New 'Staly Vegas' fears dismissed

FLASHBACK . . . the original Chronicle report on the story earlier this week

A FORMER village sub-postmaster and respected councillor has issued a robust response to counter fears Uppermill could become the new 'Staly Vegas.'

For 15 years until he retired, Graham Sheldon was in charge of Uppermill Post Office and currently serves on both Saddleworth and Oldham councils.

He leapt to the defence of businesses after the Chronicle reported earlier this week about police concerns because of an increase in weekend revellers ­- which has been an issue in Stalybridge in the past, when it was dubbed with the same tag.

He said: "I do not think Uppermill is the new 'Staly Vegas'.

"Our police are some of the most dedicated people I have known over the years, and their commitment to keeping Uppermill a safe place is their priority.

"Many people are experiencing the diverse selection of bars and cafes and with the police and landlords working together sharing information they can isolate any unwanted problems speedily.

"Recently the police instigated the 'no to drugs' message. This was a great success and one which must be ongoing.

"Uppermill will build on the current position by maintaining a safe and enjoyable place for everybody."

His views were backed by Pam Byrne, chair of Saddleworth Parish Council, who had her own business in the village.

She said: "I have spoken to other people who live in the centre of the village and they feel that it is the best it has been in the last five years.

"This is possibly due to the fact a number of pubs have a no under-25 years of age restriction.

"The village is quite vibrant and I have no knowledge of assaults of a serious nature. If there was a problem I would be complaining. I support the police in their fight against the drug problem."

The police concerns are outlined in a strategy document which reported more than 2,000 revellers descending on Uppermill at the weekend. mGMP's Saddleworth and Lees policing team report said the village's booming late night economy is seen as "a direct correlation with an increase in assaults and public order incidents."

The village High Street has a variety of wine bars, pubs and stylish food outlets with more scheduled to open. Many locals say proudly that these businesses have brought an innovative, fresh approach to boost trading.

Visitors are impressed by the village's location and facilities and are looking to revisit and book bed and breakfast accommodation for extra stays.

An expert, trained in handling issues surrounding the night time economy, who lives in Saddleworth, said confidently: "A little bit of social re-engineering and all will be well."

And he suggested a series of ideas, including CCTV on the High Street and in licensed premises which should have Security Industry registered door staff.

"There should be regular local authority compliance checks with comprehensive licence conditions placed on all licences," he said.

"Traffic police and designated private hire pick up point backed by a robust pub watch scheme would be very beneficial."

'Staly Vegas' was the nickname given to Stalybridge after the proliferation of nightclubs, cars and takeaways in the Tameside town.