Anti-social behaviour in Welwyn Garden City town centre

A new gate has been installed in the alleyway that runs between the Howard Centre and McDonalds to help tackle anti-social behaviour (ASB).

The alleyway has been a hotspot for ASB but the new gate, which is electronic, will prevent access for the general public. 

The alleyway will continue to be an emergency exit route from the Howard Centre, allowing shoppers to exit if needed. The electronic opening system means there is no re-entry allowed.

The installation of the gate is a joint initiative between the following:

The gate has been funded by Operation Hotspot which also provides extra foot patrols and increased visibility, on top of normal daily business. The operation, which is countywide, targets specific areas which have been identified as crime and ASB hotspots through police data. It is funded by the government following a bid by the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Office.

In addition to the gate, other recent work has been carried out to prevent ASB in the area. The vacant unit which was previously Lloyd’s Bank has also been properly secured. 

Work is also ongoing with schools and partner agencies to identify young people committing ASB and taking appropriate action to deal with them.

Sergeant Deane Brittain, who leads the Welwyn Hatfield North NPT, said: “Tackling ASB in Welwyn Garden City is currently an official priority for the Neighbourhood Policing Team, following our most recent consultation with the public. I hope the installation of the gate reassures the public that we are taking ASB seriously. We are pleased to have the support of the council and the Howard Centre and we hope this sends a strong message that ASB will not be tolerated in Welwyn Garden City town centre.”

Councillor Sandreni Bonfante, Deputy Leader of Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council and Executive Member for Environment said: “Ensuring that our residents feel safe where they live is a priority for the Council, so I am delighted that this gate has been installed to help tackle ASB in Welwyn Garden City town centre.  I would like to thank WHBC officers, and colleagues at Hertfordshire Constabulary and the Howard Centre, for their work on this initiative and all that they do to tackle ASB in our town centre.”

Vicky Smith, Centre Manager at The Howard Centre, said: “The Howard Centre is pleased to support and reduce anti-social behaviour in the local area. We are committed to working collaboratively with partners and the community to create a safer, more welcoming environment for everyone.

“We believe that the installation of the new gates will make a positive and meaningful impact in helping to deter anti-social behaviour and improve the overall experience for visitors, residents, and local businesses.”

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