Category: UK News

  • Hackney to tackle Hate Crime 

    Hackney to tackle Hate Crime 

    Hackney’s Mayor highlighted this year’s theme, “Seeds of Change,” which inspires small actions to raise awareness and understanding of Islamophobia….reports Asian Lite News

    Mayor of Hackney, Caroline Woodley and Cllr Fajana-Thomas OBE, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Regulatory Services, set out how Hackney is no place for hate. 

    “In Hackney, we celebrate our diversity and identity as a place where communities of different faiths and backgrounds live together in harmony. We’re proud of our work to be an actively anti-racist and “No Place for Hate” borough, where we stand against hate, discrimination and abuse of any kind and invest in anti-racist practices and community infrastructure to build greater cohesion and belonging. 

    “During this year’s Islamophobia Awareness Month, we are reaffirming our commitment to keeping all our residents safe from religious hatred, discrimination and violence. This year’s theme, “Seeds of Change,” encourages everyone to take small steps to help raise awareness about and deepen their understanding of Islamophobia. To support this, we invite you to explore our specially curated Islamophobia Awareness Month library reading list, which offers valuable insights into Islamic culture and individuals’ lived experiences.  

    “Over the past year, there has been a disturbing increase in Islamophobic hate crimes, as well as the shocking rise in far-right violence and disorder across the country with its focus on migrants and mosques. We are concerned that the horrific escalation of conflict and suffering in the Middle East has also led to anti-Muslim attacks and caused immense distress, fear and anger amongst Hackney residents, many of whom are directly impacted.  

    “We are doing everything we can with our police and community partners to respond swiftly to any incidents and support those affected. We know that hate crimes, especially those affecting our Muslim communities, often go unreported. To address this, we work with local residents, faith partners and Muslim organisations throughout the year to understand and respond to any concerns raised.  

    “We have also stepped up the number of enforcement and reassurance patrols we carry out in partnership with the police, focusing on more vulnerable areas, to take action against racist perpetrators. We have also recently organised a community meeting and co-hosted a series of hate crime awareness pop-up information stalls to chat to residents about the range of support that’s available.  

    “Within the Council, we are supporting staff to learn more about Islam and Islamophobia through our resources and workshops from not-for-profit organisation, Educate Against Islamophobia. We know that education is a key tool which we can use to combat racism and prejudice as it helps improve understanding and tackle misinformation.  

    “If you’ve been affected by Islamophobia or any other hate crime, please don’t suffer in silence – there are a range of services that can help you. You may feel anxious about reporting a hate crime or incident, or concerned that it will not make a difference, but every case helps us gather information and bring Islamophobic and racist perpetrators to justice.  

    “We work closely with the local police to tackle hate crimes, and support them to thoroughly investigate all hate crimes and work with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to ensure that those who commit these reprehensible offences face the full consequences of the law.” 

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  • Greenwich Goes Wicked Way 

    Greenwich Goes Wicked Way 

    Royal Borough of Greenwich Transforms into ‘GreenWitch’ to Celebrate Wicked Film Release…reports Asian Lite News

    The Royal Borough of Greenwich has undergone an enchanting transformation, rebranding itself as ‘GreenWitch’ for two magical weeks in honor of the upcoming release of Wicked, Universal Pictures’ highly anticipated cinematic adaptation of the beloved stage musical. The film hits UK cinemas on November 22, 2024. 

    The festivities kicked off with Councillor Jit Ranabhat, Mayor of Royal Greenwich, unveiling a commemorative plaque to officially mark the borough’s spellbinding new identity. 

    From now until November 24, visitors and residents can immerse themselves in the Wicked-themed experience by embarking on a specially designed walking trail. Free maps are available at the GreenWitch Tourist Information Centre or can be downloaded online at VisitGreenWitch. 

    The trail takes participants through iconic locations transformed to celebrate the world of Oz: 

    1. GreenWitch Tourist Information Centre – The trail’s starting point. 

    2. GreenWitch Foot Tunnel Entrance – Home to a special Wicked-themed plaque. 

    3. GreenWitch High Road – Featuring magical road signs along the way. 

    4. Green Café and GreenWitch Picturehouse – Perfectly named stops on the journey. 

    5. GreenWitch Market – Adorned with dazzling roof installations and archways. 

    6. King William Walk – The final destination showcasing Ozian-inspired signs. 

    “Move over Emerald City, welcome to the Royal Borough of GreenWitch! We’re thrilled to partner with Universal Pictures on this exciting, free experience for residents and visitors to enjoy,” the Mayor said. 

