Residents in Chelmsley Wood can share their thoughts on a new crime crackdown aimed at addressing armed criminal activity in the area.
In just four months, over 100 calls were made to the police from the bus interchange. Despite CCTV coverage, criminals often hide their faces. Reports include knife threats, vandalism, thefts, and dangerous electric bike use.
Last month, a local councillor proposed a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO). This would last three years and restrict certain activities in a designated area, including the bus exchange and nearby fast food restaurants.
The PSPO would ban riding e-bikes, e-scooters, and motorbikes in the restricted area. Groups of three or more must leave if suspected of causing a nuisance. An authorized person can ask someone to remove face coverings if they seem likely to cause trouble.
Violating the PSPO could lead to a £2,500 fine. The local council and West Midlands Police support this initiative. Councillor Wazma Qais emphasized the negative impact of anti-social behavior on residents and businesses.
Residents are encouraged to participate in the consultation, which has seven questions and takes about 5-10 minutes. They can also report anti-social behavior to the council’s hotline.
Green Party councillor Shesh Sheshabhatter noted that many residents feel unsafe due to masked individuals. He urged the council and police to enforce rules effectively and encouraged residents to report any concerns.
The consultation started on February 3 and will run for six weeks, ending on March 16. You can find more information online.
