Sir Oliver Heald welcomes police review measures to deal with trespasser occupations
Sir Oliver Heald MP today met Police Chief for Letchworth, Chief Inspector Julie Wheatley; Chief Inspector Donna Pierce; and North Herts District Council CEO, David Scholes, to discuss the occupation of the Geo King site by trespassers in Blackhorse Road in September. They also discussed the anti-social behaviour and other incidents and considered lessons for the future. They decided that a more detailed review was needed into improved measures for any future incidents. Remedial works to the allotments had been necessary along with other works. There was a discussion about the difference between how private landowners deal with such occupations in comparison with Councils.
The Police have agreed to conduct a review into their procedures in conjunction with the District Council and to offer Luton County Court the chance to take part.
Commenting, Sir Oliver said, “After the worry and concern of this occupation I felt it was right to have a discussion and to see what improvements might be made to procedures. I am glad this will be taking place and hope any future incidents are avoided, but that the best possible practice is used if necessary.”
Follow Sir Oliver on Twitter at www.twitter.com/OliverHealdMP
Read his blog at www.oliverheald.wordpress.com