Lancashire unveils Civic Pride plan to boost community spirit
New plan focuses on celebrating identity and improving local areas
Lancashire has launched a countywide Civic Pride action plan aimed at enhancing community spirit and celebrating the region's identity.
Endorsed this week by cabinet members, the plan seeks to foster partnership working, community involvement, and practical local improvements.
The initiative aims to strengthen Civic Pride across Lancashire by promoting environmental care, celebrating local identity, supporting volunteers, and building trust between residents and organisations.
Key actions listed in the plan include:
The launch of the Pride of Lancashire Awards recognizing volunteers and community champions.
A countywide cleanup campaign to ensure cleaner streets, public spaces, and green areas.
Engagement with the Youth Council, schools, and youth groups, including identifying youth champions for civic pride projects.
Strengthening libraries and museums as community hubs.
Promoting cultural and sporting events as venues for community gatherings.
Establishing clear reporting channels for issues like fly-tipping, graffiti, and vandalism, in collaboration with district councils and police.
Addressing anti-social behaviour hotspots through partnerships with police and community safety allies.
Enhancing cooperation with district councils, community groups, businesses, and the voluntary sector.
The council plans to introduce a Lancashire Civic Pride Charter, inviting county partners to commit to shared principles that foster pride in place, community wellbeing, and shared responsibility.
Designed to evolve with input from residents, partners, and communities, the plan encourages active participation and local action.
Opportunities for involvement will increase in the coming months, with progress tracked through the council's Community Insight Hub, integrating local data and feedback.
Cllr Ella Worthington, Cabinet Member for Civic Pride, stated: “Civic Pride is about more than places – it’s about how we feel when we walk down our streets, use our parks, libraries and high streets, and talk about where we live.
"This plan is about caring for the spaces we all share, celebrating Lancashire’s rich history and culture, and recognising the volunteers and community champions who quietly make a difference every day.
"This isn't about telling people what to do – it's about listening, working together and supporting small changes that add up to something much bigger.
When people feel proud of their place, they feel connected to it. By working together, we can build stronger communities where everyone feels a shared responsibility for the wellbeing and reputation of the places they call home.
After all, people are the council, and the council are the people.”
The plan will be implemented using existing resources and partnerships with organisations across Lancashire.
Progress will be communicated regularly with councillors and the public through "You said / We did" updates.