Council cracks down on antisocial behaviour with Safer Street Patrols

Mitcham & Morden 

Whilst our area remains one of the safest in London, we know that community safety remains a concern for many people. That’s why, just like the new Labour government in Westminster, we have made cracking down on antisocial behaviour a top priority here in Merton.  

Councillor Macauley, Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety, has been leading our new Safer Streets Patrol pilot which aims to tackle antisocial behaviour through out-of-hours joint Council and Police patrols.

You may have spotted teams of Council staff from our community safety, regulatory services and waste enforcement teams in high-vis jackets out and about recently, who have been patrolling our streets and neighbourhoods – please do speak to them if you feel unsafe, want to have discuss an issue in your area, or if you would just like to chat!

The patrol routes are mapped out based on reports from residents and known hotspots and have already led to action to address street drinkers, breaches of a community protection notice, and fly tipping. 

We patrols are helping improve the safety of women in our night-time economy and this has included setting up a Safe Zone in Wimbledon, outside Wimbledon train station and one in Mitcham Town Centre.

Safety is a priority with improved CCTV and Police Safer Neighbourhood Teams working in the town centre to increase visibility, reduce crime and build trust with the local community, supported by the council’s Community Safety Team. A Safe Zone now operates on the last Friday evening of each month. Manned by Merton Street Pastors, this is a safe space for those feeling unsafe or vulnerable who need support.

The Safe Zone is open for anyone that feels unsafe or needs a little assistance while in the town centre. The safe zone will provide a point to charge a phone, or a safe place to wait for a taxi or ask for help if they feel unsafe.

Wimbledon Safe Zone - First Friday of the month - 10pm - 2am

Mitcham Safe Zone - Last Friday of the month - 6pm - 9pm