Council leader to continue community conversations at Surrey Quays

Last Saturday, he was with the deputy leader, local councillors, officers and local volunteers and spending the day talking to residents, local businesses and shoppers about the disturbances that affected our borough last month.

Locals were only too happy to share their thoughts on what happened during the disturbances, what some of the causes may have been and how to move forward positively from it.

Council leader Peter John said:

"It is vital that we engage with local people on this issue if we are going to learn the longer - term lessons and use this as an opportunity to strengthen our communities.

"The Peckham community has demonstrated a great show of unity since the riots. The council knows that action needs to be taken to prevent these type of disturbances from ever happening again on our streets."

Inspired by the Peckham Shed's 'Peace Wall' - a great example of the community spirit that exists across our borough - we asked people to share a 'Southwark Promise' to express what they could contribute personally to improving their neighbourhood.

Comments ranged from continuing to bring a more positive atmosphere, making more effort to converse with local young people and trying to encourage others to do the right thing.

All Southwark residents will soon have the opportunity to add their own Southwark Promise on the council website.

The next community conversation will be held at Surrey Quays shopping centre this Sunday from 11am till 3pm.