    “‘GreenWitch’ will be even more ‘popular’ than ever, and we can’t wait to welcome new visitors to our corner of the capital. This initiative will boost local businesses and support our ambitious Culture Strategy vision to be a place where creativity flourishes. 

    “What’s more, the income from this magical partnership will help fund our much-loved Sparkle in the Park festive light trail in 2024.” 

    The transformation has been made possible through a collaboration between Visit Greenwich, the University of Greenwich, the Greenwich Student’s Union, and local businesses such as Greenwich Market, Green Café, and Greenwich Picturehouse. 

    Barrie Kelly, Chief Executive of Visit Greenwich, highlighted the borough’s cultural and cinematic significance: “Greenwich is internationally known as the Prime Meridian, where east meets west, much like the Wicked movie’s themes. GreenWitch is a playful nod to our name, and we’re excited to be part of this event. As one of the UK’s top film locations, Greenwich is proud to welcome millions of visitors every year who explore sites seen in films and TV.” 

    Professor Jane Harrington, Vice-Chancellor and CEO of the University of Greenwich, added: “We’re thrilled to rebrand as the University of GreenWitch for the next two weeks, celebrating all things Wicked and the transformative magic of higher education.” 

    This immersive experience is set to enchant fans of Wicked and visitors alike, bringing a touch of Oz to London. The initiative reflects the borough’s commitment to cultural enrichment while amplifying the buzz for one of the year’s biggest cinematic events. 

    Wicked lands in UK cinemas on November 22, 2024. Don’t miss the chance to experience the magic in ‘GreenWitch’ before it vanishes on November 24. 

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  • Navigating Growth 

    Navigating Growth 

    Why Economic Potential is the Key to Our Future? In this speech, Mr Bailey explores the vital importance of economic growth and its far-reaching implications. He emphasizes that understanding and enhancing potential supply—the maximum output the economy can sustain without sparking inflation—forms the foundation of sustainable growth. With a focus on the UK’s declining productivity and labour supply, Mr Bailey introduces five pressing questions about investment, labour, data measurement, economic openness, and the role of AI. Through these questions, he outlines a roadmap to address supply constraints, foster resilience, and lay the groundwork for long-term prosperity 

    Economic growth is often hailed as the foundation of prosperity, but in a landmark address at the Mansion House Financial and Professional Services Dinner, Mr Andre Bailey, Governor of the Bank of England, laid out why the UK’s current trajectory demands urgent attention.  

    Speaking to an audience including the Lord Mayor and Chancellor, the address navigated the complexities of economic growth, focusing on the decline in potential supply and offering a blueprint for renewal. 

    The speech began by contextualizing the role of potential supply in shaping monetary policy and broader economic health. It was explained that potential supply—the economy’s productive capacity—acts as a “speed limit” on how fast the economy can grow without triggering inflation. This crucial concept impacts not only inflationary pressures but also long-term wealth creation and public policy. However, estimating potential supply remains challenging, requiring a careful assessment of labour supply, productivity, and structural factors such as population changes and innovation. 

    A sobering analysis followed, detailing how potential supply growth in the UK has weakened since the financial crisis. From 1990 to 2008, potential supply grew at 2.6% annually, with productivity contributing the lion’s share. Post-crisis, between 2009 and 2019, this rate halved to 1.3%, and by 2020–2023, it plummeted to 0.7%, primarily due to Covid-19 disruptions. The pandemic, while a major shock, was not portrayed as the sole culprit; instead, the lasting impact on labour supply and productivity raises profound questions for the economy’s future. 

    Mr Bailey acknowledged that the UK is not alone in facing these challenges, but its situation is more acute compared to the US, which has demonstrated better productivity and investment outcomes. In contrast, the UK lags behind its G7 peers, particularly in business investment—a key driver of productivity and economic resilience. 

    From these observations emerged five critical questions that framed the rest of the speech: Why does investment matter, and how can it be increased? Is labour supply an issue? Are we measuring economic inputs accurately? Does economic openness matter? And, finally, could artificial intelligence provide a solution? 

