Residents of Springfield Crest, Radstock, appealed to Town Councillors to invite the police along to a public meeting to tackle the problem of drug dealing in the area, it was revealed on Monday.

Those present said it had become a regular occurrence in the town, with deals visibly taking place around the vicinity of the school, outside of school hours. Councillors backed the calls and hope to set up a meeting with an officer in future, lamenting the planned closure of Radstock Police Station. Town Councillor, Nick Toogood, said: “I’ve been fighting drugs in this town for twenty years, and it is a very hard case to fight. I wish I had an answer to the problem.”

Residents also complained about rubbish in the area and were thanked for their contribution to the meeting. Town Councillors added that they welcomed comments from the public to make them aware of any issues in the town.

In planning news, Councillors unanimously objected to a planning application which is due to go before B&NES Council to turn the former Radstock Boutique shop into four self-contained flats. Councillors agreed that they should oppose any change of use to shops in the town, otherwise the centre, which is clinging on to its retail core, could be lost for good.

A decision is due on the application in November, and comments can be made until 8th November using the application number 16/04543/FUL at: www.bathnes.gov.uk/planning