ANTI-SOCIAL behaviour, neighbour disputes and petty crime are among the issues set to be tackled by new community resolution panels.

Bournemouth council and the police will be trialling a number of panels in north Bournemouth and are seeking resident volunteers to make them work.

The community resolution panels are being introduced as a way of helping local people embroiled in a dispute to try and resolve the problem. The trial will start from April 1.

Cllr David Smith, pictured, cabinet member for communities, said: “This is very much a community approach in trying to resolve issues of anti-social behaviour in Bournemouth.

“By introducing these panels we are empowering local residents to take responsibility for, and improve safety in their communities.

“We’d like to hear from local residents who have an interest in helping to improve community safety, to come forward to volunteer to sit on the community panels.”

Sgt Lee Thame, of Dorset Police, said: “These panels are an excellent opportunity for residents to become involved in local resolutions that affect communities in a positive way.”

Each community panel will include two community volunteers, those involved in the dispute and a representative from the police or council.

Both sides will explain their point of view before appropriate actions are agreed and an Accept-able Behaviour Agree-ment is signed.

Call Reuben Dear on 01202 4534934 or email reuben.dear.bournemouth.gov. uk