Backing the Dale Co-operative

If you haven't already heard about it, the Dale Co-operative has been generating a certain amount of buzz in the local media, as it sets about its task of raising money, attention and action to help drive the renewal of Rochdale town centre, and the Liberal Democrats are supporting the group, collectively and individually.

So what are the Co-operative doing? Well, as they put it themselves: "We want to fill in the gaps that nobody else can fill; a catalyst for change if you will. The Council doesn't operate businesses (nor should it) and the individual 'orthodox' entrepreneur isn't going to risk his or her shirt on creating and opening a high-quality outlet whilst they have so much 'tat' to compete with either.

"But if that risk could be shared across hundreds or even thousands of Rochdalians, then the risk to any single person is virtually nothing. And that's the challenge. We are saying to the people of Rochdale; 'This is your town, this would be your venue, and this would be your opportunity to have a share in the future success of your business; all achieved using Rochdale's finest ever export - co-operation'."

The start of October saw it incorporated as a Limited Company, and since then there have been articles in the Rochdale Observer, a meeting of the interim committee and very positive feedback from a survey of Rochdale residents.

Andy Kelly, Liberal Democrat councillor, is the arts and culture coordinator for the group, which has drawn support across the spectrum.

"I've been behind the Co-operative from the moment I heard about it, and I pledged my support straight away," said Andy. "Anyone who knows me knows how much I love and support local theatre, so it is great for me to be able to contribute in another way to the development of the local arts scene, as well as help to get the Co-operative delivering on its dream of a redeveloped town centre for Rochdale."

Co-operatives are baked into the constitution of the Liberal Democrats., and getting the involvement of both workers and consumers into business, and the redevelopment of Rochdale, is crucial. The heart of the economic policy of the party says: "We want to see democracy, participation and the co-operative principle in industry and commerce within a competitive environment." And as Rochdale is the home of co-operation, it is great to see the principles being driven forward again.

The Co-operative is a chance for everyone who wants to help participate in a better Rochdale to get involved - whether it's buying a share, committing your time, or just sharing the news and being supportive.

The next meeting of the Dale Cooperative will be to elect a full executive committee, on 31 October, with details to follow. If you're interested in getting involved, have a look at the Dale Co-operative website, where you can sign up to join, share your ideas, or just find out what is going on. In order to stand for the committee (the roles are unpaid), you will have to be a member, a permanent resident of the borough, and be prepared to be available to help work on the project over the next 12 months. More information is available through the Facebook page or the website.

Pictured: Councillor Andy Kelly is supporting the Dale Co-operative, which has drawn support from across the local political spectrum. From right to left: Councillor Andy Kelly, Mark Birkett (Dale Co-operative), Councillor Richard Farnell and Councillor Ashley Dearnley.