Civic Voice is the national charity for the civic movement in England. There mission is to develop a society where everyone can say "I care about where I live", and they promote civic pride through their network of over 75,000 individual members.
The event, held in Parliament, debated the challenges facing England's historic towns and cathedral cities, and was chaired by Craig Mackinlay MP,　with panellists including Civic Voice president Griff Rhys Jones, Historic England Director, Duncan McCallum and author of 'The Sustainable Growth of Cathedral Cities and Historic Towns', Richard Bate of Green Balance.
Steve and his colleagues joined around 120 representatives of civic societies and organisations, and the report, presented by Richard Bate, provided a platform to launch the wider debate around issues faced by historic towns and cathedral cities and　the need to recognise the increased importance of the voluntary sector in a challenging economic climate.
The meeting was sponsored in part by AllChurches Trust. At its conclusion members of the HCCA agreed to take action on points discussed prior to their next meeting for the continuation, and possible expansion of the alliance.
Steve Brine said: "I was delighted to attend the APPG Civic Voice meeting in Parliament, and I took a huge amount from the session. I was delighted also to see such excellent representation from my constituency, with the excellent City of Winchester Trust there in force, and I look forward to taking part in the future."
Craig Mackinlay MP, commented:"It is wonderful to be able to gather and hear from such knowledgeable professionals and practitioners on a topic as important as the conservation of our country's historic towns and cities. Chairing these meetings has meant I have been able to meet the passionate and motivated people that make up the civic movement and watch them participate in several lively debates on key issues."
Griff Rhys Jones, Civic Voice President, added: "This meeting of the APPG is another fine example of how ardent, civic minded　individuals are prepared to devote their time and energy to join together on common issues which place at risk the character and integrity of our historic surroundings."
Pictured; Griff Rhys Jones addresses the meeting
More information ...