OVER the past few months, Neighbourhood Policing Teams (NPTs) across East Herts have been working to tackle the issues that residents said were causing them the most concern.

NPTs work alongside partners to focus on solving long and short-term neighbourhood issues, such as anti-social behaviour, theft, speeding and drug-related crime.

They set local policing priorities every four months, providing a specific focus on the issues that residents have raised through surveys, alongside an analysis of data.

Residents will see their dedicated team of PCs and PCSOs working alongside partners to tackle the issues, through an increased police presence, engagement events and targeted enforcement.

During the last period, the following priorities were addressed:

Bishop’s Stortford and Sawbridgeworth

Reduce youth related anti-social behaviour in Castle Park and Sworders Field, Bishop’s Stortford, mainly occurring between 3pm and 10pm.

• Regular patrols have been carried out.
• Patrols were carried out with partners from the fire service, following reports of arson in the area.
• Bike marking events have been held as an engagement and crime prevention opportunity.
• The team attended the Love Parks event to speak to members of the public.
• Attended Park Run events to provide a visible presence, pass on advice and discuss any issues.
• Site visits were carried out alongside partner agencies during Anti-Social Behaviour Awareness Week, to identify any opportunities to reduce anti-social behaviour.

Reduce youth related anti-social behaviour in Bullfields and West Road parks in Sawbridgeworth, mainly occurring between 3pm and 10pm.

• Patrols have been carried out.
• Local officers have collaborated with schools to address behaviour and promote respect for local public spaces.
• The team continue to work closely with the town council.

The following priorities have been agreed for the coming three months:

• Youth related anti-social behaviour in Cemetery Road, Bishop’s Stortford.
• Speeding on A1184 near Spellbrook School.