As mentioned in a previous blog, Kenley’s Ward Panel met on Tuesday 25th October to discuss and agree community safety priorities for Kenley. Alongside the Police Community Safety Officer (PSCO) and local Ward Councillors, attendees included representatives from the two community hubs: Kenley Memorial Hall and Old Lodge Lane Baptist Church, as well as local residents and a representative from neighbouring Whyteleafe parish council.
Attendees took the opportunity to engage with the local policing team to discuss crime and order concerns. This is important as it gives residents control over the priorities they want the police to have in their neighbourhoods. For the police, this is an opportunity to hear directly from the people they are charged with protecting.
Although crime stats are generally on trend – the PSCO team reported an uptick of car. Owners of Range Rovers are being particularly bad hit due to their less than secure keyless fob system. The police are following up with Range Rover on apparent security holes. Alongside Faraday bags - the team are now recommending the use of steering wheel locks as a good deterrent. The PSCO team are also aiming to undertake a session on smart tagging of catalytic converters in the near future.
The Ward Panel agreed its policing priorities for the next quarter:
- burglary
- anti-social behaviour
- vehicle crime, including theft and speeding.
The next meeting will be on 24th January at Old Lodge Lane Baptist Church, and will be chaired by Rev Nick Graves, Minister of the church. All Kenley residents are welcome to attend to give their views and decide on community safety priorities.
