It is not right for anyone to feel threatened on the streets and I would speak to the local Policing team for Cheylesmore to get something done about it. I would also involve the local Youth worker to get them to talk to the group to see if they can be encouraged to do something more constructive. Over the recent Summer holidays football sessions were arranged at a local community centre and I am hoping that bike repair workshops may be organised in Whitley for the next holiday.

It has to be remembered that there is nothing wrong with teenagers wanting to hang out together in their local area. Like other Councillors I get complaints at times from residentsabout a group of youths hanging around in the local park and wanting the Police to move them on. Yet if they are not causing trouble and just talking to their friends, then that is exactly what the local park is there for.For me this issue needs two approaches: The Police to deal with the small minority who cause trouble, but interesting activites for the majority who do not.