- Those present signed the attendance sheet.
(1) Chairman’s Report:
Update on Merfyn, rent, ward allowance donations from Cllrs Coverly and Higgins. Permission given for Meiriadog Road development Old Colwyn litter Pickers have been out in force ASB please report using 999, 101 or NWP website, reports of fly tipping, full bins etc to be reported to ERF via report page on Conwy Councils website.
(2) Apologies:
Merfyn Thomas, Cllr Neil Coverly, Cllr Jason Higgins
(3) Police and Crime Commissioner:
Welcome to Police and Crime Commissioner Andy Dundobbin and Police officer 3385, Rhys a community beat officer at Colwyn Bay. Andy Dundobbin introduced himself and gave an outline of his job role and stated he is very aware that although there was a low turnout for his election, in comparison to larger areas it was quite good. Stated that he is there for the people of North Wales and that he is accountable to them. Andy Dundobbin talked about how the role has adapted to encompass Social media platforms as well as the more traditional routes for information, and he is also planning on using TIKTOK platform in the future. He stated that he is based at Glan Y Don but is regularly in the Optic Centre in St Aasph where he is in close liaison with The North Wales Police Force. He noted that the funding for PCSOs has reduced which comes with its associated problems in the community.
(4) Questions put to Andy Dundobbin::
Q1. What can be done about the speeding on Llanelian and Dolwen Road?
and how can the parking issues found on matchdays of Colwyn Bay FC be better managed and whose responsibility is it as methods such as photos and 101 system haven’t worked?
Response:
With regards to the speeding he will contact GOSAFE. Local Authority responsible for the roads and highways as well as pavements and should together with the local community to solve the issue. It has previously worked in Llandegai where there was an issue with the cyclists affected. PC Rhys brought it to our attention that parking on pavements is not illegal unless there is no way pedestrian access can be gained. Overall, issues should be brought to the attention of 101or 999 in an emergency, and concerns raised with local council.
Q2. What can be done about ASB given funding issues to cover low level disorder.
Response:
PCC Made it clear there is no 2 tier policing, their actions are impeded by funding and resources he does however acknowledge ASB does have a massive effect on local communities. He stated there is a Victims Panel which aims to listen to experiences, Scrutinize them and report back with he aim to improve/change services, and that there are surgeries all over North Wales. There is also UK wide National Police Guarantee to make local communities know who their local PCs and PCSOs are to ensure a more accessible policing service. There should also be an ASB enforcement officer in the area.
Q3. Does ASB warrant more Police activity?
Response:
PCC stated that there should be more confidence in the community to report every ASB they see so that appropriate actions can be taken. PC Rhys emphasised that the reporting of issues raises Hot Spots on their systems and they can then allocated officers where needed. Again 101, 999 and NWP website can be used for reporting concerns.
Q4. Where is Drink Driving on the NWP concerns and why does it take more than 3 or 4 reports before someone is caught?
Response:
PC Rhys stated that Drink Driving is a Top priority and should technically be dealt with quickly and stated that if the same incident has been reported and not acted upon more than 6 times then the Police Authority has systems in place to be held accountable and is triggered through a Community Trigger system. PCC stated that they have Public Accountability. and that a lot of ASB is due to lack of Parental responsibility and Peer Pressures.
Q5. Operation SNAP, does it work, is there any progression through the system after a report?
Response:
PCC is aware that the appearance of no actions taking place is frustrating and is unsure as to whether the system will continue and he will try and find out and let OCRA know .
Q6. E Bikes, legal or illegal, same for E scooters?
Response:
E bikes but should not be used on Public Highways, the same for E Scooters, it should be the parents that make sure they are aware of the rules and regulations surrounding them. Tony Anderton stated that the importance of contacting NWP through 101, 999 or their website. He thanked Andy Dundobbin and PC Rhys for their attendance. Andy Dundobbin can be contacted on :01492 805486 Andrew.dundobbin@northwales.police.uk