Community Spirit in Terrington Reaps Rewards
Posted: 28th Aug 2008
People living in one Terrington neighbourhood are reaping the rewards of working in partnership with local agencies.
Residents living on and around the Alma Estate are enjoying the benefits of an ‘action day' held in August which gave the neighbourhood a public make-over and local residents the chance to speak to agencies about their concerns.
The day-long event was the culmination of work by a number of agencies to help resolve anti-social behaviour issues in the area.
Members of Terrington Safer Neighbourhood Team joined forces with Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service, West Norfolk Council, along with Wherry and Freebridge Housing to host the day, supported by local residents.
Two lucky children won a free trip to the Majestic for themselves and a friend by getting involved in a neighbourhood-themed colouring competition.
Terrington police Inspector Paul Durham, who patrolled the area and spoke to local residents during the event, said: "The action day saw a lot of public spirit from local residents and agency workers alike.
"Not only has the neighbourhood benefited from all the physical work carried out but it enabled us all to meet and talk to local people at their convenience and listen to their experiences - and we will be using this information to help direct resources in the future"
Work carried out on the day included litter-picking, fly-tipping removal, weed, ditch and rubbish clearing and scheduled repairs to housing and fencing. The rubbish collected filled nine large skips and five transit vans as well as two one tonne bags full of rubble, aggregate and builder's waste.
Local children took part in face-painting, a colouring competition and were given the chance to sit in a fire engine.
Agencies at the event have resolved to help address the concerns raised by the residents which included:
- Problems caused by theft and vandalism in car parks
- Drug misuse.
- Improved communications between tenants and housing associations.
- Fly-tipping by local residents
- Lack of youths facilities on the estate
West Norfolk Cllr Brian Long, Cabinet member for the Environment: "Terrington's action day was a real success and an example of what can be achieved by working together. We are keen to work with residents and partners on projects like this that help to restore local's pride in their neighbourhoods and make them more welcoming, enjoyable places to live."
