Taking action
Oxgangs overcomes tough times to come out fighting
Fire safety, dog fouling, litter and underage drinking were just some of the issues successfully tackled during Oxgang’s first Week of Action in June.
Local people, businesses and agencies worked with the South West Neighbourhood Office to organise a week of activities showcasing the Oxgangs community and partner services in the area.
Following a tough year for Oxgangs, including a fire which destroyed valuable resources, residents have shown their resilience and that the community spirit is alive and well.
Firrhill Drive development, home to Foxtot’s children’s centre and a medical centre, was severely damaged by fire last year and residents have been anxious to get the development up and running. Last year, Oxgangs pulled together and successfully campaigned to save their Post Office.
During the week, Lothian and Borders Police carried out high-visibility patrols and brought in police horses to demonstrate the resources they have available. The Fire and Rescue Service carried out safety checks and were on hand to give advice.
The community safety team targeted areas prone to antisocial behaviour, responding directly to issues and concerns. Environmental Wardens extended their beat to patrol the area from 9am to 9pm, giving advice on dog fouling and littering and dealing with abandoned vehicles. Licensing and trading standards officers visited shops and pubs in the area to focus on preventing the sale of alcohol to those underage.
Throughout the week, Street Work were on hand to pick up on youth activity and events culminated with action on the mobile five-a-side football pitch and a demonstration by Set in Motion, the restorative justice programme.
On top of this, on Monday 1 June the Council launched the Get On bus – an initiative which provides a mobile venue, in the shape of a trailer, for local employment and volunteering opportunities.
Veronica Wright, community safety manager for the South West Neighbourhood, said: “We want to make sure the residents of Oxgangs know that we are supporting them and are working with the Police and other partners to make the area a safe and pleasant neighbourhood to live in.
“These events are about seeing partnership working on the ground and making things better for local residents. We also want to show the community the hard work that goes into these services and give staff some well-deserved praise.”
At the same time as the Week of Action, Linda and Dennis Williams of the Broadway Convenience Store once again organised a series of events in connection with this year’s My Shop is Your Shop Campaign, to involve the local community and thank them for their custom over the past year.