To notify the Chairman of any items that appear later in the agenda in which you may have an interest.

Members had no interests to declare.

To confirm as a correct record the Minutes of the meeting held on 16^th January 2007.

The Minutes of the meeting held on 16^th January, 2007 were confirmed as a correct record and signed by the Chairman.

A representative of Shildon Police will attend the meeting to give a report of crime statistics and initiatives in the area.

Acting Inspector S. Ball was present at the meeting to give statistics for the area. 

The reported crime figures for January, 2007 were as follows: -

Members of the Forum raised concern regarding the withdrawal of Community Officers and Crime Prevention Officers, whose responsibilities included school visits, liasing with youngsters and educating the community. It was explained that as a result of the financial situation of the Police Force a number of staff changes had to take place. Both positions had been disbanded with PCSOs taking on their responsibilities to ensure that officers continue to be seen and integrated, working within the community.

Discussion was held regarding traffic management. Specific problems, such as speeding, parking and congestion in the areas of Burnie Gardens and Sunnydale Road raised concerns from a number of residents. Acting Inspector S. Ball agreed with the concerns and would raise the issues with the Traffic Management Officer, Durham Constabulary. It was also suggested that yellow lines be introduced in certain areas of the town.

Questions were also raised regarding parking facilities, whether a number of loading bays, which were relatively unused, could be turned into short stay parking. It was explained that it was a Durham County Council Highways matter.

A representative of the Primary Care Trust will be present to provide an update, specifically on Bishop Auckland General Hospital.

It was explained that the representative for County Durham Primary Care Trust was unable to attend and had submitted their apologies.

It was recognised that the PCT was going through a restructure, however concern was raised at the lack of attendance. It was hoped that a representative would attend future Forums.

The Chairman will take questions from the floor.

Dilapidated Buildings

With regard to dilapidated buildings in Shildon, it was pointed out that the matter was being dealt with by Sedgefield Borough Council Building Control.

Private Landlords Licence

Discussion was held regarding new licensing laws regarding Private Landlords. It was explained that the legislation would be rolled out to the Ferryhill and Chilton areas as a pilot to provide further powers to monitor and manage the landlords and their tenants. The Forum expressed support for the legislation.

17^th April 2007 at 6.30 p.m. at Shildon Sunnydale Leisure Centre.

17^th April, 2007 at 6.30 p.m. at Shildon Sunnydale Leisure Centre.