Croydon set for increased patrols to tackle antisocial behaviour

Executive Mayor of Croydon - Jason Perry, Councillor Lynne Hale, Community patrol services and Council staff members outside Croydon Town Hall <i>(Image: Croydon Council)</i>
Executive Mayor of Croydon - Jason Perry, Councillor Lynne Hale, Community patrol services and Council staff members outside Croydon Town Hall (Image: Croydon Council)
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Croydon is set to see more uniformed patrols on its streets and housing estates as the council ramps up its zero-tolerance approach to antisocial behaviour, as reported by our sister title London Now.

The increased patrols form part of a wider effort to support residents and businesses and create a cleaner, safer environment, London Now reports, where further details of the initiative can be read.

The Executive Mayor of Croydon, Jason Perry, said: "We have been clear that antisocial behaviour will not be tolerated in Croydon.

"Residents and businesses should be able to go about their day without feeling intimidated or unsafe.

"These extra officers are a direct response to what people have told us they want to see: more visibility and quicker action.

"Working closely with the Police and our partners, they will help us crack down on antisocial behaviour hotspots and make sure concerns are acted on quickly."

The patrols will be delivered by Parkguard, which operates as accredited community safety officers in partnership with the Council and Police.

Uniformed officers will make regular rounds throughout the town centre and surrounding neighbourhoods.

The scheme has already begun on council-owned housing estates, following resident calls for increased visibility.

Patrols will also extend to Thornton Heath shortly.

The officers do not have the power to arrest but can respond rapidly to issues through direct radio contact with police.

They will also support businesses, offer guidance to rough sleepers, and direct individuals to relevant support services.

The officers will work closely with housing and community safety teams to address issues like nuisance gatherings and drug-related trespassing.

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Daily reports will document observations, actions taken, and any recommended follow-up, including tenancy enforcement where necessary.

The patrols support the work of Croydon's Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) and the ongoing work of the Town Centre Taskforce.

Key areas will be routinely monitored to deter activity that could make people feel unsafe.

The council reaffirmed that the patrols are intended to create more visible community reassurance and address concerns quickly and effectively.

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