    Investment is the backbone of economic growth, and the UK has consistently underperformed in this area. The speaker highlighted how, since the late 1990s, the UK has ranked near the bottom of the G7 in terms of investment as a share of GDP. Public investment, while important, cannot suffice alone; stronger private sector investment is essential. Initiatives such as improved infrastructure and education were praised as foundational, but the speaker emphasized that translating public investment into a substantial boost in potential growth requires a more robust response from businesses. 

    The fragmented UK pension system also came under scrutiny. While progress in consolidating pension funds was welcomed, it was stressed that compelling asset managers to invest in the real economy is not a viable solution. Instead, collaboration between government, the financial sector, and industry is needed to channel resources effectively. 

    Labour supply, the other pillar of potential supply, faces headwinds from demographic changes. An ageing population is reducing the available workforce, making productivity improvements and investment even more critical. Short-term trends, including workforce participation rates, also pose challenges. Policymakers were urged to integrate economic arguments into broader labour supply debates, ensuring policies are aligned with the country’s growth objectives. 

    Turning to measurement, Mr Bailey acknowledged that data limitations hinder economic assessments. For instance, the UK struggles to measure intangibles—such as data and intellectual property—which are increasingly central to the modern economy. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) plans to include data as an asset in GDP calculations, potentially boosting measured GDP by 1–2%. However, this improvement in measurement does not change the underlying issues of low investment and productivity. 

    Labour market data also drew criticism, with gaps in participation figures complicating policy decisions. The speaker humorously encouraged better public cooperation with surveys, emphasizing that accurate data is foundational for sound policymaking. 

    The address championed economic openness as a driver of productivity, citing historical evidence of its benefits for innovation and specialization. However, the UK’s changing relationship with the EU has weighed on its potential supply.  

    While acknowledging the importance of respecting the Brexit decision, Mr Bailey urged policymakers to rebuild trade relations and embrace global opportunities. Geopolitical tensions and global economic fragmentation add complexity, but the case for openness remains strong. 

    Finally, artificial intelligence (AI) was presented as a potential game-changer. Described as a “general-purpose technology” akin to the steam engine or electricity, AI could revolutionize productivity across sectors. However, Mr Bailey cautioned against expecting immediate results, citing historical examples where transformative technologies took decades to significantly impact productivity. The key is sustained investment and experimentation to unlock AI’s full potential over time. 

    He concluded with a call for bold and coordinated action. Declining potential supply is a significant issue that cannot be ignored. Investment—both public and private—must be prioritized, labour supply challenges addressed, and openness preserved. While AI offers hope for the future, immediate steps are needed to reverse the current trajectory. The UK’s economic story, though troubled, can be rewritten with a focused and collaborative effort. 

    In an era where growth matters more than ever, this address served as both a diagnosis of challenges and a roadmap for renewal. The stakes are high, but so too is the potential for progress. 

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  • Mayor Seeks More Funds For Affordable Housing 

    Mayor Seeks More Funds For Affordable Housing 

    Mayor Sadiq Khan Warns Housing Crisis is Dragging Economic Growth of London…reports Asian Lite News

    Mayor Sadiq Khan has sounded the alarm on the detrimental economic impacts of London’s housing crisis, emphasizing the need for greater investment in affordable housing. New economic analysis released by City Hall, London Councils, Trust for London, and the G15 reveals that a mere one per cent increase in housing affordability could boost London’s economy by over £7 billion over the next decade. 

    The Mayor highlights this report as evidence of affordable housing’s importance not only for residents but also for the overall economy. He argues that creating more affordable homes would support local businesses by making it easier to recruit and retain workers, reduce homelessness, and encourage households to invest in other parts of the economy. 

    “Affordable housing is essential for a thriving, resilient economy,” Khan said. “High rents and property prices not only hurt Londoners but hinder the growth potential of our city.” 

    Khan is expected to make the case for substantial government investment to address this critical issue, proposing initiatives such as a devolved City Hall Developer Investment Fund and a relaxation of borrowing limits on local councils to help them build more affordable homes. This call comes against a backdrop of soaring construction costs, high-interest rates, and the lingering effects of Brexit, which he says have created the “most challenging environment for housebuilding since the 2008 global financial crisis.” 

