Looking ahead

THE proposed transformation of a part of Newark blighted by deprivation and anti-social behaviour is long overdue. The Bridge Ward area, covering the Yorke Drive and Winthorpe Road estates, needs a shot in the arm and a revamp could provide just that.

New housing and better sport and leisure facilities will present the opportunity for a fresh start.

It’s not going to happen overnight, but a commitment to get things moving is expected from today’s cabinet meeting at Newark and Sherwood District Council.

The member for sustainable development and regeneration, Mr Roger Blaney, rightly says the plans that go forward should be what people want.

There’s a considerable way to go with what is going to be a long-term project, but residents and businesses have been offered the chance to have their say on the future of the area and they should not miss it.

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Police believe Hungarian Kornel Nemeth fell victim to a couple of opportunistic thugs in Newark in the early hours of Saturday.

There’s no suggestion he was beaten up because of his nationality, it just seems he was in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Mr Nemeth sees beyond this isolated, mindless act of violence and, although he may be entitled to do so, does not think any less of the town.

He believes he is safer here than Hungary.

A police appeal for information about whoever was responsible provides an opportunity to show him that his confidence is well placed.