Ideas to prevent repeat of Hot Walls disorder
Residents’ ideas are welcome
PEOPLE are being urged to chip in their ideas on how to stop a repeat of disorder at the Hot Walls.
The World Cafe event was created in the wake of around 100 youngsters causing chaos in riotous scenes in summer 2019.
It was delayed following the Covid pandemic but now residents and businesses in Old Portsmouth are being asked to join young people – some of whom were involved in the chaos – in an online conversation at the Speak Up Pompey, Pompey Speak Up event today.
This will allow people to be part of the conversation about what can be done to make the area safer.
Organisers have been supported by MutualGain, an organisation committed to working and engaging with communities, and Hampshire Constabulary.
Portsmouth South Inspector Louise Tester said: ‘We are very much looking forward to the World Café event on Saturday, which will provide our residents and businesses with the opportunity to discuss their views on the Hot Walls.
‘We believe conversations such as these are key to our long-term response so that we can get the best outcomes for our communities.
‘We’d like to thank MutualGain for working on the Speak Up Pompey, Pompey Speak Up programme and holding this event.’
She added: ‘The Hot Walls are a wonderful place to spend time in Portsmouth and lots of people enjoy them, however we do know that some of our residents have concerns around personal safety.
‘We think this will be an excellent opportunity to get our local communities together, young and old, and hear their thoughts on what we all can do to ensure the area is enjoyed by everyone in years to come.’
People will take part in small group conversations as if they were sitting in a café having a chat with their neighbours.
The conversation will look to include all communities and is hoping to talk about how to encourage all ages and backgrounds to work together.
The outcome of the World Cafe will set out the priorities for later phases.
Councillor Rob Wood, Deputy Lord Mayor of Portsmouth, said: ‘We would hope to see lessening ASB or similar year on year and more youngsters engaged with the various services and organisations.’
See https://www. eventbrite.com/e/speakup-pompey-pompey-speak-uptickets-153024826375 for more.