Councillor calls for more officers for a town due to her concerns over crime

Councillor Sue Woodward has written to Chief Inspector Mark Ward in the hope that extra officers will be deployed in hot-spot areas such as Sankey’s Corner following a recent spate of incidents which are causing concern to local residents.

“While we all know that police resources are stretched, Burntwood residents need reassurance that police are actively patrolling in the town, particularly at night,” said Councillor Woodward.

“I’ve had a number of calls again over this last few days about vandalism, car racing and general bad behaviour and we need to see a higher profile from the police to try to stamp this out.

“If nothing else, some of these activities also breach lockdown rules as well as causing distress, nuisance and fear.”

Councillor Woodward says that while Burntwood is a relatively safe place to live, with low levels of serious crime, the escalation of anti-social behaviour is a cause for growing anxiety for Burntwood residents.

“At a time when we are being asked for an increase of 5.99 per cent to the police element of our council tax and when police number have been cut, people need to see what they are getting for their money,” she said.

“I trust that Chief Inspector Ward will respond positively to local voices.”

A police spokesman said: “Lichfield Neighbourhood Police Team is aware of some recent reports of anti-social behaviour in the Burntwood area, and is working with partner agencies to tackle some of the root causes of these issues.

“We also have patrols in the area which are supported by our colleagues from across force departments.

“We continue to engage with people and where appropriate issue fixed penalty notices for breaches of covid legislation.”