Chorlton Community Forum

On Monday evening the local police and council officers met in Chorlton library for the third Chorlton Community Forum. The officers talked to residents and answered questions about the main issues of concern in Chorlton.

Alan Dean the local police sergeant outlined how crime had fallen in Chorlton in recent months. Burglary and anti –social behaviour had both reduced compared to the previous three months. There are still problems with thefts from and of motor vehicles, but two people are now in custody charged with some of these offences.

Emma Hopkins the Street Environmental Manager has been dealing with complaints about graffiti. There has been a spate of graffiti on buildings, lampposts and street furniture in the centre of Chorlton. Residents and councillors have been reporting it, but as soon as it has been removed it has been reappearing. Emma has been working with the police to catch the culprits. Two arrests have now been made.

Jennifer Connor from Planning and Andy Wilson from Regeneration discussed plans for the District Centre. No planning applications for the precinct have been submitted but the Executive of the Council have agreed a Plan for the District Centre as a whole

This plan wants to see support for independent shops, an improved retail offer, some free car parking, not too many bars and takeaways, enhanced public facilities like schools and the library as well as a sustainable environment. Residents felt there needs to be a balance between businesses and economic improvements and the social and cultural life of the area as well as the environment.

Hopefully there will be more Forums in the New Year. The next event to look out for is the U Decide event on Thursday 4th November at 6.15 pm in Chorlton Leisure Centre. Residents will be able to vote to decide which community projects they want to receive up to £1,000 of funding.