CHESHIRE East Council is set to run a national pilot for a new government programme to make local services more effective.


Delivering Differently in Neighbourhoods was set up so that local authorities can work with local communities and neighbourhood groups to redesign services to meet their needs.


The programme aims to give local people a greater role in solving problems in their local area with the help of neighbourhood organisations, parishes and the voluntary sector.


Cllr Les Gilbert, Cheshire East’s Cabinet member in charge of localism and enforcement, said: “Communities are the key stakeholders in shaping and developing Cheshire East and the services that the council and partners deliver.


“The council believes that vibrant community hubs will play a key role in providing fit-for-purpose and sustainable services in the right place and at the right time.”


Local people will have the opportunity to set up community interest companies to take over the delivery of some local services, to expand them and run them at new locations.


Work on the project will begin in February and the council is looking for as many partners as possible.


Anyone interested in participating should call Kirstie Hercules on 01270 686632.