July 12, 2017 4.47 pm This story is over 80 months old

Summit to be held to tackle anti-social behaviour, begging and rough sleeping in Lincoln

Agencies from across Lincoln will be brought together by the county’s crime commissioner to draw up plans to tackle anti-social behaviour, rough sleeping and begging in Lincoln. PCC Marc Jones has called the multi-agency meeting to develop an action plan to address concerns raised by traders and business owners in the city centre. Police have…

Agencies from across Lincoln will be brought together by the county’s crime commissioner to draw up plans to tackle anti-social behaviour, rough sleeping and begging in Lincoln.

PCC Marc Jones has called the multi-agency meeting to develop an action plan to address concerns raised by traders and business owners in the city centre.

Police have already relaunched Operation Applaud to clear up public spaces and officers are working with the City of Lincoln Council to get injunctions against offenders.

The Lincolnshire PCC says he has recognised the positive action already underway but said enforcement alone will not provide the answers to a problem, which is not an issue for Lincoln alone.

One of the areas Marc Jones is keen to explore is whether powers can be extended to other agencies as a result of changes made by the Policing and Crime Act 2017.

He said: “The force is already taking action to tackle these concerns but agencies across the city must work together if we are to solve the issues.

“If our community can work together, co-ordinate our efforts and ensure we have a robust and effective action plan then I am confident we can continue to have a vibrant and prosperous city centre.”

Lincoln BIG chief executive Matt Corrigan added: “Business owners from the city have been raising concerns about growing problems including begging, drug taking and people sleeping rough and we hope the answers will come from a joint approach.”

Chief Inspector Stewart Brinn said: “We are very much aware of the issues of begging, street drinking and the use of drugs in Lincoln’s city centre and surrounding areas.”