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An  innovative  new  Neighbourhood  Watch  scheme  has  just been set up covering  part  of  Bangor  West.  The  essence  of  the  scheme is that neighbours  will  look  out  for  each  other keep an eye on each others property  and  keep  a  watch  for any unusual activity in the area. The scheme has the full and active support of PSNI.

Cllr Marion Smith has been appointed as the co-ordinator for the scheme. Speaking  at  the inauguration she said “I was approached by a number of local  residents  about  how to improve security in our homes and raised this with the local community officer who suggested the establishment of Neighbourhood  Watch.  From  this, once I became accredited,  the scheme became  a  reality.   I am delighted at the local response to the scheme and this augers well for improved security for the area.”

After  several  representatives  from the PSNI addressed the audience on practical  steps to improve security in their homes Cllr Smith concluded the meeting by saying,  “I will endeavour to ensure that every household in  this  particular section of the scheme receives an information pack, as well I will issue a regular news letter in conjunction with the PSNI.

The  scheme  depends on neighbours sharing information and contacting me when  necessary,  to  keep  everyone  informed I will be holding regular meetings.”

The  PSNI  officers present were encouraged by the turn our and stressed that good crime  prevention depended on good co-operation between the police  and local people. Councillor  Smith was congratulated for her efforts.

Councillor Marion Smith has spoken at her anger at the delay in establishing local ‘Crimewatch’ schemes.

“As a member of the local DPP I raised the issue at this month’s meeting and asked what was holding up the introduction of at least 9 schemes throughout the Borough. The scheme is aimed at warding off crime with a facilitator in each area being appointed as a means of contact for local residents. Furthermore signs will be erected to let people know they are in a ‘Crimewatch’ zone. I also reminded the DPP I had raised the same query the month before, with little success.

I know of schemes submitted at the beginning of the year, which were requested by local residents who were full of enthusiasm to begin such a simple and excellent scheme. Why four months done the line is nothing happening? Why has there been such a silence. I am glad to say that every effort is now being made to get the schemes up and running as quickly as possible. But here is yet another case of bureaucracy gone mad creating unnecessary delays.”

“Some months ago I proposed that North Down should have a Spring Clean week involving as many community groups, schools and  businesses as possible. Throughout the week the event has been described as ’spring clean fever’ with many local people committing time and energy to improve our environment.

We have had school children cleaning beaches, a visit from the Conservation Volunteers and the Green Machine, this is an 8 metre long lorry containing a host of fun resources for everyone to enjoy.

Graffiti was also targeted by a volunteering team.  I have thanked everyone involved with the initiative, there was a lot of fun and enjoyment had and at the end of the week we have a cleaner borough.  This can only be good and I hope that the exercise becomes part of our calendar of events.”