An update will be given on Police and Community Safety activities within the Ward.
Minutes:
Police Sergeant Danny Graham was welcomed to the meeting.
He reminded the meeting of the beats which were in operation to serve the Ward and submitted statistical information which had shown a dramatic reduction in crime. An analysis of crime in each category was submitted as percentage reductions and PS Graham referred to the recent articles published in the Leicester Mercury which had reported positively on the crime reduction statistics. In respect of the total figures it was confirmed that 431 crimes had been recorded against the previous year’s figure of 567 recorded crimes. Data was also submitted which favourably compared the Ward statistics to other Beats locally.
It was reported with concern that offences of serious sexual assault had increased and PS Graham reported on the nature of the ongoing multi agency work which was being undertaken.
The following Beat priorities were commented on and discussed:
· Onlsow/Cedar Park
Anti-social behaviour, including late night drinking and drug use in the Park and surrounding area had led to increased patrols. Following an extensive consultation exercise it was expected that a Designated Public Places Order would be implemented.
· Dolphin Avenue/Abington Street/ Gudolph ??????
Reports of anti-Social Behaviour and nuisance had led to increased patrols being introduced.
· South Highfields
Increased patrols had led to a reduction in anti-social behaviour and those patrols would continue to ensure that there would not be a recurrence of problems.
· Evington Road
It was noted that the issues of planning and licensing of takeaway food outlets was to be discussed later on the Agenda for the meeting, and that the business community would be encouraged to have a greater involvement in the Beat priorities. It was reported that the Police had a view that the business groups in the area had not shown a high level of concern at recent incidents.
In conclusion PS Graham took note of the following issues and problems and commented in reply to question raised by community representatives present:
· Onlsow Park
It was reported that the park had been regularly used by a large group of people for barbeques and parties. Although the community use of the park was not objected to it was considered that large scale events should be better controlled. It was also reported that without prior notification or advertisement it was difficult for the Police or Health Officers to provide resources. It was noted that the organisers could be approached to ensure that future events were not held on an impromptu basis, and that organisers and groups be encouraged to apply for Ward Community Funding to help regulate their events. The likelihood that community funding would result in greater community cohesive events was also referred to.
· Evington Road
Having noted the comments made as part of the Ward priorities discussion above, it was reported that some businesses in the Evington Road area had expressed concern at the increasing numbers of bookmakers. It was felt that an increased Police presence was required along the Evington Road to help to deter large numbers of users of the bookmakers from loitering outside premises, as this often caused intimidation to other people. It was reported that an increase in the numbers of unlawful street sellers, graffiti and increased problems caused by illegal parking, including parking in bus lanes had also not been adequately dealt with recently. PS Graham responded by giving details of the current regular patrols and advised that people living, working and shopping in the area should be reassured of the safety of the area.
Notwithstanding the discussion on planning and licensing of takeaway food outlets, which was to be discussed later on the Agenda for the meeting, it was requested that a Business Forum be set up to give a greater emphasis and formality to the views and representations of businesses in the area. It was also considered that the assistance of the Belgrave Road Business Associations would be beneficial in this process and Officers agreed to pursue this request.
· Bridgepond Road Hostel ???????????????
In reply to a question it was reported that a reduction in reports of problems had been experienced since the closure of the Bridgepond Road Hostel.
PS Graham was thanked for his attendance and report.