Influencing decision-making
Listening to our communities underpins everything we do to create a better future for South Tyneside's people.
"In 2005/06 we trained local people at Horsley Hill to ask residents what improvements they wanted to see on their estate. Having a safe place to cross the Coast Road was a priority because families like the open space of The Leas and going to the beach but the road can be really busy.
"Residents included the proposal in their neighbourhood action plan, which was drawn up in partnership with the council. We sourced funding from the government's Cleaner, Safer, Greener Fund and families are now enjoying a safer crossing."
Craig Malcolm, senior area manager for East Shields
"I remember saying that would be magic if we could have a crossing to The Leas. We have no green space on the estate but mams and dads didn't like their kids going across the Coast Road because it's so dangerous – my own nephew was knocked down on it when he was six. There's been lots of accidents on it.
"The new crossing's making a big difference and it looks good as well. I've really learned through what's happened at Horsley Hill that the council is willing to listen to what people say!"
Dorothy Harrison, Norham Avenue South
Dorothy has lived on the estate for 64 years
Did you know?
- We've trained people in nine neighbourhoods to ask fellow residents what they like/dislike like about their area and how it can be improved. Those views are then turned into action plans.
- More than 970 local people are part of our Citizen's
Panel and give their views on a variety of local issues, including the council budget. - We launched our summer road show in 2004 to consult on major issues. People asked for local consultation so we now host more than 20 events and have met and listened to over 8000 people since 2004.