Issue - meetings

The Committee received a report from Inspector Poppitt regarding Policing and Safer neighbourhood trends.

The report outlined actions taken since the West Central Area Committee of the 9 January 2014. The current emerging issues/neighbourhood trends for each ward were also highlighted (see report for full details).

Members’ Comments:

Councillor Kightley expressed concern that motorists were using the, as yet unadopted, Lawrence Weaver Road as a car park and were parking in the cycle lane. The Police representatives stated that little could be done until the road was adopted and in full use as no offence was being committed.

Councillor Rosenstiel asked why the East Road / Newmarket Road junction had not been included in the ‘Safe Passage’ action. Sergeant Street stated that the initiative had been concentrated on accident black spots.

Councillor Hipkin was concerned that a large amount of time and resources appeared to targeted and pursuing beggars when little action appeared to be taken to deter late night, alcohol related, anti-social behaviour.

Councillor Reiner questioned the plans in place to deal with outdoor summer events which had been problematic in the past and was assured that adequate strategies were in place.

Susan Stobbs (Friends of Midsummer Common) stated that a Public Consultation Meeting had taken place regarding Strawberry Fair. Plans to ensure a trouble free event were well in place.

Councillor Bick questioned the apparent rise in burglaries and was assured that, compared to national and other local rates, the figures remained low.

In response to a question from Councillor Rosenstiel, the Safer Communities Section Manager confirmed that the roof area of Radcliffe Court continued to attract free runners. W.H. Smith’s had agreed to investigate roof security and would repair the broken fence. Further meetings with the lettings agent for the building were planned.

Councillor Bick suggested that vehicles obstruction of pavements should be added as a priority as it continued to be a problem in the area. Sergeant Street stated that Police time was more likely to be given to moving traffic offences than parking issues. He suggested that a link to the County Council Enforcement team might be a better approach. Members stated that they would like this to be a priority as there was a safety issue and it would raise awareness.

The Committee:

Resolved (unanimously) to prioritise the following:

1.   Street-based ASB

2.   Operation Safe passage

3.      Vehicle Obstruction of Pavements