Hartlepool MP Jonathan Brash has welcomed a series of commitments to tackle problems at Rossmere Park following a meeting with residents.
The meeting brought together residents’ groups, several Hartlepool councillors, representatives from Cleveland Police and Hartlepool Borough Council to discuss concerns about the park and agree what action needed to be taken.
Residents raised concerns about the condition of the park, antisocial behaviour and the need for stronger action to protect one of the community’s important green spaces.
After the meeting, it was agreed that a new multi-agency task force should be established – with the volunteers from the Rossmere Park Support Group at the heart of its work.
Cleveland Police has also committed to increasing its presence in the park, while Hartlepool Borough Council pledged to review the upkeep of the area, including the condition of the pond, public toilets and litter.
The town’s MP Jonathan Brash: “A huge thank you to everyone who came along and had their say. The passion people have for Rossmere Park and for their community was clear to see. It was also really positive to have residents, councillors, the police, council representatives and community groups all around the same table. Politicians spend far too much time talking. The best results come when we listen to residents and then work together to act on what they tell us.”
He continued” Most importantly, this meeting was not just talk. We now have commitments from the police and the council – and a new task force will bring everyone together with the brilliant volunteers from the Rossmere Park Support Group at its heart. This is only the beginning. My job now is to keep the pressure on and make sure the police and councillors deliver on every promise they have made.”
Mr Brash added: Rossmere Park belongs to the people of Hartlepool. It does not belong to vandals or troublemakers, and residents should not have to accept a park that is neglected or allowed to deteriorate. I will continue standing alongside residents to protect Rossmere Park and make sure it becomes somewhere families can enjoy with pride once again.”
