New plan for towns with 'proud identities'
GoogleA plan to "raise the prominence" of part of Cheshire is aiming to bring in more business investment, improve transport links and encourage more visitors.
A plan for Mid-Cheshire, which includes the three towns of Middlewich, Northwich and Winsford and the surrounding rural area, is set to be signed off by Cheshire West and Chester Council.
It will also include the creation of a new board to oversee the plan, which will be named the Mid-Cheshire Partnership.
The plans will be discussed at a council meeting on Wednesday.
The area covered crosses two councils because Middlewich is in Cheshire East.
The report to councillors said that the town had been included to reflect a "shared industrial heritage".
It also said the area "does not have a rigid 'red-line' boundary but sits at the heart of the Cheshire countryside" in the eyes of the public.
Around 110,000 people live in the area.
The plan features five areas, including business investment, skills, neighbourhoods and infrastructure.
It also says some services such as street cleaning, sports ground maintenance and creative and cultural activities could be transferred to town councils or community organisations in the longer term.
More lobbying for funding for local transport improvements and rail infrastructure would be at the heart of the plan.
Under the proposals, the new Mid-Cheshire Partnership would have between 12 and 16 members, and would be expected to include representatives from the two councils, NHS, transport providers, the voluntary sectors and local businesses, and the area's MP.
Cheshire West and Chester Council's cabinet has been recommended to approve the plans.
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