    Khan’s tenure as Mayor has already seen progress, with more council homes started than at any time since the 1970s and an ambitious target to build 40,000 new council homes by 2030. However, he warns that without further national support, London’s ability to meet housing demands and strengthen the economy will remain limited. 

    The newly published research, conducted by NERA Economic Consulting, also highlights how improved housing affordability could yield economic benefits by increasing productivity and encouraging higher take-home incomes. A modest one per cent improvement in affordability could result in a £730 million annual boost to London’s economy, underscoring the connection between affordable housing and economic resilience. 

    Claire Holland, Chair of London Councils, and other housing advocates echoed Khan’s call for action, noting that the housing crisis is holding back productivity and affecting Londoners’ quality of life. 

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  • MPs Unite to Push Western Rail Link to Heathrow 

    MPs Unite to Push Western Rail Link to Heathrow 

    Mr Tan Dhesi, Slough MP, emphasized the transformative impact this link would have on local residents by providing a direct rail route to Heathrow…reports Asian Lite News

    In a display of cross-party support, MPs and Peers gathered this week in Parliament to back the long-anticipated Western Rail Link to Heathrow, a rail project set to significantly improve connectivity to the UK’s busiest airport.  

    Mr Tan Dhesi, Slough MP, emphasized the transformative impact this link would have on local residents by providing a direct rail route to Heathrow without the need to travel through central London. 

    During an Inaugural General Meeting, Parliament re-established the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on the Western Rail Link to Heathrow, assembling a coalition of MPs and Peers committed to advancing the project. The APPG is pushing for progress on the link, which has been backed by the government since 2012. The 4-mile connection would branch off the Great Western Main Line between Langley and Iver, creating a vital link from the Thames Valley directly to Heathrow Airport. 

    Supporters of the rail project argue that it would deliver multiple benefits: shorter journey times, a regular service with four trains in each direction per hour, and significant reductions in road congestion on routes leading to Heathrow. By easing passenger loads on busy roads, the link would also contribute to environmental goals by reducing carbon emissions. Additionally, proponents believe the new route would generate economic growth across the region, creating new opportunities for both businesses and residents. 

    Tan Dhesi, co-chair of the APPG, voiced his optimism:  “Brilliant to see so much cross-party support again in Parliament for the Western Rail Link to Heathrow. As Parliamentarians representing and living in constituencies across the UK, we know the huge economic and environmental benefits our constituents would experience, since it would connect 20% of Brits to within one interchange of our nation’s main port. I look forward to the progress we will make this year to help deliver this vital infrastructure project.” 

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  • British envoy meets Telangana CM Revanth Reddy 

    British envoy meets Telangana CM Revanth Reddy 

    Cameron expressed her enthusiasm about meeting Reddy, highlighting India’s potential for partnerships with the United Kingdom…reports Asian Lite News

    British High Commissioner to India, Lindy Cameron, paid a courtesy visit to Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy at his residence in Hyderabad. 

    Cameron expressed her enthusiasm about meeting Reddy, highlighting India’s potential for partnerships with the United Kingdom in areas like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. 

    Sharing a post on X, the Telangana Chief Minister’s Office wrote, “The British High Commissioner to India, Mrs. @Lindy_Cameron, paid a courtesy call on the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Telangana, Shri @revanth_anumula, at his residence in Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad.” 

    Meanwhile, Cameron also shared a post on X and wrote, “Great to meet Telangana Chief Minister @revanth_anumula and to hear his ambitions for this dynamic and fast-growing state, including the exciting Musi River project. Great potential for India-UK partnerships in health, education, infrastructure and tech, and glad he enjoyed his visit to London so much!” 

    A day before, Cameron met Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and highlighed the Chief Minister’s “valuable insights” into the state’s development and vision for India’s future. 

    Sharing a post on X, Cameron wrote, “Delighted to meet dynamic and tech-savvy Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister @ncbn to hear his valuable insights into AP’s development and his ideas for India’s future. So many opportunities to strengthen the UK-India partnership for mutual benefit in areas such as university partnerships, deep technology, green energy and healthcare.” 

