Uppingham Vanguard Board: Championing Community Progress

The Uppingham Vanguard Board is at the forefront of driving positive change and development in the picturesque market town of Uppingham, Rutland. Established to address local challenges and seize opportunities, the board comprises local leaders, business owners, and community representatives dedicated to enhancing the town’s economic, social, and environmental landscape.

A history of Uppingham Vanguard Board involvement with Uppingham Town Council.

The Uppingham Vanguard Board started life as the Shadow Vanguard Board in March 2016 when it was first suggested by Gareth Bradford of the Cities and Local Growth Unit.  Mr Bradford was the Civil Servant who had played a major role in the drafting of the Localism Act that gave rise to Neighbourhood Plans.  He subsequently became an advisor at No 10 Downing Street and visited Uppingham on at least two occasions in connection with our status as a Neighbourhood Plan Front Runner.  At the meeting in March 2016 when his suggestion was reported and debated, also present were the CEO of the Local Enterprise Partnership and Tony Mathias (then Deputy Leader of Rutland County Council).  Uppingham Town Council was represented by the then Mayor Cllr Dave Ainslie who was one of the two authorised representatives of the Town Council for this group, the other was the then Cllr Cornelius Vincent-Enright. 

Mission and Focus

The Uppingham Vanguard Board primary mission is to foster a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable community. Key focus areas include:

• Economic Growth: Attracting investment and supporting local businesses to boost the town’s economy.
• Community Engagement: Ensuring residents have a voice in decision-making processes.
• Sustainable Development: Balancing growth with the preservation of Uppingham’s unique character.
• Infrastructure Enhancement: Improving transport and connectivity to meet current and future needs.
• Cultural Enrichment: Promoting projects that enhance the town’s cultural and social fabric.

Key Initiatives

The Uppingham Vanguard Board has encouraged through consultation:

• Town Centre Revitalisation: Enhancing the town centre to attract more visitors and support local businesses.
• Transport Improvements: Advocating for better public transport and infrastructure enhancements.
• Affordable Housing Projects: Supporting the development of housing that is accessible to all income levels.
• Environmental Conservation: Promoting green initiatives to preserve and enhance local green spaces.

Community Involvement

A cornerstone of the Uppingham Vanguard Board approach is active community involvement. Through consultations, surveys and meetings, the board ensures that its initiatives reflect the community’s needs and aspirations.

Achievements and Future Goals

The Uppingham Vanguard Board efforts have already progressed the promotion of business activity, improved transport options and affordable housing projects. Looking ahead, the Uppingham Vanguard Board aims to continue enhancing infrastructure, supporting business growth along with sustainable housing. 

Conclusion

The Uppingham Vanguard Board along with Uppingham First exemplifies effective community leadership, driving forward initiatives that make Uppingham a better place to live, work, and visit. By fostering collaboration and focusing on strategic development, the Uppingham Vanguard Board is helping to secure a bright future for Uppingham and its residents.