Labour councillor Simran Cheema has urged Walsall Council to introduce a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) to address escalating antisocial behaviour in Willenhall town centre and memorial park, which she says is driving away shoppers and businesses.
Businesses at risk due to rising antisocial behaviour
Councillor Cheema reported that problems including topless drinkers, motorbike gangs, loud drinking, and littering have worsened over recent months. She warned that some businesses are considering closure as footfall declines. “We need to try and encourage people to come into the town centre,” she said. “Recently we’ve seen the markets struggle, businesses close down, we’re losing footfall.”
Memorial park no longer safe for families
The councillor described the memorial park as no longer being “a safe space for families to spend time with their children” due to gangs congregating there. She expressed frustration at the council’s response, especially given the recent opening of Willenhall’s new train station, which she believes offers potential for regeneration. “There’s so much potential, there’s just certain things that could be improved,” she added.
Council response and patrols
A Walsall Council spokesperson said community protection teams are carrying out targeted patrols and gathering evidence to address the issues. The council will continue working with police and other organisations to tackle antisocial behaviour in the area.
