Hayes and Coney Hall Councillors Josh Coldspring-White, Alexa Michael and Thomas Turrell have lobbied the Borough Police Commander to take tougher action on car theft.
On Saturday 1 March, Josh, Alexa and Thomas attended the Bromley Safer Neighbourhood Board’s Crime Summit along with other Councillors and local residents. They listened to presentations from the Metropolitan Police, London Fire Brigade, Southeastern and the British Transport Police about the work these organisations are doing to keep the Borough safe.
The Borough Commander, Luke Baldock, updated those present on the latest crime figures which show that car-related crime has fallen by 30% in the last four months. He outlined the steps that the Police will take to tackle car crime in future, including a dedicated new Police operation modelled on successful work in tackling theft from local businesses. All three Ward Councillors stressed the importance of tackling the issue in Hayes, Coney Hall and Keston Village and the need for stronger measures to address residents’ concerns.
Josh, Alexa and Thomas were also pleased to hear that the British Transport Police have been working to improve policing on the Hayes line. This action will help to stop criminals from fare-dodging and coming to Hayes with the intent of causing harm. They called on Southeastern to continue to lobby the Government for ticket barriers at Hayes Station as a longer-term solution in combatting anti-social behaviour.
Speaking on behalf of all three Ward Councillors, Josh said:
“Keeping Hayes, Coney Hall and Keston Village safe is our top priority. While we have managed to secure additional investment to tackle issues such as anti-social behaviour, illegal encampments and speeding, more needs to be done to make sure residents are safe.
“The need to deter car theft locally was a top priority, so we are pleased to hear that the Police will focus on this issue in the months ahead. We were also pleased to speak to Southeastern and reiterate the importance of deterring anti-social behaviour at Hayes Station.
“We will continue to work with local Police and other agencies to see strong, robust measures put in place to keep our community safe. Above all, we will hold them to account to make sure they deliver for residents.”
