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Community Meeting Feedback
This year there have been 3 community meetings held to allow residents to discuss safety and other concerns with each other, local councillors, the police and other services. 2 of the meetings were open to all, while one was for women only to attend. Below are the themes and topics that participants were most concerned about.
It is important to note that the women-only meeting was the best attended and one of their major concerns was they felt their voice was not being heard by those making decisions. To make clear their concerns, the full analysis of the women’s meeting is listed below following the combined analysis.
These themes will begin to form the basis of the community action plan that will be developed as part of the Upperthorpe & Netherthorpe Together initiative. This will be coordinated by Zest alongside the Local Area Committee, Councillors and other agencies, but importantly it will be led and driven by the community. If you still want to have your say, the Community Conversations consultation will be open until the end of March 2026. Community Conversations. There will be some final conversations held before the month is out and the surveys are still open.
To get involved visit our Upperthorpe & Netherthorpe Together page
What People Value About the Area
Residents highlighted many positive aspects of living in the neighbourhood.
A strong sense of community
People spoke about the friendly atmosphere and strong local connections. Many residents feel proud of the area and the way people support one another.
Important community organisations and spaces
Places such as Zest, local mosques, Hadith Club, NUBASE, and Aspire Boxing Gym were mentioned as vital community resources.
These spaces:
- bring people together
- provide activities and support
- help build a sense of belonging.
Good location
Residents also valued:
- easy access to the city centre
- public transport such as trams and buses
- local shops and facilities.
Key Issues Raised by Residents
Although people value the area, several challenges were raised repeatedly during discussions.
- More Opportunities for Young People
The most common concern was the lack of activities and opportunities for children and young people.
Residents said they would like to see:
- more youth clubs
- sports activities
- homework clubs
- safe spaces for young people to spend time
- support with career pathways and training.
Many people felt that investing in young people is one of the best ways to strengthen the community and prevent crime.
- Community Safety
Concerns about crime, drugs and anti-social behaviour were raised in several discussions.
Residents said they would like:
- stronger relationships between the police and the community
- more visible neighbourhood policing
- safe ways to report crime without fear of being identified
- more preventative work with young people.
There was also discussion about the importance of trust and communication between residents and police services.
- Jobs, Skills and Training
Many residents highlighted the need for better access to employment opportunities.
Suggestions included:
- more job fairs
- apprenticeships
- training programmes
- stronger links between schools, universities and the community.
People felt that improving job opportunities would benefit both young people and adults in the community.
- Community Spaces and Local Facilities
Residents emphasised how important community spaces are.
These include:
- community centres
- parks such as Ponderosa
- youth facilities
- sports and activity spaces.
People said these spaces should be:
- safe
- welcoming
- accessible for everyone.
- Looking After the Local Environment
Residents also spoke about improving the appearance and cleanliness of the neighbourhood.
Issues mentioned included:
- litter and fly tipping
- lack of bins
- maintenance of parks and playgrounds
- lighting and safety in public spaces.
Many people said they want to feel proud of where they live.
- Stronger Communication and Community Voice
Another key theme was the need for better communication between services and residents.
Suggestions included:
- community newsletters
- clearer information about local activities
- more opportunities for residents to get involved.
Residents also highlighted the importance of hearing the voices of women, young people and families when decisions are made about the community.
What Matters Most: Key Priorities
Across all discussions, several priorities stood out.
Community priorities
- More activities and opportunities for young people
- Tackling crime and anti-social behaviour
- Improving job opportunities and training
- Supporting community spaces and organisations
- Improving the local environment
- Better communication and community engagement.
What Happens Next?
The feedback from these conversations will help guide future planning and community action. Local organisations, services and residents will work together to:
- develop ideas and priorities
- explore funding opportunities
- strengthen partnerships across the community.
There will also be further opportunities for residents to share their views and help shape the next steps. If you wish to be part of the Community Action Planning Group, please get in touch with David.mcneil@zestcommunity.co.uk
Thank You
Thank you to everyone who took part in the meetings and shared their experiences, ideas and concerns.
Your voices are helping to shape the future of Upperthorpe, Netherthorpe and Langsett.
Full Thematic Analysis
Women Only
Thematic Summary of Women-only meetingCombined
Thematic Analysis of all Community Meeting