March and April 2009
Last year I commented, in the April edition of the Kidsgrove News, about how early Spring had started. This certainly has not been the case this year but as you know the glorious Spring did not continue into the summer months which turned out to be very disappointing .. perhaps we are due for a good summer !
With these thoughts in mind, I have no doubt you will be making plans for the warmer days and longer evenings ... perhaps an evening barbeque or a well deserved drink on that newly completed patio. Unfortunately the warmer days and evenings lead to an increase of anti-social behaviour (drugs, glue and alcohol abuse) taking place in the woodlands surrounding Clough Hall. Whilst it is a very small minority of people who take part in such activities, their impact is felt by a large number of residents in Clough Hall, particularly by the elderly or disabled, living on their own, wondering what these people are going to get up to next.
The help and support given to the residents association by Kidsgrove Police cannot be faulted and we are extremely grateful for this, but they can't respond to incidents of antisocial behaviour unless they are made aware at the time they are happening. Please report all such incidents, using the new Police non emergency number 0300 123 44 55 or Email us with details to info@cloughhall.co.uk
The response to a recent report of a ‘drug den' being built in the Kinnersley Avenue woods was exceptional both from the police and Newcastle Borough Council, resulting in it being dismantled and the associated rubbish taken away the following day. Our thanks to the Borough Council for organising pruning and thinning of the woods between Park Avenue and the football ground. We hope this activity will be extended to other areas of woodland in the area, thus eliminating areas where anti-social behaviour takes place.
Drug Den in Clough Hall Woods
Our January meeting took the form of an ‘Open Meeting' and following a short update by our Chairman, was given over to the Police Consultative Committee chaired by Cllr. Edward Boden. Inspector Jarvie gave a brief update in respect of our area and assisted by members of the committee answered questions from the floor.
Police Consultative Committee
Cllr. Silvia Burgess, along with other local Councillors are adopting Kidsgrove Railway Station; they are looking for volunteers to assist with the refurbishment of the garden.
Please contact Cllr Burgess, Tel - 01782 786968, who will be pleased to provide full details including Health and Safety procedures.