10 September 2004
Six councils have joined forces to share ideas about how best to get local people involved in the decisions that affect their lives.
The Civic Pioneer Network comprises Birmingham, Rochdale, Ipswich, Sheffield, Plymouth and Portsmouth councils.
Launching the network on September 9, Home Office minister Fiona Mactaggart said: 'The new Civic Pioneer Network will share 'what works week', try out new ways of working and boost the national civil renewal movement.'
She highlighted the example of Rochdale, where burglaries have been reduced because of new forms of consultation between local people, the council and police.
PFsep2004
