National initiative to target crime and antisocial behaviour in Chatham

A national initiative aimed at improving the lives of people affected by crime and antisocial behaviour has been launched in Chatham.

The tactic known as ‘Clear, Hold, Build’ aims to target and remove those responsible for causing problems in a particular area and ensure a safer, more peaceful environment for everyone else.

Kent Police is working with partner agencies including Medway Council and mhs homes to deliver the project at residential locations in the New Road area of Chatham, where members of the community have previously suffered from antisocial behaviour linked to drug dealing and drunken behaviour.

The Clear, Hold, Build initiative, which is part-funded by the Home Office, was officially launched on Tuesday 20 August 2024 to coincide with a family fun day organised by mhs homes.

Determined

Chief Inspector Garry Cook, District Commander for Medway, said:

‘The vast majority of people who live in this part of Chatham are law-abiding residents who want to enjoy their lives free from crime and antisocial behaviour. Unfortunately there are some who are being prevented from doing so by a minority of selfish individuals who regularly commit offences, intimidate others and make people feel unsafe in their own community. ‘Nationally Clear, Hold, Build has proven successful in reducing the number of reported offences in an area, and we are determined to do everything we can to replicate that for the benefit of everyone who lives here. ‘Tackling the root causes of crime and antisocial behaviour is a joint responsibility and we are very pleased to be working alongside Medway Council, mhs homes and other partners including schools and businesses on this positive initiative.’

Clear, Hold, Build is a three-step plan that sees criminals and their associates cleared from an area through relentless police activity.

The area is then held and stabilised through high-visibility patrols, assistance from partner agencies and community engagement.

With support from key stakeholders, residents will then be equipped and empowered to build a strong and resilient community free from crime and exploitation.

Safer and thriving

Councillor Alex Paterson, Medway Council’s Portfolio Holder for Community Safety, Highways and Enforcement, said:

‘Partnership working is the key to tackling crime and antisocial behaviour, and we are proud to be working alongside Kent Police and mhs homes on this initiative. ‘Everyone deserves to feel safe and secure in their home and local community, and we are committed to supporting this project through sharing both intelligence and resources, and working together to help build a safer and thriving community in this area.’

Ashley Hook, Chief Executive of mhs homes, said:

‘The impact of antisocial behaviour can be devastating. At mhs homes, we’re determined to reduce the harm that it causes for our customers and for our communities. ‘This initiative sends a strong message that antisocial behaviour will not be tolerated and we will continue to work closely in partnership with Kent Police and Medway Council to build communities people can feel proud of and where they feel safe.’