New community warden to join Moray Council antisocial behaviour crackdown, and safeguard council house tenants
AN EXTRA community warden is set to join Moray Council’s fight against antisocial behaviour, under plans agreed yesterday.
The new hire will bring the total number of wardens, which tackle issues like vandalism, dog fouling, intoxicated people and litter, to five.
In February this year, the council agreed to fund two new community wardens as part of their 2024 budget.
However, the Housing and Community Safety Committee yesterday agreed plans to spend cash from the Housing Revenue Budget on a further warden, to help keep council tenants safe.
The plan was contained within the revised Antisocial Behaviour Policy.
Setting out plans for how the council will take on antisocial behaviour, the report warns that “very serious or persistent” offenders could face “rapid enforcement action”, including through the courts.
The report adds: “Action taken against those responsible will be proportionate to the seriousness of the activity in which they are engaged and appropriate given their personal circumstances.”
All criminal offences are set to be reported to the police under the plans, alongside plans to work with other organisations in the wake of incidents.
A new Crime and ASB Tactical Group has also been established to help deploy community wardens as antisocial behaviour “hotspots”.
The committee also updated the Housing Service Neighbour Nuisance and Antisocial Behaviour Policy - which addresses disputes between Moray Council tenants.
Also, the committee approved the appointment of a specialist housing officer to focus on antisocial behaviour in council properties.
Moray Council’s head of housing and property Edward Thomas, said: “An additional Community Warden and specialist Housing Officer will enable us to deliver enhanced service to our tenants, with early intervention a core principle as a responsible social landlord.
“The updated policies will help us create a safer and more harmonious community.
“These changes will make it easier for us to respond to antisocial behaviour and continue supporting our residents and tenants.”
