Action has been taken to close criminal shops.
Sandwell Council, working in partnership with West Midlands Police, has obtained a Closure Order in Cradley Heath as part of a strengthened approach to tackling illegal activity and protecting local high streets.
The joint operation took place this week following an 8-month long intelligence-led investigation. It forms part of ongoing action to disrupt criminal behaviour and ensure businesses operate lawfully following residents’ concerns about activity in the area.
We have successfully asked the court for the maximum closure of 3 months. Government has launched a one-month consultation on the duration of closure orders under the Antisocial Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. The proposal is to amend the maximum duration of a closure order to 12 months.
The Council fully support plans to extend this period of closure.
Councillor Ray Nock, Leader of Sandwell Council, said:
“Our high streets should be a destination for Sandwell residents to enjoy and people rightly expect their communities to be safe, lawful, and welcoming places — and that is exactly what we are working to deliver.
“This week’s operation demonstrates clear, coordinated action with West Midlands Police to tackle illegal activity and hold those responsible to account.
“We are increasing visible enforcement and taking firm action where there is evidence of wrongdoing.”
The council has made clear that tackling criminal activity on our high streets is a priority, with a renewed focus on enforcement, partnership working and intelligence gathering.
Councillor Bob Jones, Cabinet Member for Environment and Enforcement added:
“We know the impact this kind of activity can have on local communities and legitimate businesses.
That is why we are taking a proactive approach — working with police and partners to disrupt criminal behaviour and support businesses that are doing the right thing.”
Inspector Amrit Jhitta, from Sandwell Police, said:
"We are continually working with our partners to listen to your concerns and tackle illegal activity.
"If we receive information about crime linked to shops then we will always fully investigate and look to identify and prosecute anyone involved.
"We would urge anyone with information to contact us and our partner agencies. The more evidence and intelligence we receive means we have a better opportunity of combating any illegal activities."
The council will be responding to the Government’s recently announced consultation on strengthening enforcement powers for local authorities announced in recent weeks.
Councillor Nock added:
“Organised criminal activity on high streets is a national issue, and councils are on the frontline of tackling it.
“Stronger powers, alongside robust local action, will be key to protecting our communities and restoring confidence in our high streets.”
Further updates will be provided following due legal process.