A busy Saturday surgery

It is very interesting to hear from residents just how much our ward has improved over the last five years in terms of crime and disturbance. Those that attended the PACT meeting and then ours on Saturday reported as to how the partnership of the Police and Council have delivered real and significant improvements in these areas although there is still much to do. Homewatch clearly has also made a difference but still has a role to play and it was encouraging to hear from volunteers prepared to contribute. Parking problems featured again and we do have a problem developing in respect of businesses parking cars either for the day because of the owners employment but also due to garages parking clients cars before and after they have been worked on. On road parking is now the responsibility of Dorset County Council so a report will be sent to the relevant County Councillor this week. Folliage from private gardens and land causing traffic dangers in respect of visuality is also a tricky one as the Council can only deal directly with issues on their own land. However I will have a look and see what can be done. Boundary disputes also featured where neighbours fall out over fences being moved or trees are planted that grow to an unaccepted height, the issue brought to my notice yesterday is of particular concern and I will do the best I can to mediate. Finally my current key issue was again brought to my attention by a very nice lady who is angered as I am by the callous way people litter the area. The cost of removing litter is growing day by day, the resultant effect of walking through litter covered streets is so disappointing as it portrays a community that has no pride in its place. The idea that a person any person can discard whatever for someone else to deal with is to me a statement of 'couldn't care less' and has no place in a community that wishes to be part of the process that makes a community a better place to live. It was interesting to meet other people who have the same views about litter generally and the detrimental effect it has on our town. Joan Bakewell's recent television program on litter in England should be compulsory viewing for schools and resident groups. So there is my rant for the day! All in all a very interesting and challenging morning.