The Safer Stronger Communities Select Committee met to discuss strategies for tackling anti-social behaviour and to review the performance and future plans for the borough's libraries. Key decisions included approving recommendations to enhance anti-social behaviour enforcement and to create a contingency fund for major building repairs to the council's heritage library assets.

Anti-social Behaviour Enforcement

The committee received an update on the council's integrated approach to anti-social behaviour (ASB) enforcement, which aims to move from reactive measures to a more strategic, intelligence-led strategy. Councillor Oana Olaru-Holmes, Cabinet Member for Refugees, Safer Lewisham and Equalities, highlighted that this approach is designed to deliver a more effective and coordinated response within existing resources, making enforcement more agile, targeted, and consistent. James Lee, Director of Community Services, explained that the Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), introduced in August 2024, has been a useful tool, but the expectation it raised has led to a broader, integrated enforcement programme. This programme seeks to tackle all types of ASB, including environmental issues and licensing, by drawing together all available enforcement powers.

Inspector Duncan Jackson, who joined the meeting virtually, emphasised the strong partnership between the police and the council, noting that they are the most integrated he has worked with in 24 years of policing. He detailed how the police are using ASB legislation and Criminal Behaviour Orders (CBOs) to tackle prolific offenders, particularly in relation to shoplifting and drug dealing. The committee heard about specific operations, such as those in Catford and Hither Green, which have led to arrests and seizures of stolen goods.

Councillor David Walker raised questions about how the new data-led approach is informing strategic conversations and asked for examples of how PSPO or police powers are being used. James Lee explained that the data-led approach involves identifying hotspots and tasking resources effectively, though reporting on outcomes is still being refined. He also mentioned the potential for using AI to automate processes and identify issues.

Councillor Mark Ingleby highlighted the importance of foundational work, such as unique assessments, and shared an example of a successful triaging system set up in his ward involving St Mungo's, a care organisation for homeless individuals and those with addiction problems. He also raised concerns about the police response to incidents reported by St Mungo's staff. Inspector Jackson acknowledged the need for better police response and assured the committee that enforcement activity would increase.

Councillor Rachel Onikosi and Councillor Sophie Davis both stressed the importance of communication with residents to ensure they are aware of the work being done, even if visible policing is not always apparent. They also highlighted the need for mechanisms to feed back on progress. The committee welcomed the direction of travel in relation to anti-social behaviour enforcement, and the report was noted.

Libraries, including the reopening of Lewisham Library

The committee received a comprehensive update on the performance of the library service, including developments in community libraries, achievements, and the ongoing project to reopen Lewisham Library. Councillor Sakina Sheikh, Cabinet Member for Culture, Communities, Libraries and Sports, praised the dedication of the library staff and volunteers, noting that Lewisham Libraries had recently won the Library of the Year award for the London region.

Sidra Hill-Reid, Head of Community Education and Cultural Assets, reported that library visits had increased by 8% and book issues by 6% in the last year, which is particularly impressive given the closure of Lewisham Library for refurbishment. She highlighted the success of the community library model, with eight libraries delivered by partners such as Calico. Funding bids for improvements to community libraries, including Grove Park Library and Till Library, had been successful.

Simon Higgs, representing Calico, shared that the four libraries they manage have seen significant increases in book issues since they took over. He emphasised the importance of standardised opening hours to make libraries more accessible. Calico has also secured funding for refurbishments at Crofton Park Library and Sydenham Library, which have led to more attractive and engaging spaces.

The report detailed various achievements, including the Imagined Worlds project funded by the Arts Council, which explored sci-fi and fantasy, and the Echoes Music project, which brought live music into library spaces. The upcoming reopening of Lewisham Library was discussed, with contractors expected to begin work on 8 September 2025, and completion anticipated by summer 2026.

A significant proposal was the cessation of fines across the library service. Sidra Hill-Reid explained that studies show fines do not necessarily lead to books being returned and can deter people, particularly vulnerable individuals, from using the library. The committee welcomed this proposal, seeing it as a policy based on meeting need and promoting equal access. Donation terminals will be introduced for those who wish to voluntarily contribute to community programmes.

Councillor Natasha Burgess raised a point about the equalities monitoring of the PSPO, noting that the recommendation to collect data only for individuals issued with fixed penalty notices might limit understanding of the impact of advice and warnings. James Lee offered to provide further information on this.

During the discussion on community libraries, Councillor Mark Ingleby raised concerns about the differing lease terms and responsibilities for building repairs, particularly for heritage assets. He recommended that a contingency fund be created for major building repairs. The committee agreed with this recommendation, recognising the vital importance of safeguarding the council's heritage assets.

The committee also discussed the naming of the new Lewisham Library, with Councillor Sheikh indicating that it is a live conversation, and the current instinct is to retain the well-loved Lewisham Library brand, though there will be a process for feedback and opportunities to name specific areas within the library.

The committee resolved to note the report and referred its views to Mayor and Cabinet, recommending the exploration of funding options for major building repairs and the creation of a contingency fund for heritage assets.