We're backing the Black Country: Vote now for The People's Millions!

WHAT could the Passionate team have in common with a world class darts player I wonder?

Well apart from being a little bit fond of the odd pint and bag of nuts, we are also backing the Black Country's bid for £50 million in funding to transform the area and help show off the proud industrial heritage built on the blood, sweat and tears of our forefathers!

Raymond “Barney” van Barneveld took time out to support the campaign for The People’s Millions when he stayed at the Novotel in Wolverhampton.

Plans include the unveiling of forgotten caverns beneath Dudley, a 12-mile ‘green bridge’ park linking Walsall and West Bromwich town centres, widespread regeneration of Wolverhampton’s canal network and improved access to green places.

ITV will air a one-off, 15 minute programme about the Urban Park project on Thursday, December 6 at 11.05pm, when Toyah Wilcox will outline the scheme to the nation.

The Novotel is offering a more in-depth look at the proposals, for anyone from the area interested in finding out more, in a free event on Wednesday, December 5 at 6pm.

One of Wolverhampton Council’s lead officers on the project, Nigel Brown, will give an insight into what this investment could mean to the area and the people that live here, through pictures and film, and will be on hand to answer any questions.

The presentation will show artwork of how the area will look after the investment, and Nigel will discuss how communities can get involved in making the scheme a success.

The Black Country bid is apparently already tipping the polls as favourite to win against the other three proposals, Sherwood Forest, Cornwall’s Eden Project and Sustran’s Connect2 cycle path project, but Novotel manager, Matt Ward, said we can’t afford to get complacent.

“This would mean such a lot for the area, and for the people who live and work here,” he said, “but it needs everyone’s backing to make it a reality.

“I would urge the people of Wolverhampton to come and find out more at the presentation here on December 5. Enjoy a night out and get involved in what we hope will be the beginning of a new era for the region.

“We have an amazing heritage in the Black Country and this project would enable us to show it in its true glory, as the industrious yet beautiful area it is, and will give us a region that future generations can be proud of.”

The presentation will take place in the Novotel’s lounge at 6pm.

There will be a free drinks reception and the hotel is also offering canapés and snacks for anyone attending.

Online voting started this week and you can pledge your support for the Black Country Urban Park project at until December 10. Phone lines will open on Friday, December 7.

For more information about Wolverhampton's proposals under the Black Country Urban Park, visit www.wolverhampton.gov.uk.

You can also show your support and keep up to date on Facebook, here. [Linda]

Comments

[Katie]

I've voted and I'm spreading the word. It's about time the Black Country became known for something other than the thick accent and signature dish of faggots and peas! BOSTIN!!