Extra police patrols to stop Dudley drugs dealers
Drug pushers are operating near shops and homes are causing distress to families living nearby, prompting action by police.
Plans to have CCTV installed in the Shell Corner area between Halesowen and Blackheath have been put forward.
Ward councillors have been working with police on ways to tackle the issue after it came to light at recent public meetings.
Police have also stepped up patrols since reports came in of alleged criminality and anti-social behaviour.
Members of the Shell Corner Partnership community group have been working hard to bring improvements to the area.
Ward councillor Stuart Henley said: "There is an issue of drugs that go on day and night in the area and the shop keepers and directors of businesses passed this information on to me.
"I have emailed the local sergeant to look in to the issue also I have contacted someone at the council about getting CCTV installed in the area to try and catch any anti social behaviour or drug issues going on in the area."
Fellow ward member Karen Shakespeare urged people to contact police if they spot any suspicious activity in the area.
"Anti-social behaviour includes a wide range of issues but due to the fact that members of the public and councillors have been reporting and raising issues with the police, this has allowed them to be more focussed and respond to concerns with increased manpower," she said.
Ward Councillor Hilary Bills, who is a Dudley Council cabinet member, added: "Residents regularly make me aware of interesting activity and I report to the police.
"I have a good working relationship with the police and our PACT meetings are always well attended which is a testament to this good relationship.
"The police take residents' issues seriously and always act on them.
"During these austere times when police resources are dwindling it is important that the community becomes more active in reporting worrying activity to the police."
Halesowen South Neighbourhood Sgt Debra Rowbotham said: "The local community has complained about anti-social behaviour in and around the Shell Corner area.
"This is causing distress to residents who are worried about the impact on the community.
"We are increasing patrols in the area and working with partner agencies to tackle the problem."
