Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews has met the police officers taking tough action to crackdown on anti-social behaviour in a city park.
The PCC met Inspector Yakub Ismail, Neighbourhood Policing Commander for East Leicester, on a visit to Spinney Hill Park in Leicester to find out how officers are working with partners to combat issues such as public urination, late night noise and drinking/drug taking.
Mr Matthews heard how officers had undertaken joint patrols with the local authority over the past two months and were continuing to deliver proactive patrols under Operation Groove - activity to address misuse of alcohol in public spaces - which had resulted in alcohol and cannabis seizures.
Residents have voiced concern over ASB in the park for some time, raising their concerns directly with the Commissioner. Mr Matthews has previously visited the area to discuss action that could help alleviate problems and is pleased to see the partnership approach fully embedded.
As part of a proactive approach the force, supported by the PCC, has:
- Installed two CCTV Pod cameras in Spinney Hill Park
- Conducted frequent joint patrols with Leicester City Council wardens to enforce the Public Space Protection Order implemented by the city council.
- Completed a knife sweep of Spinney Hill Park.
- Worked in collaboration with the Neighbourhood Watch residence around the park.
- Shared data analysis of all recent and historic calls with partner agencies to support joint problem-solving.
- Supported the planning of community events including the Holli festival, celebrations to mark Pakistani Independence Day and a family fun day.
Speaking after his visit, Mr Matthews said: "Residents and visitors are rightly concerned about this behaviour which is spoiling their enjoyment of the park. I am pleased the Safer Neighbourhood Team is taking their concerns seriously and using the full suite of legislative powers and resources available to deal with problems head-on.
"Our communities should not have to tolerate nuisance and rowdy behaviour in any location, but especially so in our green spaces, which are frequented by children and families and those seeking peace and quiet. Inspector Yakub assures me these issues remain a priority for his team and patrols will continue in this area for some time.
"When I was elected, I promised to put the hard-working, law-abiding citizen at the heart of my work. I will continue to monitor these problems and follow up with our partners and the community to identify any further solutions to prevent this activity in the first place so people can visit Spinney Hill Park again with confidence."
The local Safer Neighbourhood Team recently held a community meeting to understand the concerns of residents and set out their plans for addressing problems. They have also engaged with community groups playing sport in the park to listen and offer their support.
As a result of this engagement, the team is now providing weekend patrol cover of all parks in relation to ASB and alcohol misuse under Operation Groove.
