THE new leaders of Basingstoke borough council have been urged to continue to prioritise additional safety patrols in the community. 

Basingstoke's MP Maria Miller has called on co-leaders councillors Paul Harvey and Gavin James to back the work of Community Safety Patrol Officers (CSPOs) in the town. 

Anti-social behaviour remains a big concern for residents. It can cause harassment, alarm or distress.

There are many different types of anti-social behaviour, such as rowdy, threatening, or intimidating behaviour, graffiti, vandalism and begging to environmental crimes such as littering, fly-tipping and dog fouling. 

Dame Maria said: “For a number of years, Basingstoke has made it a priority to have a dedicated team of Community Safety Patrol Officers, who work to combat anti-social behaviour across our town. 

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"Residents need to know that this remains a priority for those who have taken over the running of the council from the Conservative councillors.”

She continued said: “Our council must redouble its efforts to stop anti-social behaviour working with all housing associations, schools and the police. The team of CSPOs regularly patrol across the borough to provide an extra layer of visible community support, working closely with the local Basingstoke police beat bobbies and PCSOs.

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“Visible CSPO patrols who have in-depth knowledge of the local area ensure that the Council can also take a robust approach when dealing with environmental crimes such as dog fouling, litter and fly-tipping.

“Working closely with local communities, ward councillors, community groups and housing associations the CSPOs play a vital role in tackling anti-social behaviour, and deterring crime and providing reassurance to local communities."