The Independent Commission on Neighbourhoods (ICON) visited Wigan last week as part of its commitment to listening to communities across the country.
ICON Chair Baroness Hilary Armstrong was joined by Commissioners Jon Rouse, David Halpern, and Matt Leach, along with members of the ICON Secretariat. The group met with senior leaders from Wigan Council to discuss the borough’s renowned “Deal” — a pioneering approach to public service delivery based on a collaborative relationship between citizens and the council — as well as the council’s new partnership movement, “Progress with Unity”.
In the afternoon, the Commission visited Scholes, where they took a short walk around the area, led by the community development officer overseeing a 12-month project focused on tackling health inequalities. The visit concluded with an evidence session at CommUnity Corner, where local community organisers shared insights into their work. Operating as a Community Interest Company, CommUnity Corner has built an informal network of support by connecting people and applying the principles of asset-based community development and mutuality.
A heartfelt thank you to all who made the visit possible.
