IN response to a letter from Councillor Paul Clapp on February 2, Fenland Links is a Neighbourhood Management Pathfinder programme for the Fens, covering Waterlees in Wisbech and the Parishes of Elm, Christchurch, Wisbech St Mary and Parson Drove. The pro

IN response to a letter from Councillor Paul Clapp on February 2, Fenland Links is a Neighbourhood Management Pathfinder programme for the Fens, covering Waterlees in Wisbech and the Parishes of Elm, Christchurch, Wisbech St Mary and Parson Drove.

The programme, funded by central government for seven years, is designed to work with local communities to improve local services to meet residents' needs. Its accountable body is the county council.

It has been running for two years and is directed by a board chaired by Cllr Jill Tuck. It includes community representation from areas including Waterlees.

Priorities include community engagement and participation with young people. In the past two years, holiday activities, reading activities, a neighbourhood food project and a skate park in the Waterlees area have been the result of partnership working facilitated by Fenland Links.

Community House plays host to the teen volunteers group and 'Secret Garden' group. New in post last month is the Youthoria worker who will work with young people to encourage involvement and use of IT facilities including music and photographic projects.

The Oasis Village Centre in Waterlees has been refurbished and offers health, advice, training and IT provision as well as meeting facilities.

HELEN TURNER

Programme manager

Fenland Links

Bridge Street

Wisbech