It was great to read such a positive story about Colchester Borough Homes – councillor Julie Young and a collection of Greenstead residents working together to tackle a local nuisance, headlined: “Motorbike problems see barriers return” (Gazette, November 23).

Everyone involved is to be congratulated, and it’s another example of why residents need to pull together to identify problems and seek realistic solutions.

Although success can never be guaranteed – as with all things in life – there’s one absolute certainty, a tough economic climate will favour those communities best able to fight their own corner.

With this in mind, Colne Housing is working alongside partners, including Colchester Borough Homes and the police, to help local people create a strong and sustainable residents’ association for Greenstead.

This would be a properly constituted group, working to their own agenda, but supported by organisations, such as Colne, that want to play their part in building a thriving community.

Councillors Tim and Julie Young, in particular, should be thanked for driving this idea forward, as should the Neighbourhood Action Panel.

Our intention is to ensure decisions affecting Greenstead are shaped by people who live on Greenstead.

For my part, I’ve been speaking to a number of passionate local people to explain what’s involved and asking them to get on board.

It’s been an uplifting reminder of the wealth of skills and experience that Greenstead has to call upon.

If any Gazette readers want to find out more, they can call me on 01206 244757.

Alistair Heron
Community Development
Officer
Colne Housing