Pennine Lancashire has a strong history of partnership working.  The councils have recognised that trying to improve administrative areas in isolation would be extremely difficult.  Administrative boundaries should not restrict the opportunities the area has and through the MAA and the Joint Committee authorities can work together to bring out different strengths and tackle weaknesses together, whilst maintaining identities.  To ensure the area prospers the local authorities recognise that they cannot afford to make stand alone achievements.

As a direct result of this commitment to joint working the PLACE Joint Committee was established in November 2009.  This formal commitment provides democratic accountability and ensures openness and transparency on decisions made.  The Joint Committee is held in public and brings council leaders, from different political parties, together to make decisions for the benefit of the area as a whole. 

The primary role of the Joint Committee will be to take forward the Multi-Area Agreement and to take decisions on matters that are delegated to Pennine Lancashire from government and regional agencies. The committee will also oversee Regenerate Pennine Lancashire, an economic development company for the area, and the development of strategies that operate on a Pennine Lancashire footprint.

The Joint Committee are open meetings, held bi-monthly and all agenda’s and related papers are available to members of the public.  Key decisions will be published after each meeting.