    Naidu also shared a post on X and said, “Delighted to meet with Ms. @Lindy_Cameron, British High Commissioner to India, to discuss the immense potential of Andhra Pradesh and explore opportunities for enhanced collaboration in key sectors to strengthen the Inda-UK partnership.” (ANI) 

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  • Oxford Union Event Draws Flak 

    Oxford Union Event Draws Flak 

    British Hindus raise concerns over Oxford Union speakers on debate of Kashmir; cites terror links…reports Asian Lite News

    A social movement of British Hindus and Indians in the UK, INSIGHT UK, on Thursday, sent a formal letter to the Oxford Union Society to express concerns about its decision to host a debate titled “This House Believes in the Independent State of Kashmir,” raising questions about the inclusion of speakers with alleged links to terrorism and citing potential risks to the integrity of the debate. 

    In their letter, the social movement that works on issues that impact the British Hindu and Indian community in the UK stated that the two invited speakers, Muzzammil Ayyub Thakur and Zafar Khan, in support of the motion had been criticised for their alleged associations with groups linked to violent extremism and terrorism. 

    They stated that Muzzammil Ayyub Thakur had been accused of incitement and hate speech, with links to organisations under investigation for connections to terrorism. 

    INSIGHT UK further emphasised the background of Thakur and his organisation, “World Kashmir Freedom Movement,” where he is the president and also “Mercy Universal,” which he co-founded with his father. Both entities have reportedly been investigated by the UK’s Scotland Yard, the Charity Commission, and the FBI for their suspected connections to terrorist activities. 

    “Muzzammil Ayyub has often engaged in hate speech. A case has been registered against him. for creating fear and alarm among the masses using social media and inclining them to commit offences likely to disturb public order. Muzammil has been charged under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act,” the letter stated. 

    “Muzammil is the president of the “World Kashmir Freedom Movement,” which, along with another organisation called “Mercy Universal,” was founded by his father and investigated by Scotland Yard, the Charity Commission and the FBI for ties with terrorists,” the letter further read. 

    Meanwhile, Zafar Khan, the Chairman of the Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF), was associated with a group known for violent activities that targeted the Kashmiri Hindu community. 

    The JKLF had also been involved in acts such as the kidnapping and killing of Indian diplomat Ravindra Mhatre in the UK back in 1984, they said in the letter. 

    “Zafar Khan is the Chairman of the Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) Diplomatic Bureau. Jammu-Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) is a terrorist organisation spawned in Birmingham, UK, on 29th May 1997,” the letter stated. 

    “The JKLF has established branches in several towns and cities of the United Kingdom. In 1984, an Indian diplomat, Ravindra Mhatre, was kidnapped and murdered in Birmingham. He was abducted while on an errand. After a few days of being held in captivity, his lifeless body was discovered sprawled on a Birmingham street. This terrorist crime that took place in a major UK city was executed by British Kashmiri ‘militants’ linked to the latterly named Jammu-Kashmir Liberation Front,” the letter read. 

    INSIGHT UK stated that the Oxford Union’s decision to host a debate on the topic has raised concerns, arguing that the debate undermines the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity with a tacit endorsement of violence and terrorism. 

    The organisation further stated that academic platforms like the Oxford Union should serve as spaces for constructive and informed dialogue, not provide a platform for those with potential links to violent groups. 

    “The decision by the Oxford Union to host a debate on the issue of Kashmir’s independence and to invite members of the Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) as speakers is deeply troubling and warrants serious scrutiny. This debate not only undermines the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity but also is tantamount to endorsing violence and terrorism,” the letter stated. 

    “While academic institutions should remain neutral and provide a forum for diverse viewpoints, it is essential that such platforms are not used to propagate extremist ideologies or undermine the sovereignty of nations. This is a dangerous precedent to set, especially in an institution of higher learning that should be committed to promoting peace, understanding, and constructive dialogue. We call on the Oxford Union to reconsider this debate and speakers,” it further stated. (ANI) 

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  • New SEND School in Brent 

    New SEND School in Brent 

    Brent Council recently appointed construction company Reds10 to build Wembley Manor School, which is expected to open its doors in September 2025…reports Asian Lite News

    Children with special educational needs (SEND) in Brent are set to benefit from a groundbreaking £22 million school that will provide state-of-the-art education tailored to neurodiverse children.

    Brent Council recently appointed construction company Reds10 to build Wembley Manor School, which is expected to open its doors in September 2025. The 150-place school will serve as a specialist institution for neurodivergent students, a much-needed addition to meet the growing demand for SEND provision in the borough. 

