Civic Society Initiative launched in the UK, with added social networking tools

Aim is to replace the now-defunct Civic Trust

By Emily Sharpe | Web only
Published online 12 Aug 09 (Conservation)

london. The Civic Society Initiative has added social networking tools, including a blog, Twitter page and RRS news feed, to its growing arsenal of programmes intended to give local communities a national platform. The Civic Society Initiative was launched in June to explore the feasibility of replacing the Civic Trust—the former umbrella group for England’s civic societies. The 52-year old trust went into administration in mid-April. The initiative aims to provide a national voice for local civic societies and is being led by Tony Burton, the former National Trust director of strategy and external affairs. At the launch, Mr Burton referred to civic societies as “unsung national treasures” and said: “These movements are needed perhaps more now than ever in this political climate. We want to ensure a strong future for civic movements and champion civic projects.” The 12-month initiative, funded by a consortium of organisations including the National Trust, the North of England Civic Trust and the Royal Institute of British Architects, is appealing for a £50,000 fighting fund to get the scheme off the ground. The Civic Trust was instrumental in preventing the redevelopment of some of the country’s most historic areas including London’s Covent Garden and Piccadilly Circus.

For more information, visit www.civicsocietyinitiative.org.uk