West End, Westminster

Current local priorities

• The West End Ward has been identified as a repeat area for Robbery and Theft of personal property . Soho is a small area relative to other wards in the area, it has a bustling night time economy which many thousands of people come to, primarily over the weekends. Robbery in Soho is mainly fuelled by the night time economy. Intoxicated patrons leaving bars, clubs, and pubs become targets for groups and individuals intent on stealing their personal property. It is a concern of residents and visitors alike, as robbery is a highly invasive and distressing crime to become victim of. The Met has tasked pan-London units to patrol in the area to combat these violent offences. The West End Town Centre Team are the West End’s dedicated team of officers that are out on foot patrol covering the night time economy. They continue to actively target robbery suspects.
• Drugs. The West End has seen sporadic but concentrated issues surrounding the blatant use of drugs on the streets. Several areas across the Ward have repeatedly had issues with drug users congregating in areas with low foot traffic, doorways and poorly lit areas. Officers are aware and engaging with drug users, who the majority of are vulnerable or living on the streets. Officers have worked alongside the council and outreach services in order to take a longer term non-enforcement action, which in the long run will produce better more time efficient results as opposed to constantly arresting offenders. Some users/offenders are not engaging well with the diversion and assistance routes offered to them so enforcement action will be taken.
• Vehicle related ASB. Many residents and businesses have reported to Police and Westminster Council that they face regular issues with anti social vehicle use across the West End Ward. This can involve Car Meets as well as Street Racing. There are also reports of excessive noise from vehicle based sound equipment late at night. This has been a particular issue in Soho, with large groups of motorbikes meeting. Some of the motorbike riders have been riding in a dangerous and anti-social manner.