Two Safer Neighbourhoods teams from Southall have received awards in recognition of their ongoing drive to clean up the neighbourhood.
Lady Margaret SNT, lead by PS Hazell has teamed up with the Waters Agency to clean up a part of Grand Union Canal and clean the neighbouring area of rubbish and overgrowths. Sgt Hazell said: "We are glad we could help to sort it out. It really has made a noticeable difference to the area".
Second SNT, Dormers Wells, has descended on the derelict Northcote Arms pub, often used as rubbish dumping ground and squatting place, being a potential crime and health hazard. Working with a current land owner, the entire site has been cleared and made safe what subsequently resulted in a drop in reported numbers of crimes committed in the area.
Insp Bryan, in charge of Safer Neighbourhoods Teams in Southall said: "This is an excellent result however I am still mindful of squatters returning and so I am working closely with the current owner to ensure the site is redeveloped at the earliest opportunity. To be acknowledged with two Capital Clean Up Achievement Awards is pleasing, but I realise that continued work is needed to make Southall a cleaner, greener, and ultimately safer place".
Southall Safer Neighbourhoods Teams regularly organise clean up days. If you know of any area that needs work, please contact your local team through www.met.police.uk/saferneighbourhoods
