This week:

• I was in contact with Karen Madge, the police inspector for the city centre, about the ongoing issues with vulnerable people drinking and begging in the streets. I have noticed a number of people with dogs and was concerned about this because it can be intimidating. Karen updated me on the City Safe project, which she says has been successful in supporting people to change their behaviour.: They have issued 46 Community Protection Warnings of which only 23 have been converted into Community Protection Notices. If you have concerns about anti-social behaviour, please report them to the police – the more they know the more they can do – or let me know.
• I am concerned about the ongoing protests at The New Bridge Hotel. I support everyone’s right to protest but I am concerned about the impact on the people living there; the wider local community; and local businesses. I am also concerned about the misinformation about this issue. This article sets out the facts. I am in regular contact with the police and with Newcastle Unites which works to bring communities together and organises the counter-demonstrations. I’d also be happy to talk to anyone who takes a different view, just let me know.