City centre summit pledges to tackle ASB and street drinking

A wide ranging attendee list included representatives from partner agencies, voluntary and third sector organisations and the business sector.

Attendees from a wide range of different sectors turned out to join Police and Crime Commissioner Hardyal Dhindsa at his City Centre Summit to discuss issues which are in danger of blighting Derby City Centre.

Over thirty people, representing the police, the local authority, business sectors, voluntary and third sector groups, pledged to work together to solve the problem.  

With a general consensus that street drinking and antisocial behaviour detracts from the appeal of the City to both residents and investors, attendees agreed with Mr Dhindsa that effective and sustainable solutions need to be found.

Attendees heard that some of the ‘homeless’ on the streets actually make up to £100 per day and have a property to call home. 

The Commissioner said: “We heard that around £300K is donated on the streets of Derby annually and while public generosity should be applauded, I would like to see this money being channelled into charities that provide support to those most in need, where it could do an enormous amount of good.”

“Derby is a generous, caring city.  None of us wish to see that supportive stance abused, but when there are people who desperately need help it’s clear that we need to act to protect the support available to them.  With that in mind we agreed to develop an action plan.”

Mr Dhindsa added that the problem of street drinkers and beggars was a top priority for him and said he was keen to facilitate a partnership approach to find a long-term solution.

He said: “Obviously, we have to do more than simply move the problem around the City Centre and we have to find solutions that work.  I’m sure that by working together, with a cohesive approach we can make a difference.”

The next of Summit meeting will take place in February.

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Media Enquiries:  Sallie Blair 01283 821012

Attendee list included: