Report issues to authorities rather than posting on social media, says mayor
A town mayor has urged residents to report issues like drug dealing, fly tipping, illegal scrap dealing and pot holes to the authorities - rather than posting on social media.
Peter Scott of Newport said a trend in recent years has been for people upset about neighbourhood issues to post complaints on social media sites without letting the relevant agencies know about them so they can be dealt with.
"If you see a local issue be it pot holes, drug dealing, litter, fly tipping, whatever, please report it to the proper authorities first, then post on social media if you must," he said.
"If it's not reported it hasn't happened. See it, report, sort it.
"The growing need to use social media and not report things is a real concern. We need the help of the community to solve our social issues.
"I'm all for making people aware but they must approach the proper authorities first or nothing changes. Its easy to contact Telford & Wrekin Council with the My Telford app.
"More could use the West Mercia Police website too. Look at unlicensed scrap dealers – there are pictures all over Facebook but none of them contact the licensing department.
"Facebook makes people lazy. Imagine if the hundreds who walk past dog poo actually reported it.
"In the case of unlicensed scrap dealers there is little point in posting on Facebook if you haven't first contacted the police and the council.
"It's the same with drug use and dealing. It must be reported. It's as easy to tell the proper authorities as it is to post on social media."
