WORRIED residents fear drug dealers have returned in force to Northolt, even dealing in broad day light, despite crackdowns last year.
Complaints about an increase in drug activity are centring on the underpass of the White Hart and Target roundabouts, and outside the Tesco Express, in Church Road.
Northolt West End residents confronted their Safer Neighbourhood Team on Tuesday (8) where police assured them they were doing all they could to reduce crime in the area. Officers said drugs are one of their three top priorities, along with burglary and anti-social behaviour.
Ward councillor Brian Reeves said: “It seems to be back to how it was about a year and half ago. The police did a good job, they raided Gainsborough Tower and that drove it away for a while. But now we need a little more action to stop it.
“A number of residents have complained about the underpass under the Target Roundabout and drugs outside the Tesco Express around the time the kids are going home. It's obvious something's going on but it's far enough away from the library where the police go.
“We need a regular team to patrol. We've got some new dealers in the area and need the police to be active and get them.”
Drug related crimes in Northolt West End rose from 18 recorded incidents between October 2009 and January 2010 to 23 between October 2010 and January this year.
Resident Richard Legg, of Hindhead Gardens, Northolt, said: “It's mainly people between 14 and 25. Groups gather around outside the Tesco. I work irregular hours and go there at different times of day. It happens at night and in the day, even at 11am.
"Once, I was getting a pint of milk and a black Saab screeched up outside Tesco. I don't know what drugs they were but I saw a packet and notes being swapped. I feel safe at home, I'm just not very happy about going to Tesco."
