Kentish Town South

Antisocial Behaviour (ASB)

Antisocial behaviour (ASB) has been identified as a recurring concern within the ward, with particular locations and individuals linked to repeat incidents. Reports indicate ongoing issues affecting community safety and quality of life, with some cases involving vulnerable individuals or escalating into criminal behaviour.

A review of ASB incidents shows patterns of repeat calls linked to specific hotspots and individuals. These patterns suggest that a small number of offenders and locations are responsible for a disproportionate level of harm. Some incidents involve vulnerability, indicating a need for safeguarding considerations alongside enforcement. Without intervention, there is a risk of continued harm and escalation into more serious offences.

Officers will Conduct high-visibility patrols in identified hotspot areas to deter ASB and reassure the public.
Review reported incidents to identify repeat locations and offenders.
Take appropriate enforcement action where behaviour crosses into criminality or involves risk to vulnerable persons.
Use a combination of enforcement and partnership working with relevant agencies to address underlying causes and prevent reoccurrence.
Apply available ASB tools and powers, including:
ASB warnings
Notices
Criminal Behaviour Orders (CBOs)
to manage and deter persistent offenders.

Success will be measured by:
A reduction in repeat ASB incidents at identified locations.
Decreased demand linked to known individuals.
Increased community confidence and reassurance.
Evidence of effective use of enforcement powers and partnership interventions leading to sustained behavioural change.

We have already started targeted leaflet drops and high visibility patrols in areas affected by antisocial behaviour. We have also increased public engagement events, giving residents and businesses more opportunities to speak directly with local officers. Details of upcoming events are shared on the Met Engage platform, where you can meet members of the team and tell us about any concerns affecting your area.

Enforcing cycling offences

Cycling offences remain a concern within the ward, particularly pavement cycling, failing to stop at red lights and other antisocial riding behaviours that place pedestrians and road users at risk.

Officers will continue to carry out targeted patrols in identified hotspots, using a combination of education, engagement and enforcement to improve compliance and promote safer cycling. Enforcement action has already been taken, including the issuing of Fixed Penalty Notices for cycling offences, and further enforcement operations are planned both within the ward and alongside neighbouring wards. Officers will also receive additional training and support to ensure offences are dealt with robustly and consistently.

Our aim is to reduce cycling-related complaints, improve road safety and increase public confidence through visible enforcement.

Retail Theft (Shoplifting)

Shoplifting remains a key priority for the ward due to the impact it has on local businesses, staff and the wider community. Officers will work closely with retailers through regular business visits, providing crime prevention advice and supporting store managers and retail security staff to identify and address theft-related issues.

A proactive approach will be taken to tackle offenders, with regular operations using both overt and covert tactics in locations identified as being most affected. Officers will make full use of available policing powers to disrupt criminal activity, identify repeat offenders and bring them to justice.

Where offences are detected, robust enforcement action will be taken, including arrests where appropriate. Particular focus will be placed on targeting prolific offenders, with officers pursuing Criminal Behaviour Orders (CBOs) and other preventative measures to reduce reoffending and protect local businesses.

Through partnership working, visible policing and targeted enforcement, our aim is to reduce shoplifting, improve business confidence and make the ward a safer place for those who live, work and visit the area.