Sunday 2 February 2020

Positive response from Peterlee police to Blackhall community concerns

Last week we called on Peterlee police to adopt a number of initial measures to address some of the concerns expressed by residents at the recent Blackhall PACT meeting. So we welcome the announcement issued recently by Peterlee police confirming that their Blackhall PACT meetings are to be returned to their original monthly status. We are also pleased to note that PACT meetings in Blackhall will be supplemented by regular police-led drop-in sessions to allow for improved community access to the police (please see post dated Wednesday 29 January 2020 for details of our requests to the police).



In addition we have secured a meeting next week with the police inspector and other senior community safety officers where we will discuss in more detail the concerns expressed by residents and local businesses at the January PACT meeting. We will also press for improved communications and a joined-up response to community concerns from all relevant agencies. We will report back on developments as soon as possible after our meeting.

The response from Peterlee police is reproduced below. Please note the police request that residents report all incidents of crime and anti-social behaviour using the numbers given:

“Following a well-attended PACT meeting at Blackhall, it has been decided to reinstate monthly PACT meetings back in the area for the near future. To this end, the next PACT meeting will be held on 19th February at Blackhall Resource Centre, starting at 7pm till 8pm. We hope that this will give residents some reassurance that officers are listening to their concerns and are working with the community. 

“We are also introducing a new appointment system as we are aware PACT meetings are not always convenient for everyone, despite our best efforts. There will be four 30 minute surgeries available on 6th February for residents of Blackhall to book, allowing them to voice their concerns or issues to officers. These can be at either Blackhall Resource Centre or at the residents home address. 

“At present, we are looking at times of 12.30 - 1pm, 2.30pm - 3pm, 4.30- 5pm and 7.30-8pm. These slots will be on a first come, first served basis - to express an interest, please email ian.goodwin@durham.pnn.police.uk or ring 101 and ask for 6638. 

“We will be offering further appointment times on other dates in the near future.

”Please note that these appointments are NOT for crime reporting - these reports should be made via the 101/999 system as usual. These appointments are for community reassurance and communication.”