Street drinking and related ASB/criminality

We have seen a rise in reports involving members of the street community and street drinking, which has led to significant anti-social behaviour and criminality. Large groups, often exceeding ten individuals, are gathering in public spaces, consuming alcohol openly, and causing disruption to local businesses and members of the public. This behaviour frequently includes public order offences such as shouting, swearing, and creating excessive noise, as well as acts of public nuisance like urinating and defecating in open areas.

Actions

• 2 December 2025
  

  We are committed to tackling this issue and ensuring that our communities are both safe and feel safe. However, we recognise that this is a complex societal problem that cannot be solved through enforcement alone. Many individuals within the street community are vulnerable adults, often facing addiction issues and personal traumas that have contributed to their current circumstances.

  For this reason, a multi-agency approach is essential. Over the coming months, the local Neighbourhood Policing Team will be organising sporadic, multi-agency engagement events. During these operations, we will actively engage with members of the street community, ensuring they are aware of local charities offering support and signposting them to the local council’s homelessness prevention team to help them access accommodation.

  At the same time, we will continue to enforce the law and take action to prevent anti-social behaviour. This will be a combined effort between the police, the local council’s homeless prevention team, and charities such as Somewhere to Go. Together, we aim to balance enforcement with support, addressing the root causes of vulnerability while maintaining public safety and community confidence.