Walsall Council’s Community Protection Enforcement Officers (CPEOs) will continue their work across the borough after a successful summer of proactive patrols tackling antisocial behaviour, environmental crime, and community safety concerns.
For the past three months the team has carried out daily, high-visibility patrols in Walsall and Willenhall town centres as part of the Safer Streets initiative.
More than 500 residents and 50 businesses were engaged with by officers during patrols, addressing issues such as street drinking, waste issues, and local complaints.
A key part of the council’s response to anti-social behaviour in the Town Centre is a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) which was implemented in 2023 to tackle street drinking and other anti-social activities.
On October 7, a prolific street drinker was prosecuted for breaching the PSPO and became the seventh person banned from visiting Walsall Town Centre – showcasing how the PSPO enables the council and Police to tackle anti-social behaviour.
Patrols throughout the Safer Streets initiative also saw a further 15 anti-social behaviour warnings and Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) letters issued.
Walsall Council’s seven CPEOs will now continue to carry out visible patrols in hotspot areas to help keep communities safe and clean. As part of investment into enforcement, a further five CPEOs will be recruited in due course.
“ Our Community Protection Officers are the eyes and ears of Walsall. They are visible, proactive, and committed to tackling the issues that matter most to residents. Whether it’s antisocial behaviour, waste offences, or supporting community events, they make a real difference every day.
“Their work is about improving quality of life and helping people feel safe where they live, work, and visit. I’m proud that we’re continuing to invest in this team and the impact they have across the borough. “
Councillor Adam Hicken, Portfolio Holder for Enforcement and Safe Communities
“ Walsall Police work in close partnership with the council to combat antisocial behaviour and other issues in the borough.
“The new CPEO’s are a welcome addition to Walsall, helping to be extra eyes and ears, patrolling the local area. They provide a visible presence and reassurance to the public, helping us keep your communities safe. “
Chief Superintendent Phil Dolby, West Midlands Police, chair of the Safer Walsall Partnership
CPEO patrols areas have recently included Darlaston, Brownhills, Bentley, and Caldmore, where concerns have been raised about anti-social behaviour, fly-tipping, and street drinking. In Bentley, officers carried out a 500-household letter drop and reassurance visits after reports of anti-social behaviour.
Officers have also played a key role at major borough events including Walsall Pride, Lockstock Festival, the Monster Truck Weekend, Maker Fest, and Brownhills Canal Festival, ensuring public safety and providing on-the-ground support.
As part of the next phase of the Safer Streets approach, Walsall Council is exploring further Public Spaces Protection Orders in Caldmore and Darlaston, following the success of the Walsall Town Centre PSPO in reducing street drinking and anti-social behaviour.