Camden Council is intensifying its efforts to combat anti-social behaviour (ASB) in the Gospel Oak District with a new, proactive strategy. The Gospel Oak District Management Committee (DMC) convened on Thursday 19 June 2025, to discuss the plan, which involves pinpointing ASB hotspots and deploying frontline practitioners from various agencies to address the root causes of the issues.
The Community Safety Team Leader's report to the DMC highlighted that Haverstock and Gospel Oak wards consistently report the highest numbers of ASB incidents. Drug use and drug dealing are the most frequently reported types of ASB activity in the district.
Key actions already underway include intensive resident engagement, quick communication campaigns to encourage reporting, and walkabouts with residents to discuss concerns. Environmental Visual Audits are being conducted to identify improvements that could reduce ASB, and responsive security patrols are being deployed to witness and deter incidents. Locations identified as criminal hotspots are being referred to police for targeted enforcement.
Referrals are also being made to youth services to engage with young people loitering on estates, and signage is being installed to discourage ASB. Estates are being referred to Partnership Tasking Meetings for joint problem-solving with police and partner agencies. In some cases, locks have been installed in parking areas, notices have been issued to vehicle owners, and even notices to quit have been served on households due to persistent ASB. Warning letters have been issued, and injunctions secured against individuals responsible for ASB.
The DMC also discussed the Gospel Oak DMC budget allocation for 2025/2026, which stands at £151,040.00. A bid for £3,740.00 was considered for well-being activities and equipment purchase for Gospel Oak Sheltered Housing Scheme. The DMC Constitution and Code of Conduct for 2025/26 was also on the agenda for agreement. The committee also addressed appointments to other bodies, including the Camden Safer Neighbourhood Board, described as a community-led charity that brings together the community, police, and council to reduce crime and ASB.
