Issue - meetings

Councillors and members of the public are invited to raise ‘Neighbourhood Policing’ issues with the local Neighbourhood Policing Team.

Inspector Shaun Flavell (Greater Manchester Police) attended the meeting to answer questions from councillors and members of the public in relation to Neighbourhood Policing issues within the area represented by the Stepping Hill Area Committee.

The following comments were made/issues raised:-

·         It was reported that structural changes were planned for Neighbourhood Policing and it was envisaged that these new arrangements would be in place by February. The police did not anticipate that police numbers would be reduced as part of this restructure and were hopeful that officers could be recruited as a result.

·         It was reported that Operation Avro was planned for November and that Members should have been contacted by their local NPO with further detail. Previously Members were invited to attend a morning briefing for a similar operation in 2021, a briefing for this operation was to be confirmed and invitations would be circulated as appropriate.

·         Members stated that off-road motorcycles continued to be an issue and queried the powers held by the police to deal with issues relating to off-road motorcycles. In response, it was stated that there was strict governance around vehicle pursuits and there were suggestions that a dedicated off-road bikes section may be reinstated. One off-road biker was recently detained, showing some success. It was noted that the neighbourhood crime team had been dealing with crimes like robbery, burglary, and other crimes involving off-road bikes which evidenced positive action.

·         Members of the public were encouraged to continue to report to the police about off-road bikes and people trying to open car doors as it informed decisions around where resources needed to be directed.

·         It was noted there were issues around Offerton Library, one arrest was made and problems had reduced. The local library was the focus of PCSOs and operations were ongoing.

·         Members enquired whether they could assist with getting more resources into the Neighbourhood Team. In response, it was stated that decisions were made based on data analysis and decisions would be communicated with Members at the earliest available opportunity.

·         Members stated that they were enthusiastic to get neighbourhood speedwatch schemes running within the area. In response, it was stated that another area had greater need but that the police were keen to roll out the scheme across the neighbourhood. Members were encouraged to share information around the areas that would benefit the most from the neighbourhood speedwatch scheme.

·         In response to concerns around car theft, it was reported that Chief Constable was committed to doubling the size of the traffic team and recruitment was underway. Members noted two recent fatalities on the A6 in Hazel Grove recently, and welcomed this news.

RESOLVED – That Inspector Shaun Flavell be thanked for his attendance.

Councillors and members of the public are invited to raise ‘Neighbourhood Policing’ issues with the local Neighbourhood Policing Team.