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Wick community councillors are 'getting nowhere' with police


By Alan Hendry

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Police vehicles outside the station in Wick. Community councillors are keen to have more engagement with local officers. Picture: DGS
Police vehicles outside the station in Wick. Community councillors are keen to have more engagement with local officers. Picture: DGS

Community councillors in Wick are unhappy about a "complete lack of communication" from the police despite assurances that officers are keen to hear about local concerns.

“I feel that we are writing and writing and writing to them and we're getting nowhere,” chairperson Joanna Coghill said at the August meeting of the Royal Burgh of Wick Community Council (RBWCC).

It was agreed that another letter would be sent.

"Report from local police" is an agenda item at each monthly meeting of RBWCC but usually there is neither an officer in attendance nor a written submission.

Speaking after Monday night's meeting, Mrs Coghill said: "It's a complete lack of communication of any sort from the police. I'm tired of getting no response, no reports.

"We have asked many times for them to get in touch with us to address issues and concerns. It is extremely disappointing after previous assurances that they want to engage with the local community.

"I wrote to them recently – and I'm still waiting for a reply – regarding the actions of youngsters causing damage in the Market Square area, as well as clambering on roofs without fear.

"They are completely disregarding their own safety and that of others, as well as showing no respect for private property, when so many are trying to make our town a better place."

Community councillors also have concerns about motorcycle riders disturbing residents in the South Head and Battery Road area.

It is understood that Police Scotland has appointed Stephen Mezals as its new area inspector for Caithness, replacing Alasdair Goskirk.

In 2020, Inspector Goskirk said he had been looking at ways to "adapt and better engage with the community councils serving Caithness".

In an email at the time, he wrote: "I have identified and nominated officers to each council... I will be auditing this and will be keen to hear any feedback."

Police Scotland has been invited to comment.


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