The West Whitlawburn Pioneers
Published 28th August 2007
The Co-operative’s members, at a Special General Meeting held on Monday 20th August 2007, voted overwhelmingly to change the Co-operative’s Rules to those of a Fully Mutual and Charitable Housing Co-operative.
The vote, with over 99% of those voting in favour of the Rule Change, is a resounding endorsement of support for the Co-operative’s Management Committee and staff, who strongly recommended the Rule Change.
Phil Welsh, MBE, acting Chairperson of the Co-operative, said "To see such overwhelming support for our work is very encouraging. The rich tapestry, which is the history of the International Co-operative movement dating back to the 1800s with the acclaimed heroic figures of the Rochdale Pioneers and Robert Owen, now has a few West Whitlawburn threads intertwined in that weave. To be the first Co-operative in UK history to become recognised as a charitable body, for public benefit, is fantastic. We started on this work around 4 years ago, it has been a long struggle, but ultimately a successful one."
The Rule change makes the Co-operative more democratic and accountable to tenants, has financial benefits due to tax and rates relief, and also ensures the retention of the Co-operative’s high quality housing stock in the social rented sector.