000 to invest in the community.

If the Kettering trial is successful, it will cover the rest of the county.

Road safety

Council leader Jim Harker said: "When it comes to understanding the priorities of different communities, councillors are the key link."

Councillor Alan Pote, who represents Rothwell ward, will invest his allocation in a community youth project, and waste bins and seats in the public park in Rothwell.

Wicksteed ward councillor Ursula Jones will invest her allocation in installing a CCTV camera at a community centre and painting kerbside ornamental railings.

Councillor Bob Civil, who represents Ise ward, will invest £7,500 to provide a new vehicle-activated sign in Warkton Lane to address residents' concerns about the safety of a bend in the road.