A neglected phone box which blooms with flowers could put Stainland a step closer to its own parish council.
The Stainland and District Community Association has turned the run-down facility into a floral display to make use of it for the wider community.
The association adopted the neglected BT phone box and is using it to promote upcoming community events and their campaign for a new parish council.
The association is hoping it will be a sign to residents that a council could have a real impact on the quality of their local environment.
Colin Fieldhouse, secretary of the group, said: “Volunteers from the association have been delivering leaflets and talking to residents of the proposed area which includes Outlane in Calderdale, Sowood, Stainland, Holywell Green, Jagger Green and Old Lindley.
“They must secure 400 signatures in order to prompt a Community Governance Review by the principle council.
“This must take place within 12 months of the petition being received.
“If Calderdale Council decides there is genuine support from residents, then parish council status will be granted.”
Supporters say a such a council would give residents more say in local issues and services such as community transport, leisure facilities, street cleaning and lighting and make grants to local groups. It would comprise of councillors who live or work locally who would work on a voluntary basis for the good of their community.
A parish or neighbourhood council is funded by the collection of a small precept via the council tax, all the money collected is available for the community to use where they feel it is most needed.
They would work alongside Calderdale Council.
Mr Fieldhouse added: “So far the response has been very positive. Many residents acknowledge that the area has insufficient services for the size of the community and that a new parish council would provide them with a means to have their say in improving and maintaining the services that they deserve.”
For more details visit www.stainlanddistrict.org .
