Feedback from the Village Action Forum

Convened recently by Carl Austin-Behan our LGBTQ Ambassador, the VAF has fedback on items discussed and actions taken moving forward.

Village Revitalisation and Safety Update

Our village is a wave of positive changes improving the local environment and enhancing safety. 

Here's a brief overview of the latest developments:

Cleanliness and Green Initiatives

Canal Street Makeover: A thorough cleaning, including jet-washing and the removal of unnecessary signage, has been carried out by Ramora in collaboration with MCC, alongside a comprehensive tree audit with Arbor.

Maintenance Efforts: The appearance of a new pothole on Bloom Street highlights ongoing maintenance needs, but overall cleanliness is improving. The challenge remains with waste collection and road sweeping, though steps are being taken to address these issues, including the appointment of a new Waste Officer for the village.

Community and Safety Focus

GB Spring Clean: Scheduled for 21st March, this initiative invites community members to participate in litter picking and cleaning efforts as part of the Keep Britain Tidy campaign.

Big Village Clean-Up: A proposed event to further clean the village, with coordination between the LGBT Foundation and MCC to involve volunteers.

Crime and Policing

Crime Trends: There has been no increase in overall crime rates, with a positive decrease noted. However, violence related to the nighttime economy and minor increases in thefts persist.

Policing Efforts: Operation Sycamore, featuring a mix of plain clothes and uniformed patrols, has significantly reduced robberies and violent incidents in the village, with the operation extended until May 2024.

FOMGV:A life size model of Dorothy Gale to be installed in Sackville Gardens Whitworth Street Flower bed. A placard of information and significance also to be installed. Noted will be translated into several languages for all visitors to read and enjoy.

Abbreviations: Greater Manchester Police (GMP), Manchester City Council (MCC), Manchester Pride (MP), Friends of Sackville Gardens (FSG), Friends of Manchester’s Gay Village (FOMGV), Sackville Gardens FO(SG), Village Action Forum (VAF), Canal St Media (CSM).

The next meeting is planned for May 2024.

Published: 13-Mar-2024: (7414)