Parking issues and the ongoing problem of off-road motorbikes once again dominated discussions at the latest PACT (Police and Communities Together) meeting held at Cwmaman Hall.
The meeting was attended by local residents, South Wales Police officers, PCSOs and local councillors, providing an opportunity for the community to raise concerns directly with those responsible for policing and local services.
One of the main issues raised was the ongoing lack of parking for residents. Several people expressed frustration over what they described as one resident parking several vehicles in the area, leaving limited parking spaces for everyone else.
Residents also highlighted the knock-on effect this has on traffic flow through the village. It was claimed that when a bus stops to pick up or drop off passengers, other vehicles are often unable to get past because of the number of parked cars.
“Cwmaman is bad enough to drive through at the best of times,” one resident told the meeting, adding that the parking situation is making matters even worse.
The subject of off-road motorbikes once again became a major talking point, with discussions becoming heated as residents voiced their frustrations over the continued presence of bikes being ridden illegally around the village.
Many attendees said they felt more needed to be done to tackle the problem, with some questioning whether enough enforcement action was being taken.
Police representatives acknowledged residents’ concerns and stressed that members of the public have an important role to play in helping officers identify offenders. They urged anyone witnessing illegal off-road biking to report every incident, providing as much information as possible. Where it is safe to do so, photographs or video footage can also assist investigations.
Officers pointed out that South Wales Police has been actively seizing illegal off-road motorbikes in areas including Cardiff and Swansea, and said intelligence from local communities is vital in helping similar enforcement action take place elsewhere.
Residents are encouraged to report incidents by calling South Wales Police on 101. Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Police also reminded residents that PACT meetings are designed to give local people a voice in shaping policing priorities and encouraged the community to continue attending future meetings and reporting concerns.
For more information about getting involved in local policing and helping to shape priorities in your community, visit South Wales Police’s article, Residents urged to help shape policing in their communities.
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