Last night I attended a meeting of Prestwich Business Group - a local initiative to try and provide a forum for Prestwich business to discuss issues and feed into the local decision making process and be consulted by the Council on matters affecting them.

The meeting received an update on “The Retreat” art project on the precinct - The granite imported from china, destined to replace the recently demolished glass wall, has now reached Birmingham!

Meanwhile A notice board/info point for the precinct is progressing more slowly partially because of the cost of materials involved.

Local Police officers highlighted that there has been an increase in the amount of purse snatches on the precinct and especially in charity shops. They would urge all residents to be careful how they secure purses etc. Often girls are being used to carry out these crimes.

In addition I raised the issue about the future development/direction of the Group, suggesting it should consider being now run by businesses and perhaps offer networking opportunities and a forum to campaign on business related issues.

Finally, Bury Council officers confirmed that as part of the next phrase of Town centre development tenders have been invited for planning consultants to apply to develop a development franework for the village/precinct. Consultants are expected to be appointed in November - an extensive public consultation should follow.