Elmdon Park
Elmdon Park is a wonderful park, a real jewel, not only for nearby residents but all users of the park. About two years ago I submitted a petition to Solihull Council seeking extra police attendance to tackle the ever growing anti-social behaviour and was amazed at the number of people who visited the park yet travelled some distance to get to it. The park retains its ‘Green Flag’ status every year (these are not given away) and this is an endorsement of the work our Communities services department has put in. The developments of our Park Rangers as well as the many community activities that take place in Elmdon Park have made the park an even nicer place. I also wish to place on record the sterling work done by the ‘Friends of Elmdon Park’ – they are a valued group of people.
Anti-Social Behaviour
Although
there appeared to be a reduction in the number of anti-social
behaviour reports last summer (2007) we must not be complacent. Last
summer was wetter than recent ones and this may have caused many of
those who seek to cause trouble to stay indoors. However, graffiti
still appears from time to time and a notice board was damaged by
fire last spring. Because of that myself and fellow ward councillor,
John Bramham, surveyed many residents of houses that adjoin the
parkland. We asked one simple question; do you support
Elmdon Park becoming an Alcohol Restricted Zone? There was
a resounded YES to our survey and Solihull Council Has now begun a
formal consultation. Hopefully, the orders to create an ARZ will be
in place before this summer.
Policing
Solihull’s Police welcome the park becoming an ARZ and recognise
that the new powers will help them police the park. The are parks in
Solihull that already have an ARZ and the powers have helped reduce
problems.
The ARZ is designed to stop youths (especially those under aged)
from bringing alcohol to the park to drink and then become involved
in alcohol fuelled behaviour.
What do you think?
Please let me know your thoughts on the ARZ. It is absolutely vital
that residents have their say and this web site is one of the ways
for me to increase resident participation in our local democracy.
Contact me here.