ANTI-SOCIAL behaviour in Stratford town centre has prompted calls for action.
Several residents have contacted the Observer concerned about ‘vagrants’ regularly seen sitting outside the former Poundland shop on Bridge Street.
One resident said: “I was walking past them and they were sitting on the pavement drinking and being obnoxious. The unmuzzled, uncaged dog they have was barking and jumping up at passer-by’s dogs.
“I hate to think what impression it gives of the town to tourists.”
Another said: “These people have no intention of moving on when they can beg from tourists. This, I am sure, is not the image Stratford wants to portray to the visitors which come in huge numbers.
“Isn’t the 1824 Vagrancy Act still in force and isn’t there an anti-drinking alcohol in the street law?”
A homelessness spokesperson for SDC said the council was aware of the situation outside the former Poundland premises and it was working to address it.
They continued: “Our commissioned street outreach service attends the area regularly to offer support and to encourage individuals to engage with accommodation and specialist services. Many people who are rough sleeping experience complex needs, which can sometimes result in challenging or concerning behaviour.
“Where behaviour meets the threshold for anti-social activity, we work with our community safety partners to ensure an appropriate response alongside continued engagement and support.
“We recognise concerns regarding the visible increase in rough sleeping and the effect this may have on the town, particularly as visitor numbers rise. Our teams continue to work proactively with those affected to help them access accommodation.
“However, it is important to note that some individuals are reluctant to approach the council for assistance, and unfortunately, we are only able to provide homelessness support to those who do engage with us. It should also be noted that not everyone seen begging in the town is homeless, as some individuals do have their own accommodation.”
