Last updated at 11:41, Monday, 18 August 2008

Janice and Henry Barker have created their website to give the residents of Aspatria information on what issues are affecting the town, a forum for new ideas and an opportunity to have their say.

Henry and Janice Barker

Janice and Henry Barker, the faces behind Aspatria's Voice talk about the website and some of the issues currently
facing the town.

Janice said: "It's important that people are involved and have a forum to discuss local issues. We're always looking
to get more people taking part in the online forums. The local councillors details and newsletters are on the site
and it is a good central location for people to make their comments and be heard. The Voice is a way of getting a
message out there. It's been hard work but it's important that we have a way of communicating."

Henry Barker raised the issue of housing within the town and the negative impact that this has been having on local
businesses and the infrastructure of the town.

Henry said: "One of the major concerns in Aspatria is the lack of shops and businesses within the town. They really
do need support if we're going to keep them. House building has been a priority in this area and it seems that space
in and around town is automatically used for new housing.
The problems arise when planners overlook the need for infrastructure to complement new housing. We've had a lot of
feedback on the forum and it really needs addressing."

The website address for Aspatria's Voice is http://www.aspatrias-voice.co.uk. The more people that contribute the
better the site will become and the more informed the debates on the online forums. On the site you will find
details of what's on in town, local councillor contact details, newsletters from council meetings and a forum to let
you have your say on local issues. Janice and Henry are always looking for more feedback so if you have any ideas
for the site or anything to contribute to the forums then visit the site or contact Janice Barker by email on
janice.barker@tiscali.co.uk

And there's good news if you're a resident of Harriston and are beginning to feel neglected - Janice has announced the launch of a new site for the Harriston community http://harriston.co.uk

First published at 10:16, Tuesday, 29 July 2008
Published by http://www.aspatrialocal.co.uk