The Fox Hollies Green Neighbourhood Forum had it Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 6th August at Oaklands Primary School. There was a good turnout with around 30 members of the community and Acocks Green’s 3 ward councillors attending.

PC Ian Upston gave an update of policing matters. Overall crime has fallen by 0.3% with bigger falls for burglary from dwellings (down 8%) vehicle crime (down 16%) and robbery (down 15%). However burglary other has risen by 4% and, as previously reported, there has been a major spate of thefts from front gardens. There has been an operation to deal with the illegal use of quad bikes and motorbikes in the Gospel Estate / Fox Hollies Park and complaints about them have fallen recently. PC Manley will be taking over responsibility for the Village. Residents raised complaints about men drinking outside the Library and cars speeding on Dolphin Lane. PC Upston said they would look into these concerns.

There was also a very informative presentation from Trading Standards. If you do think you have been sold defective items you can contact them on 0345 4040506. You can read more about their work here

There was also an interesting debate about a number of topical local issues including green waste, wheelie bins and the possible changes to the 1 and 31. Just before the meeting I was sent an email from National Express saying they are actively looking into restoring the 31 to Olton Boulevard East. I expressed caution about this – especially as they haven’t yet replied to a follow up email I sent them asking for clarification on aspects of their email. As soon as I hear more on this matter I’ll post again.