MIDLAND ROAD WEEK OF ACTION
A week of action to improve the area around Midland Road for local residents kicks off on Monday 21st February.
The Midland Road Week of Action brings together the expertise and resources of various local organisations including Bedford Borough Council, Bedfordshire Police, bpha, NHS Bedfordshire, Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service and Bedfordshire Probation Trust in a range of high profile public events designed to boost community spirit and improve the local area.
The week starts with a showcase of talent from local young people, who will be demonstrating what a vibrant place Midland Road truly is. Alongside their performances, local organisations will be on hand to provide help and advice on a range of issues.
Mayor of Bedford Borough, Dave Hodgson, said: "This week demonstrates just how effective we can be when we work together in partnership with each other.
"We will be working throughout the week alongside local residents in order to make a real difference in their neighbourhood."
Bedfordshire Police will locate their mobile police station opposite St. Josephs Church, on the corner of Midland Road and Brereton Rd on Tuesday 23rd and Friday 25th February, and daily police surgeries will be held throughout the week in St Josephs Church Hall and other locations.
During the week there will be high visibility policing throughout the area, including the use of the drugs dogs on the streets.
Inspector Mark Everett said: "We have done a lot of work in the Midland Road area to target crime and reduce local fear of crime. This week of action sees us working with a range of other organisations to target particular issues we know are of concern to local residents.
"Our message to local criminals is if you commit crime we will catch you."
Local housing association, bpha, will also take part, offering local residents access to information about activities in the area and help that bpha can offer.
Nicky Dahl, Community Development Manager at bpha, said: "Week of Action is a fantastic opportunity for us to work closely with residents in their local areas. Because we're onsite, we can address any issues they may have, and promote some of our services, including our Employment Support project that helps unemployed residents get back into work."
Other activities taking place during the week include:
·Litter pick at problem hotspots
·Graffiti removal
·Audit for rubbish removal issues
·Daily police surgeries
·Stop Hate UK information available
·Home Fire Safety Checks
·Connexions CV writing workshop
·Healthier lifestyles information
·Neighbourhood Watch information