The Ashbourne Partnership

Ashbourne Partnership:

The Ashbourne Partnership is a not for profit membership organisation comprising of representatives from the Public, Private and Voluntary Sector, living or working in Ashbourne and the surrounding districts. Through its members the partnership provide a forum, coordination and support to a wide range of community groups, organisations and businesses encouraging partnership working on specific projects and identifying how everyone may benefit from working together.

Background to the project:

The Ashbourne Partnership was formed in 2004 as a result of the ‘Ashbourne Health Check’ a report produced by the Ashbourne Initiative Group which had been formed in March 2002 by a number of key business and community leaders. They wanted to create a future plan for the Town to provide sustainable improvements for both Ashbourne and the surrounding local community.

The group and the review considered five key areas: Tourism & Leisure, Education, Youth & the Arts, Community & the Quality of Life, Environment and Business Infrastructure, History and Culture of Ashbourne.

Questionnaires went out to over 7000 people which created a response of over 20% across all age groups and social and economic backgrounds identifying five key issues of concern to the people of Ashbourne.

Five Key Areas Identified:

• A fragile local economy reliant on a few major businesses - loss of the largest single employer
• A shift in the traditional economic base - with the closing of the livestock market
• A lack of opportunities for young people - in jobs, affordable housing & leisure
• A lack of community facilities - for arts & cultural development
• The deteriorating condition of the Town Centre environment

The Partnership Formed:

As the result of a subsequent meeting in the Town Hall it was agreed that there was a need to create a partnership which is inclusive of all sectors of the community.

This would need to include commerce, industry, education, the arts and culture, tourism, health, churches and voluntary groups as well as the Town, District and County Councils working together to make Ashbourne a better place to live, work and play.

Aims and Objectives:

• Enhance Community Life for All
• Promote Economic Diversity & Development
• Improve Local Employment Opportunities
• Support Development of Sustainable Tourism
• Create Financial Stability for the Partnership

Membership is Free to All:

Initially funded by grants and fees the Partnership is now a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee and FREE for all to join. Click here to download a Membership Form.

‘The Ashbourne Partnership - your chance to make a difference’