Sir,

In response to the letter printed on 30th November from Barry Whittaker, who seems concerned that the 'Big Society' had not yet reached Hatfield.

In fact we have been working on a number of ideas to help Hatfield over the last year, including large scale projects such as renovation of the roundabout subways, installing flowerbed enclosures around the town, helping charities with renovations, working with sheltered housing communities and smaller tree planting and tidy up projects.

We have two projects in the pipeline, the first is a mural to be painted on the large sweep entrance to one of the underpasses surrounding Hatfield. I'm pleased to be able to report that this project has now received Arts Council Funding and we are currently engaging with local artists, local schools, the council and of course professional contractors who are all generously giving their time and expertise to ensure the project runs smoothly.  We are also hoping to pull together a number of agencies, individuals and businesses to benefit a sheltered housing amenity. These projects takes time and expertise to organise and are a good deal more complex than the individual bridge painting project to which Mr Whittaker referred.

The Big Society is not about money but about taking part. This includes working to secure the services of professional contractors and businesses that want to contribute what they can. So yes, it's quite true to say that volunteers came along and painted the bridge. But it's also true to say that without the BigSoc project the contractors would not have donated their time either.

The Big Society is inclusive not exclusive, so Barry you are most welcome. As is everyone else.

Yours,
Grant Shapps MP
Welwyn Hatfield