Businesses along Eastcote Lane in Harrow have voiced serious concerns regarding escalating anti-social behaviour impacting their establishments, staff, customers, and the wider community.

The issue was brought to the forefront during a recent Harrow Council Cabinet meeting. Councillor Graham Henson presented a petition signed by business owners and representatives from 302 to 324 Eastcote Lane, detailing a sustained increase in disruptive and intimidating activities since mid-August. These activities primarily involve groups of youths aged approximately 14 to 16 years old.

Councillor Henson stated that the petitioners are seeking immediate action... by the police which the police are doing .

According to the petition, the incidents have become a daily disruption, posing a threat to public safety, business operations, and community well-being. Specific issues raised included:

  • Pushing, shoving, and physical altercations in front of businesses, threatening pedestrians.
  • Throwing plastic drink bottles, stones, and other objects at business premises, pedestrians, and vehicles.
  • Blocking pavements and doorways, preventing safe passage for customers.
  • Harassing customers by shouting, following, or throwing footballs and other objects at them.
  • Entering stores and threatening shoplifting.
  • Using highly offensive language and graffiti on council-owned items, including a telephone box.
  • Smashing windows.

The petition calls for immediate action by the police, an assessment by Harrow Council's anti-social behaviour team, installation or enhancement of CCTV coverage, coordination with nearby schools, support from local councillors and the Member of Parliament, and community meetings facilitated by the council and police.

Councillor Henson, in presenting the petition, summarised the requests, emphasising the need for a coordinated response from various stakeholders.

The matter has been referred to the Corporate Director, who will respond to the petitioners. The petition presented by Councillor Henson will go to the corporate director who will then respond to the petitioners . The specific steps to be outlined in the response are not detailed in the meeting information.

The council has not yet released details of any planned actions.