"Just let us skate"

Cllr Julia Cherrett has written to the Evening Gazette in response to their feature on skateboard & BMX in Stockton:

I read with regret your feature "We're not criminals …. just let us skate".
Silver Johnson refers to a meeting with police, local councillors etc which was " a big let down". I was present at that meeting and am the only one of those councillors still serving on Stockton Council.

I wish to re-assure these young people that I have not forgotten this issue. I have repeatedly argued that our young people are being needlessly criminalised. On Thursday I and my colleague Cllr Elliot Kennedy met senior officers in the Enforcement Service about the problem. Our recent ward newsletter also referred to the issue. We will continue the fight for a workable solution.

I totally agree with Silver - these are not lazy kids who expect things to be handed to them on a plate, they are willing to work with others to do whatever is needed. They just want somewhere safe to carry out their hobby.

Stockton Council owns a mobile skate facility which never sees the light of day because of costs associated with transport, setting up etc. It is not suitable for permanent outdoor use but it should be used somewhere.

Cllr Kennedy and I would welcome the opportunity to meet with these young people again and urge them to make contact. I hope to hear from them soon.

Cllr Julia Cherrett
Liberal Democrat
Bishopsgarth & Elm Tree Ward