Crime lower at Welwyn Garden City shop parade

ANTI-SOCIAL behaviour in an area of WGC which is rated as one of the worst areas to live in the county has dropped by a quarter, say police.

The Peartree ward saw 699 reported incidents last year – 227 lower than the year before.

The results were provided in response to our story last week in which store workers at Woodhall Parade claimed there were less youngsters grouping outside the shops.

The ward is covered by Pc Alex Kettle, assisted by PCSOs Heather Nash and Neil Rider.

Pc Kettle said: “The short-term plan included visible regular patrols and officers taking robust action (eg arrests) against anyone committing any criminal or anti-social behaviour offences.”

As the action began to work, the team introduced a series of community events, including a barbecue, a Halloween fun night and a pool tournament after PCSO Nash petitioned the borough council to buy a pool table for use at the Pomegranate Caf�, to give something for the young people to do.

Pc Kettle added: “We have worked closely with partner agencies, especially Welwyn Hatfield Council, which funded three police bicycles.

“These have been positively received by the community and have made us more approachable.

“The work has transformed the culture in Woodhall and resulted in a real community spirit with people of all ages enjoying living, working and socialising there.”