Following concerns from residents of drug dealing in Barton and Tredworth, Safer Gloucester Partnership arranged a “Have your say” day in the relevant streets. A group made up of officers from Gloucester City Council, the Police, City Councillors and volunteers from the Neighbourhood Watch Association called on residents to ask their views of life in the area, ask for their concerns and suggestions for the things that needed attention.
The results card attached will be delivered to those residents that took part in the survey to inform them of the findings and improvements that have been made as a result.
The biggest problem reported was fly tipping closely followed by drug dealing. Signs have been placed warning people of the consequences of fly tipping and a mobile CCTV camera has been placed at a “hot spot” location.
Gloucester Police’s Chief Inspector Richard Burge said, “ Have your say days are an excellent way of learning from residents first hand exactly what their concerns around crime and anti social behaviour are and then trying to work collectively in partnership to address these concerns. We want to work together with local residents to resolve any issues and would encourage anyone to contact their local police officers who are committed to working visibly in local neighbourhoods tackling community priorities.”
Kathy Williams, Gloucester City Council’s Cabinet Member for communities and neighbourhoods said, “We are grateful for the opportunity to speak with local people and hear what the issues are as well as their ideas for improvement. Safer Gloucester takes the impact of crime and anti social behaviour on individuals and communities very seriously and is anxious to make improvements wherever possible. I am pleased that we are also asking people what they like about the area as it’s good to hear the nice things too.”
Two Neighbourhood Watch schemes have been coordinated which will hopefully assist to reduce incidents of burglary and car crime. Neighbourhood Watch also encourages residents to look out for each other which will enhance the already high community spirit in the area. Some residents who were visited had lived in the area over 50 years. The one thing that most people enjoyed about living there was the community spirit and their good neighbours.
The results can be viewed on the Partnership website: www.safergloucester.co.uk under Projects. To find out more about Neighbourhood Policing and your Local Police Team please visit the Neighbourhood Policing Section of the Gloucestershire Constabulary website: www.gloucestershire.police.uk.