About MATRA (The Maesgeirchen & Tan-y-Bryn Residents' Association)

MATRA was brought into being when a group of concerned residents and tenants saw a need for a stronger community bond, and liaison ability with the Council, Police and Housing Association etc. The aim is to try to combat the increase of antisocial behavior among some neighbours, escalating problems and the need for a safer environment in which families can bring up their children to an adequate standard of moral principles and education.

No one is deluding themselves that the task at hand is not a difficult one. The Maesgeirchen estate is now considered to be the most socially deprived and the second most materially deprived ward in the North West of Wales. There are high levels of unemployment and long term illness with low levels of economic activity. The population is however demographically stable, with 52% having lived in the "village" for more than sixteen years. It would be fair to say that as in other Estates, and populated areas the majority of the residents wish nothing more than to live a "normal" life. However, it is the habitual mindless few who constantly cause the problems of antisocial behavior, petty crime, car thefts, burglary, drug dealing and taking.

It is only through effort on behalf of the community as a whole, through money and regeneration into the area that we can sort a lot of these problems out; with parents and families taking more control of their youngsters and bring back a "right and wrong" attitude, and most of all both for their safety and for their own good - "KNOW WHERE YOUR YOUNGSTERS ARE at all times". But at the end of the day we can still be proud to live in one of the most beautiful parts of Britain. We must be Bangor's best kept secret as you won't find an Estate, be it Private or Council run, that has so many natural facilities on its doorstep.

In the words of Wales' own Max Boyce, when the years have gone and maybe generations and schemes move with the times lets hope they can look back and say with fond memories "I was there"… just like as so many are proud to say in my Guest Book.