Latest news with #SteveLindsay
BBC News
07-07-2025
- Sport
- BBC News
Durham outdoor gym row after 'show and tell' consultation
Council plans for outdoor gym equipment have caused outrage as a consultation event has been branded a "farce".The proposals are part of the redevelopment of the former Elvet bowling green near Durham city centre and designs were displayed during a drop-in session at the site on residents and parish councillors said the event was a "show and tell" and people wanted a play area for young children County Council said current plans included a children's obstacle course and Tuesday's session was "just the start of the engagement process". According to the plans, the equipment would be suitable for cardio, strength exercises and cross-training. The local authority said designs featured wheelchair-accessible surfaces, low-resistance machines and equipment suitable for seated use."We want your views on what type of equipment we should install from a variety of options," the project's website added. Resident Steve Lindsay said gym equipment was not what the community wanted and there were enough sporting facilities in the city already."It wasn't a consultation," he said of Tuesday's event."It was a show and tell where the councillors show you a plan and tell you to approve it."The only changes you could possibly have is what colour is the gym equipment."But Mark Bell, manager of Durham Amateur Rowing Club, said the club supported the plans."The type of equipment they're proposing to install would be beneficial to our members," Mr Bell said. "The site has long been overdue [to have] something done with it." 'Not what residents want' Durham Parish councillor Rory Handy said he was not "totally against" the gym equipment, but it was not what people wanted and there had been a "huge lack" of consultation."There are loads of residents around there who are really, really angry about it," he drop-in session on Tuesday faced technical difficulties, raising concerns that objections were not properly Parish councillor Victoria Ashfield said officers were "scribbling a few things" on paper."The process on Tuesday was ridiculous," she said. "It isn't a consultation, it's a done deal. "They come in with a ready-made programme, which is not what the residents want." 'Concerns acknowledged' Graham Wood, Durham County Council's economic development manager, said all feedback had been recorded despite a "minor technical issue"."This event is just the start of the engagement process, and people can continue to provide their views by contacting us at ced@ he Carter from the Hemp Garden Community Association, which has been renovating the site since 2017, called for a proper consultation. "This has been farce. It is a failed consultation," he Wood said concerns were acknowledged and the local authority was "committed" to providing inclusive and accessible facilities."We have extended the deadline for comments and will be taking stock of all responses before finalising the proposals," he can comment on the plans until 15 July. Follow BBC North East on X, Facebook, Nextdoor and Instagram.
Yahoo
22-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Action taken as shoplifting 'increases' in Stroud town centre
A COLLABORATION between police and partner agencies has been 'crucial' in the fight against shoplifting in the town centre. Last week police said they were out supporting retailers in Stroud town centre following a recent scourge of shoplifting. Officers say they have had 'great success' in tackling the issue over the last few months following various incidents. These include when a large amount of stock was returned to a retailer - with arrests made - after several huge trolley dash thefts. And, together with Stroud Safe, more has been done to identify, prevent and investigate shoplifting offences. Stroud mayor Tony Davey said: "Crime against business has grown across the country in recent years with Stroud also experiencing this growth in crime. "The Stroud Safe network in town is a vital tool in fighting back crime against business, and a valuable way to help our Neighbourhood Policing Team and Response Team react quickly and decisively." Steve Lindsay, from Gloucester City Safe, said: "A targeted policing initiative in Stroud aimed at combating rising retail crime rates has led to a significant increase in successful outcomes, highlighting the effectiveness of a collaborative approach to retail crime, working with Stroud Safe and businesses. "With retail crime rates climbing nationally and hitting the headlines, Stroud Police have made tackling this issue a priority by way of improving investigations, the area has been able to better identify, prevent, and investigate shoplifting offences. "A key part of this operation has been the introduction of a dedicated retail crime officer, who has played a crucial role in focusing resources and monitoring cases daily. "The officer's work has been instrumental in driving a coordinated response to retail crime, ensuring that every possible avenue is explored to address offenders, encourage behavioural change, and safeguard retailers. "Additionally, the local Neighbourhood Policing team has provided vital support, engaging with retailers to ensure swift evidence capture and the prompt progression of cases. "This has led to a range of successful outcomes, including charges, custodial sentences, civil injunctions/Criminal Behaviour Orders, and out-of-court disposals, all aimed at managing offenders and curbing repeat incidents. "The scheme has been particularly effective in tackling repeat and prolific offenders, who cause the greatest harm to businesses. "Recognising the financial and personal toll that shoplifting takes on business owners, employees, and the wider local community, Stroud Police have focused efforts on both preventing and addressing these crimes in a manner that ensures lasting impact. "Since the scheme's launch in November 2024, the initiative has seen dramatic improvements in its outcomes. "The average success rate for shoplifting offences has risen from just 19 per cent in the previous nine months to 52 per cent, marking a significant step forward in the fight against retail crime. "This success could not have been achieved without the active support and collaboration of businesses and community partners, whose involvement has been vital to the scheme's overall effectiveness. "Stroud Police remain committed to tackling retail crime through ongoing cooperation and an unwavering focus on protecting both retailers and the community."
