A community focused push by residents and local businesses has resulted in a new police team being launched to focus on localised issues in Dagenham Heathway.

Residents of the east London borough have been calling for additional police resources in the area to reduce antisocial behaviour and crime.

The new team will be providing a high visibility presence around Dagenham Heathway and respond to issues impacting the local community and businesses.

Barking and Dagenham Council’s enforcement team will be working closely with the police to tackle any issues to make sure residents feel safe and reassured when out and about.

Councillor Syed Ghani, Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety said: “I am really pleased that the police have listened to the concerns of residents and brought in a specific team to focus on issues in Dagenham Heathway solely.

“Making sure our residents feel safe while out and about is our top priority. We will continue to work collaboratively with the police and share information to help reduce antisocial behaviour and crime in the area.”

Superintendent David Rhodes said: “We have listened and heard the concerns of residents and businesses around the Heathway. The introduction of the Heathway team will see additional resources in the area with a focus on reducing crime and anti-social behaviour.

“The team will be led by Sergeant Anthony Dhillon who comes with a background in proactive policing. The remainder of the team will be made up of 4 police constables and 4 police community support officers, with many of these officers having experience and local knowledge of the area.

“The team will enhance the local offer provided by the ward team already in place. Over the first few weeks the team will be reaching out to residents and businesses to start building those important relationships needed to work together to tackle local issues.”

Alongside the police, the council has also launched two new Community Reporting Hubs at Whalebone Lane Community Hub and Dagenham Community Hub in Dagenham Library. Enforcement and Police officers will be at each hub twice a week:

• Dagenham Library Community Hub, every Monday, 3pm to 7pm and every Thursday 10am to 2pm
• Whalebone Lane Community Hub, every Monday 10am to 2pm and every Thursday 11am to 3pm

Residents will be able to report crimes, antisocial behaviour or raise any issues.

More information on the Community Reporting Hubs can be found on the council website.