I WAS disappointed to learn Mr Cooper’s views (Letters, December 4 ‘Tackle this drugs problem’) and his negativity about the difficult work that is being done in Boscombe to bring forward the changes we all want to see.

To be successful we need the consistent support of the local community and an understanding of what is possible and what is not.

If he and other local community leaders cannot support our strategy it will just make the task more difficult and take longer to achieve lasting change.

Resolving these issues in Boscombe is one of this council’s top priorities but we have always said that it will take time and tenacity as the current legislation is not helpful in what we are trying to do.

It is also taking a great deal of council resource at a time when there are plenty of other pressing calls on that money elsewhere in the town.

The Boscombe Regeneration Partnership team are working hard to address all the problems that we face in Boscombe from all angles, many of the issues relating to drug and alcohol need input from most of the six theme groups that meet regularly to discuss how best to tackle the situation and put Boscombe back on its feet.

We have researched and put into practice many innovative ideas, are sending out our positive messages when we have made important achievements, and have ambitious action plans for the future.

Our officers are passionate and totally professional about the work that they do, as are we Boscombe councillors and are all supported by the leader and chief executive of the council.

We are determined to succeed and welcome positive input from residents with a real wish to work alongside us, genuine partnerships are key to an outcome that is beneficial to all.

Councillor Jane Kelly, Boscombe West Ward, Cabinet Member for Partnerships, Regeneration and Public Health