Walsall Council is committing £4.4 million over the next four years to boost enforcement across the borough, targeting fly-tipping, anti-social behaviour, environmental crime and visible safety for residents.
The funding will deliver:
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More visible patrols and stronger enforcement action
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Expansion of CCTV coverage
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Recruitment of five additional Community Protection Enforcement Officers
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A new intelligence post to improve information sharing between the public, partners and the council
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Increased legal resources to take offenders to court
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Rapid response “enforcement fighting fund” to tackle emerging issues
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Enhanced partnership work with police and community groups
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Scaling of the “Operation Phoenix” visible security model borough-wide
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Youth and community safety projects
Council Leader Mike Bird said:
“Enforcement action will ramp up in this borough. I am sick of fly-tipping and other aspects of anti-social behaviour in Walsall, and this investment proves we are not prepared to put up with it any longer.
It is my priority to ensure our residents here in Walsall feel safe in the place we call home. Safe and attractive streets are vital for residents, businesses and investment.”
Councillor Adam Hicken, responsible for enforcement, added:
“Fly-tipping is the scourge of our borough and anti-social behaviour negatively impacts the quality of our communities. This major investment sends a clear message — we will not tolerate those who blight our streets. By increasing visible patrols, expanding CCTV and giving our teams the tools and resources they need, we will take firm action to keep Walsall safe and clean.”
This initiative builds on the council’s existing efforts, which include 16,000 annual interventions involving inspections, patrols, fixed penalty notices, warnings and prosecutions.