    Councillor Gwen Grahl, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People, and Schools, highlighted the significance of the school, saying, “Wembley Manor will be a much-needed school providing specialist SEND provision for neurodivergent children. With a 10% annual increase in the number of children needing Education, Health, and Care Plans, this facility will offer children the chance to be educated closer to home, ensuring better accessibility and stronger community networks.” 

    The school is part of Brent’s SEND capital investment programme, which aims to create more than 400 SEND places across the borough by 2025, significantly reducing the need to send children to schools outside the area and saving up to £6 million annually. 

    Wembley Manor School will be a three-storey, 3,801 m² facility on London Road, designed to meet the highest sustainability standards with a BREEAM Outstanding rating. The school will feature purpose-built SEND teaching spaces, play areas, sports facilities, and excellent transport access. 

    The innovative school building will be constructed offsite at Reds10’s East Yorkshire facility, then transported and assembled on site. This approach allows for high-quality, timely delivery of the school to benefit the local community and ensure optimal learning conditions for neurodivergent children. 

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  • Event to Stem Islamophobia 

    Event to Stem Islamophobia 

    Help Raise Awareness of Islamophobia at Brent Council’s Islamophobia Awareness Event…reports Asian Lite News 

    Brent Council invites residents to join an Islamophobia Awareness event on Tuesday, 26 November, at Brent Civic Centre. This evening gathering is part of Islamophobia Awareness Month, aiming to shed light on the alarming rise in Islamophobic hate crimes in the UK, which have surged by 365% over the past year. With over a fifth of Brent’s residents identifying as Muslim, the event will focus on promoting understanding and solidarity within the community. 

    Councillor Harbi Farah, Cabinet Member for Public Safety and Partnerships, emphasized the importance of the event: “We are proud to celebrate the vast contributions of all of our faith communities, and the unique and positive impact that Muslims have on the life of our borough.” He further noted that the theme, “Seeds for Change”, highlights how small actions can lead to substantial shifts toward a more inclusive society. 

    Attendees will hear from community leaders, artists, and advocates dedicated to countering Islamophobia and promoting diversity. “Together, we can plant the seeds for a future built on understanding, respect, and unity,” Cllr Farah said, reaffirming Brent’s commitment to fostering a community where all residents live without fear or prejudice. 

    The event is open to all, running from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., and free tickets can be reserved on Eventbrite. Join Brent Council in taking a stand against Islamophobia and building a more unified community. 

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  • “Don’t Pee in Our Streets!”  

    “Don’t Pee in Our Streets!”  

    Camden Council Cracks Down on Public Urination…reports Asian Lite News

    Camden Council is taking bold action to tackle the issue of public urination in the borough, especially in areas around Holborn and Covent Garden, with new measures to improve cleanliness and safety. The council is teaming up with the police to increase evening and night-time patrols, issuing warnings and £120 fines to individuals caught urinating on the streets. 

    In addition to these patrols, Camden has introduced anti-pee paint in targeted hotspot areas. This special coating causes urine to splash back at the person, sending a clear and unpleasant message to potential offenders. To further raise awareness, posters will be displayed in key locations throughout the borough, reminding people that the streets are not public toilets and providing directions to the nearest public restrooms. 

    Councillor Pat Callaghan, Cabinet Member for Safer Communities, emphasized the impact of this behavior on the community, stating, “Not only is this behaviour unpleasant and unsightly, but it also creates a hostile environment for others in the area.” She highlighted Camden’s ongoing efforts to work with the police to ensure that offenders face consequences for their actions. 

    Councillor Adam Harrison, Cabinet Member for Planning and a Sustainable Camden, added, “We want our borough to be a clean and welcoming place for everyone. On average, we spend £100,000 each year washing pavements, which could be better used elsewhere if we tackle this problem.” 

    The council is also making efforts to improve public toilet facilities throughout Camden, ensuring they are accessible and well-maintained for residents and visitors alike. Members of the public are encouraged to report incidents of public urination via the Love Clean Streets website or app. 

    These new measures are part of Camden’s broader effort to address cleanliness and public nuisance issues, including new initiatives to combat fly-tipping and littering across the borough. 

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