It's the end of the line for bus stop disorder

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Council announces summer long blitz on anti-social behaviour

The council is cracking down on revellers who take things too far by introducing four bus marshals at stops around Shepherd's Bush Green.

"We're cracking down on crime and this move is designed to improve safety in Shepherds Bush after closing time", explains Councillor Greg Smith, cabinet member for crime and anti-social behaviour. "Residents will now see a high-visibility uniformed presence at bus stops between
the peak hours of 9pm - 1am."

Bus stops were chosen for the scheme, which will run until September, as they are known hot spots for alcohol-fuelled disorder especially on Friday and Saturday nights. Marshals are on hand to pro-actively manage potentially inflammatory situations at chucking out time before they happen.

Councillor Smith continues, "Alcohol related assaults and disorder have been going up on the west side of Shepherds Bush Green and we're determined to clamp down on a these hot spots."

The marshals will diffuse any minor incidents but are in radio contact with the local police if more serious trouble occurs.

Councillor Smith concludes, "Residents have a right to a good night's sleep and shouldn't have to live in the fear of being harassed whenever they venture out in the evening. We're not going to turn a blind eye to these problems and marshals will notify the police immediately if they spot anyone breaking the law."

June 26, 2006