A group of 12 youths
highlighted issues such as litter, drunks, the smell of fish, a bad
reputation, boredom, and too much traffic on Chywoone Hill, to be among
the worst aspects of life in the area.
Other gripes included lack of green spaces, no clothes shops, not enough public transport and "too much dog poo".
Sgt
Richard Hockin, neighbourhood beat officer, said that although the
consultation with police and youth workers at The Centre on Thursday
was worthwhile, he was disappointed to see many youths had chosen to
stay away.
"We can't expect them all to come to us" he said,
adding that outreach workers would speak to those who "really do hang
out on the streets".
The youths' suggestions for improvement
included "making Bowjey woods nicer", getting more police on the
streets, cleaning up the fish market, showing off the good thing people
do, and having a shelter to hang out in during winter.
"The key problems seemed to be centred around feeling safe and not being bored," said Sgt Hockin.
"There
are great activities provided by the 3 Villages Youth project but it
dawned on me that not every young person wants to be busy with
activities.
"Some just want to hang out with their mates
somewhere safe and dry. Until we provide that we'll always be pushing
water uphill."
* The 3-Villages Youth Project runs clubs from Monday to Friday, including pool, sports, homework, teenage and dance groups.
A youth club, that accommodates a small group, also runs from the rooms of the Gwavas Residents' Association.
A skateboard ramp and basketball field is situated in the estate.
article copyright THE CORNISHMAN