Group set up to boost Blackheath's economy (From Halesowen News)

Group set up to boost Blackheath's economy

5:36pm Thursday 2nd August 2012 in News

A GROUP has been set up to help people in Blackheath create new opportunities, improve the quality of life for residents and boost the town’s economy.

A Better Blackheath Association (ABBA) aims to create a long-term plan to boost prosperity by supporting existing businesses and new start-ups as well as developing social enterprises.

It has been set up by regeneration organisation, Black Country Housing Group in partnership with community groups including the traders of Blackheath High Street and faith groups.

It has also won the backing of the town’s MP James Morris who said: “There are so many community groups, businesses and traders doing fantastic work in and around Blackheath.

“This initiative is about harnessing the enthusiasm, talent and drive of the local community to make a real difference to make the area a better place to live and work.”

Housing group chief executive Sandra Spence said the association was an extension of its work to improve the quality of life in the town and would help to protect and develop new services and businesses.

“It is an example of localism in action and we are working hard to ensure that local individuals and groups can play an active role in shaping local plans so that they can have a positive social and economic impact on community life,” she added.