Petition to Remove/Relocate the Telephone Booth on East View/ Meadow Street – Urgent Action Required for Community Safety in St Matthew’s Ward

I, Councillor Suleman Sarwar, am writing on behalf of the residents of St Matthew’s Ward to urgently request the removal/ relocation of the telephone booth located on East View/ Meadow Street. This booth has become a persistent source of anti-social behaviour and criminal activity, including drug use and solicitation, which has severely impacted the safety and well-being of our residents, local businesses, and nearby facilities such as a nursery and community centre.

Despite repeated efforts to address these concerns with BT, we have seen no action taken. The current condition of the phone box has turned it into a hub for inappropriate and illicit activities, which not only distress the community but also pose a real danger.

Reasons for Immediate Action:

Hub for Drug Use and Solicitation: The phone box is frequently misused as a centre for drug-related activities. Residents, including those from local businesses and the nursery, have reported instances of, drug dealing, public urination, defecation, and other illicit behaviours, rendering the area unsafe.

Severe Damage and Lack of Security: The phone box is in a state of disrepair, lacking a door and making it easily accessible. Its rundown condition signals neglect and encourages further misuse, turning it into a gathering point for illegal activities.

Community Safety Concerns: Situated near a nursery and community centre where children and families regularly gather, this phone box poses an unacceptable risk to public safety, particularly for the young children attending the nursery.

Ignored Complaints: Over time, I have received numerous complaints from concerned residents and businesses regarding the ongoing issues caused by this phone box. These complaints have been directed to BT, but unfortunately, no effective action has been taken.

Police Involvement and Recommendations: Local police have actively addressed the issues surrounding this booth, raising concerns about the associated criminal activity. They have recommended relocating it to a better-monitored area, such as Deepdale Road. Despite their recommendations and our community's concerns, BT has remained uncooperative.

Negative Impact on the Area: The phone box has become a liability and a public nuisance, contributing to a decline in the quality of life for Meadow Street residents. Its continued presence in its current state is not only unnecessary but harmful to our community's well-being.

On behalf of the residents of St Matthew’s Ward, I urge for the immediate removal or relocation of this telephone booth to ensure the safety and security of our neighbourhood. BT must take responsibility and address this issue, which has been neglected for far too long.