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Ipswich borough councillors have demanded police action over drug dealing and dangerous driving at the Waterfront, as residents launch a new community group to tackle growing concerns about crime in the area.
Why it matters: Ward councillors have reported increasing "serious complaints" over recent months about criminal activity and anti-social behaviour, with damaged security infrastructure not due to be fixed until March.
The big picture: A letter to Suffolk's police commissioner from Holywells ward councillors details multiple concerns:
Drug dealing and sale of alcohol to minors
Dangerous driving and loud music from vehicles using restricted areas
Limited police response to resident complaints
Damaged bollards on Helena Road enabling unauthorised vehicle access
Community response:
New Waterfront Residents' Group formed at meeting on 10 December
Around 40-50 people attended including councillors, residents and student representatives
Monthly meetings planned, starting late January
Website launched to help create "united community"
Key stakeholders involved:
Borough councillors Cathy Frost, George Lankester and Nic El-Safty
Steve Flory, incoming Chair of Ipswich Central, who has already reached out to police
Local MP Jack Abbott aware of concerns
Around 500 students living in the area
What's next:
Police commissioner invited to meet residents in the New Year
Councillors seeking urgent action on bollard repairs, currently delayed until March
Group plans regular meetings at either the university or The Mix
How to get involved: You can visit the group's website and join their Facebook Group.
The bottom line: With mounting concerns over crime and safety, Ipswich Waterfront's new residents' group offers a unified voice for the community while councillors press for urgent action from police and local authorities.
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