06 October 2008
Risca Town Centre is to be the focus of a major multi-agency operation later this month, as part of a drive to tackle crime, disorder and anti social behaviour in the area.
Following a very successful public consultation recently, whereby local residents were asked what issues that would most like to see addressed in their area, the town is to be the latest area to benefit from CANDO (Community and Neighbourhood Directed Operations).
CANDO is an initiative that works with communities to identify solutions to local problems, which includes providing a high visibility presence to tackle the identified issues.
Previously, the initiative has seen some extremely positive results in other towns and villages across the borough, including in Blackwood Town Centre, Pontllanfraith and Penyrheol in Caerphilly.
Over 60 residents attended the public consultation on Thursday evening (2 October) to express their opinions on what their priority issues are for the Risca area.
This outstanding attendance figure has therefore given the Safer Caerphilly Community Safety Partnership, which incorporates bodies including Caerphilly County Borough Council, Gwent Police and South Wales Fire and Rescue Authority, an excellent idea of what issues they should be focussing on during the CANDO.
The issues identified as a result of the consultations included:
- Youth disorder and anti social behaviour throughout the area
- Underage drinking, which also tends to lead to anti social behaviour
- Traffic issues, including speeding vehicles through the town and "boy racers"
- General issues which affect the "Street scene", including graffiti, litter and dog fouling
These, any indeed many other issues, will therefore be targeted through a major multi agency response during the weeklong CANDO initiative.
Cabinet member for the environment, Cllr Lyn Ackerman said, "The success of CANDO initiatives are heavily reliant on members of the local community working alongside ourselves and our partner agencies to inform us what issues they would like to see addressed – after all, the local community know better than anyone else which issues are most prevalent in their area.
The fact that more than 60 people attended the recent CANDO consultation meeting reiterates just how community focussed the residents of Risca are, which is truly commendable.
The CANDO initiative allows key agencies to pool resources and expertise in a concerted effort to create safer, stronger communities across the county borough, and I'm sure the forthcoming CANDO in Risca will be no exception."
Chief Inspector Jo Bull said: "What was clear at the public consultation meeting was the determination of the community and the willingness of partners to work together to maximise the impact for Risca.
The week of focussed activity will enable positive changes to be made for all who live work and visit Risca."
The Safer Caerphilly Community Safety Partnership will compile a comprehensive action plan, detailing exactly what actions will be taken during the CANDO.
For further information, please contact the Safer Caerphilly Community Safety Partnership on 01443 864374.
- Return to News