As Chippenham continues to work towards trying to achieve Purple Flag status for the night time economy, I was delighted to join the street pastors and other community partners last Saturday evening in assessing the continued improvements to the town centre.

Over the last 18 months, whilst working towards this nationally recognised award, we have welcomed new business, seen continued investment from well-established premises, the creation of the BID, the introduction of a mobile CCTV van and the continued partnership working of Wiltshire Council and the town council to help create a safe and welcoming streetscene in our town. Like many local residents, I look forward to seeing more improvements and opportunities over the next few years and eagerly await the opening of the new footbridge at the railway station and the launch of the new facilities at the Neeld Hall, following a significant investment by the town council over the summer period.

By working together we can see the benefits to our local communities and I hope we see more and more of this type of working in the future.

Coun Peter J Hutton, Wiltshire and town councillor, Portfolio Holder for Public Protection and Licensing.