CHARFORD residents voiced their concerns over drug problems, illegal parking and anti-social behaviour at a meeting held at St Andrew’s Church last Thursday.
The area’s district councillor Michael Thompson, Coun Harrison Rone-Clarke, PC Matt Pedrick from West Mercia Police and representatives from Bromsgrove District Housing Trust (BDHT) spoke to residents.
The trust was quizzed about the checks it carried out on its properties and the perceived lack of action when tenants violated their agreements.
BDHT said it was impossible to keep doing frequent checks but regular checks were done in the first 12 months.
Frustration was expressed about the time it took to get unruly and anti-social tenants to court, which could be up to two years, because of the amount of evidence needed for an eviction.
“Moreover some criminals can be in court 20 times before any action takes place,” added Coun Thompson.
At the meeting PC Pedrick and Coun Thompson helped establish WhatsApp groups for residents to directly contact the police if they saw anyone acting suspiciously.
The ‘Watch Charford’ group will also be used to clamp down on drivers parking illegally and speeding in the area.
Residents will be able to take pictures and videos and send them directly to the group.
Anyone wanting to join the group should text Coun Thompson on 07861 739942 or PC Pedrick on 07773 042297.
