Seem to be blogging about Southcote a lot at the moment, it’s just a coincidence I think. For updates on what i am up to in Whitley don’t forget to check www.whitleynews.org!
The Neighbourhood Action Groups play an important role and while it’s great that the survey by the Southcote NAG shows people feel that anti-social behaviour has reduced, it highlights some important concerns particularly relating to parking, speeding and littering. I’d encourage residents to get involved with the Southcote NAG to help deal with these issues
Council press release:
Following six weeks of consultation with Southcote residents, parking is now the top priority to be addressed by The Southcote Neighbourhood Action Group.
A total of 134 people in Southcote responded to a survey asking them the three issues which concerned them the most in their neighbourhood. As a result parking was found to be the main concern, and in particular, parking on grass verges and roundabouts which residents pointed out restricted visibility for drivers as well as causing damage to the verges.
Speeding is now the second priority, with Southcote Lane and Burghfield Road named as the top two roads where residents believe that motorists are speeding. Littering and dog fouling was the third priority.
These three issues are now the priorities of the Southcote NAG, who will be working alongside Thames Valley Police and Reading Borough Council to help resolve them.
NAG’s consist of local residents who volunteer and who work with the Police, the Council and other local organisations to address local concerns. It allows the community to have a direct say in how their neighbourhoods are managed.
Since the last survey was carried out, there has been a reduction in reported antisocial behaviour and the majority of residents surveyed felt that the situation is getting better.
Rachel Eden, Reading’s Lead Councillor for Housing and Neighbourhoods, said: ‘”The Neighbourhood Action Groups play an important role and while it’s great that the survey by the Southcote NAG shows people feel that anti-social behaviour has reduced, it highlights some important concerns particularly relating to parking, speeding and littering. I’d encourage residents to get involved with the Southcote NAG to help deal with these issues”.
The Southcote NAG is looking for new members. If any local residents are able to spare a couple of hours a month to attend meetings, represent friends and neighbours and help tackle the new priorities, they should contact Julia.wheeler@reading.gov.uk or come to the next Southcote Neighbourhood Action Group meeting at 7pm on Thursday 17th May at the Children’s centre in Coronation Square.
