BMX displays, sport demonstrations and a trip to the fair spice up council meetings in Southwark

BMX demonstrations, basketball sessions and art workshops are to be part of Peckham's next formal meeting of local councillors and residents.  

Meanwhile over in Dulwich councillors, residents and community groups are leaving stuffy meeting rooms behind and holding an informal meeting in a marquee at the Dulwich Fair. 

Cllr Abdul Mohamed, cabinet member for equalities and community engagement, said:

"It's important that we try to be as innovative and as engaging as possible when it comes to local democracy, and I hope these two meetings capture the public's imagination in the way they are intended."  

'Peckham's Got Talent'

Themed 'Peckham's Got Talent', it's hoped the event will encourage residents, but especially the young, in the area to attend and ask questions.  

As well as a chance to quiz Southwark Council Leader Cllr Peter John and other councillors, there will be presentations from organisations set up to promote opportunities for the young, such as Leaders of Tomorrow and Boyhood to Manhood.  

The meeting is aimed at all residents within the Peckham Community Council area - especially young people.  

Cllr Cleo Soanes, Chair of the Peckham Community Council, said:  

''Peckham's Got Talent will be a celebration of the achievements of our local young people in Peckham. It will also be an event to not only embrace everything positive about our young people, but provide a platform to present more information about the wider opportunities available to help them develop, excel and realise their dreams and ambitions. This meeting will also allow young and old to discuss their issues with the leader of the council, local councillors and cabinet members." 

For details of the Peckham Community Council meeting please contact Nadine James at Southwark Council.

Question time Dulwich

For the first time ever an informal Dulwich Community Council event is to be held on a Sunday. A special Question Time-style debate will be held in a marquee at the Dulwich Fair, on Dulwich Park, on 15 May, from 2pm to 3:30pm.

Themed around climate change, there will be a chance to tell the council what needs improving and hear from good work of local green campaigners, as well as an opportunity to ask questions of the Dulwich councillors.  

There will also be a chance to enjoy the fair in the park, appreciate Dulwich Village traffic free from 1pm, and watch the family fun races and the fancy dress pram race.  

Chair of the Dulwich Community Council, Cllr James Barber said:

"It's so important that we not only make every effort to listen to our residents but that we try to make our community council events as engaging as possible. I think it's great that we're taking this meeting to Dulwich Festival, and I'm looking forward to seeing as many people as possible take part."  

For details of the Dulwich Community Council event please contact Grace Semakula at Southwark Council.