Licensing issues top safety group's agenda

Jul 7 2010 By Vicki Eltis, Surrey Herald

elmbridge council

REDUCING anti-social behaviour, substance misuse and violent crime were some of the priorities identified at a public meeting of the Elmbridge Community Safety Partnership.

Made up of organisations such as Surrey Police, Elmbridge Council and Surrey Fire and Rescue Service, it launched its 2010 Partnership Plan to tackle safety issues across the borough.

Its previous year's work was reviewed and the plans for the next 12 months were announced to 40 people who attended, including residents, businesses, councillors and representatives from Neighbourhood Watch.

Rob Moran, chief executive of Elmbridge Council and chair of the Community Safety Partnership, said: "The annual public meeting gives us an opportunity to seek confirmation that we are working on what is important to our communities and also to hear about their specific concerns.

"I am pleased that we received the public endorsement of the priorities, but we were also given a strong

message regarding those who hold alcohol licences within the borough and the need for effective and responsible management.

"This is something we will take note of and work to achieve over the next year."

Those who attended the meeting then voted on the projects which will receive small grants of up to £500.

Those which were successful included: Stamp Out Boredom, a summer scheme for young people organised by Elmbridge Housing Trust; after-school exercise classes, organised by Lower Green Community Association; a young leaders and referees course organised by Molesey Juniors Football Club; an after-school dance project organised by Elmbridge Schools Partnership and a contribution to a new fire alarm system for the Sunbury and Walton Sea Cadets clubhouse.