Mini-summit to draw up yob battle plan

EXTRA police resources are being put into Shaw to tackle anti-social behaviour, gangs and a stabbing, Oldham council was told last night.

A mini-summit will also look at the problems. Councillor Howard Sykes, leader of the Lib-Dem group, raised the issue during questions and called on leader of the council Jim McMahon to condemn a recent stabbing in Shaw.

Councillor Sykes said: “For over 12 months, ward councillors have reported recurring instances of anti-social and intimidating behaviour by a gang of young offenders in central Shaw and have repeatedly demanded action.

“I am convinced the lack of visibility of Police Community Support Officers in Shaw has meant the public think a gang has operated without interference.

He complained that a change of police procedure demanding that PCSOs parade at Oldham police station at the start of each shift means officers working in outlying areas spend a lot of time travelling to and from the centre of Oldham, rather than just turning out on their local beat.

“In Shaw, this means we now hardly ever see PCSOs in our town centre. The public has noticed this and regularly comment on it,” Mr Sykes said.

“In December the leader agreed political group leaders should meet to discuss our concerns about the police arrangements. This has apparently not happened.”