Newark Millgate residents invited to have a say on community safety issues

Residents of the Millgate and surrounding areas of Newark are being invited to a community drop-in event to have their say on safety and share ideas on possible improvements.

The event, taking place at Millgate Community Centre this Friday, between 3pm and 6pm, will be the first in a series of three consultation events as part of the Safer Streets Newark project.

Officers from the district council will be available to listen to residents’ views and any concerns on safety in the area. They will also be collecting ideas and looking for volunteers for community graffiti projects and litter-picking in the area.

Residents will also have the opportunity to join a Neighbourhood Watch group.

District council leader David Lloyd said: “Building on the range of successful safety measures already introduced as part of the Safer Streets Newark project, these drop-in sessions will allow residents to speak to officers providing safety services in their area, providing an open platform for them to discuss any issues they have and share ideas.”

The Safer Streets project is a partnership between Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) and district and county councils to improve security in areas particularly affected by acquisitive crimes such as burglary, vehicle theft and robbery. It includes a package of measures to deter crime and anti-social behaviour by strengthening community cohesion and enhancing the local environment.

Commissioner Caroline Henry said: “One of the key goals of the Safer Streets Newark project is to bring communities together and enhance the network of help and support available.

“The launch of the Chatham Court Hub has been a huge success and I am fully supportive of the team’s ongoing efforts to give local people a greater voice in future safety work. Connected communities are safer communities and these events are a really positive way of developing joint solutions.”

Inspector Charlotte Allardice, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “These drop-in sessions are vital to help Newark residents come forward and discuss any issues they may be having or any improvements they would like to see.”

The residents invited to attend the drop-in session must live on Albert Street, Castlegate, Coopers Yard, Crown Street, Foundry Close, Great North Road, Kelham Lane, Kelham Road, King Street, Mather Road, Millgate, Mill Lane, Ossington Way, Parliament Court, Parliament Street, Pelham Street, Portland Street, Prince’s Street, Queen Street, Sikorski Road, Spring Gardens, Tannery Wharf, Tolney Lane or Victoria Street.

Anyone who cannot attend but would like to give feedback, submit an idea for a graffiti project in the area, or register their interest in joining a community litter-picking group, they can email getinvolved@newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk

A further two drop-in session events will take place on January 7 at Howes Court Community Centre and on January 26 at Cleveland Square Community Centre for residents living in these areas. More information about these two events will be provided closer to the time.