Tameside faces high crime and safety concerns

Tameside, an area near Manchester, has been labeled "Britain's Beirut" due to rising crime rates and deteriorating public spaces. Residents report issues with drug use in parks and difficulty accessing healthcare services, with long waiting times for GP appointments. The area ranked poorly in a recent study, coming in 284th out of 291 locations in Britain. Many local businesses have closed, and residents express concerns about safety, particularly for children. Some parks are described as neglected and unsafe. Despite these challenges, some residents appreciate Tameside's community spirit and green spaces. The borough has plans for regeneration, including a £737,000 investment in Hyde Market, but many locals feel improvements are needed.