A BEXHILL Councillor is calling time on recent anti-social behaviour and vandalism in Little Common, which will be tackled at a meeting with local police.
Independent Councillor, Connor Winter, has secured a joint visit from the Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner and the District Commander, Chief Inspector for Hastings & Rother, following the recent incidents, including anti-social behaviour, criminal damage to public property and a shop window being smashed.
Recent incidents have included a litter bin being forcibly removed from its fixings, vandalised, and placed in the middle of the village’s main road, alongside damage to a local shopfront window. These incidents have caused frustration and concern amongst businesses and residents, according to Connor.
After being alerted by local traders, Cllr Winter immediately contacted Sussex Police and liaised directly with the local PCSO to ensure the matters were escalated without delay.
There is now an active police investigation underway to identify those responsible, and Cllr Winter is continuing to work closely with officers by supporting local enquiries. A number of Little Common businesses have provided CCTV footage and statements to assist the investigation.
As a direct result of his engagement with Sussex Police, increased uniformed patrols have been secured within the village to provide visible reassurance, deter further incidents, and strengthen police presence in the area.
Cllr Winter has also confirmed that he has secured a date for Katy Bourne, Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner, to visit Little Common alongside the District Commander, Chief Inspector for Hastings & Rother.
The visit will include a Business Walkabout organised by Cllr Winter, allowing senior policing leadership to meet directly with village businesses and hear first-hand their concerns regarding crime and anti-social behaviour.
Cllr Winter will be writing directly to all Little Common businesses over the next week to formally confirm the date and time of the visit and provide further details.
He told Bexhill News: “I am deeply concerned and angered by what has taken place in our village, from anti-social behaviour, to a shop window being smashed, to reckless vandalism that saw a bin thrown into the middle of the main road. This behaviour is unacceptable and puts livelihoods and public safety at risk.
I have acted swiftly to ensure there is an active police investigation underway, secured increased patrols in the village, and brought both the Police & Crime Commissioner and our District Commander into Little Common. Securing this visit demonstrates that we are taking these issues seriously at the highest level. Our businesses deserve decisive action and strong representation and that is exactly what I have delivered.”
While operational details remain confidential so as not to hinder ongoing enquiries, Sussex Police have confirmed that investigations are progressing.
