There is growing concern among residents that we are shortly going to lose not only our last bank, but also our police presence.
As the largest town in the area with a population of 27000 and expected to rise to 30000 with development to take place soon around the area. Do our precept paying residents not deserve a police station in a central area?
I am reliably informed that our response police are to be based at Bishop Auckland adding 15 minutes to response times to deal with major criminal activity.
Furthermore, my informant tells me that our neighbourhood police team will occupy an office one third of the area currently available. County Durham Constabulary are contemptuous of the residents of our town and don’t believe we deserve a working police presence in Newton Aycliffe.
Latest figures show crime in Newton Aycliffe is on the increase, yet the great people of Newton Aycliffe apparently cannot rely on local police to deal with it. Young and old alike are concerned at the result of these decisions and frightened about the consequences.
What can we do to address this situation?
Great Aycliffe Town Council will be holding a meeting on Wednesday 26th July at 7pm in our council offices and it would be good if residents could attend to ask questions and show support for your local councillors.
Telephone or write to your local MP, Paul Howell or your councillors, to ask for their support.
Cllr Ken Robson
West Ward, Newton Aycliffe
Tel: 01325 321471, mobile 07443 046804 or 03000 269 058,
email: ken.robson@durham.gov.uk