Tony burton
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Tony Burton Tony Burton Director, Civic Voice www.civicvoice.org.uk @civic_voice Localism - why it’s worth it
description
Presentation from Tony Burton of Civic Voice given as part of MADE's Neighbourhood Planning event
Transcript of Tony burton
Tony BurtonTony BurtonDirector, Civic Voice
www.civicvoice.org.uk
@civic_voice
Localism -why it’s worth it
Building a movement
Launched April 2010 >275 groups >71,000 members Making places more
beautiful, enjoyable and distinctive
Promoting civic prideMost numerous participants
in planning
A cry for engagementPlanning for
people
Street clutter High Speed Rail
CampaignsLocal listing Conservation
areas
Tree planting
Assets transfer
Who is right?
Time Cost Usual
suspects
Contradictions
Wrong answer
Never ask Never ask Don’t listen Don’t listen JargonJargon Don’t respectDon’t respect PatronisePatronise IgnoreIgnore
Scary stuff
Threat to political control
Role of “experts”
Hard work Unexpected
results
Jargon and technicalities
Lack confidence
Hard work
Bigger picture
Localism Bill
“Power shift” to communitiesCommunity rightsConsultation, enforcement, local
services Neighbourhood planningChallenge to politicians & professionalsOpportunities for civic societies
Localism software
Political challenge – people not Parliament
Software of funding, support and culture
Independence
Skills and capabilities of officers, ward councillors and enablers
Beyond information to social action
Attitude of mind not a methodology
We’re all in this together!
New talents and skills for professionals and politicians
Help us to be better and you will find a well of enthusiasm,
knowledge, skills and support
It’s worth it
“Never doubt that a small group of
thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that
ever has.” Margaret Mead
