Islington Borough to launch Wildlife and Crime Watch

Islington Borough is launching a Wildlife and Crime Watch following concerns about anti-social behaviour along the Regent’s Canal.

Local residents, businesses and canal boat users had raised concerns about groups of men taking and dealing drugs, drinking and loitering along the canal path, intimidating passers-by, littering and threatening wildlife. Members of the public also said they felt vulnerable after dark due to the lack of lighting in the area.

Following a meeting to discuss the problem, officers, residents and businesses have agreed to set up an Islington Wildlife Crime Watch, with the aim of creating a safe, pleasant community and bring people together, while preventing crime and protecting wildlife.

Islington Borough will be holding an open day for local residents, canal boat users and businesses to discuss these issues and promote the initiative on Thursday, October 22 between 3.30pm and 7pm at Wolff Olins’ offices in Regents Wharf, Islington.

There, people will be able to discuss their concerns with members of the Islington Wildlife Crime Unit, wildlife officers, the Swan Sanctuary and Islington Council.

Islington wildlife officer, PC Tracey Parker said: “There is clearly a concern about crime and anti-social behaviour in the area. Islington Wildlife and Crime Watch aims to agree priorities, generate ideas and set a plan of action to develop local solutions.

She added: “Education will play a huge part in preventing wildlife crime. I am looking to the boating, business and resident community to come together and take ownership and pride in their area as I believe this will play a major part in making the canal a safer and more enjoyable place to be.”

If you are interested in becoming a member of the Islington Wildlife and Crime Watch, contact 020 7230 8898.