Whiffs of cannabis pull policing ‘trigger’ in Shropshire village

A meeting of Buildwas Parish Council was told by a police officer that a ‘community trigger’ was alerted ‘due to the smell of cannabis coming from the flats off Park View’.

Parish councillors were told that there have been regular patrols by police officers and a housing association was “now on board” and working to “address tenants who are subject to the complaints.”

Buildwas Parish Council’s meeting in January heard that “police are pursuing charges where appropriate”.

A spokesperson for Buildwas Parish Council told the Local Democracy Reporting Service this week that it is “too early to say that the problem has gone”.

“The local policing team have been working with residents, Housing Plus Group and the parish council to address the concerns raised in relation to the flats,” the spokesperson said.

“As a result, the increased police presence and involvement has reduced the number of residents complaints and concerns.

“It is too early to say that the problem has gone but the situation is being monitored closely.”

South Shropshire MP Stuart Anderson’s office confirmed that he is aware of the issues due to residents raising concerns and will continue to liaise with the police and local housing association.

Housing association chiefs say they are showing their commitment to working with the police.

David Wells, Executive Director of Customer Experience at Housing Plus Group, said: “We cannot comment on individual cases.

“However, the safety and wellbeing of our customers is always our priority and we understand the impact that neighbour disputes and anti-social behaviour can have on communities.

“Our dedicated Good Neighbourhood Management and Anti-Social Behaviour policies show our commitment to working with the police and other partner agencies to find solutions.”

West Mercia Police have been asked for comment.