Hellal Chaudry was appointed Chair.

All were welcomed to the meeting and introductions made.

Forum members were reminded of the need to adhere to the code of conduct for the duration of the meeting.

A resident suggested that the code of conduct be amended to include reference to cultural differences that could be interpreted as aggressive behaviours.

Apologies had been received from Councillor Zaheer, L. Wardle (Enforcement Officer, Environmental Management) and two members of the public.

PC Marvell attended the meeting for this item.

Forum members were informed of the following issues:

1.    Several traffic initiatives undertaken in the Wardleworth area including George Street, Entwistle Road and Yorkshire Street.

These operations resulted in drivers receiving penalties for the contravention of the one way system. Vehicles were also seized because of no insurance cover or being involved in criminal activity.

2.    A joint operation between GMP and Trading Standards was undertaken to identify the selling of illegal vapes.

3.    A large cannabis farm was discovered on Yorkshire Street with approximately 350 plants being found and destroyed.

4.    Drug warrants were recently executed on Gowers Street and Entwistle Road. Drugs and various stolen items including off road bikes and power tools were seized.

5.    GMP have recently been working with an organisation called ‘Tackling Minds’ which engages with pupils from Falinge High who demonstrate challenging behaviour. The aim of this programme is to distract students from becoming involved in anti-social behaviour and criminality.

6.    Further planned events are in the pipeline – drug warrants and tackling the sale of illegal cigarettes and vapes.

Residents raised the following issues.

     1 A resident thanked GMP for responding to reports of cycles being stolen

        near to his home.

     2 In response to a question residents were encouraged to report issues via

        email rather than 101

     3 A resident raised concerns about off road bikes in the area.

     4 In response to a question GMP advised that their vehicles must have their

        sirens on when going to incidents, irrespective of time.

This item was deferred until the next meeting.

The minutes of the meeting held on Tuesday 30 May 2023 were approved as a correct record.

Updates provided included:

1.    The removal of fencing on the proposed new development site has been reported.

2.    The problems raised regarding the riverbank adjacent to Morley Street had been reported.

3.    The issue of weeds to the rear of Oswald Street has been reported.

4.    It was explained that Heybrook School had been contacted in connection with the concerns raised about grass cutting to the area that is open to the public. It was explained that the school employs a contractor who cuts the grass every other week between April and October and is not prepared to pay additional costs to cut the grass more regularly.

It was suggested that Ward funds could be used next year if the issue is raised again.

5.    The Forum had been advertised more widely with social media and a poster being used. However it had not had the desired effect has turnout at tonight’s meeting was very low.

6.    There are no updates available in connection with the proposed new development to the rear of KYP. The Officer will be invited to the next area forum meeting in November.

A resident commented that should any development take place it is crucial that play facilities for children are included in the area.

It was also commented that the consultation exercise that has taken place regarding this issue was a missed opportunity because of the language / terminology that was used at the event.

1.    The Chair expressed his and the Forum’s disappointment that no Councillors were in attendance at tonight’s meeting.

2.    A resident raised concerns about littering/fly tipping problems in the Ward and commented that he was aware of Councils that had developed phone apps to assist with the education of residents.

A brief discussion took place regarding this and all present suggested that many residents do require educating in connection with recycling issues.

3.    Concerns were raised about the digital exclusion of some residents in the Ward.

4.    Following a brief discussion it was agreed to investigate the current situation in connection with the development of South Street play area.

Forum members were reminded that Township funding was now available for groups to apply for to support projects in the Ward.

No Councillors were present to provide this information.

Monday 13 November 2023, commencing 6.30pm at Wardleworth Community Centre.