Community works to improve local connections

A new noticeboard incorporating artwork created by Westbury children in the Phoenix Rise area, was officially unveiled by Westbury town councillor, Jane Russ, on Friday 11th May.

Requested by residents involved with Penleigh and Oldfield Community Action Network (POPCAN) – a group set up by residents with support from Sovereign Housing Association – the noticeboard was installed in the heart of the housing estate, to ensure that no-one misses out on local opportunities.

An art competition at Westbury CE Junior School – organised by 10 local children who meet regularly under the name ‘Team10’ – led to four pieces of artwork being added to the design. The images represent the estate’s four streets, each named after a mythical bird.

Mikey Seager, 9, Ellie Rose Cotterill, 8, and Jessica Campbell,11, and a year 5 winner designed the pieces representing Phoenix Rise, Gryphon Close, Great Roc Road and Wyvern Walk. Each received a £30 shopping voucher prize from Sovereign, presented at a special assembly held in the school in April.

A resident member of POPCAN said, “We wanted a noticeboard for the community and having the schoolchildren involved has made it really worthwhile. We’re now working together to speak up for the area. The noticeboard is in a handy location, so we can check it regularly and see what’s out there that we can get involved with.”

Scott Jacobs-Lange, communities officer for Sovereign said, “We had 31 great entries in the art competition and a panel of residents and partners chose the four winners. We’re hoping to do more with all the entries to ensure they are used to showcase the artistic talents of local children. Having a noticeboard in the area is just a start and I’m certain it will lead to many more opportunities for residents and partners to work together in the future.”

Cllr Jane Russ said, “Although we’re starting from a small base, we’re pleased at the momentum that is gathering in this area. POPCAN, Team10 and Westbury Town Council are organising a community event in Penleigh Park on Sunday 3rd June to ask residents of all ages their views about the area, including the old Penleigh Park pavilion.”

Other representatives from Westbury CE Junior School, Westbury Town Council, Team10, and POPCAN were in attendance at the unveiling. Sovereign owns and manages 124 homes in the Phoenix Rise area, with more in other parts of Westbury.